Interview With Attorney Richard A. Heller
#1: What made you choose a career in family law?
Our firm has always handled family law matters. Family law is often an emotionally charged area of law, where there is sometimes no right or wrong, and the innocent (children) are placed in harm's way due to the disputes at issue. We have the ability to resolve such a dispute and help our clients move forward and put the past behind them. If we can be a calming influence to amicably resolve the case, then we have truly helped. If it requires a tough litigator to protect our client's right, then we step up to that role and provide that zealous representation and advocate for our clients.
#2: What sets your firm apart from other firms in the area?
We do not accept representation in every case. As the client evaluates their prospective attorney, we too will be making sure that our clients' goals are realistic, and that we can make a positive difference for them. We are very forthright in what can be expected from a financial point of view, and will often make arrangements for those in need.
#3: Tell us about a case that you are particularly proud of:
In one case where the parents were of different cultures and untrusting of the other's motives, their daughter was taken against court order to another country. After more than a year she was located and we were able to obtain the necessary emergency relief to re-unite the child with other parent. Since then the child has done exceedingly well, excelling in her education, and has maintained a good relationship with both parents. Not all such cases have happy endings, but I am glad this one had a good result.
#4: What steps do you take to prepare for a difficult case?
Cases can be difficult for a number of reasons, including the following: 1. The adverse party is obstinate and provocative. 2. The issues involved new areas of law that require much research and preparation to be sure the judge is given the best and most current law. 3. The facts are not apparent, or the other party is hiding assets or records. 4. The assets of the parties, date of marriage, contribution of asserts to a marriage, gifts to the parties, premarital assets, business interests have to be valued and a plan for equitable distribution presented.
The initial pleadings set the tone for the anticipated litigation. They must be thought through and crafted for each case. Most complex cases require significant discovery, including, interrogatories to the other party and third parties, demand for productions of documents, requests for admissions, and depositions. Often a second or third round of discovery is necessary to get to the truth. Once discovery is completed it is common for us to try to resolve the matter through mediation. If mediation is unsuccessful, then we set the matter for trial and allow the judge to hear the facts and make a determination as a matter of law.
#5: What is your role in the attorney-client relationship?
As an attorney, we are a confidant and adviser. We also have the unenviable duty to tell our clients what they do not want to hear. The truth is that every person that litigates feels they are in the right and the other person in the wrong. Sometimes the truth is in the middle. Our job is to look at the facts objectively and give our clients the best possible advice. Many times we advise our client to not accept what we consider to be a bad settlement offer. Other times we recommend an offer that our clients feel is unacceptable. In either case we will have sound reasoning for the advice given, and in the end it is our client that will make the decision.
#6: What sets you apart from other family law attorneys?
Open communication with our clients is, and always will be, a priority. We have written policies in our retainer agreements regarding our response to questions or inquiries. You always have access to the attorney, not just the secretary or a paralegal.
#7: How does having experience benefit your clients?
Any attorney out of law school can read the family law statutes. Understanding how they are interpreted and applied is something else. Knowing the judges, the system, the law, and even the judicial assistants is an edge that a person should not underestimate.
#8: What types of family law cases do you specifically handle?
We handle all areas of family law, including:
Prenuptial agreements; Support unconnected to dissolution of marriage; Divorce; Custody; Paternity; Post judgment Modification; Post-judgment Enforcement; UCCJA (Jurisdictional) disputes, Step-parent adoptions; and contempt.
#9: What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
Hearing a client simply say thank you for all the hard work and a job well done.
#10: What advice do you most often give your clients & why?
Choose an attorney based upon many factors. Experience, reputation of the attorney and law firm, personal interaction, and cost. Too many people put legal fees as the only factor in hiring an attorney. Do not be afraid to discuss costs and fees with the attorney. If the attorney requires a fee well out of your range, do not hire them as they may withdraw from your case when the money runs out. Keep in mind that a high priced attorney does not mean you will get a better result, or service. However, an experienced attorney also does not need to do a lot of research that an inexperienced attorney would need, and charging you for their learning curve. Experience does count! In the end, choose a law firm that will charge a reasonable fee for the best service.
Hear From Our Clients
Testimonials
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"Very Grateful"Mr. Heller and his staff were extremely professional and helpful. I am a repeat client and have been satisfied with their performance both times. They have always answered all my questions and have been very courteous and professional. I would highly recommend Mr. Heller and his staff to anyone.- Richard
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"Truly wonderful experience"Mister Heller and his staff from the first consolation made us feel at ease. They made sure we understood our options so there would be no surprises in court. We couldn't Thank them enough for the help and piece of mind. I would highly recommend there law firm you will not be disappointed. Thank you Charles and Peggy- Charles Cain
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"Amazing!!"Mr. Heller and his staff were professional, courteous and very pleasant to work with. I never felt rushed or that I was bothering them or wasting their time. Mr. Heller walked us through the entire process, kept us up to day with any changes or just to "check in" with us. I was very prepared due to the hard work of Mr. Heller and his staff. Thank you to everyone at Heller Law. (Mr. Heller helped us in 2018 but I forgot to give a rating and for that I am very sorry....You all were/are so amazing....)- Roseanne Hunt
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"Very professional and courteous"Mr. Heller and his staff prepared our estate paper work with the utmost professionalism and expediency. Everyone at the office was extremely friendly and outgoing. Mr. Heller answered all of our questions honestly and was patient and helpful throughout the entire process. We highly recommend his services.- H Corn
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"No Surprises!"Mr. Heller was a joy to work with. His professionalism and kindness were always present from the first meeting to the last. It was obvious at the Meeting of Creditors that the Bankruptcy Trustee greatly respected and admired Mr. Heller. As a result of this, and also because of his meticulous and thorough preparation, the Meeting was over in about two minutes. The case before ours took about 1/2 hour, as the Trustee had many questions and concerns. I highly recommend Mr. Heller to represent you for your legal matters.- Blanca Creel
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"This company provided excellent service."Mr. Heller and his office handled all our estate needs in a very professional manner. He answered all our questions in language that we could understand. Also made suggestions for consideration. Thank you to Mr. Heller and staff for excellent service!- Harold and Ann McIntosh
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"Appreciate all the work and prompt response each and every time"Extremely pleased with all the hard work, accurate legal advice and quick response to all questions and concerns. John Wallace had my best interest in mind at all times especially when I didn't know better. I received a fair and timely settlement. Thanks Wallace! His staff was always helpful and responsive.- Mildred Ruiz
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"He truly cares about his clients"Richard was instrumental in helping us through the entire process of our closing. He reviews your documents, makes suggestions but more importantly asks questions in order to help. He truly cares about his clients. Great communicator throughout and explains everything so you understand....thank you Richard.- Dennis H.
Over 60 Years of Combined Experience
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