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Hersh FamilyLaw Practice, P.C.

Open Hours:

Monday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday, Closed
Sunday, Closed

Hersh FamilyLaw Practice, P.C. Picture 1Hersh FamilyLaw Practice, P.C. Picture 2

Introduce

For individuals and families across California facing the deeply personal and often intricate challenges of family law, finding legal representation that combines expertise with a compassionate approach is paramount. Family law matters, whether they involve divorce, child custody, or spousal support, profoundly impact lives, requiring not only a thorough understanding of legal statutes but also sensitivity to the emotional nuances involved. This article provides an insightful look into Hersh FamilyLaw Practice, P.C., a firm located in the heart of San Francisco, dedicated to providing legal guidance and advocacy in a wide array of family law cases for Californians.

Hersh FamilyLaw Practice, P.C. has established itself as a significant presence in the California legal landscape, particularly within the specialized field of family law. Led by attorneys with extensive experience, the firm aims to offer strategic and effective legal solutions tailored to the unique circumstances of each client. From straightforward divorces to highly complex disputes involving substantial assets or intricate parental issues, the firm strives to guide clients through the legal process with clarity and dedication. This overview is designed to help California residents understand the services, location, and key features of Hersh FamilyLaw Practice, P.C., offering a factual yet engaging perspective on what they can expect from this San Francisco-based legal team.

Location and Accessibility

Hersh FamilyLaw Practice, P.C. is conveniently situated at 456 Montgomery Street, 17th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94104, USA. This prominent address places the firm within the Financial District of San Francisco, a central and easily accessible location for individuals across the Bay Area and beyond. The 17th-floor office offers a professional and private setting for consultations and meetings, ensuring client comfort and confidentiality.

The firm's downtown San Francisco location provides excellent accessibility through various modes of transportation. For those relying on public transit, the office is within close proximity to numerous Muni (San Francisco Municipal Railway) bus lines and Muni Metro light rail stations, facilitating easy commutes from different parts of the city. Additionally, the building's proximity to major BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) stations makes it a convenient option for clients traveling from the East Bay, North Bay, and Peninsula regions, allowing for efficient travel without the need for a personal vehicle. While parking garages are available in the vicinity for those who choose to drive, the robust public transportation network makes the firm highly accessible for all Californians seeking their services. This central and well-connected location underscores the firm's commitment to serving a broad client base within the state.

Services Offered

Hersh FamilyLaw Practice, P.C. focuses exclusively on family law matters, providing comprehensive legal services tailored to the diverse needs of families in California. Their practice encompasses a wide range of issues, from traditional divorce proceedings to the complexities of modern family structures.

  • Divorce and Marital Dissolution: The firm assists clients through all stages of divorce, including legal separation, annulment, and the dissolution of marriage or domestic partnerships. This involves addressing issues such as property division, debt allocation, and spousal support (alimony).
  • Child Custody and Visitation: A significant area of their practice involves establishing and modifying child custody arrangements and visitation schedules. The firm works to protect the best interests of the children while advocating for their clients' parental rights, often navigating high-conflict parenting disputes.
  • Child Support: Hersh FamilyLaw Practice, P.C. helps clients determine, establish, and enforce child support orders in accordance with California guidelines. They also assist with modifications to existing orders when there are significant changes in circumstances.
  • Spousal Support (Alimony): The firm provides legal guidance on spousal support, including its initial determination, modification, and enforcement. This often involves complex financial analysis to ensure fair and equitable outcomes.
  • Property Division: California is a community property state, meaning marital assets and debts are generally divided equally. The firm has expertise in handling complex and high-asset divorce cases, which may involve valuation of businesses, professional practices, real estate, and retirement accounts.
  • Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements: For couples looking to protect their assets and define financial arrangements before or during marriage, the firm drafts, reviews, and negotiates prenuptial and postnuptial agreements.
  • Domestic Partnerships: With the evolving legal landscape, the firm also advises and represents clients in matters related to domestic partnerships, including formation, dissolution, and associated legal rights and obligations.
  • Appeals: Hersh FamilyLaw Practice, P.C. has a strong appellate practice, handling appeals of family law judgments. Their attorneys have appeared before the California Appellate Courts and the Supreme Court of California, demonstrating their proficiency in higher-level legal challenges.
  • Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution: While prepared for litigation, the firm also encourages and facilitates alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation and cooperative divorce resolution when appropriate, aiming for amicable and efficient resolutions outside of court.
  • Adoption: The firm provides legal assistance for various types of adoptions, helping families expand and navigate the legal requirements involved.

Features / Highlights

Hersh FamilyLaw Practice, P.C. stands out due to several key features and highlights that underscore their dedication to specialized family law practice and client advocacy:

  • Certified Family Law Specialists: Jill Hersh, the firm's founder, is a Certified Family Law Specialist by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization. This certification signifies a higher level of experience, knowledge, and proficiency in the intricate field of family law, assuring clients of expert counsel.
  • Extensive Experience: The firm boasts attorneys with a wide range of experience, some with decades in the field, contributing to a deep well of knowledge for navigating complex family law cases. This collective experience ensures comprehensive and strategic representation.
  • Focus on Complex and High-Asset Matters: Hersh FamilyLaw Practice, P.C. specializes in handling complex family law matters, including high-asset divorces, which often involve intricate financial valuations, business interests, and diverse investment portfolios.
  • Appellate Court Experience: A significant highlight is the firm's robust appellate practice. Their attorneys have successfully argued cases before the California Appellate Courts and the California Supreme Court, establishing new legal precedents through published opinions. This experience is invaluable for clients whose cases may require appellate review.
  • Pioneering Work in Same-Sex Family Law: Early in their practice, the firm was instrumental in advancing the interests and equal treatment of same-sex families, working to create legal protections for children of same-sex parents. This reflects a commitment to evolving family structures and civil rights.
  • Published Decisions: The firm's involvement in landmark cases, such as In re Guardianship of Olivia J. (2000), Marriage of Christian De Guigne and Vaughn De Guigne (2002), Estate of MacDonald (1990), and K.M. vs. E.G. (2005), showcases their influence on California family law.
  • Client-Centered Approach: While prepared for litigation, the firm emphasizes a strategic and supportive approach, aiming to contain conflicts and explore alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation when suitable, to achieve the best possible outcomes for clients.
  • Professional Recognition: Jill Hersh has received significant professional recognition, including being a fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and the International Academy of Family Lawyers, and receiving the Clara Foltz Feminist Association Distinguished Career Recognition Award and California Lawyer's Attorney of the Year award. She has also been consistently listed among the "Top 50 Women Northern California Super Lawyers" and "Top 100 Northern California Super Lawyers."
  • Pro Bono and Community Service: Attorneys at the firm contribute to the legal community through pro bono work and community service, including participation as settlement panelists for the San Francisco and Marin County Superior Courts and volunteer legal services for minors' counsel.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a highly specialized and established law firm, Hersh FamilyLaw Practice, P.C. does not typically offer publicly advertised promotions or special offers in the traditional sense. Legal services, particularly in complex areas like family law, are highly individualized, and fees are often structured based on the specific needs and complexity of each case. However, it is a common practice for legal professionals to offer an initial consultation. This first meeting serves as an opportunity for prospective clients to discuss their situation, understand the potential legal pathways, and learn about the firm's approach and fee structure. It also allows the attorneys to assess whether they are the right fit for the client's needs. Individuals interested in the services of Hersh FamilyLaw Practice, P.C. are encouraged to contact the firm directly to inquire about their consultation policies and how they structure their fees for various family law matters. This direct communication will provide the most accurate and personalized information regarding their services.

Contact Information

For those in California seeking legal assistance from Hersh FamilyLaw Practice, P.C., the firm can be reached through the following contact details:

Address: 456 Montgomery St 17th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94104, USA

Phone: (415) 788-2200

Mobile Phone: +1 415-788-2200

It is recommended to contact the firm during regular business hours to schedule an appointment or to speak with their administrative staff regarding your legal inquiry. Their central San Francisco location is designed to be accessible for clients from across the Bay Area and other parts of California.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Californians facing the challenges of family law, Hersh FamilyLaw Practice, P.C. stands out as a highly suitable and reliable choice. The firm's suitability for local residents stems from a combination of specialized expertise, extensive experience, and a deep understanding of California's legal landscape, particularly in family law.

The core strength of Hersh FamilyLaw Practice, P.C. lies in its team of Certified Family Law Specialists, particularly Jill Hersh, whose certification by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization signifies a rigorous commitment to and mastery of this complex field. For California locals, this means engaging with attorneys who possess a superior level of knowledge and practical experience in handling everything from routine divorces to high-stakes, high-asset cases and intricate child custody battles. This specialization is crucial in an area of law that is constantly evolving and deeply personal.

The firm’s long-standing presence and experience, spanning decades in the legal community, offer a significant advantage. This extensive history has allowed them to develop a nuanced understanding of California courts, legal procedures, and the specific needs of families within the state. Furthermore, their active role in shaping family law through appellate cases, with published decisions that have impacted California jurisprudence, demonstrates a formidable legal acumen that directly benefits their clients. This is particularly valuable for Californians whose cases may involve complex or cutting-edge legal issues.

Beyond their legal prowess, the firm’s commitment to client-centered representation is a vital aspect for local users. Family law matters are inherently emotional, and the ability of the attorneys to navigate these sensitivities while maintaining a strategic focus on favorable outcomes is paramount. Whether through litigation or alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation, the firm strives to guide clients with a supportive yet firm hand, aiming to contain conflict and achieve resolutions that serve the best interests of all involved, especially children.

Finally, the convenient and accessible location in San Francisco's Financial District ensures that Californians from across the Bay Area and beyond can easily reach the firm, making the process of seeking legal counsel less burdensome. This combination of specialized expertise, profound experience, a client-focused approach, and convenient accessibility makes Hersh FamilyLaw Practice, P.C. a highly suitable and trusted legal resource for residents throughout California navigating their family law journeys.

Location & Map

456 Montgomery St 17th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94104, USA

Customer Reviews

(4 reviews)

M
Mina C
Apr 20, 2024

If you must use this firm, I'd avoid Patricia Purcell. I received a letter from the State Bar of CA dismissing my complaint against her after a lengthy investigation due to the fact that she simply lied to escape discipline. They seem to have a stringent burden of proof to protect shady lawyers. I've escalated it to the OCTC. But, that's not why you should avoid her, it's bc she makes countless errors then wastes her own clients' money & time to correct them. My divorce was meant to be finalized 06/2021 -she ensured a divorce w no kids or debt dragged on for 2yrs to personally benefit by billing my ex-husband for those years while blaming me for delays she caused with her consistent failures to represent his best interest. Lacks regard for human decency yet expects people to bend over backwards for her inability to take care of her personal affairs which bleeds into her performance as a lawyer. I really wanted to end my marriage on good terms & would have accepted so much less when I was without representation - I didn't understand my rights. Thanks to her ineffective representation, her client paid significantly more spousal support than I would have settled for (I was clueless & scared-my priority was peace). I called Patricia when she was operating as Purcell Family Law in 2019 & asked her for advice about my immigration status. She advised me about COBRA. Then, she represented my ex & lied to the Bar about speaking to me despite phone records. She was unpleasant & gave me incorrect information. She asked for a $8000 retainer & told me her inflated fee. By representing my husband afterwards, she put him at risk of having to switch lawyers, but he was a good mark for her given his emotional state. I believe she took advantage of him. Initially, I was represented by R. Rathmell, another lawyer at Hersh who should have pursued the conflict of interest. In fact, most lawyers told me that it was better for me not to bc it would cost me & I'd risk getting a competent lawyer. They said Patricia was inept & would throw hissy fits/ cry in court. I offered to sign the papers for free. Patricia decided to charge my ex thousands of dollars to draft paperwork & hire a process server so she could lie to the court & claim I was evading service which didn't even end up helping her case as it was irrelevant. The judge saw through her. Ms. Purcell then began working for Lerner Poole in 2020. I wonder whether she was recently fired from this firm due to her exposing them to potential discipline because of her unethical actions? She couldn't manage on her own & couldn't stay at the last firm for a meaningful length of time /potentially caused issues for the other lawyers by not disclosing the consultation. Another lawyer didn't want to work with Lerner Poole bc she said they hire the type of lawyers who create conflict between clients to pad their billable hours. I asked her to clarify: she said that if she asked for docs they'd claim they couldn't get them, & if you were cooperative, they'd still disparage you to make it seem like you were being difficult to increase tension. Divorce is hard & the end of a relationship is such a fragile thing - you don't need a lawyer who delights in profiting from your pain. Patricia Purcell would create make work projects for my ex like forcing him to come and drop off $ instead of just leaving it in our account. She later claimed I was standing outside waiting for him, which I wasn't so, I suspect it was an attempt to create a situation where she could disparage my character & when that didn't work she simply lied. We negotiated the division of assets & she FORGOT multiple assets. She refused to take responsibility then didn't even draft the dissolution on time & my lawyer had to harass her. When I was without representation she initiated & sent me 100 unprofessional emails in the first 3mths of '22 Her client paid for emails that had nothing to do with the divorce, just complaining about her inability to do her work and adequately take care of her child. I could go on. Hire at your own risk

A
A A
Aug 24, 2023

Rude and ignorant. Had a consultation about drafting a prenup. Accused my fiancé of not understanding what marriage is. Made her cry. Gave rude and inaccurate answers when asked questions about the law and what we need. Huge waste of time. Significantly increased my headaches around the process.

B
Brian Cain
Oct 31, 2024

One of the most prestigious family law firms in the bay area.

J
Jaleh Miller
Aug 04, 2024

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