State Years

Virgin Islands - VI 5 years

Massachusetts - MA 37 years
Licensed for 5 years

State VI

Acquired 2018

Status
Authorized to practice law No misconduct found
Licensed for 37 years

State MA

Acquired 1985

Status
Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

David M Gabriel

Divorce and separation Attorney at Beverly, MA

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Resume

Atty David Gabriel changed my life.

I contacted David on the referral of a friend who had just completed his divorce and was ecstatic at the results. I initially hired a different firm and had achieved what I felt was a fair agreement so long as I didn't fall behind or have any challenges along the way. However, a few years later, matters got exceptionally complicated and I made an appointment with Atty Gabriel. From the moment I met David, I knew I had met the right lawyer at the right time. David was confident, calming and assuring. He listened to the entire story, asked several questions, brought up things I hadn't even thought of and from there laid out what ultimately became the financial security and happiness I was searching for. David's approach is like nothing I have ever seen. I work with Attorney's daily in my business and Attorney Gabriel is my choice, without question. He is well respected by his peers, opposing counsel, court staff and Judges. David left no stone unturned and discovered several key elements that I otherwise would not have known, costing me tens of thousands of dollars. David was always available to me and I simply can't say enough about Attorney David Gabriel and what he did for me. I've heard people say they can't afford an attorney, I say you can't afford not to have Attorney Gabriel working in your corner. Atty David Gabriel will always have my deepest gratitude. Attorneys like David are far and few between. The other attorneys and staff working with David are also of the finest you'll find anywhere. If you're going through or about to go through a divorce, do yourself a favor and contact David before your soon to be ex does.

I highly recommend Atty. Gabriel

About David

Learn David’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Alimony

20%
Child custody

20%
Divorce and separation

20%
Family

20%

Zealous representation in the following areas of family law: Divorce, Mediation, Paternity Actions, Contempts, Modifications, Equity Actions, Child Custody Disputes, Child Removal, Domestic Abuse & Restraining Orders.
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38 years
Mediation

20%

TOP RATED DIVORCE AND FAMILY LAW LAWYER.

I've been advocating for men and women in courtrooms throughout Massachusetts for more than three decades. I know that thorough preparation is the key to obtaining positive results for my clients. Preparation translates to a position of strength at trial and throughout the negotiation process.

I have been concentrating in domesitic relations litigation since the late 1990s. Although I am passionate about litigation, I am also a certified divorce mediator. I really enjoy helping folks settle their disputes without the anxiety and expense that flows from litiation. I believe my litigation experiences in divorce and family law give me an edge over other divorce mediators. I've been in the court room and I've seen how the judges handle cases, time and time again. As your mediator, I am able to draw on those experiences in helping you and guiding you through the mediation process toward a positive end result.

I zealously represent people in divorce matters, paternity actions, child custody disputes, actions for court permission to relocate out of state with children, alimony and child support modifications, and contempt actions. I zealously represent men and women concerning restraining orders, domestic abuse charges, criminal defense litigation and personal injury litigation. I've had the pleasure of speaking at a number of educational engagements over the years, concerning litigation, divorce, custody, alimony and asset valuation. In 2018 I became a member of the United States Virgin Islands Bar.

I am fortunate to work with a great team. Our clients come to us in times of crisis. Together, we offer our clients something special - frankness, understanding, guidance, practical advice and most importantly, zealous representation. Our attornies and support staff are responsive, courteous and professional.

Our goal is to assist you in navigating through the legal process, making informed, intelligent decisions and developing sound strategies in order to increase your likelihood of success in reaching a positive end result. Information regarding what our clients think about us as well as a sampling of our actual results, are available on our website. We look forward to helping you, so please give us a call.

Awards

Client's Choice

2019 2014

Photos and videos

Contact David

David M. Gabriel & Associates

(978) 767-4950 Office

131 Dodge Street

Beverly, MA, 01915-1989

attorneydavidgabriel.com/Attorney-Profiles/David-M-Gabriel

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Reviews

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4.9 / 5.0

27 customer reviews

5 Star

96%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Client's Choice

Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.

Posted by Joseph | January 29, 2019

Atty David Gabriel changed my life.

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Posted by Erik | January 29, 2019

I highly recommend Atty. Gabriel

Atty. Gabriel has helped me through very tough custody and marital issues. He has guided me with his in-depth knowledge of the probate courts & its laws. His courtroom demeanor is second to none, which coupled with his knowledge has resulted in most favorable outcomes to my probate issues.

Posted by Yulia | February 28, 2023

Great!

This is my second time working with David Gabriel. If I have to get an attorney I will choose him again. If you need someone who is honest and knows his stuff - hire him. My case was complicated- other attorney was interested in her own earnings and tried to drag things along just to bill. David was making things mentally as easy as possible for me and shield me from other side nonsense and abuse and absorbed a lot of craziness. He will do a great job and he is honest man. He is doing things Right.

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Posted by anonymous | June 1, 2022

Great communication

Getting divorced is never easy, but with a lawyer like David Gabriel by your side, it can be swift and painless. As an attorney myself, I know how difficult it can be to work with high-maintenance clients, but David has the patience of a saint and answered all of my calls, texts, and questions along the way. His communication was exceptional, far surpassing my expectations. When it came down to the terms of divorce, custody issues and child support, David’s experience in this field was invaluable. Issues like child support and alimony will impact a household for many years after a divorce is finalized, and David had the foresight to prepare for my future both financially and with regard child custody issues. He negotiated tirelessly with opposing counsel and completed my divorce, from filing to finalization, in less than one year. Thank you, David!!

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Posted by Mary | May 10, 2021

Strong, Compassionate and Knowledgable

I highly recommend David without reservation to anyone who is in need of a strong, compassionate and knowledgable family law attorney. David is approachable and is able to diffuse emotional situations. He has strong communication skills and answers questions in a clear and concise manner. Throughout my divorce process, David explained each step and worked with me to understand the possible outcomes of each scenario. David was clear that he would not promise an outcome but rather would work through the process with me to reach a fair agreement. When necessary, David was able to "draw a line in the sand" with the opposIng counsel. I felt that David was thorough in analyzing all the complexities of my case. David's staff is responsive and reliable. Again, I recommend David without any hesitation. During a very difficult, divorce process, I never worried that my legal representation was not one of the best in Essex County.

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Posted by anonymous | May 28, 2020

A great mediator: Knowledgeable and fair

David was the right person to bring us along in our thinking and our understanding of divorce law. He is also warm and compassionate, and easy to talk to. His billing process is fair and transparent - no surprises. He could broker Middle East peace talks :)

Posted by Sonya | May 6, 2020

Experience, Enthusiasm and Heart

I interviewed three attorneys before hiring David, and I chose him because of his experience and enthusiasm. He understood how much my case meant to me, and I could tell that he cared. He also made me feel like he was ready to do battle if necessary. My case was a bit unusual as I am a grandparent who has had lifelong custody of my granddaughter, and that bond was being jeopardized by her biological father who came into her life at about the age of seven. Although David was very passionate about advocating for me and, by extension, my granddaughter, he was honest and told me that I would not be able to retain custody. Consequently, he laid out a reasonable plan and attainable goal. Although I understood his concerns and the great challenge we faced, I was unwavering in my desire to retain custody. David put aside his reservations and worked diligently with me toward that goal. As you would expect from an excellent attorney, he always gave me sound advice and made sure I was well-informed. He helped me to understand when and why we needed to take certain actions, and aggressively sought out the best professionals to help inform the court regarding details of the case. Ultimately, the length of time spent (about a year), the professionals consulted and, finally, the willingness to work with the other party to come to an agreement, resulted in me keeping custody of my granddaughter while allowing ample time for her to develop a strong and healthy relationship with her father. Keeping my faith for the desired outcome strong, and working along with David toward my goal was a very positive experience. I highly recommend David to anyone looking for a seasoned attorney that has a passion for his work, and who is fully dedicated to his clients. Thanks David!

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Posted by Olga | April 12, 2020

Outstanding!

If you’re about to start a probate case, you better make sure you have the right people on your side. David is one of those people. Extremely knowledgeable, creative, professional, experienced and honest, he truly cares about his clients. For almost three years we had to deal with dishonest, manipulating and abusive opposing party (attorney and the ex) and David never lowered his standards to their level. He continued to treat everyone with the upmost respect and professionalism. From the beginning and until the very end I could always reach David without having to wait for days for his reply. He always kept a realistic view on what was going on and explained everything in a straight forward way so I could understand the legal intricacies and nuances of the situation. He also provided me with the much-needed support during the entire process - he knows how to give the good and not-so-good news and he realizes what agony you could be going through. His impressive experience, knowledge of the law and tenacity coupled with everything said above makes him an outstanding attorney.

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Posted by Melissa | October 29, 2019

Outstanding Attorney Practice !

I have been looking for an Attorney for a very difficult post Divorce contempt matter and I am limited financially. I called this Practice and Atty. David Broderick took such patient time to listen and talk with me, go over the Family Law realities and my options. He helped me with ways to handle my complicated matter with great referrals and information. He was a sincere and knowledgeable Atty., who was also compassionate with my matter, you could tell it wasn't about the money for the Practice, with him. I cannot express how grateful I am to have had Atty.David Broderick help me, it was the most comprehensive assistance I have received after talking with many Attorney Practices. I Highly recommend him. Thank you Attorney Broderick. When you are faced with such difficulty, as a legal family problem, a knowledgable and sincerely caring Attorney that tries everything they know to help you, eases the emotional stress.

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Posted by Denise | February 23, 2019

FANTASTIC DIVORCE ATTORNEY - SMART, METHODICAL, EXPERIENCED, RESPECTED

I’ve been through a lot over the years with my divorce and associated modification agreements and never felt I had someone really looking out for me and willing to fight hard for me and my children. During the past year, I finally found the right attorney. Attorney David Gabriel. My situation is confrontational, bitterly contested and seems to be never-ending. Attorney Gabriel takes the time to listen to the continuous drama, applies the law and fights for my rights time and again. He knows the system and is well respected by everyone including his peers, attorneys and the judges who rule over our district. He comes prepared for each and every event and goes above and beyond preparing and making sure we are always well positioned. Has any of your lawyers listened to past hearings of yours to gain an upper hand? Has any of your lawyers stood up to your ex in person because of his lewd behavior? David does. If you want to lessen the stress and feel confident walking into court, do not look any further. I could go on but will end with two points. First, the facts, I received a favorable judgment including payback of all attorney Fee’s! When does that ever happen? Second, I now believe I have a friend that I can continue to lean on that has not forgotten me. Do you feel that way about your Attorney? I wish I did not have to deal with my ex over and over again but what choice do I have? Knowing I have Attorney Gabriel in my corner allows me and my children to live our lives with less stress and well-being.

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Posted by Mary | January 5, 2019

Criminal case won by David Gabriel!

Our son was involved in a criminal case with very high stakes for our family. We put our faith in David Gabriel and were not disappointed! David has a clear, direct style and is an excellent and reliable communicator via telephone, e-mail, and text. David saw that we were prepared for every outcome possible but due to his passion and diligence, our outcome was entirely favorable. Our family recommends David highly. David gets the job done!

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Posted by Laura | March 28, 2017

The right choice

My first lawyer clearly put her earnings ahead of my children's immediate needs and I switched to Atty David Gabriel. A wise decision hard learned. Mr Gabriel did not sugar coat the expectation or waste my time by keeping the animosity going. He was focused, honest and took no bs from the other side. There were times he seemed busy but he delivered at court each time. Court is like high school. Find someone who is respected by their peers as they are working out your deal. Atty Gabriel is sharp and well liked. I would have saved 10,000 if I hired him first.

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Posted by Bob | December 16, 2016

Excellant for Alimony Modification

I had a very positive experience with Attorney David Gabriel and his staff in my attempts to modify my alimony according to the Massachusetts Alimony Reform Act. I had 3 previous failed attempts with other attorneys (full disclosure - these were before the bill took effect in March 2012). The Massachusetts legal system is still working on understanding this bill and David, and his staff, did a lot of research to make sure I qualified and would have a high degree of success (no guarantees where human judges are involved). David and his staff were always responsive, informative and patient with any of my questions as the process is inherently not quick when dealing with opposing counsel. Upon going to family court I was granted a fair and very satisfactory decision. I would not hesitate to hire David again - but sincerely hope that I don't have to.

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Posted by anonymous | November 21, 2016

Restraining Order

I had a pending restraining order that an ex-girlfriend had unjustly filed against me. Upon recommendations from local attorneys in the area, all of whom recommended David to me, I hired him to represent me in the upcoming trial hearing that was scheduled. One of the toughest judges was assigned to my case, and I had already began to give up any chance of beating the restraining order. However, David never gave up and was able to beat the restraining order in court that day. I cannot recommend him highly enough for anyone who might have a case similar to mine.

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Posted by Eileen | June 30, 2015

Exceptional Divorce Attorney

Attorney David Gabriel is quite simply the BEST attorney around. I retained him to represent me in my recent divorce and I couldn't have been happier. His vast experience and extensive knowledge enabled him to see all angles of my case and present me with insightful options. He always took the time to thoroughly consider every possible scenario. Attorney Gabriel really listened to me and respected my requests and, just as importantly, knew exactly when and how to reel me in when it was in my best interest. His caring and compassionate nature was a constant source of reassurance throughout the process. Ultimately, his brilliant negotiation allowed me to settle the case, saving me considerable time and money. Having worked closely with many excellent attorneys in my professional life, I can confidently say that Attorney David Gabriel truly stands out from the crowd. David is nothing short of exceptional and I am so very grateful to have had him in my corner.

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Posted by Charlie | February 2, 2015

Excellent divorce lawyer

I started working with David and his staff in the spring of 2009 and came to a final divorce agreement in December 2009. With four children, and a very difficult ex-wife, he was able to guide me in making informed decisions and was able to negotiate terms that were very beneficial to me in the long run. I continued to work with David through the full settlement of assets and several modifications as circumstances evolved. He was always proffessional and handled himself very well in court. I have recommended David to friends and would definitely work with him again. His staff was very responsive and always supported him in a timely manner.

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Posted by Lynda | January 31, 2015

Excellent attorney

Atty Gabriel is a very competent , respectful ,and patient attorney. He always took the time to explain the process as many times as needed. He went out of his way to keep me informed. Most inquires were answered the same day , if not within 24 hours. Atty Gabriel 's staff is respectful, responsive , knowledgable and professional. We developed a case strategy which was very successful. I got an excellent result and he convinced me that further court involvement was not in my best interest since I would end up with the same result. He did not want to take any more of my money and go the litigation route because the result would be the same. I would highly recommend Atty. Gabriel as he made a very stressful time in my life a lot easier.

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Posted by anonymous | September 23, 2014

Fantastic Job!

David Gabriel did an outstanding job on my divorce and child custody case. After having been through 4 previous lawyers, David was able to help me turn my case around completely. He worked late nights, weekends, and was available around the clock when needed for explanations. He was fantastic in trial and I cannot thank him enough for all he did to help both me, and more importantly, my children.

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Posted by Janice | September 19, 2014

FANTASTIC DIVORE LAWYER

David handled my divorce in 2013 -2014, like the arch angel Gabriel. I had no idea what I was getting into or what was involved. He guided me through the process. He is very competent, intelligent and a caring individual. He understood where I was coming from and was there to listen and help. I never hesitated to call David and David always made himself available to me. David did a great job.

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Posted by Christine | September 3, 2014

Highly recommend this attorney for divorce/custody cases

I have an immense amount of gratitude and respect for David Gabriel and David Broderick, who helped me through a difficult and stressful divorce and custody situation in 2013. They are compassionate, kind and caring. Even better, they really know what they're doing. Their deep experience and expertise with the people and processes associated with Essex County family and criminal court systems was invaluable. They helped me navigate through what felt like an extremely foreign landscape. I always felt confident that I was in good hands with them. And while my ex-husband may be one of the most challenging characters to negotiate with on the planet, David and David ultimately got me the custody and divorce agreement terms that were what I needed to feel like my daughter and I could have a clean and fresh start. I honestly don't know what I would have done without them to help me through such a trying time. I have the utmost respect and appreciation for them as people and attorneys. They know what they're doing, take their work seriously. and have good hearts. I would recommend them to anyone looking for an attorney on the North Shore or greater Massachusetts.

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Owner
David M. Gabriel & Associates
1994 - Present

Partner
Law Offices of Richard J. Gabriel & David M. Gabriel, PC
1988 - 1994

Associate
Gabriel & Gabriel
1985 - 1988

Education

Suffolk University Law School
JD - Juris Doctor
1984

Boston College
Bachelor of Science
1981

Associations

Massachusetts Academy of Trial Attorneys
Member
2011 - Present

Better Business Bureau
Member
2010 - Present

Essex County Bar Association
Member
2001 - Present

Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2022

Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2021

Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2020

Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2019

10 Best
American Institute of Family Law Attorneys
2018

10 Best
American Institute of Family Law Attorneys
2017

Certified Mediator
Mediation Works
2008

Certiied Divorce Mediator
Mediation Works
2008

Cum Laude
Boston College
1981

View all awards

Publications

FindLaw
Alimony Reform Proposed in Massachusetts
2010

Findlaw
Mediation: Affordable Bridge from Marital Strife to Happy Life
2010

Findlaw Knowledge Base
Taxes in Divorce
2010

Findlaw
Massachusetts Becomes First State to Challenge Legality of DOMA
2009

View all publications

Speaking Engagements

Divorce in a Nutshell
Divorce
2014

2014 Practical Skills Seminar
Divorce
2014

Practical Skills Seminar
Divorce
2013

Advocacy and Drafting Under the New Alimony Reform Legislation
Alimony Reform
2013

Divorce CLE
Divorce Demystified
2012

View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (13)

Given (11)

Endorse David

Robert Luber

Family Attorney | Jul 26
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I have worked with David Gabriel as opposing counsel on a highly contested divorce matter. He is an outstanding litigator with an extremely high level of knowledge and expertise in Family Law. He treats his clients with the utmost care and works zealously to obtain their overall objectives. Attorney Gabriel is well-known and very well respected by judges and court personnel and has an outstanding reputation and esteem by his peers in the industry. I highly recommend David Gabriel without reservation."

Nicole Reilly

Family Attorney | Nov 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Lisa Greenberg

Family Attorney | Aug 06
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I referred a very difficult equity / domestic relations case to David. He researched the law, pinpointed the facts, and totally obliterated the opposing counsel."

William Griset

Personal injury Attorney | Aug 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"As a fellow Personal Injury lawyer with 33 years experience in the field I can say without hesitation that David Gabriel is an extraordinarily talented member of the Bar. He is thorough, thoughtful, and a strong advocate for his clients. I would gladly refer anyone I know to David and, in doing so, would be certain that the referral would reflect well on me."

Demetra Pontisakos

Divorce and separation Attorney | May 21
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this attorney. David Gabriel and I have worked on opposite sides of a complex divorce matter. I have also had the opportunity to observe Attorney Gabriel in court in his advocacy on other family law matters. David is a perceptive and responsive family law attorney. He is thoughtful and thorough in his approach to cases. I have observed his ability to advocate for his clients while at the same time approaching emotionally-charged family law matters with compassion, common sense and professionalism. This approach not only benefits clients, it is better for the legal community as a whole. I have personally observed his excellent rapport with other members of the legal community, court personnel and the judiciary. He clearly has earned the respect of the legal community in Essex County. David is also a wonderful colleague, ready, willing and able to take the time to provide insight on current legal issues. To top that off, he is quick-witted with a great sense of humor."

Lisa Jacobowitz

Family Attorney | May 20
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. David and I were on opposites side of a case together a few years ago. He was a tenacious and zealous advocate yet reasonable and open to constructive settlement negotiations which is an essential balance for a successful Family Law attorney. In my opinion, David serves his clients well as he is thorough, prepared and willing to look for a reasonable solution in a situation which can be fraught with negative emotion."

Nancy Ignazi

Family Attorney | Feb 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I have worked both with David on cases and against him, and found him terrific. His can do attitude combined with his professionalism and knowledge of domestic relations makes him a an asset to the field. He is a zealous advocate who does not lose sight of civility when dealing with opposing sides, which can be rare in this arena. He is a benefit to the field."

Donna Booth

Family Attorney | Jan 14
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Gabriel is an aggressive advocate for his clients and knows the law, is practical and realistic in his approach. He also works well with opposing counsel, making sure that personalities do not get in the way of his clients' needs. He works hard to settle his cases/avoid expensive trials, but is an excellent trial attorney."

Donald Pitman

Family Attorney | Dec 19
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. David is an outstanding attorney who has an excellent reputation in the legal community and unerstands that the battle is not between the attorneys...and sometimes should not be between the clients. I would happily work with him again."

Thomas Taranto

Divorce and separation Attorney | Dec 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have not worked with Attorney Gabriel, however, I have had the opportunity to observe him in the court room, both at motion hearings as well as observing him conducting a trial. He is always prepared, knowledgeable, and effective."

Christine DeBernardis

Family Attorney | Oct 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Gabriel is an outstanding attorney with an excellent reputation. David ealously advocates for his clients and gets the best result possible in each case. I highly recommend him."

Eric Jarosz

Family Attorney | Apr 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. David is a real hard working attorney that knows how to get the job done. He is very down to earth and cares deeply for his clients. He has an extremely broad depth of the knowledge in law and uses it to his clients advantage. I wholeheartedly would support your choice in hiring attorney Gabriel."

Donnalee Leonardo

Child custody Attorney | Apr 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer's work. He is a great attorney and experience in which the fields he specializes. He is an asset to the bar."

View more endorsements

Robert Luber

Divorce and separation

William Griset

Personal injury

Demetra Pontisakos

Divorce and separation

Lisa Jacobowitz

Divorce and separation