BLUF: After nearly four years of representing myself, I had developed a good sense of what…read moreeffective advocacy looks (and doesn't look) like. Attorney Leaf exceeded my expectations. Once I retained her, I felt like the cavalry had arrived. She reduced my financial exposure from thousands of dollars to hundreds, and the difference in preparation and advocacy between Attorney Leaf and opposing counsel was immediately apparent.
I imagine there's a time when a young person dreams of becoming an attorney, then spends years learning what excellence in the profession looks like. Then comes the day that person realizes they have become that attorney--and demonstrates it every day.
In my view, Kristin Leaf is one of those attorneys. Words I would use to describe her are: mindful; considerate; empathetic; strategic; capable; understanding; and formidable.
By simply doing her job well, Attorney Leaf distinguished herself immediately. The difference in preparation, responsiveness, and resourcefulness in court was obvious. Although Attorney Leaf treated the "other side" with courtesy and respect, and always conducted herself in a dignified manner, the difference in caliber between Attorney Leaf and opposing counsel was unmistakable.
She takes the time to understand not just your legal position, but what you're actually trying to accomplish. She doesn't make you feel like a "case," like billable time, or like she's got more important things to be doing. She treats you like a human. She's also mindful that her time is your money and makes every interaction count.
I personally observed that Attorney Leaf stepped in and pinch-hit for my other GRGB attorney. She's got people's backs.
I had been pro se for almost four years, with the exception of two short appearances by attorneys that made my situation worse. I have no doubt that if I had been represented by Attorney Kristin Leaf from the beginning, I would be in a much stronger position in family court today.
Most people "don't have the money" to spend on a lawyer, me included, but if it comes to spending money you don't have, better to spend it on someone who will work hard to get the outcomes you need-and who has a responsive, supportive, hard-working team-than on a budget attorney who doesn't truly listen or prioritize you.
That's the one thing I appreciated most about Attorney Leaf. She listens--even when she probably already knows the answer. Even when your thinking is off track. Even when you're discussing something the court can't fix. She listens first, then works with you to identify the path forward.
Attorney Leaf has clearly invested in becoming an exceptional attorney, and it shows in every interaction. GRGB is lucky to have her. Retain her before the other side does!
I am also represented by another GRGB attorney in a criminal matter. As that case progresses, I expect to update this review to reflect that experience as well. That said, if you need representation on multiple legal fronts, that's yet another advantage of retaining this firm.
