My experience was not a good one. After I submitted an outline of my situation to schedule a consultation with an attorney, I was sent another form requesting more details. Instead of meeting with a lawyer, I received a call from a receptionist who, with no legal background, asked for more information about my case. I was told that in order to speak with an attorney and discuss the laws pertaining to my situation, I would first have to pay for their time. I can't recommend this firm. It felt unfair that I was expected to pay for a consultation just to understand the legal process of a divorce. I was never able to get clear information about how they would handle my case without paying them upfront. read more

I've never used their services but I do have experience with this Firm's intake process which I find to be very questionable. You have to pay the attorney in order to get a quote for the retainer amount... Yeah, that's what I just said. That's mind blowing to me. Again, I don't know how good of attorneys they are ... by my experience Family Law attorneys are basically all the same in results... all you are paying for his personality fit. And to find out if their personality fits, you gotta pay and to find out how much you gotta pay you gotta pay read more

My attorney was Kevin and Carolyn. They helped represent me for a ex parte order and revised custody and child support. They not only got the ex parte thrown out of court but very diligently hopped on my case in short notice and guided me with realistic expectations and goals. Great law firm, very honest and knowledgeable. I recommend. read more

Having never been through any type of legal proceeding prior to this experience, I learned quickly that having the right attorney behind you makes a world of difference. I'm so grateful to Kevin and his entire team for the tireless work they put into my case. Kevin is a fantastic attorney, very knowledgeable, results driven, and compassionate. He took the time to explain each step of the process to me, to discuss different possible outcomes, to share his expert opinion, but always allow me to make the best decisions for my situation. I was terrified going into this process but always felt confident with Kevin as my attorney. Fair Cadora is a wonderful firm to work with. read more

My mom has been working with Elena v. Smolina as her attorney. She is open minded, empathetic, and intelligent! She has been very professional and is associated with a good reliable team of paralegals who have helped my mom cope with her situation thus far. read more

I understand that Fair Cadora can't respond to online reviews due to attorney client privilege / confidentiality, etc.. But I am going to share something with you that has nothing to do with anything confidential. I believe that this firm doesn't have their client's best interests at heart. I was emotional when I shared the concerns that I had with my son's mom. I was viewing her through a negative lens. I would have hoped that my attorney would talk some sense into me rather than adding fuel to an already heated situation. Maybe give me some advice on how to approach the issue in a way that is SUPPORTIVE to win-win... Instead, they seemed to have copied and pasted exactly what I said in an email into the documents. Attorneys are PAID to help the client not get themselves into MORE trouble. When I told him that "you are going to start WW3 with my baby momma" he responded with excuses and wasn't very professional. I honestly think I could have gotten the same or better service if I just went to LegalZoom or just downloaded the documents myself and filled them out. I gave him $5k and got back $1600... so I spent $3400 for documents that I wasn't able to use. The good news is that I realized that I need to NOT fight this with my son's mom and approach things with love. Since then, she and I are in a much better place and are collaborating. So in some ways, hiring Kevin made me realized exactly the thing I DON'T want to ever do... I think Mediation is the best route... and if you need legal counsel... I wouldn't hire Kevin. No offense Kevin - you are a cool guy on the phone. But I think the kind of work you do is unethical and is only going to get your clients into more trouble with their families. read more

Elena Smolina is a great family attorney. She pays attention to detail and caring, willing to take extra steps for her clients. I recently worked with Elena on a divorce/child custody case. She was patient and understanding throughout the entire process. She explained everything to me in detail and made sure I was comfortable with every decision we made. She was also very responsive to my emails and phone calls. I am so grateful for Elena's help and support. She is a truly exceptional lawyer. read more

Every single individual I have spoken with at Fair Cadora is professional, focused, helpful, and intentional. For context, I consulted many law firms, and after talking to what felt like too many attorneys, my consult with Elena Smolina felt right. I am so grateful for her attention to detail, and ongoing support, as well as authentic concern for my son's well-being. read more

Kevin and his team at Fair Cadora is the law group you want to go to, for all of your family law legal needs. Not just for their knowledge of the law. Kevin exemplifies care, passion and putting his clients best interests first. Fair Cadora's first priority is the client and it truly shows. read more

Kevin and the firm in general do an excellent job at putting the client at ease. They seem to understand how stressful dealing with the court system can be. I retained them and they were quick to represent me. Although I eventually ended up settling my legal matter myself, Keven was prepared to do what was needed to get the outcome I wanted. The reason I knocked a star off is because the initial cost estimate they gave me was way off. My matter was settled months ago and today I get another bill... I shudder to think how much more I would have spent had I not settled with the opposing party. I do recommend the firm however, just be prepared to pay up. read more

I will never be able to convey how wonderful my experience was with this firm. Lauren Fair was my attorney and represented me in one of the most difficult situations of my life. I was married for 2 1/2 years. The dissolution took almost 3. During my short term marriage we purchased 7 properties together in St Louis. I left my life in SD to set a business up in St Louis. When my ex husband filed for divorce he decided I was not entitled to anything because he was the primary income earner. Contrary to community property law he worked every day take everything we built together. I hired 2 attorneys prior to Lauren who constantly told me I couldn't afford to represent myself at trial. They reminded me of my weak position due to it being a "short term marriage". All my "sweat equity" didn't mean anything and because he had the salary to hire the best attorney I was on the path to loosing everything I had worked for. Several times I wanted to just give up and make the drama go away. Letting him take everything would have been easier but it would have left me financially devastated. I couldn't let that happen. I was at the end of my rope when I contacted Lauren. I first spoke to Kevin who instantly made me feel better. I decided to work with Lauren because I felt a woman would represent my interests better. She was amazing! She was steady and extremely professional. She kept her calm whenever I felt like I was coming unglued. She communicated the facts clearly and never made me feel stupid or ashamed of my position. Her follow up with the other side was perfect. Her communication style is very direct leaving nothing to chance or mis interpretation. I know for a fact my divorce is finally final because of her diligence and expert representation. I'm walking away with exactly what I've always known I was entitled too. I finally got someone to fight for me. I've never met her in person but she will always be someone I respect and admire. Do yourself a huge favor and don't waste time on the money hungry lawyers who really don't care about your interest. Go with this team because they believe in fiduciary duty and their ethics are high above the bar for most attorneys in San Diego. read more

Family law situations I'm sure are never pleasant and we had a particularly unique one. Lauren was professional, sharp, knowledgeable and definitely made me feel at ease knowing that my case was being worked on efficiently and with clear communication. She empathized and knew how sensitive the situation was for me and worked diligently to ensure we were ready for the hearing. When she spoke for me at my hearing, she presented my case in a way I could not have done on my own with all I had emotionally invested. She was thoughtful in her choice of words and her demeanor in court and was very well prepared. I couldn't be happier with the outcome and my representatives at Fair Cadora, because when it comes to fighting for what you love most in this world, you really can't put a price on it. read more

This was my first time ever needing a lawyer service, and I couldn't be happier about how it all went. From the first counsel I knew Lauren Fair was the right lawyer for my needs. I called a different lawyer before I called Lauren and it was an uncomfortable experience. The first lawyer I called was rude, pushy, and made it feel like I was wasting his time. With Lauren Fair it was the complete opposite. She took the time to explain things to me and made sure I understood. She made the experience a great one. I highly recommend her law firm. You will feel you are top priority with her and she will show that she has your best interest always. read more

When things look grim, you need a professional who steps up and is the "grim reaper". I interviewed over 1/2 dozen attorney's and once I spoke with Kevin, the search was over, he was my guy. He believed in me and my case from the very start. I felt we were strong going into the Restraining Order hearing yet there were so many unknowns. Frankly, I was anxious and scared. Kevin calmed me by submitting the proper paperwork in a timely manner and keeping me grounded with his confidence in the courtroom. He was fully prepared with a solid case and represented me at the most effected level. Throughout, he defended my character and integrity. I highly recommend him for what he brings to the table. read more

I have worked with a few different lawyers so I have an idea of how they operate. I have been working with Attorney Lindsay Sudman for a while now and I am very happy with her. She is to the point and very fair with pricing. Attorney Sudman is not out to get every last dime out of you during tough times, as many lawyers can seem to be. She is also very professional, and at my last hearing even the judge proclaimed that my lawyer did great work. I would definitely recommend looking into this firm when looking for a lawyer. read more

I reached out to Fair Cadora, hoping to reach Lauren Fair, the Certified Family Law Specialist. Instead I was connected to Kevin Cadora, who acted like he wanted to help me, but instead used the court hearing I retained him for, to condescend and speak to me like a child. Needless to say, I relieved him of his services right outside the courtroom; I only wish I had fired him in front of the judge, in order to speak for myself. Kevin 'represented' exactly what I did NOT want, even complimenting the opposing party (respondent) in my case. NOT what I hired him for as the PETITIONER of the filing. Very dissatisfied customer here; now attempting to recover majority of my retainer, since I have to go hire a NEW attorney - one to actually act on MY behalf. read more

Kevin and his team are awesome! They helped me with my name change and the process took less than 3 months. I was informed of every step of the process. They're very kind and professional. I would highly recommend! Thank you again :) read more

Being a newly single mother diving into the world of family law for the first time I am SO thankful I found Fair Cadora. Kevin and the ENTIRE team were so professional and patient when it came to helping me understand and answer any questions I had. Kevin has what I would consider a triple threat: knowledge, communication skills, and drive to make sure that his client gets the best outcome for their individual case. I can't recommend Fair Cadora enough! read more

I can not even express how grateful I am to have found Lauren Fair. She has represented me and guided me through the toughest time of my life. Never did I think I would get a divorce nor have to get full custody of my sons but I did and I couldn't have gotten through it without Lauren. She was my rock! Literally the best divorce and family law attorney in San Diego. I have referred Lauren and her wonderful team to many of my co-workers friends and even family, and they all agree she's the best! Lauren and her team are extremely professional, courteous, punctual and just an absolute pleasure to work with. And because of this I find myself hiring Lauren on a yearly basis with no hesitation what so ever. :) read more

Run away fast. Kevin is an unethical, horrible attorney. He does not keep his client best interests in mind. Several times he was asked to address an issue in court, he would not. Always saying that will come up in court. What? We were in court. While on the other hand he allowed my X and his attorney to bring up any items that they wanted at any time without any objection. Then when he should of agued and fought for my case he said "I defer to the court. What? He was hired to fight the case in my behalf....not defer to the court. He double triple charges by requiring you to email or text him and 2 other of his employees. He talked down to me. After a hearing, I called him to discuss. HE NEVER..EVER RETURNED MY CALL. When he was let go and my court date came, I had to represent myself because he took over $100,000 before we even had the case heard. At the court hearing even the judge said to me that it seems that Mr. Cadora over litigated and over charged in this case. There are honest attorneys out there but this is not one of them. read more

Kevin Cadora serves as a powerful advocate, guiding both men and women through difficult divorces and complex family issues. Divorces is not easy, but why make it more difficult than it already is. The right attorney will help you with your divorce, the process and the issues that arise. You want an attorney that will take a huge burden off you. You want a lawyer not only with considerable experience in the area of divorce law, also, your legal adviser should have a good reputation for competence, honesty, integrity and respectful treatment of their clients. Bottom line you want to have an attorney that will do an amazing job navigating and advocating you. Give Kevin a call read more

Kevin and Lauren came highly recommend to me as a referral. I have worked with their family law firm on several issues over the last year. They have been extremely diligent and fair - always responsive and timely with their work, plus their support team is awesome! I would recommend Fair Cadora to anyone looking for a family law / divorce attorney in the San Diego area. read more

Fair Cadora, APC - Lauren Fair, Partner at Fair Cadora Family Law Firm - Divorce & Family Law Near Me - San Diego, California

I'm sad to hear about attorney Jennifer Irvine. I'm sorry I'm posting this and you may delete it, but my heart goes out to her family, and her coworkers that had a great team having Jennifer Irvine. I'm devastated and praying. I myself went to school for criminal justice, so this hits me hard. Rest in peace Jennifer Irvine. You are not a number. You will be missed. I'm so sad to hear the passing of such a gregarious and generous human being. May God be with you, your family, and colleagues. Pray for Las Vegas and our San Diego native Jennifer Irvine. Thank you! read more

The level of knowledge Lauren has with the current Laws and her concern for her clients is fabulous. I see this kind of energy in people that love what they do! She has an eye on every angle like a Lion watching over her cubs. I own several businesses in San Diego and would highly recommend calling her so YOU don't lose yours ! She is good ! W. Scott Ferrell read more

Getting divorced was the best thing I have ever done.....And the SCARIEST!!! But having Kevin Cadora in my corner made me feel much more confident and secure. He was patient with me, worked well with the other attorneys, gave me good direction and made the whole ordeal much more bearable. Thank you, Kevin! read more

If you want a quintessential scumbag divorce attorney this is the group for you. Make sure you are of sound mental health, because if you aren't they will take advantage of that and milk your life savings from you, regardless of the well being of children. read more

Unfortunately, Mr. Cadora the details of my case and DV are Mine to disclose publicly if I choose. Not yours. While I completely appreciate follow up if a client is not responding, and I understand billing mistakes happen. However, I do not understand billing for leaving a voicemail to follow up. I did not respond out of fear for being billed more for saying AGAIN my case is closed. I also do not think these were billing mistakes since my entire invoice was sprinkled with such "fees". I left several voicemails responding to the bills I was getting after my case was closed prior to posting this review. It is clear to me this is the standard billing practice and I felt it was important to let other women already struggling with a horrible situation know in advance. ... And I've had enough with the rude, passive aggressive comments about my personal situation for which I came to your firm for help. read more

As Secretary Treasurer, I have had the opportunity to get to know Kevin as the Vice President of our networking group over the past few months and find him to be a very competent, organized and professional person. What I learned about his practice is that having a level of care for each type of situation a relationship may be going through from simple peaceful dissolution to complicated court proceedings allows him to be more compelling to his client's needs. Kevin and his partner Lauren provide a calming environment which helps to diminish the stresses of divorce. I highly recommend Kevin and his team to anyone who may be considering separation or divorce. read more

I was referred to Mr. Kevin Cadora from a close friend of mine, I found him to be very human and personable unlike some other Lawyers I've had the misfortune to work with in the past, he took the time to break the information down and explain my options very clearly and simply, which was a big help! I only wish I had known Mr. Cadora 5 years ago when I was going through my divorce. I now recommend him to to anyone in need of a good, knowledgeable, honest and helpful lawyer! read more

Kevin Cadora is not only an amazing attorney. He is a wonderful person who truly cares about his clients and does his best to make a painful experience as quick and easy as possible. Having said this, know that his confidence and talent in the courtroom will serve you well. read more

I would highly recommend Kevin Cadora for any divorce or family law matters. As an attorney, I have seen the devastating effects a divorce can have, not only financially, but personally. Kevin provides caring and compassionate legal advice. Divorce laws are complicated and vary by jurisdiction. I continually use Kevin as a resource because of his expertise in California divorce law. If you want a knowledgeable divorce attorney that is experienced and knows how to work with people, call Kevin Cadora. read more

Kevin Cadora and all the staff at Fair Cadora were professional, helpful and produced excellent results for me. I found Kevin to be aggressive, understanding and expert in all my dealings with him. I had experienced the results of poor representations in my original divorce and after 12 years Kevin was able to deliver results I should have gotten in the original divorce. I would definite recommend Kevin to any one in need of legal representation in family matters. Because he represents both men and women he has a good grasp on the law and how to navigate the legal system to best serve you whether you are a man or a woman. The highest recommendation I can give Kevin and Fair Cadora is that I would use him again if I ever have a need. read more

Lauren Fair has been an amazing lawyer. She is attentive, knowledgeable, compassionate, hard working, and an amazing advocate to have on my side. I feel lucky to have her through this difficult time and trust in her judgment completely. Her expertise and attention to detail is astonishing. I would recommend Lauren to anyone who needs a supportive and strong lawyer on their side! read more

Lauren is not only the most knowledgeable attorney I have ever worked with, but she is the epitome of a top notch professional. I would highly recommend her and her outstanding team, especially if you want an attorney that goes above and beyond, is always available for her clients, and is straight-forward in setting realistic expectations. She delivered an impressive and fair final settlement. Thank you Lauren for taking the stress out of this process. read more

I highly recommend Kevin & Lauren @ Fair Cadora LLP. It is rare to find attorneys these days with a heart who genuinely care for their clients. Most attorneys are looking to rack up the bill and drag the process out as long as they possibly can. That is the total opposite of what you get when working with this law firm. They continuously try to minimize the sting of the process for their clients but still provide top notch service to achieve the best possible outcome for their clients. If you need to consult or higher an attorney dealing in matters of family law, I strongly recommend you contact Kevin & Lauren before making your decision as to what firm you want to represent you! read more

Although I did not have the opportunity to employ Fair Cadora, Kevin Cadora was very open and informative about the approaches he would have taken when I inquired about a case that might need to be reopened. Vefy upfront about everything. read more

Words can't say how valuable it has been to have Lauren and the Fair Cadora team in our corner in our custody battle with my husband's daughter's mother. What used to be impossible is now a reality! We finally have a set schedule so we can plan things as a family - and so much frustration and stress has been lifted. That's priceless for us! Everything is so worthwhile now that our situation is finally working out for all of us. THANK YOU. read more

It was great working with Kevin and Lindsay. They are the most kindhearted family lawyer in San Diego. Divorce is not at all easy but they helped me a lot emotionally and mentally. They made me feel confident. Whatever I say I would be less to define them. Thanks for being with me. read more

Over the past one year, I worked with Ms. Fair and Mr Cadora for consultation in a divorce matter, and later, representation in a DV restraining order hearing. I have found them to be very passionate, responsive, and patiently addressed all of my concerns. I also worked with Ms. Jennifer Irvine and Ms. Tony Haro during this time, and both of whom were also very competent and helped in bringing a satisfactory conclusion to the DV hearing. I highly recommend the team at Fair Cadora. read more

Kevin is an excellent attorney who treated my case with great professionalism and humanity. This firm is a team; as his client, I felt my case was always a priority to all involved. Going through a divorce is one of the most horrific experiences; however, having representation that you can trust makes a profound difference. Kevin and his office worked diligently to keep my case on track, my children protected, and my future worth looking forward to. Honestly, I don't have the proper words to express my gratitude and respect towards FairCadora. They are a family law firm that focuses on integrity, and I highly recommend them. read more