I am extremely disappointed with the consultation I received from attorney Stephen Bilkis through my prepaid legal service plan. My plan specifically includes attorney consultations, legal advice, review of up to 10 pages of documents, contracts and letters, attorney-written demand letters on a member's behalf, and other legal services. The plan also requires participating attorneys to respond within 8 hours or by the next business day. Despite that requirement, I had to wait approximately five business days just to obtain an appointment. When the appointment finally occurred, the consultation lasted less than five minutes. Before I could fully explain my situation, Mr. Bilkis repeatedly interrupted me and stated that my only option was to file a lawsuit and that hiring him would cost between $7,000 and $10,000. I explained that I was not seeking representation at that time. I was seeking legal guidance through benefits I already pay for. However, I was told that he could not provide meaningful advice without reviewing documents and that doing so would require an additional payment of approximately $2,500, despite document review being one of the benefits included in my legal plan. Every attempt to ask general questions regarding my options, possible outcomes, or potential legal scenarios was met with interruptions. At one point, Mr. Bilkis stated, "I know what you're trying to do," as though I was attempting to obtain something improperly, when I was simply trying to use the services included in my membership. I was not asking for free legal work. I was attempting to use services that I already pay for. Instead of receiving legal guidance, I felt pressured toward paid representation and was unable to obtain any meaningful advice. The conversation ended before I was even allowed to fully explain my situation. This experience was dismissive, unprofessional, and inconsistent with the purpose of a prepaid legal service referral. Fortunately, my legal plan has since referred me to another attorney who is willing to provide the services and guidance that members are entitled to receive. read more

I have know Stephen for over 20 years and have been using him for the past ten years in business, mainly with employment liability. Stephen's wealth of knowledge, due diligence, and tenacity truly sets him a part from any one else that I have found. I am so thankful that I am able to contact Stephen when an opportunity arises and feel comfortable with his approach to the specific matter at hand. He is a great value and the services he does provide - he specializes in. If you're reading this for a review on his character and knowhow - don't fret - this man will always have your back! read more

Beware.. I don't know how they have e decent reviews but once you hire him, he will not answer your calls or emails. Does not actually fight for you. read more

Is this a factory? The woman on the phone was a joke. She put me on hold 18 times and would ask me stupid questions or to be honest, I was not even sure what she was doing besides making me feel uncortable. Then, when i finally hung up after waitinga nd waiting on hold, you would think they would call back when they had the time but they did not care. My feeling is that oif they dont care now without being handed any money, holy cow qill they not care when they have money handed to them. from the review here, they seem weak anyway which means I dodged a bullet. however its easy to see they are maybe on the levele of one of those lawyers you see their face oin a bench or they handle scams. read more

Met with Mr. Bilkis to consult on a child support case. Argumentative and condescending at every topic of our conversation. I'm not a stupid person, and being talked to in that manner by a professional providing me a service is the quickest way to not be hired. I packed up my paperwork and said we were finished. No question or protest. Fine. Glad we're on the same page. Also: I don't know who the photo is in this profile but it's not Mr. Bilkis. read more

My prior review disappeared somehow. He represented me on an estate. The go-to person was always too busy to talk to me and never returned calls or emails. I kept getting the run-around: call later, she's out, she's not at her desk, on vacation, out sick, etc. I have worked with other lawyers who got back to me in 24hours. This company is very disorganized. read more

STAY AWAY from this guy. I called his office to hire him to go to court for a speeding ticket last minute after my attorney told me he couldn't make it. His assistant told me that he would be available on the date of court and set up a phone meeting for a few days before the court date. When I spoke to Stephen Bilkis he told me that he couldn't do it and inferred that I hadn't been told the he could. I WAS told that he could. I went to court and got a postponement with another attorney. I decided to call him again to hire him for the new court date even though he seemed like an a-hole. A-holes can be great in court. This time the same. The assistant said he would, and when I spoke to him he "passed" because I had another attorney in court even though I had mentioned I would use an attorney in my first conversation with him. This guy is a terrible lawyer. His office staff are completely disorganized. You should not trust ANY legal matter of any importance to him. _______ read more

Told to go search Google. His website states that they give a free consultation so when I asked about filing with probate the woman on the phone told me just to go Google it. I guess his website is mistaken. read more

I was referred to Stephen Bilkis through CLC which is part of my husband's Employee Assistance Plan. The receptionist told me to call today at 1:30 but the number she gave me was for the fax machine. I called the 800 # and was told he was finishing up with a client. The receptionist asked if I wanted to call back or have him. I said I would. I called back and was told that my case was being referred out and that a lawyer would call me by 5 today. The receptionist didn't offer to take my phone number and when I asked her if she wanted my phone number she laughed and told me no. I asked her if she didn't take my phone number how was the other lawyer supposed to call me? At that point the receptionist caught an attitude with me. Well, it is now 6:34 and no one has called. Competence really is fabulous. read more

So glad I didn't hire Stephen Bilkis. He was rude. He yelled at me on the phone. I would leave a message with the receptionist and he would never return my phone calls. read more

I have known and worked with Stephen Bilkis for several years, and have always found him extremely knowledgable in the law, and the consumate professional. He really cares about his clients, and balances his compassion with tough legal defense on their behalf. I work in the legal industry, and recognize a great lawyer when I see one. I recommend him to all my friends and family. If you are looking for a lawyer, your can't go wrong here. read more

Do not hire this firm. Unresponsive, argumentative, and incompetent. I hired them in May 2020 for a very straightforward uncontested divorce. They didn't get the case filed until August 2021. Bills have increased because they've made the same mistakes multiple times, increasing billable hours to correct the errors. It takes multiple phone calls to get simple updates on the case status, which clients are supposed to be entitled to. Stay away. read more

Rude and unpleasant to speak with, missing pertinent details with regards to the case during our appointment that my husband had to personally remind him of. Condescending and talks down to you. Stark contrast to another lawyer I spoke with, unfortunately with the main offices in Ohio or else I would have used them. She had understood the case and offered suggestions in the meantime as we struggle to work with it, while this guy looks like he couldn't care less. read more

I have consulted Mr. Bilkis on a few different issues related to elder law and estate planning. He is knowledgeable and professional. He gave me a detailed plan as to how to address specific issues related to my mom. I highly recommend Stephen Bilkis for estate planning, elder law as well as for personal injury cases and criminal cases. I decided to update this review because I recently I had occasion to use the services of Mr. Bilkis again. I stand by my previous review. He is very responsive. He listened patiently-- I tend to go on and on. And he helped me immediately resolve a problem related to my elderly mother. I am so grateful. read more

I have known Mr Bilkis for many years. I've used him on multiple occasions and each time he was detailed, effective and professional. Other attorneys I've come across have been unreliable especially with call backs and follow ups which is nothing I've experienced with Mr. Bilkis. If you want an attorney that is well rounded and a legal expert you should speak to Mr. Bilkis. read more

I used Stephen Bilkis about two years ago with a family court issue. They were able to help me get full custody of my duaghter and I couldn't be happier. A year later I was rear ended by not another vehicle that resulted in personal injuries. Stephen Bilkis and his team were able to help me get all that I needed. I highly recommend them. read more

UNHELPFUL! Was referred to this office through my work EAP benefit. Mr Stephen Bilkis himself spoke with me after I called in. I was pleasantly surprised to reach him so quickly and then it all went downhill. I was calling about an old debt of almost $4,000 and he told me that hiring a lawyer for the issue would cost $2,500 so it didn't make any sense to bother with a lawyer. Ok.... I was seeking advice on how to best handle it at this point, as I don't believe I owe the debt and he told me I should have dealt with this 3 years ago. Again, ok.... He gave me no information about the statute of limitations or what rights I had versus what rights the agency had. He told me they will sue me and garnish my wages. But.... this debt is from 5 years ago and they haven't sued me. Great. So, all he did was confirm my worst fears, speak to me in a condescending tone, and practically called me stupid at several points in the conversation. If you speak with him, you'd better be quick because he hates questions, knows everything and doesn't actually have the time for anyone else. read more

Whatever you do DO NOT RETAIN! By far the worst! First ...Bilkis didn't show up to court he sent an associate that was 2 hours late and had no clue about his case! He went along with what the prosecutor recommended along with 15 days of community service!!! All for a disorderly conduct! He didnt fight at all but made sure he got his 3,500 for the services he did not perform! Do ypurself a favor and run!! you would be better off with a public defender! One star too many but i had to give one star to post this review read more

Used law offices of Stephen Bilkis a few years ago when my father passed away. He was great. Unfortunately, I needed his services again. My mom is at the age where she needs to be in Assisted Living. After looking around and trying to understand the costs versus the different level of services one gets to pay for or better yet, what they say is required, we settled for a place in Bergen County. Not inexpensive or as I like to say, Four Seasons prices for Motel Six service. We are paying a lot. Then I find out, my mom who requires Oxygen and needs help with her POC, was moving around the place without her Oxygen. We were livid. We informed them about this unacceptable situation. They promised to take care of it. But a week later, still she was going around without her oxygen. After a stern letter from Stephen Bilkis to the home, I can say my mom has had all the assistance she has needed and more. Thanks Stephen. read more

Stephen Bilkis has been a trusted advisor and taken care of our family legal needs for over 25 years. We would highly recommend his firm to anyone in need of representation! read more

I've been using Stephen Bilkis for over 10 years now. He has always done an amazing job handling my case and people I've sent to him were very pleased with his service. Always guided me through the entire process. I highly recommend this firm read more

From the moment I contacted the office I was comforted and impressed. Almost immediately I was put through to Mr. Bilkis, who spoke directly and honestly with me about a variety of issues relating to my situation. His questions and advice were insightful and revealed an extremely sharp mind. And his understanding of the legal issues seemed vast . Whenever I called and needed to speak he was often available immediately, and if he was in the middle of something else he returned my call promptly, without billing me for the sometimes lengthy time I had him on the phone. He showed great intelligence and patience, not to say the least about the fact that he got me the outcome I wanted. It is one thing to be skilled, but to do so while displaying grace, honesty, and intelligence is another matter. I can understand why people would get upset if things do not turn out as they like and vent. But the best we can do is place ourselves in the best care possible and hope the facts and justice will prevail. I believe that with this firm I received more than the outcome I desired, I received the best representation I could have hoped to have received. Mr. Bilkis worked tirelessly and revealed himself to be the best type of lawyer -- one with great skill who takes care for the well being of his clients through covering every angle, asking sometimes tough questions, and being the smartest and best prepared guy in the room. read more

I hate that I have to give them even one star. I lost custody of my son for a week to his dead beat father who was never there for him a day in his life because my attorney came LATE and wouldn't return my calls so I could appear telephonically. They are TERRIBLE how they have a license to practice law is beyond me. They changed my attorneys THREE times without notice. Every time I called to get in contact with them it was "so and so will no longer be representing you here's..." Don't waste your money, my new attorney from a completely different firm has been amazing even with the mess she has to clean up from this firm. She's done more for me in a month then they've done for me in 5. They're a money hungry firm and do not care whether you win or lose because they get paid either way. read more

I have worked with a variety of lawyers from this firm over the past 10 or so years referred via my company union benefits. Having an attorney present is highly recommended as they understand the process, and help you through it. Who wants legal issues but if you need an advocate I can recommend the attorneys of this office. I have for some years worked with Barry Weiss who helped me when my child custody was challenged, and helped protected my parental rights in the past. Should I ever need an attorney again I will not hesitate to contact the office of Stephen Bilkis, Esq. Thank you !!! read more

Your review helps others learn about great local businesses. I would have done better if used a attorney in a foreign country for all the help I recieved from this company Please don't reviewing this business if you received a freebie for writing this review, or if you're connected in any way to the owner or employees. read more

I have worked with Mr. Bilkis on many cases over the last eight years and can attest to the hard work and excellent results that Mr. Bilkis and his firm delivers to his clients. read more

Don't be fooled by their low rates. I choose this law firm because of the empathy my lawyer expressed on my initial call. That changed as soon as I sent my signed retainer with full payment. My lawyer didn't respond to my calls or emails for over a month. The week before my court date, I reached out again and then got a response... He never offered a means of defense when I asked. Never mind the fact that he didn't know the date of my trail, what had me dismayed is that my lawyer seemed disinterested in my case. He showed up late to court. Wasn't present when I was called by the court officer, so I was skipped. I had to wait until after lunch before I was recalled. You hire a lawyer to aid and fight in your behalf. I was not aided nor was my plead reduced or altered, it was expedited. My lawyer did not negotiated aggressively on my behalf. The case is not yet closed but he left me knowing that we would not be seeing each other again...I've never written a review for a service before. But I could not keep silent knowing that this can happen to someone else. read more

Unbelievably easy and professional experience. Great communication and got the job done. Would highly recommend to anyone needing representation. read more

This Firm doesn't deserve a rating as they were not attentive to my case. Stephen spoke with so much confidence in representing me and end up not showing for the case. I was devastated and upset - this case meant everything to me and the firm didn't lift a finger to assist in the matter. They no nothing about family law! It seems they make a huge buck off the retainers and exploit you for more money later. DON'T HIRE THIS FIRM. I can contest to this information as well as everyone who has wrote a bad review. read more

Did a great job made one called got everything taken care of. would definitely recommend there services and very reasonable priced

I have worked with Stephen Bilkis for over 9 years and he has always been intensely committed to his clients. When ever someone is looking for a lawyer in NY, I always recommend Stephen Bilkis. read more

Is this firm really considered a legit law firm?? I can't believe any of these positive reviews are real. This office and this lawyer is what makes people hate lawyers!!! An absolute embarrassment to the profession. The head guy there is rude and obnoxious. He doesn't know anything and pretends like he's going to do the greatest job for you. Once he sucks you in and sucks out the Money from you, that's it!!! You never hear from him again!!! And if you do, he bills you for his nasty interaction. Sloppy and unprofessional!!! Which lawyer shows up in court at least 2.5 hours late without even a courtesy phone call not once but all 3 times and then comes up with the most ridiculous excuses? Save your $$$$$. Don't hire this firm!!! read more

Mr. Bilkis is courteous, and professional. I have had the pleasure of knowing him for many years. He is knowledgeable and hard working. Hire Stephen Bilkis for your all of your legal needs. He will fight for you and your family. read more

As a fellow attorney, Mr. Bilkis has always been a great source of legal advice for me. Whenever I have an issue regarding the law or law office management, I know that I can rely on Mr. Bilkis' years of experience. His professionalism and understanding when dealing with clients has been a great example. read more

On 1/13,Mr. Bilkis personally called me to understand the customer care situation that led to this review. He wished that I had escalated the situation to him while the case was still underway. Honestly it never occurred to me that a simple case of a will would have needed any escalation. However I do appreciate that he took the time to reach out and his willingness to listen. read more

This attorney is amazing! I referred his office to a friend that was wrongfully accussed of taking money from their place of business. I don't know the details of how they got her case dismissed, but they did. My friend has thanked me everytime she has seen me since then. We both will refer them to everyone we know who needs a lawyer ! read more

I am more than pleased with the levels of professionalism and service I received with regard to a legal matter handled by the firm. Mr. Bilkis and his staff are knowledgeable courteous and professional and I would recommend them to anyone. read more

A friend of mine had a legal issue in NY and I again immediatly referred the firm. He has told me I you one for the referral as the firm saved him a lot of heartache and money ! read more

DO NOT HIRE THIS FIRM!!!!!!!! They are AWFUL!!!!!!!! We hired Stephen Bilkis and firm over a year ago on a custody case and have had to hire a knew lawyer entirely. They did nothing but show up to court. The lawyer he assigned the DAY OF COURT new NOTHING and was a total disheveled Mess. Stephen is rude and unpleasant when you get to talk to him. Awful, Awful, Awful. If there were NEGATIVE STARS that is what I would give this firm! Our case is still on-going and we had to pay them on three different occasions to complete NOTHING!!!!!! read more

I had my first encounter with Mr. Stephen Bilkis three years ago over the phone. He and his staff have been nothing but courtesy and professional. Their hard work ended with a large six-figure settlement for my case. I would highly recommend you contact his office. I want to give a special THANK YOU to Ms. Tricia Krapf. She always made me feel like a priority and was always kind and professional over the phone and email. I highly recommend them to anyone in need of legal representation. read more