Do you offer free consultations?

We offer reduced-rates for initial consultations.  

  • 30-Minute Telephone: $225 
  • 40-Minute Zoom: $350 
  • 60-Minute In-Person: $550

Second consults are charged at the attorneys’ respective hourly rates.

What’s your hourly rate?
  • Cheryl E. Slater: $650
  • Lauren E. Michaeli: $600
Do you offer sliding scales?

We generally do not. However, in some circumstances we may be able to offer reduced rates taking into consideration the details of the case, the referral source and the financial circumstances of the client.

How much is your divorce retainer?

Retainers vary based upon the specific details of your case.  Below are typical retainers based upon case-type:

  • Contested Divorces Without Children: $7,000-$15,000+
  • Contested Divorces With Children: $12,000 - $25,000+
  • Family Court Orders of Protection: $7,000-$12,500+
  • Family Court Support Matters: $6,000-$10,000+
  • Family Court Custody Matters: $12,000-$25,000+

Uncontested Divorces and Estate matters may have options for flat fees at lower price-points. 

Does the retainer cover the whole case?

The retainer is like a deposit. We bill against the retainer based upon our hourly rate. Sometimes the retainer is too much, and any unused portion gets returned to the client at the end of the case. Other times, the retainer must be replenished if the case is still active after the retainer funds reach a low threshold. The retainer is never expected to cover trial and a separate trial retainer will be required in the unlikely event your case proceeds to trial.

Do you offer mediation?
Yes, our attorneys are experienced in mediation.
Do you handle trials?

Yes. Our attorneys have vast experience with trials and are fully equipped to advance your case to trial if the circumstances warrant a trial. With that said, we are cognizant of the financial and emotional toll trials often have on families and will always try to resolve a case without the need for a trial when possible. 

Do you hand-off cases to junior associates?

No. We pride ourselves on our interpersonal relationships with our clients, and essential to developing strong connections with our clients is having one attorney fully present and there to support you. You will work with one Partner who will be your main attorney throughout your case, from start to finish, every step along the way. The Partners work together and may collaborate at times, but you will always have your one Partner as your primary attorney. The Partner assigned to your case will appear with you in Court unless otherwise discussed and agreed upon between Partner and client. 

Do you offer virtual or telephone consultations and meetings?
Yes. We can accommodate telephone and zoom meetings as well as in-person meetings.
Are in-person meetings only in Yonkers?

Our main office is in Yonkers. However, if you are located in New York City and do not wish to travel to Yonkers, our attorneys will arrange to meet you in Manhattan. On a case-by-case scenario, if the circumstances warrant, we will meet in other locations.

How do I get in touch?

We are here to talk to you! You can call the office at (914) 423-8880, or contact Cheryl at Cheryl@FBSMlaw.com or Lauren at Lauren@FBSMlaw.com