When You Feel Lost, You Need A Navigator

“My ex and I were supposed to negotiate a revision to our spousal support agreement, but we ended up miles apart. I didn’t want to go to court, yet I simply couldn’t afford to offer any more money. Nicole Burns reassured me that I wasn’t crazy—that I’d already matched the best my ex was likely to get from a judge and that, in the long run, my best option was to face her down. The ensuing months were a drain in many ways, as my ex and her attorney dragged out the process. Nicole was responsive and helpful throughout, however, focusing strongly on substance as she filed the motion, ushered me through discovery, and issued subpoenas as needed. I was grateful for her tolerance of my occasional frustration and—if I’m being honest—anger. It can’t be fun wading into a broken marriage, and I admire her focus. Meanwhile the firm’s paralegal support was always excellent, and I felt welcome whenever I arrived to pore through documents in person. As the hearing date approached, our case grew increasingly solid and things looked good. My ex came to the table and we settled at the last minute for roughly what I had offered in the first place. Could we have avoided all that time, pain, and expense? Yes, and I wish we had. Unfortunately, it takes two people to agree. When that didn’t happen, I was pleased to have Hirsch & Ehlenberger behind me. I recommend the firm—and Nicole Burns specifically—without hesitation.”

From the very first meeting with Brian, I knew that he would serve my best interests at all times. He is very open and transparent about the separation/divorce process, detailing timeline, possible scenarios, outcome and costs. While my case did not seem complex at first, it quickly evolved into a stalemate for settlement, then to litigation. Brian was calm and strategic throughout the process, making the right moves at the right time.

Mr. Hirsch’s recognition as one of the top divorce attorneys in Virginia is well-deserved. He skillfully and patiently guided me from separation, through negotiated property and support agreements, to an eventual cessation of support upon retirement.

Carol Ehlenberger was exactly what I needed for my divorce. I had a “simple” noncontested divorce this past year and she took such good care of my case. I am sure it was “small” in comparison to most cases she handles but she treated my case with such importance that I never felt worried about any small details.