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Ruth Alexandra Goldner

Divorce and separation Attorney at Royal Oak, MI

5.0   23 reviews
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
  • Licensed for 11 years
    State MI
    Acquired 2011
    Status
    Active in Good Standing No misconduct found

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

About Ruth

Learn Ruth’s areas of practice.

SOLUTIONS-ORIENTED LEGAL SERVICES TO HELP YOU MOVE FORWARD IN LIFE.

Ruth Goldner, Esq. is a licensed attorney and member of the State Bar of Michigan. She earned a bachelor’s degree, with honors, in International Relations, from the University of Michigan-Dearborn, and a juris doctor, cum laude, from Wayne State University Law School. While a student, she earned a number of leadership awards and was named the Women Lawyers of Michigan Foundation Outstanding Female Law Student of the Year. After obtaining her license to practice law, Ms. Goldner practiced at two award-winning insurance defense firms, where she worked as a trial attorney and focused on personal injury litigation, insurance law, fraud litigation, and appeals. Inspired by her passion to work with individuals to find solutions to family conflicts, Ms. Goldner co-founded Goldner Deeg PLLC.

Ms. Goldner was selected to Super Lawyers in 2022 and 2023 (an exclusive list of top-rated attorneys based upon peer review, limited to 5% of Michigan attorneys) and received the Super Lawyers Rising Star award annually from 2013-2021. She is a regular contributor to the Institute of Continuing Legal Education, and participates in a number of legal and professional organizations, including the Michigan Inter-Professional Association on Marriage and the International Academy of Collaborative Professionals. She serves as Past President of the Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce Business Women's Network, for which she won the Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce Volunteer of the Year award in 2020.

In addition to her busy career as an attorney, entrepreneur, and mentor, Ms. Goldner is a wife and mother and is grateful for her community of family and friends. In her spare time, Ms. Goldner is a voracious reader and enjoys needlepoint, puzzles, a good cup of coffee, and science fiction.

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About Goldner Deeg PLLC

We are a Michigan law firm that provides family law services, including divorce, custody, and child support cases. We recognize that you never intended to be involved in a divorce or child custody case. Family law issues are stressful for everyone involved, and you want to do the right thing and move forward in your life. You need a lawyer to assist you in finding resolution and protecting the best interests of you and your children so that you can restore peace of mind, well-being, and balance.

At Goldner Deeg, we view the legal process as an opportunity to transcend, transform, and move forward. Our attorneys are trained in both litigation and mediation. As your advocate and ally, our lawyers analyze your unique situation to find a balanced approach between assertive advocacy and peacefully maneauvering to find common ground and negotiate effective agreements.

Our legal services are designed to help you achieve your goals. When you retain our firm, you will get:

  • Clear explanations of the legal process, without "legalese," so that you understand and can make informed decisions.
  • A compassionate attorney who will listen to you, help you identify your goals, and help you develop and pursue a strategy for your case that feels right to you, so that you feel comfortable with and empowered by the process.
  • Straightforward billing procedures and free discussions about any billing questions that you may have, so that you can trust the services provided.
  • When appropriate, referrals to our trusted network of support professionals to help you manage stress, psychological issues, financial issues, and other legal issues that might arise during the pendency of your case, so that you are supported throughout the process.

At Goldner Deeg, we limit the number of clients that we accept at any given time to allow us to provide exceptional service and attention to each client. Call me today at to schedule a consultation.

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Contact Ruth

Goldner Deeg PLLC
316 E. Third Street, Ste. 1
Royal Oak, MI, 48067

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  23 customer reviews
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Posted by Steve | June 7, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Recommend
I hired Ruth Goldner in December of 2017 to represent me in my custody case, and I cannot say enough great things about her. My divorce was final back in 2010 but my ex-wife still has not let go of her bitterness and has now brought me back to court twice to try taking away the joint custody I was awarded. This time was due to a relocation I made for work, however to strengthen her case, she fabricated allegations and implied several negative things about me. Ruth listened to what I had to say, reviewed my divorce settlement, and saw right through those allegations. She assured me she would represent me to the best of her ability and to say she undersold herself is an understatement. Her insight, intellect, writing skills, and articulation are nothing short of masterful. She presents herself professionally and even when faced with ludicrous challenges and accusations from opposing counsel, she maintained her composure (also ensuring I did the same) and powered through it. Her level of communication before and after each court appearance is unrivaled. Typically clients deal with paralegals for these matters, however Ruth was in direct contact with me throughout the entire 6 month process via phone, text, or email. She made sure I received copies of all documents whether drafted by opposing counsel, herself, or the Friend of the Court and made sure I understood them. She also asked for approval and review of any documents she was drafting on my behalf rather than assume she knows what was best for my daughter and I because she’s an attorney and I’m not. She never once made me feel as though I was below her like other attorneys that I have dealt with do. Billing is extremely fair and borderline generous. She’s not from a massive firm that treats their clients as a Case Number, she truly cared about the outcome in my case and there’s no doubt that is the case with all of her clients. Be open, honest, and up front about all matters in your case so as not to allow sudden surprises to surface in court and she will impress you the way she did me, I highly recommend Ruth Goldner. From the bottom of my heart, I cannot thank you enough.
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Posted by Angela | October 17, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing Lawyers
Ruth and David are special when it comes to lawyers. They took the time to break down and explain legal terms so that I could understand. They were down-to-earth and had great personalities while maintaining professionalism. I love how they are not your typical lawyers. Even their office is a soothing place. They were there for me every step of the way to calm my fears, frustration, anger and tears. I would highly recommend them.
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Posted by Megan M. | May 25, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Ruth Listens!
While going through a highly emotional and stressful time like divorce, it's important to feal heard. Ruth listened to me and respected my desire for an amicable divorce. She helped me strategize how to get the most out of my situation, and do so without creating a hostile environment. Her mediation approach and skills left me feeling very satisfied with my settlement outcome. Best of all, my family can still celebrate holidays together because of how the divorce was handled. I highly recommend Ruth Goldner!
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Posted by Janelle P. | February 22, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very happy with Ruth
I hired Ruth to represent me in my divorce and I’m so glad that I did. She made me comfortable during that whole process and explained things well. She was very thorough and available if things came up. I definitely recommend her.
Posted by Catherine | September 30, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent representation
My elderly father hired Ruth to assist in his late-in-life divorce. She was endlessly patient and kind, and helped him to understand all of his rights while also navigating the difficult divorce with care and compassion. My father wanted, and got, a conflict-free resolution in great part due to Ruth's representation. She was extremely responsive, always available for follow up discussions and explanation, and generally a pleasure to work with. I would recommend her for anyone going through this difficult situation.
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Posted by Paul | February 4, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
This is the firm you want to hire!
I helped my brother divorce (many reasons, different story) his now ex-wife. I wholeheartedly recommend Ruth Goldner as an attorney. She is professional, talented, empathetic and best of all got the job done! Everything and everybody at Goldner|Deeg PLLC was a pleasure to deal with. From my first call to my last interaction everything was pleasant and beneficial to my case. The legal work made the divorce easy and the billing (which is an instrumental part of the process) was straight forward. No surprises at all. Like I said Ruth is the lawyer you want.
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Posted by Jorda | September 14, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I recommend Ruth Goldner
Ruth was very clear in their communication and explanation of the process (divorce). We were able to come to a favorable outcome and I didn't feel lost or confused during the process.
Posted by Barbara | September 13, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thoughtful and through
Ruth explained all the procedures for my case, and was very patient and kind.
Posted by Carlos | May 4, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Ruth is an exemplary attorney
Words simply cannot express how incredible of an attorney and a human Ruth is. I was hesitant at first to retain an attorney for fears of expensive litigation, however, I was glad I chose Ruth to represent me. Divorce is an incredibly difficult situation, emotionally and financially, I was in over my head trying to handle it all on my own. Ruth’s kindness, sound legal mind and steady hand helped me navigate this horrible life experience with ease. She truly holds herself accountable to her client’s best interests. I am forever grateful all the hard work she put in, not only in my case but also to become the mindful attorney that she is. Her work is truly sound. If you’re considering retaining an attorney for your situation, look no more! She saved me so much pain and anguish. I cannot say that enough. The world is truly better because of humans like her. Thanks a bunch Ruth & Team.
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Posted by Kiersten | December 18, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Kind, Practical, and Passionate
Ruth was the only reason I kept a steady mindset during my divorce. She was kind and always willing to listen about all that comes from a divorce. She is knowledgeable and always gave advice that made sense and helped throughout the divorce process. During the process she was always available and answered any questions within minutes. She also helped after the divorce process when some snags came up during the sale of the house. Ruth is an amazing human who will not let you down. She works hard and smart and will help you through the entire process. She also works with an awesome group of people who are kind and courteous and willing to help with anything. Everyone at the office that interacted with was helpful and understanding.
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Posted by Lina | July 21, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Practical, straight-forward, and compassionate
Ruth is the perfect blend of professional and relatable. She explained things clearly and concisely, and I always felt heard when discussing my case. Her representation was both efficient and effective. I cannot recommend her highly enough.
Posted by Alexia | July 15, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Compassionate and Knowledgeable
I was referred to Ruth through a friend and reached out to her in regards to my divorce. She took the time to really listen and understand my point of view. I loved that she was so genuine. She cared about me and my family, and worked hard for the outcome I desired. She was a great resource and hard worker. Her dedication to me was shown throughout my case. I would high recommend working with her!
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Posted by Craig | June 18, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Awesome
Ruth was a ray of sunshine in an otherwise gloomy place! She explains everything clearly and includes possible outcomes including financial ramifications. She is focused on getting the job done and what is in your best interest! I would recommend her without hesitation... as a matter of fact if you do not hire her you have made a mistake! Her assistant Celina is fantastic and just flat out gets it done! Thanks Ruth!
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Posted by Barbara | April 13, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding attorney
I contacted Ruth Goldner on the advice of a friend. After 29 years of marriage, I needed guidance on how to go about ending things. Ruth was with me every step of the way and waited patiently (nearly a year) before I was ready to file. She even referred me to a counselor to help me sort things out. She's done this hundreds of times, but she knows it's probably the one and only time you'll need this kind of support. We were able to craft a fair settlement and keep the entire process civil and professional. And when it looked like the agreement might derail, she had absolutely every possible alternate scenario covered. Ruth is kind, compassionate, and very sharp. She'll watch out for you during your dark days and celebrate with you when you see the light.
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Posted by anonymous | December 5, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional, Thoughtful, and Dedicated
Ruth Goldner and David Deeg manage an outstanding practice. I’m fortunate enough to have worked with both. Hiring Ruth and then requiring David to step in seamlessly during Ruth’s maternity leave, my needs were always their priority. Ruth is a thoughtful, well spoken, experienced attorney and an excellent advisor. Allowing me understand the best options, pushing forward on well thoughtout positions and helping me stay within the “bumpers” when emotionally I was being a bit short sighted. Ruth was always honest with me, even when that meant disagreeing, but most importantly to me, she never lost sight of what was most important, my daughter, the stability of my daughter, through both short term and long term goals. She has the ability to be tenacious and firm, while being soft spoken and intentional. Ruth was always better prepared and more eloquent in explaining our position to the court than her opposing counsel. I couldn’t have done it without her. I highly recommend Ruth GOLDNER and David DEEG and wouldn’t hesitate to call on them again if needed.
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Posted by anonymous | September 24, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thorough. Professional. Compassionate. (Bonus: A joy to work with!)
I engaged Ruth Goldner to handle my recent divorce, and I give her the highest recommendation. My former husband and I held the shared priority that our divorce process be kind, loving, and respectful. Though we would no longer be husband and wife, we intended to retain our friendship. In general, the legal system does not make this simple. Ruth’s flexibility made it possible. We felt no need to engage two attorneys in our divorce. Though law allowed only one of us to retain Ruth for representation, she made sure that my desires were honored as we moved through the steps of dissolving the marriage. She supported non-adversarial language in documents and correspondence, flexibility in timing of the steps (knowing that my former husband and I were conferring in the process), and an overall sense of reverence for my goals. No matter the nature of a divorce, it’s an emotional and stressful experience. I viewed Ruth more like a Divorce Sherpa than an attorney. She’s knowledgeable, thorough, professional, a clear communicator, and I’m personally grateful for the kind heart and compassion she brings to her role.
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Posted by Jenell W. | March 27, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Beautiful Surprise
Ruth Goldner is the epitome of excellence, she stood true to heard word and made sure I had the most pleasurable experience working with her firm. Her knowledge, transparency, and kindness spoke volumes to the work she does. I would recommend anyone to utilize her services.
Posted by Peter | May 18, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent service! Highly recommend!!
I engaged Ruth and David at Goldner-Deeg, initially to file an emergency order, then to represent me in the follow-up custody process, which was settled out-of-court, heavily in my favor. I had very specific requests/requirements, and Ruth was able to accommodate every need. She is highly professional, and genuinely invested interest and concern in mine and my child's well-being. She is detail-oriented, attentive to communications, and even the Friend of the Court counselor subsequently communicated to me "Your attorneys did an excellent job". Custody battles are often horrible and expensive, but I have to say that my money was well spent, and Ruth was absolutely great to work with. I highly recommend!
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Posted by Nicklaus | May 15, 2017
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Ruth rocks!
Ruth helped coordinate the Oakland County Bench and Bar conference in May 2017. She arranged for me to present at the event and was terrific during the entire process ... engaged, detailed, pleasant to talk to, and without any of the stuffiness that sometimes comes along with a successful law practice.
Posted by Guillermo | December 8, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great experiece!!
Ruth represented me and I couldn't be happier with the way she handled everything. She made the process seem easy and her professionalism was outstanding. I recommend her to anyone in need of a lawyer who cares about their client. Thank you again, Ruth!
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 30 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Owner, Attorney & Counselor
  • Goldner Deeg PLLC
  • 2015 - Present
  • Attorney
  • Anselmi & Mierzejewski, PC
  • 2013 - 2014
  • Attorney
  • Garan Lucow & Miller, PC
  • 2011 - 2013
  • Senior Law Clerk
  • Garan Lucow & Miller, PC
  • 2009 - 2011
  • Student Attorney
  • Free Legal Aid Clinic, Inc.
  • 2009 - 2009
View all work experience

Education

  • Wayne State University Law School
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2011
  • University of Michigan, Dearborn
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 2007

Associations

  • Oakland County Bar Association
  • Attorney Member
  • 2018 - Present
  • Oakland County Bar Association Foundation
  • Fellow
  • 2018 - Present
  • Michigan Inter-Professional Association
  • Attorney Member
  • 2016 - Present
  • Collaborative Practice Institute of Michigan
  • Attorney Member
  • 2016 - Present
  • International Academy of Collaborative Professionals
  • Attorney Member
  • 2016 - Present
  • Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce
  • Member
  • 2015 - Present
  • Family Law Section of the State Bar of Michigan
  • Attorney Member
  • 2015 - Present
  • State Bar of Michigan
  • Attorney Member
  • 2011 - Present
  • Women Lawyers Association of Michigan (WLAM)
  • Attorney Member
  • 2008 - Present
  • Detroit Metropolitan Bar Association
  • Attorney Member
  • N/A
  • American Bar Association
  • Attorney Member
  • N/A
  • Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce Business Women's Network
  • President Elect, President, Past President
  • 2016 - 2022
  • Phi Alpha Delta Law Fraternity, International
  • Justice; Treasurer
  • 2008 - 2011
  • Women's Bar Association of Michigan
  • Chair of Website Committee; Attorney Member
  • 2008 - 2013
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Collaborative Practice Advanced Training
  • Collaborative Practice Institute of Michigan
  • 2023
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2023
  • Super Lawyer
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2022
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2021
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2020
  • Volunteer of the Year
  • Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce
  • 2020
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2019
  • Collaborative Practice Advanced Training
  • Collaborative Practice Institute of Michigan
  • 2019
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2018
  • Family Law Certificate
  • Institute of Continuing Legal Education & Family Law Section of the State Bar of Michigan
  • 2018
  • Collaborative Practice Advanced Training
  • Collaborative Practice Institute of Michigan
  • 2018
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2017
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2016
  • Collaborative Practice Training
  • Collaborative Practice Institute of Michigan
  • 2016
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2015
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2014
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2013
  • Juris Doctor, cum laude
  • Wayne State University Law School
  • 2011
  • Outstanding Female Law Student
  • Women Lawyers Association of Michigan
  • 2010
  • Mediation Training and Internship
  • Michigan State Court Administrative Office
  • 2010
  • Gibbons Moot Court Competition Quarterfinalist
  • Seton Hall School of Law
  • 2010
  • Boaz Siegel Award
  • Wayne State University Law School
  • 2010
  • High Pass in Legal Research and Writing
  • Wayne State University Law School
  • 2009
  • Arthur Neef Moot Court Competition Champion
  • Wayne State University Law School
  • 2009
  • Dean's Scholar Award
  • Wayne State University Law School
  • 2008
  • Bachelor of Arts, with distinction
  • University of Michigan-Dearborn
  • 2007
  • Synergy Leadership Award
  • University of Michigan-Dearborn
  • 2005
  • Emerging Leader Award
  • University of Michigan-Dearborn
  • 2004
  • Chancellor's Scholarship
  • University of Michigan-Dearborn
  • 2003
View all awards

Publications

  • Institute of Continuing Legal Education Written Seminar Materials
  • Handling the Parenting Time Case
  • 2018
  • Institute of Continuing Legal Education (Michigan)
  • Handling Custody and Parenting Time Mediation (Top Tips in Ten Minutes)
  • 2018
  • DBusiness
  • Faces of Collaborative Practice
  • 2016
View all publications

Speaking Engagements

  • 17th Annual Family Law Institute
  • Moderator - Core Concepts Track
  • 2018
  • Oakland County Circuit-Probate Court Bench/Bar Conference
  • Family Law Panel
  • 2017
  • Michigan School of Professional Psychology Consortium Training
  • Introduction to Family Law for Practicing Psychologists
  • 2015
  • Michigan School of Professional Psychology Didactic Training
  • The Intersection of Psychology and Family Law: Considerations for a Clinical Practice
  • 2015
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (10)
Given (16)
Endorse Ruth
Divorce and separation Attorney | Jul 13
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Ruth is a terrific attorney and a true professional. We worked together to reasonably and efficiently resolve an interesting dispute together without inflaming tensions or getting far into the weeds. She knows her stuff and has an excellent reputation."
Family Attorney | Oct 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Ruth is a great family law and custody attorney. I had the distinct pleasure of seeing her legal expertise in action and I would not hesitate to recommend this lawyer to any client in need."
Family Attorney | Aug 13
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Ruth is a stellar attorney who fights hard for her clients while maintaining a wonderful professional relationship with opposing counsel. Her professional demeanor and passion for her clients are an asset not only to the client but to the family law community. I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | May 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Family Attorney | Apr 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Ruth is an innovative entrepreneur and I know her to be an excellent attorney who cares deeply about her clients."
Family Attorney | May 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Attorney Ruth Goldner is the quality of family law attorney more individuals should hire. She focuses on what is best for her client. Ruth is a highly skilled advocate and understands the importance of each case. She is an incredibly hard-working and tireless individual who strives to better herself, widen her skills, and who has never been afraid to undertake a challenge. Ruth will guide you through and help you achieve your goals."
Family Attorney | May 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Goldner is compassionate and empathetic. She listens deeply to her clients concerns and assists them in moving forward in their cases with impeccable representation. She is always prepared for anything and argues with sincerity. I would recommend her to anyone in need of a family lawyer."
Family Attorney | May 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I strongly endorse this lawyer. Before she founded Goldner Deeg, I worked with Ruth and had the chance to observe her admirable work ethic and the holistic approach she takes while helping her clients through the legal system. In my opinion, she is both a terrific advocate and human being."
Family Attorney | Aug 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I highly recommend Attorney Ruth Goldner to anyone looking for guidance in their divorce, custody, or other family law matters. She is not only experienced and knowledgeable, but her compassion and commitment shine through inside and outside the courtroom where she can often be found volunteering her time and contagious energy in her community. I have referred clients to her law office and will continue to do so as my client's report back with glowing reviews about her welcoming and nurturing demeanor and skillful approach to resolve their issues."
Unknown Attorney | Nov 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Ruth is a bright, dedicated, experienced attorney. She has an extensive network of resources and contacts that translate into direct benefits for her clients. I endorse this lawyer."
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Avvo Contributions

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Royal Oak Divorce and separation Lawyer Ruth Alexandra Goldner
Ruth Alexandra Goldner
Divorce and separation Attorney
Royal Oak, MI
Licensed for 11 years
Free Consultation
Virtual consultation available