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Steven B. Epstein

Family Attorney at Raleigh, NC

5.0   24 reviews
  • Licensed for 33 years
    State NC
    Acquired 1990
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

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

About Steven

Learn Steven’s areas of practice.

3
Practice areas
  1. Family
    34%

    9 years, 100 cases

  2. Child custody
    33%

  3. Divorce and separation
    33%
    I began practicing family law in 2014, following my own personal 2-year odyssey through the family court justice system. During that process, I felt a calling to help lead others through the tunnel from which I had just emerged. I am a passionate advocate for the rights of my family law clients and the well-being of their children. My goal is to help each client find their better tomorrow for themselves and their children.

    9 years, 100 cases

BOARD-CERTIFIED SPECIALIST IN FAMILY LAW, AS CERTIFIED BY THE NC STATE BAR

After nearly 25 years in law practice, I decided to migrate into the area of family law, where I now regularly advise clients and represent them in litigation regarding separation and divorce, child custody and support, alimony and post-separation support, and equitable distribution. I began practicing family law in 2014, following my own personal 2-year odyssey through the family court justice system.  During that process, I felt a calling to help lead others through the tunnel from which I had just emerged.  In 2020, I was recognized by the NC State Bar as a board-certified specialist in family law.  I am a passionate advocate for the rights of my family law clients and the well-being of their children.  My goal is to help each client find their better tomorrow for themselves and their children. 

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Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  24 customer reviews
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Posted by Chris | June 30, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Top Notch Family Attorney
Hiring Steve Epstein to help me with the many issues that I was facing regarding a very complicated and messy divorce that included a wide array of valuable assets-- a very successful company, multiple homes, expensive cars, dozens of accounts of all types, in addition to his help in regards to custody, a DWI case, being in a 5 week coma, and steering me out of significant life or death substance abuse issues, was one of the best decisions I have ever made. Steve is a zealous advocate for his clients. He is also a brilliant strategist, and his organizational skills and preparedness were top caliber. Simply put, I honestly do not even know if I would alive to write this review if it wasn't for Steve. He has also been a great mentor, and has helped me in understanding how to be a better father for my little girl, and a better person overall. I will forever be grateful for having him by my side during the darkest, most tumultuous time of my life. He is as good at what he does as anyone I have ever met. Thank you, Steve!
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Posted by anonymous | December 2, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A Real Professional--My MVP
Steve is a real professional at all he does, particularly Family Law. He is my MVP. His credentials reflect his many accomplishments in his life. He is someone who commands respect which makes him a great advocate as a Family Law Lawyer. We had a large and complex financial structure that Steve was able to simplify, communicate and equitably divide in cooperation with my ex and her attorney, applying the Family Law regulations and guidelines objectively and fairly. He made a difficult process easier, minimizing emotions and drama and calmly staying focused on facts and details and rules of law. I am grateful I was referred to Steve and recommend him as your Family Law lawyer.
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Posted by Sylvie | November 30, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Problem solver and highly motivated
Steve is the best family law attorney I have ever worked with. From our first meeting, he explained everything to me in terms I could easily understand and was always very responsive when I had questions outside of our meetings. After battling for a settlement for a couple years and spending an enormous amount of money with previous attorneys who had little hope for a better outcome, Steve took my case and turned things around in no time and changed my outcome for the best and without fear. Everything the other attorneys i previously hired told me they couldn’t do, Steve was able to accomplish it in no time. After 2 years of battle with my ex and no hope, he got him to execute an agreement that is much more favorable for me in just a couple months. He knew how to handle him and his attorney and they stopped the bullying and wrong doings. His fees are a little higher than some other attorneys, but you will get better results and end up saving at the end as he can achieve more in less time and it all worth it knowing you’re in good hands. I now have peace of mind knowing that Steve will be there to handle the situation if another issue was to arise. If anyone is looking for a knowledgeable and highly motivated attorney, then go to Steve. You won’t regret it!
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Posted by Bob | June 12, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
17 stars out of 5!!
Steve is an incredibly competent and exceptionally savvy family law attorney. He knows exactly what should be done, when it should be done, and when silence and waiting is the best tactic. He is a master negotiator. Steve was a true advocate and trusted guide for me throughout a difficult divorce. He delivered an incredible outcome on every front, from helping me see clearly during my initial shock upon learning I was heading to divorce, through mediation and child support and finally in negotiating an excellent settlement for me in my alienation of affection lawsuit as plaintiff. I would be hard pressed to find a family law attorney who could hold a candle to Steve. I do not typically write reviews but I am writing this one for Steve because he's quite possibly the best family law attorney in North Carolina and certainly delivered for me. The title of this review is "17 stars" because each time Steve slayed another dragon for me, I added a star. If you are reading this and struggling with divorce and related matters, hire Steve. Seriously, just do it. He's the best there is.
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Posted by Treviette | April 11, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The Problem Solver
Steve is focused, solution driven and completed every request in a timely manner. His keeping me on task helped move my case along, that prior to his stepping in had dragged on for months. Thanks so much to you and your team Sandy and Patricia for all of your support and for taking care of my family and I during a very stressful time.
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Posted by anonymous | March 24, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
prepared, creative, and child-centered
I was thrown into the custody and divorce process completely unawares -- my wife obtained an emergency order removing the kids from my custody even before there was any talk of separation! Throughout that traumatic process (and the parental alienation that followed) Steve was really a solid rock. He was always clear about what the law was, what my options were, and what the costs and benefits of those options were. He also gave me really sound advice about how to stay on the right side of the law *and* stay in the court's good graces. As a legal tactician, Steve is first-rate. More than once, he would call me with "an inspiration I had at the gym" that ended up being exactly the right move for my case. He is a creative and thoughtful advocate -- who obviously does a lot of off-the-clock thinking about how to best serve his clients' interests. Steve's team (mostly his paralegal Patti, but also his assistants) made sure that we were always prepared for everything the other side tried to throw at us. At each of the two hearings in my case, that preparation really showed -- we caught the other side flat-footed or we had just the right response ready when they tried to catch us out. Every single minute of trial prep proved well worth it in the end. MOST IMPORTANTLY OF ALL, Steve always always always kept the children's best interests as the center of our legal strategy. Sometimes that meant giving up on some point of personal pride or slight from the other side (which we might well have had the upper hand on, legally) but it also powered his zeal and tenacity when it came to the really important issues. Even when it came to property division, Steve's focus on the best interests of the children had a clear impact on the judge. I feel very lucky to have found Steve as my advocate in what ended up being a traumatic and unnecessarily complicated custody and property fight. The best thing would have been for my ex to be reasonable -- but given that that wasn't in the cards, I really believe Steve's advocacy and counsel were the next best thing.
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Posted by Coleman | August 14, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional and extremely knowledgeable
Steve represented me better than I could have ever imagined. My opinions were valued and my doubts were always reassured. My nerves were calmed and the process was always explained. Steve fought hard for me. He went above and beyond and did everything he could to ensure a great outcome. I couldn't have asked for a better attorney.
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Posted by Michael | August 13, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Michael Christodoulou
Steve always conducted himself in a very thorough, timely and professional manner. He met all his timelines, obligations and was punctual and concise. His knowledge of the details surrounding the law in this case was exemplary. I consider myself very fortunate to have had him represent me and the outcome of the case was very desirable.
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Posted by anonymous | January 14, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
separation and property division agreement dispute
I hired Mr. Epstein to help me when my wife decided she did not want to abide by the separation agreement we had signed six years ago. It was a contract matter so Mr. Epstein's background in contract law was a plus in my mind. He listened to what I had to say and gave me some very good recommendations ( not necessarily what I wanted to hear but what I needed to know ) and I also thought his billing was fair.
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Posted by Mike | May 5, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Steve Epstein ... two thumbs up!
It is difficult to put into words my appreciation for Steve's knowledge of the law, passion for his trade, sincerity of his counsel, care for his client, unmatched preparation and expertise in court! When I separated and divorced years ago, I made a big mistake by not retaining counsel to help me the legal issues. Her attorney drafted a poorly written separation agreement in which I signed without gaining legal advice (never do that!!!). The document had vagueness written into the language of the separation agreement that could cost me hundreds of thousands of dollars. I contacted Steve for a consultation and he was very thorough with all of the dynamics that existed and did not present a fairy tale ending, but rather a list of options that may occur. He walked me through the entire process from the legal paperwork to the potential trial. Steve then suggested that I could always seek the advice of another attorney, but after listening to his strategy and sensing his professionalism and confidence, I did not need to talk to anyone else...one of the best decisions that I have ever made! In the end, my ex-wife turned down several settlement offers and we were forced to trial. Steve was absolutely brilliant in the courtroom. His preparation was unmatched and he delivered an unbelievable presentation that left me speechless. After the judge ruled in our favor, people were swarming Steve to get his business card as they wanted what I had! Thanks Steve for everything! You are the best!
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Posted by Sara | January 31, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Recommend
I highly recommend using Steve if you are in need of a divorce attorney, in fact already recommended him to two other people going through separations. I knew immediately during my consultation that I was going to hire him, I didn’t even interview any other attorneys. He is extremely knowledgeable when it comes to the law, but he also truly cared about me as a person. He was always quick to respond to my questions or concerns, and he made sure to keep me updated on all of the facts in my case. He gave excellent counsel during my separation and mediation, he never led me on or simply told me what I wanted to hear. I found that to be crucial during the process of divorce, he made sure I stayed focused on what truly mattered to me. In the end he was able to help me get everything that I wanted out of mediation. I couldn’t have gotten through this without his counsel.
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Posted by Jamie | December 23, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly recommended, held in highest regard
Steve is a very knowledgeable attorney, outstanding in family law. He has an in-depth knowledge of the process, procedures and potential outcomes when negotiating a separation agreement and property settlement. He truly understands what you are going through and can guide you through the process, as one who has been there. He was always on, responsive and utterly professional in his communication and guidance. Due to multiple circumstances, we came down to the wire for negotiating a final settlement prior to the 2018 TCJA changes took effect, and he was able to guide me through the process, including mediation, to arrive at an agreeable solution, in record time. He offered sound advice in a time when we aren’t always able to think perfectly for ourselves. I highly recommend him and greatly appreciate his counsel during this time.
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Posted by Darin | October 24, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I wish I could add another star!
I can’t overstate the quality of Steve’s work or his dedication to his clients. Steve was very prompt with responses to any questions I had as well as being very quick to forward information to me as soon as he had it. What I respect most about Steve is that he focuses on the well-being of the children. He stated on day one that custody would be his priority which aligned perfectly with my goals. He also understands and empathizes with his clients which makes the entire process much more bearable. Steve was my second attorney and I wish I would have heard about him earlier. When I first hired Steve, I had been separated from my spouse for nearly 6 months and I got to see my child for one over-night visit every other weekend and I was allowed to take her to dinner once or twice per week for 2-hour visits. I was living in an apartment and paying my own bills as well as the bills of my spouse. I struggled to make ends meet and the situation was not sustainable. My predicament was in large part due to my lack of knowledge of my own rights. Steve changed all of that. He was very quick to rectify the situation by educating me of what my rights actually are and he was able to negotiate a much more equal settlement for me. With Steve’s help and expertise, I now have 50% custody of my daughter and our relationship is much stronger and more substantial! I am also back in the marital home which is the only real home my daughter has ever known. Without Steve, I don’t know that I would have ever gotten 50% custody and the home probably would have been lost. Working with Steve permanently changed the course of my life and that of my daughter’s significantly and for the better! Hiring Steve Epstein was one of the best decisions I have ever made!
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Posted by Nicole | July 17, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Representation
Steven is a very knowledgeable attorney who really understands what you are going through. He is able to offer advice and expertise that will be fair and accurate. Best part of working with him is you feel he has your back no matter the situation. I highly recommend him.
Posted by James | February 15, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Choosing an Attorney
Choosing an attorney to represent you in family court is one of the most important decisions you will make in the lives of your children. Steve Epstein was the third attorney I hired for representation and my only regret is that I didn’t find him sooner. Steve brings passion for his work to a whole new level. His attention, enthusiasm, and devotion are unparalleled; he makes you feel like his only client. In a clear and concise manner Steve explained everything about what to expect throughout my case, leaving no stone unturned, and kept me informed of any updates or changes immediately as they happened. Steve was always available when I needed him; returning my calls, emails, and text messages the same day (usually within the hour) any time I reached out. However, what I admire most, was Steve’s attention and respect of the needs of my children. He took the time to truly understand all aspects of our family’s relationship, even taking time to make a special trip to my home to gather as much detail as he could, to provide the best possible representation. I have great respect and gratitude for Steve Epstein for his assistance to me and my family. My children are happier, and my ex-wife and I can better communicate due, in large part, to Steve’s influence. If you are reading this then you too are likely looking for representation in a family law case. I highly recommend Steve Epstein for his passion, his care, and his devotion.
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Posted by Andrew | January 9, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Values Based Representation
Steve represented me in a custody and child support case. Unlike any other attorney I've worked with, in any field, Steve was a master at educating me in the process. His strategy was effective in attaining a fair compromise, and he communicated in terms that I could relate to and understand. More important, it was Steve's values throughout the process that impressed me. My case involved children, and Steve always made sure the priorities of the children were not lost in the compromise between parents. Bottom line, Steve is not only a great attorney, but also a great person. If you ever find yourself in need of family law representation, Steve is simply the best.
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Posted by anonymous | September 4, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Look No Further than Steven Epstein!!!
For the majority of my 17-year marriage, I'd been a trusting, stay-at-home wife, and mother to our 2 children. Unfortunately, our issues became problems we could not solve, and I ultimately faced the fact that I would never be completely happy if our marriage continued. Once I made it clear to my husband that I wanted a divorce, the verbal and mental abuse I'd suffered for so long, became even worse, and I felt even more threatened, frightened, and stressed than I'd ever been in my life. I was dealing with a very complicated separation, and divorce, along with total estrangement from our two teenage children. It was my GREAT fortune that a dear friend referred me to Steven Epstein, and to my relief, I was given an appointment for a consultation immediately. Steve listened patiently, and with empathy, to the struggles I'd faced for the majority of my marriage, along with the unfortunate, and significant, struggles I was presently facing with my relationships with our children. I could not have been more embarrassed by emotional state, but Steve never once made light of the extreme emotions, or stress with which I was dealing. He immediately swooped in, like Superman, and took as much stress from my shoulders as he was able, and began to thoroughly dig into my case. I very quickly realized Steve was the best asset I had. We moved at a crisp pace, but he was entirely thorough--exhausting every legal avenue possible. He never once did anything without making me fully aware of the situation. Throughout every step of the process, he remained kind, supportive, understanding, and made it his priority to explain every single thing that was, or would be happening. This level of open, and honest, communication had never before been my reality while married...I knew more about my marriage AFTER meetings with Steve, than in the 17 years I was married to my husband. By staying in constant contact with me, I felt a sense of control over my own life, and assured that my wants, needs, and concerns were in good hands, being addressed, and taken care of. I must have asked a thousand questions, but never once did any go unanswered, nor were they ever ignored or treated as unimportant. Due to Steve's incredible vigilance in getting EVERYTHING needed to do his very best work, and by making it clear that we would NOT settle for anything less than I deserved...I came away with an alimony and equitable distribution settlement, and a custody agreement that FAR exceeded my expectations---all in RECORD TIME...literally!!! Looking back...Steve's extreme competence, patience, and preparedness, was just half of what helped me get through my personal nightmare. The emotional support, and acceptance of my frazzled, stressed out, state of mind, was JUST as important as his legal advice and representation. Steve is always "ON GO" and eager to help resolve any issue...no matter how minor. Steve's professionalism, legal proficiency, kindness, empathy, willingness to go above and beyond, understanding, and dedication to achieving the best possible results for his clients, is TRULY what helped me get through the darkest days of my life. I could never put a price on the peace of mind I received from Steve, and from the support of every member of his team. Not only is HE the BEST, but his team and support staff can't be beat. I am forever grateful he was working for ME! If you find yourself in need of an exceptional divorce attorney, look no further than Steven Epstein!!! Believe me, you do NOT want him working for the other side!
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Posted by anonymous | July 13, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Expectations Greatly Exceeded
Steve Epstein is a consummate professional, with a genuine passion for family law. This is a man with true integrity, who will work tirelessly on your behalf. He is extremely detail oriented, truly compassionate, and most of all, honest. Steve helped me navigate and ultimately settle an Alienation of Affections and Criminal Conversation case to my complete satisfaction. The case took around eight months, but represented over seven years of my life. I really could not have asked for a better outcome. Steve always made himself available to me and was always happy to take the time to answer my questions. He is tough as nails, but also happens to be a really nice guy. I would happily recommend his services to anyone in need of a good family lawyer.
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Posted by Andrew | April 24, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Review of my attorney, Steven Epstein
I can not say enough of how pleased we were with our selection of Steven as my attorney. My custody trial was one of the hardest things I have ever been through in my life and my extended families life. He gave me the confidence through his experience and guidance to get through it. There was never a time he was not there for me, or left me waiting for extended periods of time for a call or email back. In fact, his follow up and punctuality is second to none. His professionalism and legal knowledge are just as impressive. All that being said, there was a bonus with Steve by my side. He generally cares for not just the client(me), but my children. I knew he wanted the best for me and my family. In summary, Steven Epstein is a fantastic family attorney. I cant thank him enough for the job he did. I do not wish anyone to have to go through what I did, but if they do Steve is the first name I will give them.
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Posted by Heidi | September 1, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Alienation of Affections Case
In January of 2015, after separating from my husband of 12 years, I found myself in the most desperate situation of my life. I was alone with my two year old child, jobless and financially abandoned. Trying to find my way through the nightmare of divorce, with all its complications and expenses, I was unexpectedly blessed to find attorney Steve Epstein. Feeling hopeless and betrayed, I asked Steve to represent me in an Alienation of Affection lawsuit. Not knowing him personally, at first I found him to be extremely serious and intimidating. But, as we worked together over the next year, I quickly discovered that he was a man of remarkable character...moral, just and compassionate. Because of his compassion, he understood my fears of such a personally intrusive lawsuit. He stayed in constant contact with me, answered all my questions thoroughly and always promptly returned my phone calls. Steve took the time to explain his strategies step by step and made sure I understood what it would be like to carry this lawsuit all the way through the depositions, negotiations and trial. His paralegals are the kindest and most intelligent women. Together, they are a dynamic and powerful team. I trusted their professionalism and expertise. In the end, my lawsuit settled and Steve won for me the ability to financially provide for myself and my child. I can sincerely say that I am forever grateful for his encouragement and help at a time in my life when I needed it the most.
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Cost

Rates
  • Retainer Sometimes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Partner
  • Poyner Spruill LLP
  • 2010 - Present
  • Partner
  • Hunton & Williams
  • 1996 - 2010
  • Visiting Assistant Professor and Director of Legal Writing
  • University of Illinois College of Law
  • 1994 - 1996
  • Associate
  • Fuller, Becton, Billings & Slifkin, P.A.
  • 1992 - 1994
  • Law Clerk
  • U.S. District Judge W. Earl Britt
  • 1990 - 1992
View all work experience

Education

  • University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1990
  • University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1987

Legal Cases

  • Mueller v. Mueller, 18 CVD 2095 (Wake County District Court)
  • Our client obtained 50-50 custody of his daughter
  • Cole v. Reasoner, 13 CVD 14732 (Wake County District Court)
  • Our client obtained 50-50 custody of her son
  • Lowery v. Lowery, 15 CVD 1542 (Alamance County District Court)
  • Our client obtained 50/50 custody of his daughters
View all legal cases

Associations

  • North Carolina Bar Association
  • Board of Governors
  • 2014 - 2017
  • Wake County Bar Association
  • Nominations Committee
  • 2013 - 2018
  • NC Association of Defense Attorneys
  • Board of Directors
  • 2011 - 2014

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • AV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2021
  • Legal Elite - Family Law
  • N.C. Business Magazine
  • 2021
  • Family Law Trailblazer Award (one of 14 in nation)
  • National Law Journal
  • 2019
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyer Magazine
  • 2017
  • J.D. with Highest Honors
  • University of North Carolina
  • 1990
  • Order of the Coif
  • University of North Carolina
  • 1990
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Speaking Engagements

  • UNC Festival of Legal Learning
  • Taking the Risk and Reaping the Reward: Trial Strategies for the Not-So Faint of Heart
  • 2017
  • Annual Review
  • Civil Case Law Update
  • 2016

Attorney endorsements

Received (3)
Given (1)
Endorse Steven
Family Attorney | Jan 12
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"I endorse Steve. He is an excellent attorney who strives to obtain the best possible outcome for his clients. He takes the time to understand what each client's goals are and then does the hard work necessary to achieve those results."
Divorce and separation Attorney | Jan 09
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Steve and I have worked together and against each other. He is very competent and thorough in his representation of clients."
Family Attorney | Feb 16
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse this lawyer. I have referred a client with a complex divorce and custody matter to Steve and the client has been extremely satisfied."