Dale Truitt Berrett

After hiring an attorney I had known for a very long time who almost immediately became ill after taking my case, and then being passed along to another attorney in the same firm who was not providing me with the level of representation I was seeking, I decided to research family law attorney bios an...d their reviews. I then decided to hire Dale as my advocate after dismissing my former attorney. Dale immediately demonstrated a level of knowledge, capability, and empathy that was unsurpassed. When I first called her office to set up an initial consultation, I was even surprised that she answered her own phone directly. She immediately demonstrated compassion for my situation and moved quickly to take on my high conflict child custody case. She informed me of integral information that I had not received from my previous attorney and she also kept me informed of every action that I had to take, as well as every action she was going to take. She also gave me homework to do, so that she would not have to charge me as much for doing some of the work between herself and her staff, but then she still provided me discounts on my bills. Every time I met with Dale, it was evident to me that she was doing everything within her power to advocate for me. Her understanding of both family law and psychology made her an outstanding attorney who is like no other in her field. Dale is extremely professional, as she is attentive, kind, considerate, and a great listener with amazing ideas. While we unfortunately did not win our case, it was through no fault of hers because I was in a situation where many “cards” were stacked against me from beginning to end, especially a very non-responsive, biased, and unprofessional court appointed Guardian Ad Litem (GAL). While we knew it was going to be an uphill battle all the way, Dale never stopped trying to do her best for me. In summary, I don't believe I could have found a more caring advocate and attorney than Dale and those who worked with and for her at her law firm. If you want the best family law attorney, she is the best.

I first had contact with Dale in June 2020, at the urging of our marriage counselor, and right away her demeaner was aggressive, and very concise. My wife and I were on different ends of the spectrum with regards to custody. Dale drove fron Virginia Beach to Accomack Virginia to agrresively fight a c...ontinuance that opposing council wanted. We knew it was a ploy to stave off a Guardian Ad litem......dale fought hard and won, also she made sure the court forced wife to return two of the children back to Virginia, as they were being kept in Mass, which was denying me reasonable access to the children. Reasonable access was ordered by the Judge. Then she got a Guardian Ad litem to view both living situations right away, and made sure he had a report ready even before the pre-trial that was set for the next day. well....as the hour approached, Dale and opposing council met somewhere to hammer out aqn agreement. Council and my wife were panicking after knowing what the Guardian Ad litem was going to pretty much say. I got a very generous offer from my wife. Now I understand why she is a bit pricey...And why they call her the Barracuda. She is still my atty. And she makes you feel as if you are her only client. Very dedicated and highly intelligent. I am going to keep her on until the end. WOW! doesn't even begin to descibe how well she does her job.

After getting completely blindsided in court without proper representation, I knew some changes had to be made before returning to court again or face bankruptcy. Word of my ridiculous ruling spread, and soon several people suggested I call Dale Berrett and speak with her. After my consultation with... her I knew my future was in better hands. I was never told what I wanted to hear, just realistic facts to expect and prepare for. My case had lots of moving parts with property, spousal support, retirement, taxes, etc. Mrs Berrett and staff were able to prepare and file all the necessary documents both to the court and opposing counsel immediately. I was kept in the loop of what and when papers needed to be filed the whole time. Our day in court arrived and Mrs Berrett was obviously well prepared. I was amazed how quickly she was able to bring my case to a very favorable close. Without her experience and fast acting staff to expedite things in all manors this outcome would not be possible.

Ms Berrett and her staff absolutely saved my life during a custody dispute. I couldn't think straight as I was in a violent relationship. Ms. Berrett. handled everything so my daughter and I could focus on healing. I continue to use her for all legal issues regarding my ex. Dale is prompt, courteous,... and personable.

Dale has been handling disputes with my ex for several years now & I couldn't be happier. I had gone to at least three other attorneys before finding her & wish I had known about her when I first got divorced. I was able to get the child support that I was entitled to & a consent order that no longer... has loopholes through which my ex could manipulate things in his favor. She and her staff are very responsive. Dale gives great, realistic advice. She is great in the courtroom, smart & quick on her feet. Her charges are reasonable, I have never felt like I was being overcharged, unlike some other lawyers I have had. I would highly recommend Dale and her firm to anyone going through a divorce or custody dispute.