Next Legal

Nearby Lawyers California Santa Clara County Palo Alto Geng Road

(25 reviews)

Contact Info

Location 2100 Geng Rd Suite 210, Palo Alto, CA 94303, USA
Phone +1 650-384-0700
Website https://www.nextlegal.law/

Reviews

I had the pleasure of meeting and being represented by Giselle. She really went above and beyond to help my case in Family Court. She was kind and empathetic to my situation and although the outcome of my case wasn't in my favor, I would still fully recommend Next Legal as representation. They are promt with responses and the team communicates with eachother to make sure your needs are met quickly and professionally.
Navigating a multi-year family crisis, fraught with challenges and complexity, demanded a legal team of the highest caliber. I needed a team that was not only deeply knowledgeable in family law but also driven and guided by impeccable ethics. Thankfully, I found exactly that in Zelikha (attorney) and Nastassja (paralegal) at Next Legal. They are the embodiment of legal excellence, consistently prioritizing my child's best interests with profound sensitivity and unwavering focus on my child's well-being throughout every aspect of my case. Next Legal's billing practices were also a welcome relief. Their transparency and upfront communication about fees are the best I've seen. It was clear that Zelikha and Nastassja were motivated by a genuine commitment to justice, not by maximizing billable hours. Nastassja's prior experience in criminal law proved to be an invaluable asset. Her meticulous preparation was evident, and her performance as a paralegal surpassed that of many attorneys I encountered. In the courtroom, Zelikha was a powerful and articulate advocate. I was consistently impressed by her ability to layout a robust foundation of evidence, seamlessly incorporate relevant legal precedent, and articulate clear, concise, and logical conclusions. Her arguments were persuasive, well-reasoned, and delivered with genuine conviction. Choosing Next Legal, and specifically Zelikha Dost and Nastassja Gutierrez-Ekuase, was unequivocally the best decision I could have made. They expertly and empathetically guided me through an incredibly difficult period, always striving for the right outcome. I wholeheartedly recommend Next Legal to anyone facing a family law matter; their genuine care and exceptional results speak for themselves.
Beware of Next Legal Law Firm! After posting my initial review about Next Legal, their firm manager contacted me to discuss the situation. They seemed eager to resolve things and asked if anything could be done to reverse my review. I explained the situation once again, and Nastassja offered me a $2,500 refund. I declined, stating that I had already paid all my invoices in full and what I truly needed was an apology for how I was treated. A few hours later, Nastassja scheduled a Zoom call for the next day, January 10, 2025, with Paul. During the call, I had an open conversation with both Nastassja and Paul. I made it clear to Paul that I wasn’t here to argue with him, as he’s the attorney, and I have no intention of engaging in legal debates. Despite my openness, I received no apology from Paul. Instead, he reiterated the $2,500 offer and assured me it would be mailed that same day. Frankly, this offer was insulting. I told him to keep the $2,500 and focus on improving the services at his firm. Please, choose your lawyer carefully. Based on my experience, I cannot recommend Next Legal to anyone.
I am very happy with the work I received from Next Legal and especially Cielo! I hired them for a specific need, which I ended up not needing to follow through. They communicated very clearly and helpfully, even though I ended up not needing their help. I hope I won’t need any legal help in the future. But if I do, I’ll call them.
DON'T! DO NOT DO IT! Just wasted 12K. This firm is very unprofessional, unethical and they will treat you like an idiot for services they don't render. 1. I sent Nextlegal emails on 10/15, 10/16, 10/17, 10/29, 10/30, 11/7, & 1/29. I never got a reply for any of these emails. 2. On 10/22 I sent an email requesting statements via a motion & Nextlegal replied with: "working on drafting a 2nd set of discovery requests." I never saw those! 3.On 11/4 I sent an email for a f/u. Nextlegal replied on 11/6 with "working on a draft to request for opposing counsel for the additional documents that were missing." I was charged $22.50 for this email. I never saw this working draft!! 4. For the invoice for 10/25/2024, I was charged $735.00 for reviewing discovery responses & OP discovery responses for 2.10 hrs. Nextlegal stated they were working on drafts for 2nd set of discovery requests..I never saw those. Yet I was charged $735.00 5. For the invoice for 1/8/25, I was charged $315.00 for "GV-correspondences with attorney RE: Draft M&C" Who is GV? Nextlegal never called me or emailed me on 1/8/2025 to notify me that they were going to work on a M&C Letter. Yet, I was charged $315. Who did they meet & confer with? 6. I had an MSC scheduled for 2/4/25. I hadn't heard from Nextlegal since 11/6/24. I called on 1/9/25. A phone appt was scheduled for 1/10/25 to speak to my attorney Amanda. I discussed new developing events in my case concerning my safety. She stated it wasn't related to family law. Apparently, they don't handle restraining orders. The invoice for this call is recorded for 1/9/25 when in fact, the call was on 1/10/25. Nextlegal charged me $140.00 for .40 hrs. (The incoming call was19 min not 40). Again, these White Collar Piranhas embezzling money. 7. On 1/27/25 I received an email to file a statement for the MSC. On 1/30/25 I received an email to file a GSP. I replied with my asks. I guess both documents were necessary for the 2/4/25 MSC. Both were inconsistent. It wasn't my job to know that. I am not the one with the licensed JD. That is why I am paying one! I don't care whether it is a Global Settlement Proposal, a Universal one, a Galaxy one, or just straight up pulled out of one's ass! Just do your job bro! I seriously don't know what it is & what is the difference. I left it into the entrusting the firm. However!, they were fast enough to send the invoice the following week: $735.00 for the drafted MSC letter and $350.00 for the GSP letter. 8. As it was not enough ransacking from these White Collar vultures, I was charged $150.00 on 1/30/25 for "hearing prep. Draft hearing prep notes, link docs to folder, email hearing links to client." What hearing prep? What draft hearing prep notes or link docs to folder?? On 2/4/25 my attorney was not even at the MSC! The firm never notified me! Very unprofessional and just unethical! To my surprise I had a different attorney that did not know my case who could not find the prep notes. Yet, I was charged for the hearing prep. Perhaps if she pursued what I had asked in Oct & Nov, I would have one! Why wasn't I prepared me for the expectations for this hearing, advantages & disadvantages?" 9. On 2/5/25 the Firm Manager called me. As I started explaining my situation to the manager, I was interrupted. I told her that I was going to file a complaint with the State Bar. I kept telling her that I was not given any legal advice prior to the MSC conference or sub-legal specialties. The manager interrupted me by saying that it was simple, that if involved for example criminal, I would have to seek a criminal attorney. "No! Duh! Really!!" It is common sense!!! Apparently, their firm do not handle protective restraining orders and they will refer you to a criminal attorney to get one. As I tried to explain my grievance, the firm manager kept interrupting me , she became nasty, unprofessional and started yelling like a hyena demanding me to her talk. She then made the final bark by yelling that she was going to hang up on me if I wouldn't let her talk and she hung up.

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About Next Legal

When facing the emotional and often overwhelming challenges of family law matters, finding legal representation that combines expertise with genuine compassion is paramount. For individuals and families throughout California, particularly in the Palo Alto area, Next Legal stands out as a law office dedicated to providing exactly this level of service. Specializing in the delicate and complex arena of family law, Next Legal offers a supportive yet highly effective approach to guide clients through some of life’s most difficult transitions.

Next Legal understands that family crises, such as divorce or child custody disputes, demand not only deep legal knowledge but also profound empathy and a focus on the well-being of all involved, especially children. The firm's commitment to ethical practice, transparent communication, and a resolution-oriented approach sets them apart. They strive to achieve successful outcomes while minimizing the emotional and financial toll on their clients. Understanding their specific services and their client-centric philosophy can be incredibly reassuring for anyone in California seeking reliable legal assistance in family matters.

For local users, knowing that a dedicated and highly recommended firm like Next Legal is available in their community provides a significant advantage. This article will explore the firm’s convenient location, the comprehensive range of family law services they provide, and the key features and highlights that distinguish their practice, demonstrating why Next Legal is a suitable and trusted choice for residents throughout California.

Next Legal is conveniently located in Palo Alto, California, at 2100 Geng Rd Suite 210, Palo Alto, CA 94303, USA. This central location in Silicon Valley makes the firm highly accessible for clients not only in Palo Alto but also across the wider San Francisco Bay Area and other parts of California.

The office on Geng Road benefits from its proximity to major transportation arteries, including US-101, which provides efficient access for clients traveling from various directions, whether from San Francisco to the north or San Jose to the south. This ease of access is crucial for individuals who may be experiencing personal stress and appreciate a straightforward commute for consultations and meetings. The professional yet welcoming environment of the office building, along with available parking, ensures a comfortable experience for clients during their visits.

For those utilizing public transportation, Palo Alto is served by Caltrain, and local bus services also operate in the vicinity, offering additional options for reaching the office. The strategic placement of Next Legal in this key California city underscores its commitment to being a local, reachable resource for its community members, providing expert and empathetic legal counsel precisely where and when it's most needed.

Next Legal specializes in family law, offering a comprehensive suite of services designed to guide clients through challenging personal and domestic legal matters with expertise and compassion. Their approach emphasizes successful resolution while prioritizing the well-being of all involved. Key services include:

Divorce & Legal Separation: Providing full support through all stages of divorce and legal separation, including contested and uncontested cases, property division, and spousal support.
Child Custody & Visitation: Expertly navigating complex child custody disputes, developing parenting plans, and addressing issues related to visitation rights, always with a focus on the child's best interests.
Child Support: Assisting with the calculation, establishment, and modification of child support orders to ensure fair and appropriate financial arrangements for children.
Spousal Support (Alimony): Advising on spousal support determinations, modifications, and enforcement, considering factors such as income, earning capacity, and standard of living.
Property Division: Handling the equitable division of marital assets and debts, including complex financial portfolios, real estate, and business interests.
Restraining Orders (Civil & Domestic Violence): Providing immediate and effective legal assistance for obtaining or defending against civil and domestic violence restraining orders, ensuring client safety and legal protection.
Mediation: Offering mediation services as an alternative to traditional litigation, facilitating amicable resolutions in a less adversarial setting.
Trial Practice: Equipped with extensive courtroom experience, the firm is prepared to vigorously represent clients in trial when amicable settlement is not possible.

Next Legal stands out for its distinctive approach to family law, blending robust legal representation with a deeply empathetic and client-focused methodology. Several key features and highlights underscore their commitment to excellence:

High Caliber Legal Team: The firm boasts a team of highly knowledgeable and experienced attorneys, including Zelikha Dost (as highlighted by a client review) and Giselle, who are recognized for their deep understanding of family law and strong advocacy skills.
Ethical and Empathetic Practice: Clients consistently praise Next Legal for their impeccable ethics, genuine care, and profound sensitivity. They are driven by a commitment to justice rather than maximizing billable hours, consistently prioritizing the client's (and especially the child's) best interests.
Transparency in Billing: One of the standout features mentioned by clients is the firm's transparency and upfront communication regarding fees. This clear billing practice provides a welcome relief and fosters trust.
Resolution-Oriented Approach: While possessing extensive courtroom experience, Next Legal is dedicated to the early resolution of family law disputes through time-tested settlement strategies. They encourage settlement negotiations from the outset to minimize the time and expense of court proceedings.
Exceptional Paralegal Support: The reviews highlight the invaluable contribution of paralegals like Nastassja Gutierrez-Ekuase, whose meticulous preparation and performance are noted to surpass that of many attorneys. This indicates a strong, cohesive team approach.
Tech-Friendly and Modern Approach: Next Legal utilizes technology to drive results and provide efficient, modern legal services. This focus on leveraging technology enhances responsiveness and overall client experience.
Prompt Communication: Clients consistently commend the team for prompt responses and effective internal communication, ensuring that client needs are met quickly and professionally.
Compassionate Advocacy in Court: Attorneys like Zelikha are described as powerful and articulate advocates in the courtroom, capable of laying out robust evidence, incorporating legal precedent, and delivering persuasive, well-reasoned arguments with genuine conviction.

As a highly specialized and client-focused law firm dealing with sensitive family matters, Next Legal prioritizes providing exceptional legal service and empathetic support over offering traditional "promotions or special offers." The true value for clients engaging with Next Legal lies in the comprehensive, ethical, and effective legal representation they receive during challenging times.

For individuals and families in California navigating divorce, child custody, or other family law issues, Next Legal’s commitment is to achieve the best possible outcomes with transparency and care. This commitment translates into tangible benefits such as securing favorable custody arrangements, equitable property division, and peace of mind during a stressful period. These long-term advantages significantly outweigh any short-term promotional incentives.

Prospective clients are encouraged to contact Next Legal directly to discuss their specific family law needs. During an initial consultation, the firm can provide clarity on their approach, discuss potential strategies, and outline their fee structures, ensuring transparency and a clear understanding of the legal process. The firm's primary "offer" is their dedication to genuine care, exceptional results, and guiding clients empathetically through difficult periods, as highlighted by numerous positive client testimonials.

For those seeking to connect with Next Legal in Palo Alto, the following contact information is provided:

Address: 2100 Geng Rd Suite 210, Palo Alto, CA 94303, USA
Phone: (650) 384-0700
Mobile Phone: +1 650-384-0700

These contact details provide direct access to the firm's office in Palo Alto. When making an inquiry, it is often helpful to have a concise overview of your family law matter, whether it pertains to divorce, child custody, or another related issue. This will enable the firm's team to efficiently direct your query to the most appropriate legal professional and facilitate a productive initial conversation. Next Legal is dedicated to providing responsive, professional, and empathetic assistance to all individuals and families who reach out for their legal expertise.

For individuals and families located in California, particularly within the Palo Alto area and surrounding communities, Next Legal stands out as an exceptionally suitable choice for family law matters. The firm’s profound specialization in divorce, child custody, and related disputes directly addresses the sensitive and often overwhelming legal challenges that arise in personal lives. What truly sets Next Legal apart, as consistently highlighted by client testimonials, is their unique blend of robust legal expertise and genuine empathy.

Attorneys like Zelikha Dost and Giselle, supported by an outstanding paralegal team like Nastassja Gutierrez-Ekuase, demonstrate a commitment to prioritizing the client's well-being, especially that of children, throughout the legal process. Their ethical billing practices and transparent communication foster trust during what can be an incredibly stressful time. Moreover, their dual approach of seeking amicable resolutions through settlement strategies while being fully prepared for aggressive courtroom advocacy ensures that clients receive the most effective representation for their specific circumstances.

The convenient and accessible location in Palo Alto makes Next Legal a truly local and approachable resource for residents. For locals, choosing Next Legal means partnering with a legal team that not only delivers exceptional results but also acts as a compassionate guide, alleviating much of the emotional burden associated with family legal issues. This combination of local presence, specialized expertise, and an unwavering client-centric approach makes Next Legal an invaluable resource for navigating the complexities of family law in the Golden State.