Best Divorce Lawyers in Philadelphia
Patrick J. Cooper
Divorce Lawyers
Patrick J. Cooper, Esquire is the founding partner in the law firm of Cooper Family Law, a Philadelphia-based law firm handling all aspects of family law cases including divorce, child custody, child support, property division, protections from abuse, and adoption. Cooper Family Law represents clients throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania.
Patrick heads the firm’s family law practice group handling matters involving all aspects of family law. Patrick handles divorce matters ranging from simple no-fault divorces to high net-worth divorce cases involving the division of multiple real estate holdings, business ownership interests, and investment account division.
Patrick has achieved highly favorable results for his clients on a regular basis throughout his career. For example, Patrick has successfully petitioned courts for permission for his clients to sell jointly owned real estate without their spouse’s cooperation, for seizure of their child’s passport in an international child custody proceeding, and obtained child custody rights for grandparents and great-grandparents. Patrick is experienced in LGBTQ family law issues and handles matters involving alternative means of reproduction.
Patrick represents parents and grandparents in child custody cases, working tirelessly to help his clients achieve their desired results with the best interests of their children in mind. Patrick knows that family law matters require a delicate, sensitive approach at times and a tough approach at other times and he advises and advocates for his clients accordingly. In his limited free time, he enjoys spending time with his wife, children, and their dog, Fitz. Patrick and his family have made the Philadelphia area their home, but he remains an avid Steelers, Penguins, and Pirates fan. He asks that his clients please not hold this against him.
R. Badet
Divorce Lawyers
Divorce Lawyer R. Badet is an experienced divorce lawyer and dedicated to helping his clients at every stage of the divorce process. His practice includes simple and complex divorces, spousal support, child support, and child custody. Divorce Lawyer R. Badet is a knowledgeable divorce attorney. He has the experience needed to obtain the best possible outcome for your situation! Visit his website to learn more about your legal rights and options: www.lawyersfordivorces.net, call for a free consultation. He is a highly respected and experienced attorney with many years of experience. He is an experienced litigation attorney who represents clients in both Family Law and Criminal Law matters.
Our office handles divorce cases on a daily basis and we would be delighted to help you with this frustrating situation. Don’t feel like you’re alone! Don’t just file for divorce without seeking legal advice! We are here to help! Call us now to see what we can do for you.
Melinda M. Previtera
Divorce Lawyers
Building great relationships with clients is the cornerstone to Melinda Previtera’s successful practice as a divorce attorney. Her passion and experience allow her to tackle the most complicated cases with the confidence and knowledge needed to obtain the best outcomes for her clients. A partner of Petrelli Previtera, Melinda acts as a mentor for the firm’s associates.
In addition to divorce, Melinda represents clients in all areas of family law, including child support, custody, legal separation, and domestic violence law.
To Melinda, offering top-notch experience, education and above-and-beyond legal work is just the beginning. “We know the right people; we know the key players, the judges, adversaries, opposing counsel,” she explains in this video. “We know how to speak the language and get you the best results.”
While earning her law degree from Rutgers School of Law, Melinda received a certification in mediation. She also conducted research in child advocacy rights and completed a domestic violence clinic. She earned dual bachelor’s degrees, cum laude, from Dickinson College.
Melinda is admitted to practice in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Prior to moving to private practice, she served as a judicial law clerk for the Honorable James P. Savio in the family division. After working at Petrelli Law as an associate, Melinda joined the firm as a partner in 2017.
“Working in this intense legal field is a privilege which continues to spark my love for litigation, negotiation, and advocacy,” Melinda noted.
The International Women’s Leadership Association recognized Melinda as a “Woman of Outstanding Leadership” for her personal and professional achievements and for her dedication to supporting other women in reaching their goals. She was selected for inclusion in the Pennsylvania Super Lawyers’ Rising Stars list every year since 2016. Rising Stars is an honor given to attorneys younger than 40 or who have been in practice for 10 years or fewer. Melinda was also named to the Top 40 under 40 list by the Institute of Family Lawyers in 2016.
In addition to her legal background, Melinda is an executive committee member of the Justinian Society and an active member of both the Nicholas A. Ciprani Inn of Court and the Philadelphia Bar Association.
Allison Kruk
Divorce Lawyers
Allison Kruk is a tireless advocate devoted to producing exemplary work for each and every client. To her, the phrase “I represent” contains some of the most powerful words in the English language. She approaches every case with unparalleled diligence, responsiveness, and compassion for the challenging circumstances that often bring people to Family Court.
Allison attended law school at the University of Pennsylvania where she graduated magna cum laude and was admitted to the Order of the Coif, an honor society for U.S. law school graduates. While in law school, Allison assisted in providing pro bono representation for individuals involved in divorce, support, child custody, and dependency proceedings through her work with Community Legal Services and the Federal Reentry Court program. She also served as a family law research and teaching assistant. After graduating, Allison worked in criminal defense for the Defender Association of Philadelphia until she returned to family law at William Kirby. She is admitted to the bar in the State of New Jersey and consults on Pennsylvania cases in her capacity as a law clerk.
Allison attended college at Princeton University, where she graduated summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa. Her major was in sociology, with minors in Gender Studies and African American Studies. Before attending law school, she worked as a journalist for The Financial Times, reporting on institutional investing and the public pension system.
Outside of her work, Allison enjoys distance running, reading novels (she’s an avid Book of the Month Club subscriber), and spending time in nature. She was born in Englewood and now resides in South Jersey.
Alycia A. Kinchloe
Divorce Lawyers
Alycia Kinchloe, is the founder of Kinchloe Law. Alycia earned her law degree from Temple University’s Beasley School of Law. In law school, Alycia was member of student government and was member of Temple’s prestigious Trial Advocacy Program. She also worked as teaching assistant for the Program. Alycia later attended St. Joseph’s University Haub School of Business where she earned an Executive MBA and expanded her knowledge of business.
Prior to founding Kinchloe Law, Alycia helped to grow a mid-size law firm from one to 140 employees during her tenure. Alycia managed the firm for several years including hiring and training attorneys and support staff. Alycia’s skills include legal writing, negotiation and trial advocacy. She is a zealous advocate for her clients whether it’s fighting for benefits for the disabled or zealously representing her client’s rights in family and business law matters.
Alycia is a member of the Philadelphia Bar Association, Barrister’s Association of Philadelphia, and the Nicolas Cipriani Bar Association of Family Law Attorneys. Alycia does pro bono legal work through the Philadelphia Volunteers for the Indigent Program. She also enjoys teaching entrepreneurial skills to children and young adults through her non-profit organization. She is also a business coach and consultant.
Elaine Smith
Divorce Lawyers
Elaine Smith is a family law attorney who has devoted more than thirty five years to guiding her clients through the complexities of divorce, domestic relations, child custody and child support. She devotes approximately fifty percent of her time to litigation and has earned a reputation for taking on complex custody cases with great success. Her years of experience have not only made her a valuable asset and resource for her clients, but have also earned her a reputation within Philadelphia’s legal community as a committed advocate. Having published many oft-cited works on custody and visitation, she has also been asked to be a presenter, professor and speaker at many programs hosted by the Philadelphia Bar Association, the Pennsylvania Bar Association and the American Bar Association, among others.
In addition to the work she does on behalf of the firm’s clients, Elaine has also earned the respect of the legal community for the extensive amount of pro bono work that she has done throughout the years, taking on complex cases on behalf of low-income families. When interviewed about her volunteer work, she told the Philadelphia Bar Reporter, “As attorneys, we are leaders and we need to make a commitment to the law and to clients across the board.”
Elaine has served as the Philadelphia Bar Association’s Chair, Section of Family Law, as well as on the Chancellor’s Commission on Children at Risk and the Commission on Judicial Selection and Retention. She established the Smith &Leibel Annual Prize in Family Law at Temple University Law School. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Pennsylvania and earned her Master of Arts degree from Bryn Mawr College before going on to earn her Juris Doctor from Temple University School of Law. She has also served repeatedly as a judge for the Temple University Law School Moot Court.
Caitlin B. Fox
Divorce Lawyers
Caitlin represents clients in all areas of family law including custody, divorce, support, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, enforcement and modification of agreements, same sex rights, domestic violence, paternity and adoption. Caitlin aims to provide compassionate counsel while also serving as an advocate for her clients. She is committed to helping families navigate what can often be a complex and emotionally difficult experience.
Caitlin earned her law degree from Temple University Beasley School of Law, where she co-founded an organization aimed at connecting law students with practicing professionals in the Philadelphia area and served as the Family Law Society President. She also mediated custody agreements in Philadelphia Family Court as a student mediator for Temple Law’s Domestic Relations Medication Clinical. Caitlin earned her Bachelor’s degree from Pennsylvania State University, where she was active in the Penn State Dance Marathon.
Areas of Practice
Custody | Divorce | Support | Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements | Enforcement and Modification of Agreements | Same Sex Rights | Domestic Violence | Paternity and Adoption
Education
Temple University Beasley School of Law
Pennsylvania State University
Erik B. Jensen
Divorce Lawyers
Erik Jensen, Esquire is the Founder and Owner of Jensen Bagnato, P.C. Erik graduated from the Temple University School of Law in 1983. For the past 33 years Erik has been helping tens of thousands of clients, including families and businesses, in the Greater Philadelphia Area and New Jersey in the fields of Criminal Law, Bankruptcy Law, Family Law, Business Law, Commercial Law, Social Security Disability, Tax Law and Contracts, and all areas of litigation. A guest lecturer at various law schools, universities, and continuing educational courses, Erik deeply cares about providing quality services and at reasonable prices.
Established in 1984, Jensen Bagnato, P.C. serves chiefly the 10 county area of Southeastern Pennsylvania and Southern New Jersey with highly motivated and skilled attorneys. Our interdisciplinary approach utilizes attorneys with years of experience in diverse fields including Criminal & Real Estate law (commercial and residential). We have served thousands of satisfied clients and offer services similar to larger firms but without sacrificing comfort and a personal approach.
Our practice areas include:
- Family Law & Domestic Relations
- Custody
- Divorce
- Business & Commercial Law
- Business Contract Litigation
- Criminal Defense
- Drug Charges
- Sex Crimes
- White Collar Crime
- Tax Crimes
- Real Estate
- Bankruptcy
- Personal Injury & Wrongful Death
- Immigration Law
- Social Security Disability
Having the best divorce lawyer in Philadelphia can provide you with several significant benefits as you navigate the complexities of the divorce process. Here are some advantages of hiring a top divorce lawyer in Philadelphia:
Expertise in Pennsylvania Divorce Laws: Divorce laws can vary from state to state, and Pennsylvania has its own set of regulations and procedures. A skilled Philadelphia divorce lawyer will have a deep understanding of the state’s family law statutes, ensuring that your case is handled in compliance with local legal requirements.
Customized Legal Strategy: Each divorce case is unique. The best divorce lawyers tailor their strategies to your specific circumstances, whether you’re dealing with issues related to property division, alimony, child custody, or other matters. They can develop a strategy that aligns with your goals and needs.
Effective Negotiation: Many divorce cases are resolved through negotiation and settlement rather than through a trial. A top divorce lawyer in Philadelphia can negotiate on your behalf to achieve favorable terms, ensuring that your interests are protected while minimizing conflict and stress.
Access to Resources: Well-established divorce lawyers often have a network of professionals they can tap into, including financial experts, forensic accountants, child psychologists, and more. These resources can provide valuable insights and evidence to support your case.
Emotional Support: Divorce is a highly emotional process. A skilled lawyer not only provides legal guidance but also offers emotional support and a steady presence during a challenging time.
Courtroom Experience: In cases that require litigation, having a seasoned lawyer who is experienced in Philadelphia courts can be a significant advantage. They can present your case effectively and navigate courtroom procedures with confidence.
Timely Handling of Paperwork: Divorce involves a substantial amount of paperwork, including filings, agreements, and court documents. A top divorce lawyer can ensure that all paperwork is accurately completed and submitted on time, preventing potential delays or errors.
Child Custody and Support Matters: If you have children, issues related to child custody, visitation, and support are critical. A knowledgeable lawyer can advocate for your parental rights and help establish arrangements that prioritize the well-being of your children.
Complex Financial Issues: High-net-worth divorces, businesses, investments, and substantial assets can make the financial aspects of divorce complex. A skilled lawyer can ensure that these matters are properly valued and addressed during property division.
Protection of Legal Rights: Divorce can be overwhelming, and it’s important to have a lawyer who can protect your rights and interests, ensuring that you’re not taken advantage of during negotiations or proceedings.
Objective Advice: Divorce can cloud judgment due to emotional involvement. A skilled lawyer offers objective advice, helping you make informed decisions that align with your long-term interests.
Ultimately, the benefits you receive from hiring the best divorce lawyer in Philadelphia will depend on the lawyer’s expertise, experience, and ability to effectively advocate for your needs. It’s recommended to research and meet with potential lawyers to find one who is the right fit for your case.