Samuel J. Kaufman

Went to Kaufman for my divorce; they met with me and assured they could help after the first meeting. Sent over the contract and I submitted my $5k retainer. After that, they asked me to come sign something--so I went to the office and the woman at the desk handed me a large, multi-page (~30 or so pa...ges?) document and said to let them know if I have questions but to just sign it and that everyone that works with them signs. No explantation. I looked it over and it was all of the reasons why they can't work with the judge that primarily handles divorces in Key West and me signing was basically me stating that I didn't want to work with that judge. I was surprised and had some questions, so I asked to speak to Rachel Moss, the attorney I had initially spoke with; she came down the stairs partially just so that she could see me, let me know that she was very busy but what did I need...I let her know I had some questions, like why they can't work with that judge. She was very dismissive and said that it's all in there and that I just needed to sign it if I was going to work with them and again pressured me by saying everyone signs it. I felt intimidated and out of my expertise and signed it...but then I left and did some research. I found out that the other judge that my divorce would likely be handled by did not generally do divorces/family law. I brought my concerns up to the firm and was basically told well that's how we do things--so I asked for my retainer back and we'd part ways. They refused. I had to reach out to them and tell them how dishonest I felt this practice was, to take my money without even disclosing the fact that they don't like working with any judge, let alone the judge that handles the majority of family law cases in Key West. Basically, they offered me $1k back if I signed another document and walked away. I refused so I could speak out about this and not be concerned about them coming after me legally for voicing my experience with this firm. My advice is to AVOID KAUFMAN LAW FIRM.

I needed a lawyer to establish a Will and Trust. Went through several websites to see what lawyers in Key West would be the best to work this requirement. I chose and used Samuel Kaufman because of his outstanding website. Not only did it say his firm provided these services but the Estate Plannin...g and Probate Administration drop-down articulated exactly the services I required. Throughout our first meeting Samuel carefully explained what was required for establishing a Will and Trust. In less than 1 week he sent me the draft to review and within another week we were going thru the document and signed. He again explained the importance of each document and what I needed to do with the Trust portion of the overall Will. He and his staff are true professionals and would highly recommend them for their legal services.