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Nicholas Alexander Halks

Divorce and separation Attorney at Newton, MA

5.0   69 reviews

also known as Nick Halks, Nick Hawkes

Free consultation Virtual consultation available
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
  • Licensed for 9 years
    State MA
    Acquired 2013
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

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

About Nicholas

Learn Nicholas’s areas of practice.

AGGRESSIVE, AFFORDABLE, AND AWARD-WINNING ATTORNEY - BOSTON - NEWTON - ANDOVER. CALL (617) 658-7070

Nicholas Halks is one of the top domestic relations trial attorneys in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, specializing in handling high stakes divorce & child custody litigation. A small sampling of his recent trial victories include:

1.) Winning Sole Legal & Physical Custody for a Mother, andreducing Father's parenting time due to his mentally abusive behavior after a three day highly contested trial;

2.) Winning a 60-40% division of complex assets (international real estate) for a Husband in a Twenty-Year Marriage including Husband retaining his pre-marital retirement assets after a four-day trial,

3.) Winning Physical Custody and disparate division of assets (domestic & international real estate and bullion) for a Mother in an Abusive Marriage after an eight-day trial (Successfully Defended Victory on Appeal);

4.) Winning Physical Custody, Increased Child Support, and Equal Division of Husband's premarital Assets in a Short Term Marriage;

5) Winning $260,000 in damages (including punitive) after a nine-day jury trial in the Superior Court for a woman being sexually harassed by her employer, (Successfully Defended Victory in Appellate Court and Supreme Judicial Court) The appellate case created an exception to the law which enhanced protections for workers suffering from sexual harassment in smaller sized workplaces;

6.) Winning a removal ("relocation") trial where the parties shared physical custody, winning sole physical custody for a Father after a two day trial;

7.) Winning 60% of the marital estate for a Wife who was the victim of adultery in a long-term marriage;

8). Winning a Five-Year Restraining Order and Sole Legal Custody for a Woman the Victim of Physical Abuse;

9.) Settling an Age/Gender Discrimination matter for $407,000

Having conducted approximately seventy civil trials to judgment/verdict, Halks is experienced with litigating a case from start to finish, including defending the victory on appeal. Seven of those trial were appealed by the losing party but Halks sucessfully defended all seven on appeal. Coupled with his high energy, prowess, and oral persuasion skills, Halks is an extremely formidable lawyer, whose reputation for excellence is well known in Essex, Middlesex, Norfolk, Plymouth, and Suffolk Counties. He has also conducted approximately seventy five (75) restraining order hearings, winning the great majority of same, in order to both protect victims of abuse and vacate false claims utilized by parents to gain advantages in custody matters.

Although Halks is more than capable of winning at trial, he is also a shrewd and skilled negotiator, who is willing to sit down and hammer out an amicable agreement without the need of the Court. A litigator at heart, Mr. Halks enjoys the "Arena," better known as the Courtroom, as that is where he excels based on his superior oral and written communication skills, honed by hard work and experience. Halks is entirely capable of achieving maximum results with or without a battle in a Courtroom.

Halks is the Winner of the AVVO Client's Choice Award for Seven Straight Years, as well as numerous other awards.

He is a member of the Massachusetts Bar Association, Norfolk Bar Association, Middlesex Bar Association, Lawrence Bar Association, Justinian Law Society of Massachusetts, Newburyport Bar Association.

He is also appointed by the Court as a trained-conciliator to resolve difficult cases for the Middlesex, Norfolk, and Essex Counties.

He received his J.D. from The Massachusetts School of Law, where he was the Editor of the Student Journal, The Verdict, and host of the televised debate show, Final Adjudication. Before graduation, he was the winner of two CALI Awards for Excellence. He earned his B.S. from the University of South Carolina where he attended on academic scholarship. Nicholas is also a graduate of Central Catholic High School, and grew up in nearby Andover, Massachusetts. When he is not working, he enjoys spending time with his family, horse riding, tennis, and the outdoors.

Awards

Client's Choice 2021,2020,2019,2018,2017,2016,2015,2014
Client's Choice
2021 2020 2019 + 5 ...

Photos and videos

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Contact Nicholas

The Halks Firm
233 Needham Street
Suite 540
Newton, MA, 02464
The Halks Firm
One International Place
14th Floor
Boston, MA, 02110
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Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  69 customer reviews
5 Star
 
99%
4 Star
 
1%
3 Star
 
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Client's Choice 2021
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 anonymous | August 10, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Look no further!!!
Nicholas Halks is AMAZING! Nick accepted my case after I had another attorney bleed me dry of almost every penny I had left. Nick took my case on even after knowing he was going up against my ex-husband who happens to be in law enforcement. He was not way shape or form intimated knowing that my Ex had testified in over 100 trials himself. Nick and Kailynn Palaima his para legal treated me with the utmost respect and compassion. Nick went through boxes and boxes of information that was passed to him literally at the 11th hour and prevailed! Nick took the time to meet with me on so many occasions just so he and I could both be prepared. He is Brilliant and compassionate, a combination you will rarely find! His ability as a trial attorney is EXCEPTIONAL! He never faltered once. Calm, cool, collected and again BRILLIANT! I will forever be grateful for they're help and understanding in putting a bully in his place! A very special thank you to Kailynn as well who is one of the kindest sweetest people I have met, her mere presence calmed me. They get an 11 out of 10 in my book and am thrilled with the results!
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Posted by anonymous | July 26, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Superior
What can I say that hasn’t already been covered by others? I guess I will start with a ‘thank you’ for everything you’ve done and will continue to do for me. I’m a single dad and Nick has literally been there for me at every corner. I was awarded split physical and legal custody for my child. He is fearless and his huge heart is not only obvious in the court room, but even more outside of work. When I started this journey with no hope, constant fear, being bullied beyond belief by professional bs artists; Nick was and continues to be flawless in identifying every single detail and torpedoing down all bs and to have him on my side is a godsend. He is able to do what he does so remarkably, I believe because he possesses a true gift that is unparalleled and a true genuine compassion for humans. In a nutshell that’s why he is and always will be one of the best. (and he is still in his early 30s). Everyone at the firm literally works around the clock and it is rare to not get a quick response no matter how busy they are; including Nick, Kaylyn, Kristy and Sarah. Nick has helped me more than any more words I can continue writing here and as I have an ongoing case I will remain anonymous until all the remaining details are squared away. Thanks Nick!!
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Posted by Ben | April 30, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Review of Attorney Halks
This is a long overdue review of Attorney Halks. Nick has been my attorney for the past eight years. I came to Nick after my previous attorney quit my case. I had already been through a GAL investigation, a trial and an appeal and everything emotionally and cost-wise that goes along with those types of actions. To say my divorce was complicated and contentious would be putting it mildly. To complicate matters even worse my ex-wife was a divorce lawyer as well. I had to fight for years just to have basic access to my son and to be able to still afford to support myself with mounting attorney’s fees and debilitating child support payments. By the time I met Nick I was exhausted and out of options. For anyone considering Nick as your attorney…know this, if you are fortunate enough to have him take your case you will always get 100% from him. Nick is honest, he is a fighter and cares about his clients. I NEVER felt like I was another number to Nick or that he was ever looking to run up my bill with poor results. Nick cared for my son and me. It showed in his work and how he treated me. Today, because of Nick and his staff, I have a relationship with my son and a parenting plan that allows me to truly be apart of my son’s life. It was an absolute battle, and at times, still is. Nick is/ was a force equalizer in my family’s situation and truly always put my son’s needs first. If you work with Nick, you are lucky. Especially in a court system that can be beyond overwhelming and at times brutally unfair. I cannot recommend Nick enough. He is a friend, and I will be forever grateful for what he has done for my son’s future and my family’s well-being.
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Posted by Tracy | February 5, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Divorce Lawyer
Having to go through the process of a divorce recently has not been easy or stress free. But, with the help, support and guidance from Nicholas Halks and his firm, I was able to get through those difficult times and moments. Nicholas Halks is an excellent lawyer and is extremely knowledgeable and intelligent. He was patient, supportive, listened and gave detailed explanations so that I could understand what everything meant. Not only did I have the pleasure of working with Nicholas, but I had the joy and pleasure of working with his associates and staff. Overall, everyone was kind, helpful, organized and supported me throughout the process. I would highly recommend Nicholas Halks and The Halks Firm .
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Posted by anonymous | January 25, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing! Contact ASAP
After a terrible experience with another firm in the midst of a divorce trial, I sought another lawyer. Interviewed several other divorce attorneys and Nick was by far the best! He and Kailynn are highly efficient and responsive. Nick’s court preparation and cross-examination of the opposition was excellent, showing that the opposition was not credible. This even made it into the judgement with quotes. We got the ultimate best outcome! The fees are very reasonable—previous law firm charged more for shoddy work over the course of a year than Nick’s firm for stellar product including court appearances over 3 years. Without hesitation, I would recommend The Halks Law Firm for divorce representation!
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Posted by anonymous | December 23, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Settlement
I worked with Nick for several years to settle a claim against an employer. He was responsible for satisfactorily settling the case, and I was very satisfied. Thanks Nick and team.
Posted by Rose | May 22, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The Hawks Ferm handlers and won my case flawlessly
I am very grateful for the help I always receive from the lawyer Nickolas Hawks and his team! Since 3 years ago I have needed their services and as always the service exceeded my expectations. At any time I need them they are always available to help quickly and a high level of professionalism, to the very end when they won my custody case at trial . I am forever great full !!
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Posted by Scott | October 26, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The Halks firm handled my case flawlessly
I want to thank Attorney Nick Halks and his outstanding team for doing a fantastic job in representing my families’ best interests in the divorce! I retained Nick’s services because I’d read that he was an excellent advocate for father’s rights and knew how to handle the interests of the male primary wage earner. I couldn't be happier with my experience and my results with The Halks Firm! The outcome of my divorce was very fair, and Nick made sure I wasn’t taken advantage of in the process. From the first consultation it was clear Mr. Halks was going to be a staunch advocate for me. He and his team are compassionate, excellent communicators, with an honest straightforward approach enabling me to understand the process and proceedings. I strongly recommend The Halks Firm to anyone going through a divorce.
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Posted by anonymous | May 26, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Ethical, competent, efficient ... the best you can expect
It was a distressful situation, like many of them ... Nick had a pragmatic approach and was truly invested in resolving the conflict. While it is tempting to go after the gibberish from the opposing lawyer, Nick appears to have the remarkable ability to discern the true intentions and refrain from entertaining the nonsense. I found that quality extremely admirable besides the other values he brings to the case. Not sure if you'll find a better lawyer than Nick!
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Posted by Joe | April 26, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Attorney
Mr Halks is very good at negotiating with the other side, he also gives his Clients practical advice so that they have reasonable expectation from their case. He is able to read the situation and calculate the correct step for the case, I highly recommend him. He also connects with the Clients at a personal level which I didn’t notice in other Attorneys when I was trying to find the right Attorney for my case. Going through a divorce is a very difficult time, having someone like Attorney Halks on your side can make a huge difference - he is a strong advocate for his Client, he is also very competitive which is a great asset for the case; he also takes his work very seriously. If I had a choice to go back in time, I would hire Attorney Halks again!
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Posted by Maria | March 1, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Mrs.
Nick is an amazing attorney. He works with you, so he is affordable. He also responds ASAP. I am very grateful for the help I always receive from the lawyer and his staff. Since 6 years ago I have needed their services and as always the service exceeds my expectations. Thank you so much for everything!
Posted by Meena | February 1, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The best divorce lawyer 'Nick'.
If you are looking for a divorce lawyer, I highly recommend Nick. He is an excellent, hard-working, and highly intelligent lawyer, based on my own personal experience and outcome, he clearly knows what he is doing and was my greatest asset while going through a very painful divorce. He did his best with my case and was very proactive allowing me to focus on reshaping my life knowing he had my best interests in mind. Here are three things I liked most about Nick and his firm. Nick and his team quickly understood my case, answered all my questions, took proactive actions, and provided the right guidance to me. Nick added precise and clearly written clauses in the divorce agreement regarding my daughter’s educational costs. Nick went above and beyond even working during the weekend to ensure that everything was finalized before the divorce date and so the case would not drag out longer than needs be. Going through a divorce is a painful experience, but having someone as professional and diligent as Nick supporting you, making sure the agreement is fair, speedy and well-communicated made it that much more bearable. Thank you, Nick
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Posted by Melisa | January 18, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Nick and his team are A+++
If you are looking for top notch representation and a team that will listen, keep you informed, and cares about the work they are doing for their clients, then you must hire Attorney Nicholas Halks. I called Nick on a Friday with a scheduled pre-trial date on Wednesday. Nick and his team got to work right way, getting the date moved so they could have time to properly prepare. From the moment, I spoke with Lauren (his paralegal) and then Nick directly, I knew I was in good hands and for the first time in a year and 3 months I was able to breathe and feel at ease about my case. Nick is a craftsman at what he does, he pays attention to detail, he’s strategic, and is not afraid to fight for his clients.  Throughout the case, Nick and his team were responsive, reassuring, highly knowledgeable, and professional. Don’t waste your time and money with other attorneys like I did, give Nick a call and HIRE HIM!
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Posted by Lucy | January 18, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Best lawyers in the Boston area!
Nicholas and his team has done a wonderful job on my custody case. Going in with zero experience, i was very nervous. But they explained everything thoroughly and answered all of my questions. They are organized and on top of their game. I needed everything to be done as soon as possible and they got it done sooner than I had expected. Even after everything had settled Nicholas took the time to reach out to make sure everything is okay, which is really appreciated. Over all, I would recommend Nicholas to represent your case. Their firm truly cares for each one of their cases. They work night, day, weekends and holiday just to get the job done. They’re an amazing team and I would use them over and over again with no hesitation if needed. Thank you Halks Firm, you guys are awesome!
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Posted by Marlena | September 6, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Saved my life
Nick and his team are amazing. After going into my divorce with no attorney and realizing what a huge mistake that was, I hired Attorney Halks. He was able to exceed expectations and worked diligently to get me all that I wanted. In a situation where I couldn't see the end of the tunnel, he pushed me through and moved mountains. He is amazingly personable with a no nonsense attitude. Just what I needed and I will recommend the Halks firm to anyone I know.
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Posted by James | September 2, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
THE Halks firm is Elite!
I couldn't be happier with The Halks Firm! During the most difficult, challenging time in my life The Halks Firm was right there with me every step of the way always communicating with me in the most honest, straightforward way possible having my kids best interests in mind and mine. I would recommend anyone to The Halks Firm! Professional, reliable and committed!
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Posted by Stephanie | June 18, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Attorney and Staff
I have recommended Attorney Halks to multiple friends and acquaintances because he really is the best. Nick has able to help me get the results I wanted in court during my custody disagreement. The case was long and difficult, but Nick always gave me sound advice. He is knowledgeable, patient and gets the job done. Anytime I call or email, I get a quick and thoughtful response. I wouldn’t recommend anyone else!
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Posted by Nolan | February 10, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent!
I hired Nicholas Halks while I was in the mist of a contested custody battle involving my young daughter. When you are looking for a family law attorney, you want to find someone who can relate to you on a personal level. Upon first meeting Nick, I knew I had made the right decision. Nick and the Halks Firm are incredibly knowledgeable, trustworthy, and passionate. My daughter may not realize it now, but one day she will learn of the essential steps Nick took to preserve our relationship. I am extremely thankful, and highly recommend Nick and his team for any and all family law matters!
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Posted by Neeru | February 5, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Lawyer
Nick is an excellent lawyer. He listens to his clients and gives helpful advice towards specific situations. He handled my divorce case and trial for 2 years, and I couldn't have asked for a better lawyer than him. He was very well-spoken at the trial. I'm also from a different country, so he did a great job understanding and overcoming the culture gap. I would definitely recommend him to friends and family in the future.
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Posted by Ben | January 14, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Fighter
A former client of Nick's highly recommended his services and I was not disappointed. From the initial consultation I was put at ease by the staff at the office and assured my case would receive the attention it deserved. Divorce takes a serious toll on your psyche and having a great attorney like Nick helped to give me hope. Nick is a fighter and he made sure I wasn't taken advantage of by the opposing party. If it wasn't for Nick I would not have come out of my divorce as well as I did.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 30 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Partner
  • The Halks Firm
  • 2017 - Present
  • Associate
  • Law Office of Jamie James
  • 2013 - 2016

Education

  • Massachusetts School of Law at Andover
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2013
  • University of South Carolina
  • BS - Bachelor of Science
  • 2008

Legal Cases

  • Custody
  • Full Custody to Mother

Associations

  • Lawrence Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2014 - Present
  • Justinian Law Society of Massachusetts
  • Member
  • 2013 - Present
  • Salem Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2013 - Present
  • American Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2013 - Present
  • Massachusetts Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2013 - Present
  • National Motorists Association
  • Member
  • 2012 - Present
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Client's Choice
  • Avvo
  • 2021
  • Client's Choice
  • Avvo
  • 2020
  • Client's Choice
  • Avvo
  • 2019
  • Top 40 Under 40
  • The National Advocates
  • 2018
  • Distinguished Member
  • Lawyers of Distinction
  • 2017
  • Client's Choice
  • Avvo
  • 2017
  • Top 40 Under 40
  • The National Advocates
  • 2017
  • Client Reviewed
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2017
  • Client's Choice
  • Avvo
  • 2016
  • Client's Choice
  • Avvo
  • 2015
  • Client's Choice
  • Avvo
  • 2014
  • Award for Excellence: Sophisticated Speech
  • CALI
  • 2012
  • Award for Excellence: Case Preparation
  • CALI
  • 2012
View all awards

Publications

Speaking Engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (13)
Given (18)
Endorse Nicholas
Family Attorney | Aug 10
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Nick is a caring and passionate advocate for his clients and is committed to ensuring the best results possible on each and every one of his cases. Nick has an innate ability to make courtroom advocacy look effortless, both through his skill and dedicated preparation. I highly endorse Nick as he is and is one of the hardest working attorney's I have had the pleasure of working with as an opposing counsel."
Family Attorney | Oct 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Nicholas is a great family law attorney. I had the distinct pleasure of seeing his legal expertise in action and I would not hesitate to recommend this lawyer to any client in need."
Unknown Attorney | Mar 13
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"An excellent lawyer who treats clients with patience, care, understanding, and utmost professionalism - an even better person and I wholeheartedly recommend for future services."
Family Attorney | Aug 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Simply said, Nicholas is an outstanding family law attorney. Highly recommended!"
Child custody Attorney | Jun 14
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have had the pleasure of working with Attorney Halks and have always found him to be a great advocate for his clients. He is very thorough and will continue to work a case until the very end. Highly recommended."
Family Attorney | Mar 08
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I worked on a case in which Nick was opposing counsel. He was attentive to the case and went the extra mile to resolve a few loose ends. He was responsive and knowledgable. I would recommend him and I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Jan 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Nick's primary skill is that he's very good on his feet, a critical skill as a litigator. Being good on your feet as an attorney comes from through preparation and dedication to the client. Nick is a good lawyer to have for any family law or harassment case!"
Family Attorney | Oct 10
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Halks and I have worked on opposite sides of a complex domestic relations matter. I have also observed Attorney Halks in court in his zealous advocacy on other matters. Attorney Halks is a strong advocate. 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 challenging matters with compassion, common sense and professionalism. Nicholas Halks is a prepared, knowledgeable and extremely effective litigator yet he is open to constructive settlement negotiations, which is an essential balance for a successful lawyer. Attorney Halks is highly respected in the legal community."
Unknown Attorney | Mar 14
Relationship: Co-worker
"I strongly endorse Attorney Nicholas A. Halks. He is a highly skilled attorney. He truly dedicates himself to every case and does his very best to secure a favorable outcome for his clients."
Child custody Attorney | Mar 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Nick is an outstanding litigator who has obtained results for clients in complex matters. His ability to react to unexpected issues as they arise enables him to achieve the best results possible for his clients. I highly endorse Nick Halks."
Employment and labor Attorney | Dec 28
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse this lawyer. Although I have yet to meet him, I understand that he is a passionate advocate."
Child custody Attorney | Jul 18
Relationship: Other
"I have recently become aware of Nick's abilities as a young and upcoming lawyer."
Family Attorney | Jul 14
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Nick is a very good lawyer. Talented, professional and pleasure to work with."
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Divorce and separation
Divorce and separation
Divorce and separation
Speeding and traffic ticket
Criminal defense
Divorce and separation
Divorce and separation
Newton Divorce and separation Lawyer Nicholas Alexander Halks
Nicholas Alexander Halks
Divorce and separation Attorney
Newton, MA
Licensed for 9 years
Free Consultation
Virtual consultation available