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Richard Hartley Gaines

also known as Ric
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Avvo Rating10
  • Coral Springs, FL
  • Licensed for 24 years
Richard Hartley Gaines
Richard Hartley Gaines
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About Richard

Aggressively identifying & pursuing your goals. Call Today!

Practice areas

OtherChild custodyDivorce and separationLitigationFamily
  1. Family: 30%

    Comprehensive Family and Divorce Law Practice, including prenuptial agreements, step-parent adoption, alimony and child support, custody disputes, domestic violence, enforcement and modification, etc.

  2. Litigation: 25%

    Business and contract related litigation, including real estate contract disputes, Will and Trust contests, contested guardianship and incapacity matters, elder abuse, and landlord tenant disputes.

  3. Divorce and separation: 25%

  4. Child custody: 15%

  1. Probate: 5%

    Administration of probate estates.

Languages spoken

English

Photos and videos

1240485 1443019636

Contact

5531 N University Dr Ste 103
address map

The Gaines Law Firm, P.A.

5531 N University Dr Ste 103
Coral Springs, FL, 33067-4649

Office (954) 603-8801

Website

http://www.gaineslawfl.com/

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
FLMember in Good Standing199504/19/2020
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers1
Legal guides0
Awards
Award nameGrantorDate granted
AV Preeminent RatedMartindale-Hubbell2019
Super LawyerSuper Lawyers Magazine2019
"Superb" LawyerAVVO2019
Top LawyerSouth Florida Legal Guide2019
Florida Legal EliteFlorida Trend Magazine2018
Top LawyerSouth Florida Legal Guide2015
Super LawyerSuper Lawyers Magazine2015
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
President and OwnerThe Gaines Law Firm, P.A.2014 - Present
Shareholder/AttorneyGreenspoon Marder, P.A.1999 - 2014
Associate AttorneyBailey & Jones, P.A.1997 - 1999
Associate AttorneyJennings, Valancy & Edwards, P.A.1995 - 1997
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
Gotham Networking GroupSouth Florida Chapter Co-Chairman2014 - Present
Parkland Coral Springs Business Group, P.A.Founder, Chairman2010 - Present
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
Nova Southeastern University - Shepard Broad Law CenterDoctor of Jurisprudence/Juris Doctor1995
Emory UniversityBA - Bachelor of Arts1990
Jericho High SchoolDiploma1986
Speaking Engagements
Conference nameTitleDate
Parkland Coral Springs Business Group, P.A. Networking/Marketing SeminarRumors, Myths and Other Fallacies of Florida Divorce2014
Jackson National Life Ins Co. Employee Event/Team BuildingWomen and Prosperity: How Successful Women Fair in Divorce2012
Elder Law Associates, P.A., Elder Law ForumDivorce Among Seniors2011
Legal cases
Case nameOutcome
Ledea-Genaro v. GenaroAffirmed
Kravitz v. LevyAffirmed in part; reversed in part
Hold v. ManziniReversed
Kates v. SeidenmanGranted
Salazar v. SalazarReversed

Reviews

(48)
5 Star
96%
4 Star
0%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
2%
1 Star
2%
Review Richard Gaines

Best divorce lawyer experience

Posted by

Richard Gaines did a great job for me. I hired him after firing my divorce lawyer for being disconnected, uninterested and antagonistic toward the opposing lawyer. I had to make a change as minor squabbles were costing my children money as their parents waged an expensive fight. Richard simplified things and explained options clearly. He was very thorough and walked me through every decision. In the end, my wife fired her lawyer and signed off on the divorce without a lawyer. I felt I could trust Richard and in the end, my wife did too. You can't go wrong with Richard Gaines.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Great work

Posted by

Mr. Gaines worked with me to get my ex husband to settle before going to court with the settlement amount I was happy with. He was very informative throughout the entire process. I would definitely use him again and recommend him to others.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

A truly amazing divorce attorney

Posted by

I can not begin to describe what an amazing experience I had with Richard Gaines as my divorce attorney. My divorce lasted over two years, and Richard had my back every step of the way. All through my divorce process, Richard tried to save me money in any way that he could. He was always prompt in returning my calls and e-mails. To say that I would want no other lawyer representing me in a divorce is an understatement. Divorce is so stressful as it is, but Richard made it so much less stressful with my confidence in his guidance. I would highly recommend Richard Gaines as a divorce attorney for everyone. You will be treated with respect, compassion, and fairness. What more can you ask for.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Simply a BLESSING!!!

Posted by

As a single mother As a single mother going through what I went through was to me one of the most traumatizing experiences of my life. My daughter’s father disappeared when the baby was only 4 months old. Once I put him on child support of course he sued me for paternity and that is when it all begun. 2 years later, we have finally settled. During this process I discovered 2 things One that you are nobody in court unless you have legal representation and Two that you need not just a lawyer but an excellent one. Why? Because the system in FL is not necessarily on the side of a good mother simply because she bare the brunt of everything. That is when Richard Gaines (my attorney) came into play and he played an incredible role in my life. He was not only my attorney but he was also a professional and candid person who would calibrate me when my mind would fly off the handle. He kept me, realistic, grounded and calibrated always setting a realistic tone to the outcome of my request. Not once did he try to tell me things that were not possible within the parameters of the law to which I am very grateful. He is an incredibly sharp attorney who has master his craft. I have seen him in action against other colleagues and I can say even if he has a friendly relationship with opposing counsel he is NOT afraid to fight for his client. He makes them a priority and that is why I will always be so appreciative of him. In moments of desperation he calm me down and helped me by letting me know how the law works. I will say that I felt stronger because I had him by my side. If you are considering hiring a compassionate strong attorney who is very sharp and will have your best interest at heart, I can say with all the sincerity in the world; Look no further!!! Richard is all of that and more…Best of luck!! Thank you Richard for all of your hard work and for being able to resolve my case in the most fair possible!!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Professional, Compassionate and ALWAYS Available

Posted by

Mr. Gaines has lent his expertise to our family regarding a variety of issues over the past 2 years. He truly made himself available constantly to answer questions, provide counsel and handle all matters with compassion. To find an attorney who is not only tremendously skilled but also an amazing human being has been such a benefit!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Richard Gaines

Posted by

My oldest brother passed away without a will in FL. My siblings hired Richard to handle this without consulting me. I was doubtful and apprehensive about them choosing Richard. After all that, I can't fault their choice. Richard was probably the most patient, understanding and nice lawyer I could hope to ever deal with. Because my brother didn't have a will, it took a long time to get through the FL probate court process. Richard did his best, but you can't fight that type of inefficiency. I was not the most patient client, but Richard always responded with respect and encouragement. I would hire Richard to handle any legal matter I have in the future. His assistant, Barbara, is the best. I really got to know her and she is the best at giving personal service and advice. Barbra is awesome. Richard and Barbra are an awesome team. I would not hesitate to have them represent my interests again.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Rick Gaines the best

Posted by

Rick is a wonderful- sympathetic - kind lawyer. Not looking to waste money and drag your case on. Very fair and efficient. Easy to get in touch with as well. If you are going through a divorce Rick is the one to protect you and guide you.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Great attorney

Posted by

Richard is quick, fair and thorough. always on top of my case and it was a pleasure having him on my side. J.H.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Outstanding Family Law Attorney!

Posted by

Richard Gaines became our attorney after speaking with a couple of others regarding my husband’s adoption of my 18 year old daughter. The first attorney told us it would require $25,000 to *begin* the process. We were also told how difficult and lengthy this process would be. The day we met Richard, we knew we wanted him to represent us and we hired him on the spot. That night, we received an email from Mr. Gaines stating the research and phone calls he made, and that although this would not be, “easy,” it would not be nearly as difficult as we had been told, initially. From that moment on, Richard and his staff worked quickly to expedite the adoption so that our daughter could enter college “without the horrible baggage,” as she once put it. Richard was communicative throughout the process, as well as letting us know that he was available, day or night, if we needed him. If you are looking for a family law attorney, I could not imagine anyone with more compassion or knowledge for your needs, and I would not hesitate recommending Richard Gaines. We are so thankful for his work in bringing our family together and making us whole.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

The most knowledgeable, persistent and committed attorney I've ever hired.

Posted by

I retained The Gaines Law Firm to represent me in a highly contentious Family Court case. I was very pleased with the firm's representation and the outcome they achieved for me. From my initial consultation with Mr. Gaines through the end of the case, I was kept fully informed of the progress of the case. Moreover, any questions I had regarding the case were promptly and thoroughly answered. I don't think I could have found a better attorney to represent me. I was impressed with Mr. Gaines' command of the law, negotiation skills and attention to detail and would definitely recommend Mr. Gaines to anyone that's seeking a highly skilled attorney to represent them.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
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Attorney endorsements

(19)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

Deborah Korleski-Poindexter, Family Attorney on Mar 6, 2020
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

Richard was opposing counsel in a contested paternity matter; his client was actually located in Orlando and my client was located in Miami. Throughout the pendency of the case, Richard was engaging and responsive. He is a consummate professional, knowledgeable in the law and very reasonable to work with. As a result of our efforts, our clients were able to focus on the real importance: their child. We reached a relatively quick and amicable settlement, and minimized our clients’ legal expense and stress that oftentimes comes as a biproduct of domestic cases. In the end, our clients are committed to co-parenting. It could not have been a better result for them. I would highly recommend Richard as a family law attorney in the south Florida area.

William Pincus, Litigation Attorney on Jun 5, 2017
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

Richard and I recently opposed each other in a real estate dispute. Each of our clients' respective positions had strengths and weaknesses. He was a tough and informed adversary and professional at all times. Richard's matter of fact approach and clear headed analysis of the parties' respective positions helped us reach settlement prior to litigation being filed. The settlement was fair and far more efficient and less costly for the clients. Richard is a lawyer a client can trust.

Robert Jewell, Divorce and separation Attorney on Jan 12, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse Ric as we send him all our Florida family law referrals. He's very thorough, and I get great feedback from those prospects I refer to him

Temi Zeitenberg, Family Attorney on Oct 24, 2016
Relationship: Worked together on matter

Ric and I had the pleasure to work together on a divorce case. Even though he represented the opposing party, Ric was courteous, professional, and responsive. He takes great pride in his work and commitment to achieving the best outcome for his clients. I look forward to working with him again in the future.

Angela Neave, Family Attorney on Sep 30, 2016
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Richard is a pleasure to work with. Despite the difficult case we were working on, he was professional and courteous which made the discovery process easier than it would have been. Every step of the way he demonstrated knowledge of the law and the facts of the case.

Kenneth Cutler, Car accident Attorney on Apr 26, 2016
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Ric has always done an outstanding job for his clients. He is hard-working and dedicated. I highly endorse him.

Lisa Glassman, Real estate Attorney on Mar 22, 2016
Relationship: Worked together on matter

Richard Gaines, Esq. is an excellent attorney that I highly recommend. He has assisted my referral clients with their divorces and all of them were impressed with his expertise and professionalism. Hire him today!

Diane Danois, Medical malpractice Attorney on Feb 17, 2016
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I have had the extreme pleasure of working with Ric Gaines, who is an exceptional family law attorney. Ric is an out-of-the-box thinker, who is open to new concepts and creative ways to find resolutions to disputes. He is collaborative with like-minded attorneys, but is also a fierce and skilled litigator inside the courtroom. I have referred a number of friends who were contemplating divorce to Ric, and have consistently received positive feedback from them. Most notably, Ric is described as a trustworthy, compassionate listener, who is highly knowledgeable and well-respected in his field. I endorse Ric Gaines, without reservation.

Collett Small, Elder law Attorney on Jan 20, 2016
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

Richard is a very experienced and well respected litigator. I worked with him on a complicated matter and found him to well prepared, very meticulous and a strong advocate for his client. I was impressed with the level of professionalism displayed by both him and his staff even in the heat of trial preparation. I would recommend Richard to anyone looking for a family law attorney or litigator to zealously advocate for their position.

Felisa Kahn, Family Attorney on Jan 16, 2016
Relationship: Worked together on matter

I endorse this lawyer. Rick and I co-counseled a very complicated matter. He is an amazing family law attorney and litigator. He is also very professional and works well with adversarial opposing attorneys and opposing parties. It was such a pleasure working with Rick and he is my "go-to" man when I have any complicated questions as he knows the law inside and out. I highly recommend Rick in cases that deal with complicated business ventures and business valuations as his corporate background comes in handy.

Bradford Gucciardo, Securities and investment fraud Attorney on Dec 30, 2015
Relationship: Worked together on matter

I have known attorney Ric Gaines for many years, after having first been introduced after Ric came highly recommended by another attorney with whom I worked. Our relationship began with networking, then developed into Ric handling certain cases for my clients, and then I retained Ric for a personal matter. For years Ric has been professional, thoughtful and ready, willing and able to assist on any matter I throw his way. Furthermore, working with Ric on a personal basis has made a typically unpleasant situation very easy to deal with. I strongly recommend attorney Ric Gaines.

Michael Trinkler, Real estate Attorney on Oct 5, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

It is with great pleasure and honor to endorse my friend and colleague who I have been referring litigation matters to for many years. Ric is an excellent, highly skilled attorney who is results oriented and to do what is necessary to passionately represent his clients while being practical in his approach and seeking to get the job done in the most efficient manner.

Matthew Lundy, Family Attorney on Sep 30, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Richard is the consummate professional. His extremely intelligent, and his knowledge in his chosen areas of practices is exceptional.

Michael Weiss, Car accident Attorney on Sep 29, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I have known Richard for over 10 years both personally and professionally. Richard is bright, diligent and thorough. I gladly endorse Richard.

Jerome Goldstein, Family Attorney on Sep 3, 2015
Relationship: Worked together on matter

I highly endorse this lawyer. He is an excellent trial lawyer, knowledgeable of the law and the court system. He is well respected in the legal community and cares for his clients. I highly recommend him.

Nicole Ofstein, Tax Attorney on May 5, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Richard is an excellent attorney and one who truly cares about his clients. I highly recommend!

Michael Waddington, Military law Attorney on Jun 13, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse Richard. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community.

Staci Genet, Litigation Attorney on Jul 5, 2013
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

Richard is an excellent efficient and effective attorney. We were opposing counsel on an hotly contested matter and as a direct result his professionalism and persistence, the attorneys were able to craft a cost effective settlement for both parties. I not only hope that I will be able to work with Mr. Gaines again, but recommend him to any individual seeking counsel.

Alexander Irlin, Personal injury Attorney on Dec 10, 2012
Relationship: Worked together on matter

I endorse this lawyer. I have known Rick for a while and he is a very knowledgeable, reliable and passionate advocate for his clients and also a great colleague to consult with or co-counsel with. Richard is not only a seasoned and experienced litigator, but also a family law and probate expert who is second to none!