Ayo M. Stevens

I retained Atty. Stevens in March to handle my divorce from a marriage of 28 years. At the time I knew absolutely nothing of the legal process and options before me. During our initial meeting, he listened intently to my explanation of the situation, which was a little discombobulated since I was ...nervous and a bit emotional. He restated the gist of my issues to ensure his understanding, and proceeded to provide me with high level options. His legal knowledge and experience of family law, the processes, procedures and inner workings of the Upper Marlboro courthouse, made my total experience less stressful and gave me great confidence. During the sequence of events of my case, there were wrinkles in my negotiations with my ex-husband. While Mr. Stevens had the legal knowledge, he always included me in the problem-solving and resolution process…He made it very clear that I, as the client, had to understand my options and be satisfied with the solutions so that there were no surprises. He made no decisions or actions without discussing them with me first. Additionally, I was particularly struck by his calm manner, personable but very professional attitude, and caring but tough demeanor. He always took time to explain legalese, patiently listened to my questions and always seemed to hone into the actual issue through my emotional rants. I especially appreciated his attentiveness and prompt response to my queries as new issues arose. I did a bit of research on lawyers for my case before hiring and Mr. Stevens came highly recommended. His prices are reasonable and I never felt like he provided unwarranted services to increase his costs. I admit that I’ve not always had a good impression of lawyers, but I found Mr. Stevens to be honest and ethical in his dealings with me in providing legal services. I highly recommend him and give him the highest rating!

Attorney Ayo Stevens was actually the second attorney that I had retained, after I had to dissolve the first legal relationship due to a lack of genuine committment to the case. Attorney Stevens was referred to me from a friend, who was sure that I would be pleased with his approach and knowledge in ...regards to family law. To say that I was impressed can easily be an understatement! Attorney Stevens took my case with very little time to gather the facts, evidence and documents, but he did a superb job in preparation and attention to detail. The opposing counsel was unwilling to work with my former counsel, but she was more than happy to work with Attorney Stevens, which allowed more time to settle the small items of dispute and get to the meat of the case. I suppose being a very well presented and spoken, tall, handsome and knowledgeable attorney does command a certain level of respect from the opposing counsel, as well as all parties involved. In the end, Attorney Stevens proved himself to be ethical, personable, as well as trustworthy in my opinion, as well as my family. I would definitely recommend him to anyone who needs an attorney in the area of family law in the Maryland area.

Mr. Stevens was referred to me by a good friend of mine when I was going through a very nasty and acrimonious divorce and custody battle with my husband. From the start, Mr. Stevens presented himself as a very concerned, caring, and compassionate lawyer. He always made time to talk to me by phone whe...n I had a question, or when I had a concern. He always followed up and followed through. His attitude was always positive and he never stooped to malicious tactics, which was totally opposite the manner in which my ex-husband's lawyer conducted herself in representing him. He wanted what was best for me, but he went about it in a very fair and conscientious manner. In the end, me and my husband opted to do a consent agreement, and Mr. Stevens was very supportive of my decision, which again was totally opposite the position my husband's lawyer took. He reviewed the consent agreement to make sure it accurately covered all relevant areas, and advised me regarding what was in my best interest to do. Mr. Stevens started off as my lawyer, but he ended as one of my most trusted and respected friends. I highly recommend Mr. Stevens to anyone looking for a lawyer with a high sense of ethics and fair play.

Attorney Alphonso Hearns is knowledgeable and maintains professionalism; however, my experience did not meet expectations regarding advocacy and case strategy. During mediation and key decision points, I felt my concerns were not strongly pursued, resulting in an agreement that felt unbalanced. I ...frequently had to take the lead in raising issues and seeking clarity, rather than receiving proactive legal guidance. While the legal process was explained, I expected a more assertive approach given the stakes involved in custody and financial matters. This attorney may be suitable for clients who prefer a conservative approach, but those seeking strong advocacy should be prepared to remain highly engaged throughout their case.

This lawyer is horrible His office does not return calls If you call or email any questions or concerns you will not get a response for at least three days if your lucky Does not answer questions This lawyer will try and talk you out of going to trial and settle and go behind your back and sign... a consent order against your will We had to find out from the ex that the court order went into effect because this office does not have the courtesy to tell you themselves We explicitly told this lawyer not to sign the custody order because we did not agree to it and he signed it anyway He lied straight to our faces and told us that he would not sign if we had an issue with the consent order and that the opposing counsel could not add anything in the consent order that was not read in the courtroom Well the opposing counsel added things in and when we disagreed with the order Mr.stevens signed it anyhow And would not return our calls about it going into effect Again THIS LAWYER IS A HORRIBLE LAWYER!!!!!!!! We would never recommend him to the sleaziest of people