Hiring Eric was one of the best decisions I made during a very overwhelming custody case. He consistently made me feel supported and informed, and I truly trusted that he had both my son's and my best interests at heart. His communication and attention to detail helped ease a lot of anxiety during an incredibly stressful time. His responses were always timely, either the same day or the following business day, and he was consistently willing to provide thoughtful feedback and guidance through conflict. His recommendations were realistic and grounded, without giving false hope. My case spanned over a year, and throughout that time Eric was always well-informed on my case and its history. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a dedicated, reliable, and compassionate attorney! read more

This is my second review on Eric and my original review still stands : he is honestly the best. He successfully helped me win a 5-year domestic violence restraining order and full custody of my daughter 4 years ago and something unexpected came up, requiring me to go back to court again today. He could have easily taken $1,400 from me, but instead he told me he thought I could handle the court appearance on my own -- and because of that I saved the money. As a struggling single mother, that meant so much to me. Even though he has officially signed off the case and wasn't representing me anymore, he still guided me every step of the way. I messaged him several times yesterday and today while I was in court, and like always, he answered all of my texts immediately with advice, encouragement, and clear instructions. Because of him, everything went smoothly and I walked away with peace of mind. Again. I need to go back to court in a year to renew the restraining order and I will absolutely hire him again. He's not just a great lawyer -- he's someone who genuinely cares about his clients. I 1000% recommend him to anyone who needs help with stressful family law matters! read more

Eric represented me for a prenuptial agreement and I cannot recommend him highly enough. From the moment I met him, I felt at ease--he's not the typical stiff or intimidating attorney. He's approachable, upbeat, and has a calm, reassuring presence. He explained everything in a clear, professional way, I left our first meeting feeling confident and far less stressed. What truly sets Eric apart is his integrity. He doesn't nickel and dime you, and he's upfront and honest every step of the way. He gives you real options and thoughtful recommendations based on what's best for you. There's no runaround or legal jargon meant to confuse--just transparency and solid advice. He takes all his own calls and replies to all his own emails directly--no middleman, which I absolutely loved. His professionalism, warmth, and genuine care makes him exceptional. Also, a special shoutout to his front desk assistant, Carmen--she's kind, welcoming, and incredibly sweet. Together, they make the entire experience feel personal and stress-free. If you're looking for a lawyer with integrity, clarity, and heart--Eric is it. I wholeheartedly recommend him. read more

Honestly Eric is an amazing lawyer. He's a great listener and is being helpful. He made my divorce so much easier to get through. I don't know what I would have done without him. Honestly recommend him to everyone. read more

This attorney hasn't heard of the concept of appointments and insists on calling whenever he has time in between meetings--so be on your toes and ready to pick up. After telling him three times, that I need a day and time, he still failed to set something up and insisted on just calling when he wants to. When I picked up his call for a consultation, he told me this was not a consultation and that I may not ask him any questions like what law school he went to. He explained that this call is FOR HIM to decide if my case is worth his time. After wasting my time, he decided that because I have a hearing in less than sixty days, it's too expedited for him. He then messaged me some referrals--one that has no reviews and another than has three stars on Yelp. Gee, thanks a lot, Eric. read more

Eric D Mackey-Fitzgerald - A portion of the messages where he insists on not scheduling an appointment. - Divorce & Family Law Near Me - Orange, California

I went to Eric for advice on a previous divorce settlement. He was very professional and laid out the steps to take to make it right for both me and my ex. He developed a very fair and simple plan, and the price was less than I had expected to pay based on my experience with other lawyers. I would definitely recommend Eric for someone in need of a competent lawyer that is priced very reasonable. read more

I saw Eric in Jan 2025. He did a great job helping with my child custody issue in that he pointed to the fact

Eric was fair efficient and effective. He was clear and goal oriented in his approach. Every question was answered quickly and thoroughly. He made the horrors of the divorce process and court system bearable. read more

I had a very positive experience working with Eric as my attorney during my divorce. He was professional, responsive, down to earth and guided me through a difficult process with clarity and care. Highly recommend him to anyone requiring his services. read more

Eric was a phenomenal lawyer who helped me get the outcome I wanted. Highly recommend if necessary.

I needed help finalizing the judgment of my father's divorce, so I contacted Eric based on his stellar Yelp reviews. Eric responded in a timely manner and clearly communicated the process to me. I appreciated his honesty and assistance with finalizing the documents. My father's divorce was a success! Thank you so much, Eric! read more

Eric was professional and prompt from the get go. He was very knowledgeable and personable. He turned my very stressful situation into a much less stressful situation. I'm very happy I reached out to him. If you have any family law situations reach out to him you won't regret it. Highly Recommend and gave referrals to my friends and family. read more

Prior to Covid, I was looking to start an adoption process. I found Eric here on Yelp, he was surprisingly easy to get a hold of! His response time was quick, and my short conversation then was very informative and helpful. He briefly explained the adoption process and even guided me on how to do it myself. He admitted that he could do it for me, it would just cost more when I could easily do it myself. The process sounded simple enough so I went ahead and tried. Covid happened, everything shut down. Even after a year after Covid, it was challenging to find out what government services were open, what wasn't open, what was virtual only, and it was nearly impossible to get a hold of any one to speak with at any court system! So, I found Eric again, and retained his services. He worked with us, communication was always clear, his professionalism was outstanding. I would definitely recommend Eric for your legal needs! read more

My experience with Eric began when I sought his help with the custody of my daughter and child support. Although my case was considered straightforward, it took almost three years to reach an agreement with my ex. Throughout that time, Eric was exactly the lawyer I needed. Eric has many traits that make him an excellent lawyer. He was the consummate professional: very knowledgeable, thorough, and level headed. My questions and concerns were always addressed, and Eric always presented practical options of moving forward, as well as the potential implications and consequences of each option. I always felt I was making well informed decisions. During the court proceedings, he was always ready to present my case, provide additional information, or interject on my behalf. Eric was well prepared, articulate, quick on his feet, and tenacious. The judge even complimented him as being a "zealous advocate." With such a statement coming from a judge, I believe not much else needs to be said about Eric's skill and ability as a lawyer. Presently, my case is resolved, and thanks to Eric, I have more custody of my daughter and pay less child support than I had anticipated. I have nothing but deep gratitude for Eric and his abilities. I certainly do not wish to be back in family court for any reason, but if I have to be, then Eric's my guy. read more

Eric helped me with the following: Child Custody and Child Support. Child Custody The mother of my children had stopped allowing the children to spend the night and had made false allegations against me. She attempted to move away with both my children to a different state. Outcome: 50% joint legal custody and the children will remain here in the state of a California. Child support The mother attempted to put me on child support. Outcome: Dismissed Eric is compassionate, very knowledgeable of the laws, great communication skills, strong writing ability, excellent judgement and response in a timely manner. My children and I are eternally grateful for his service and I hereby recommend Eric Mackey-Fitzgerald, Attorney at Law. Thank you. read more

Eric was referred to me from a friend who is an employment attorney. I'm so thankful he did as he helped me navigate the divorce process and make me feel confident that I could get through it with all the things I thought were important in the filing. He kept me updated on our status, shared estimated timeframes and was realistic in my ex's attorney's responses to items we sent. Eric was also very transparent in the costs as that was something that was important for me. Highly recommend working with Eric if you are going through this process. Thank you for the successful judgement and concern you showed throughout this process. read more

Absolutely fantastic lawyer--he's knowledgeable and easy to work with and kept me informed while also being highly cognizant of costs. Can't say enough good about his office--he helped with my child custody update...I'm sure I'll be requesting his services again. read more

Mr Mackey-Fitzgerald is a top notch lawyer and an even better person. Not only does he keep up to date with all the relevant laws, he is both knowledgeable and able to apply such laws swiftly to your advantage. He keeps you in the loop and asks your opinions once all options are made available to you. He cares and is a true professional. Highly recommended! read more

Eric is amazing! Easy and great to work with. Smart, friendly, efficient and transparent. He got our complicated situation finalized without any issues! Would definitely recommend Eric without hesitation. read more

Eric is by far the best family lawyer I have ever worked with. He is professional, knowledgeable, and kind. Even after he completed my case, that he Won, he is still accessible and willing to help with any questions that may arise. read more

My goal in finding counsel for my marriage dissolution was to find an attorney who is knowledgeable, responsive, critical and comfortable to deal with. I met with several attorneys prior to meeting with Eric. They did not meet these needs. Eric came across as approachable and knowledgeable, yet willing to give thought to some of my concerns without jumping to coined responses, which stood in contrast to other attorneys I met with. He acted professionally throughout the process, responding quickly in all cases. He also supported/encouraged my handling the case through mediation and took efforts to suggest cost effective and efficient ways to proceed. read more

After thoroughly reviewing many attorneys, I contacted Eric, but that's about it. I didn't know anything else, so I went to him helpless, naive, scared, and above all, no idea what I was getting into. He suggested something at the very second meeting, and I didn't listen. I thought the divorce would be amicable. Unfortunately, it was highly contagious, and my mistake of not listening to Eric caused me four years to mitigate. Eric was professional and often showed me his kind side in various ways. What I have found, he always gave me the most appropriate advice. He was responsive and helped me navigate and understand the process well. Eric was logical, reasonable, and always looked at the bright side. His knowledge of family law was outstanding. I started my divorce with Eric as my attorney ended the divorce with him, while the other party worked with three attorneys. The past four years were a living hell, but Eric made it tolerable. Without him, I didn't know what would have happened to me. There are no ways to give more than five starts, but he deserves way more than 5 starts. A good attorney can change many things during this challenging journey, and if you plan to accept his service, you are in excellent hands. read more

I retained Eric for a civil matter case. Eric was extremely professional, honest, and responsive in assisting me with my case. He went above and beyond on what I thought attorneys would do (responded to my inquiries after hours). When meeting with Eric, he was extremely thorough in walking me through what to expect, and how to best prepare myself. He offered so much information which gave me the confidence in going into my hearing. On a side note, I was able to see Eric in the courtroom before deciding to move forward in using his services. The way he conducted himself inside the courtroom, and the rapport he had with the family judge was clear as day. He's extremely professional, knows his stuff, and represented his clients well. Most importantly, you got the sense the way the judge communicated with him was starkly different in comparison to other attorneys. He had so much respect for him, and that's why I went with his services. I would highly recommend you retain Eric for your case. read more

What can I say about Eric that I haven't already said in my last review? He's been my attorney for the last 4 years. He helped me navigate my way through an extremely difficult divorce with an extremely difficult ex-spouse. Even after the divorce was finalized, my ex attempted to gain sole custody of our children, not once, but twice in the last 2 years post divorce. Each time false allegations were made and I was investigated by CPS, only for them to not find anything in their investigations. Eric has been a godsend. He kept me grounded even when I was visibly frustrated and upset that this was all happening to me. He provided sound advice, and with the help of minors counsel that was appointed for our children, helped settle both of the court hearings in back to back years with no changes in custody or support figures. Eric always had my best interest, as well as the best interests of the children at the fore front. He is well calculated in court and spoke up when necessary. I had been having a hard time parenting our children due to their mother's influence. Each time I had to parent the children, they would get upset, meltdown and make a scene which resulted in them calling their mother and having them picked up by her during my custody time. This caused a lot of problems as this breakdown of communication with our children led to further alienation from me. Eric was able to get the judge to see this pattern as destructive and the judge admonished my ex for her parental interference as well as her discussions of court with our children. After the admonishment, as well as a threat of sanctions against my ex, he helped bring our children closer to me and end all of the fighting in my family. All I wanted was peace. All I wanted is to be a father to our children. I kept fighting, even when I had no more money to fight with. I could not allow our children to grow up without a father. Eric got it. He got me. Eric was not only the right choice that I made when I retained him, but he was also the best choice. My ex and I have since finally come to a peace agreement. We have been working together and co-parenting our children peacefully. The children have the most to gain from this. My sanity was tested over and over again for the last 6 years. If I only would've known about Eric from the beginning, I would've hired him from the start. Instead, I was fooled into thinking a big firm as well as my second attorney who was recommended my the OC Bar Association would help me. They did nothing but take more and more money from me with no positive results. Eric is a class act. I wish could be friends with him. He's a great guy and I can't thank him enough for his hard work and attention to detail. I'm hopeful that court is over now. But if needed, he would be to retained immediately again. He is worth every penny. read more

Eric is an amazing. His knowledge, experience and quick turnaround were so much more than I expected. I can"t think of a single strategy or opinion he offered that didn't make complete sense. The entire process was clearly presented and organized. He's a bulldog with a smile; he doesn't cave in but is respectful to all parties. You won't find a better divorce attorney. read more

Do not look anywhere else. Eric is amazing. Quick, sharp, and charismatic. I've been through 1 divorce working with 2 different lawyers. Through my divorce process, I've witnessed Eric, my previous attorney, opposing's 2 attorneys, and dozens of other family law lawyers while sitting in the court room waiting for my trial to be heard. I started with another lawyer, but wish I went with Eric the first time around.  Out of all of the other attorneys I've witnessed, Eric is, hands-down, the most capable I've seen.... Like a TV lawyer!  Everyone seems to respect him including the judge, minors' counsel, and even opposing counsel. His rates are comparable to bigger firms, but you'll likely pay less due to his efficiency. He keeps you in the loop and responds promptly to questions.  Message me, and I'll answer any questions about my experience. I wish I started with Eric, and I'm glad I found him when I did. read more

So many great things to say! Eric is honest, straightforward, personable, reliable, and knows his stuff. It is easy to get extremely anxious during court cases, but I knew I was in good hands- what a relief! I was hesitant to hire an attorney for my child custody case, but I am so glad I did. You won't be disappointed with Eric by your side! read more

If you are in need of any attorney assistance please reach out to Eric. He has helped me out in so many ways while going through my divorce. He is kind caring and will fight for you till the end. He is ethical and hard working and truly takes your needs into consideration 100%. I could not have gone through this without Eric in my corner. read more

I would like to preface this review by saying I wish I had found Eric way before my previous lawyer. Eric is such a professional, genuine, honest and all round solid attorney. Eric D Mackey-Fitzgerald represented me in a child support case and knew the aspects of Family law inside and out. My case involved children internationally and without Eric by my side, I would have been completely screwed by the DCSS....and I had representation from another firm at that time, what a difference! Having experienced him in action inside a court room and being able to compare his performance to my previous Attorney, I confidently stand behind Erics services. Please save yourself thousands of dollars, undue stress and time - speak to Eric, he will be honest with you and knows California family law. He asked questions and provided answers for things I wasn't even aware that I needed to know. Eric, from me personally, thank you! You are a credit to the profession. read more

Eric was the 2nd attorney I hired for my divorce/ custody case. I had a horrible experience with my first lawyer, long story short I was 20k in with her and absolutely nothing was done. I walked into Eric's office very hesitant. I was impressed with our first meeting and decided to retain him, but at the end of the day it comes down to things actually getting done. He was amazing throughout the whole process always responsive, always realistic, never over promising, very professional and he got things done. Having that weight lifted off my shoulder and finally being able to move forward was an amazing feeling, that is all thanks to Eric. I have recommended him to family and friends. Im grateful to have stumbled across him on yelp. Couldn't be happier with his services. read more

If you need a good divorce layher Eric is the guy you need to call. He help me all the way with my divorce process. I will give him 5 stat all the way.Call him if you need help with the process. I highly recommend him. read more

I have been looking for an attorney so that my fiance could re-file and request a modification in child custody due to a nasty battle he has going on with his ex. I looked into different attorney's and law firms due to a bad previous experience at another firm. I saw the great reviews left here for attorney Eric and decided to request a consultation with him. Almost immediately he reached out to us...wow! You don't see that from many attorney's! I have been in contact with Eric a total of 3 times, all of which he was completely helpful, a wonderful listener, and even gave us honest and hopeful answers to the questions we had. Unfortunately the county where we need to re-file the paperwork is not where Eric practices in, but he sent us 2 referral attorney's that do practice in that area. We are bummed out that Eric could not represent us only because we really wanted him to represent us. However, I wanted to leave this review for anyone in the Orange County area who needs help in Family Law.... this is the right attorney! Eric is very personable, communicative, he answers your questions, and if he doesn't have the answer then he will direct you in the right way. Thank you Eric, for helping Bryan and I in what you could do. read more

This is not the review for the attorney as never got the chance to talk to him. Requested the appointment on web form and made the calls but no response. Update : Updating my review as Eric called me back and informed me that his assistant is currently out of the country and that's the reason for delay in response. He answered all my questions and explained me the steps to proceed on my case. Thank you Eric!! read more

I felt assured immediately after speaking to Eric he has sound advice and I would recommend him in a heartbeat i truly do

I found Eric through Yelp (thank you previous Yelp reviewers!) to help me with my complicated divorce, custody, and move-away case. In the beginning of my case, I had a different lawyer that had horrible communication. After spending a day in court only to learn that they had not submitted the proper paperwork causing my case to stall, I turned to Yelp in a panic. I had a good feeling about Eric after reading his stellar reviews so I called him immediately. I left a message and got a response right away which was a very good sign to me. At my first consultation with Eric, I felt more at ease than I had in a long time. His friendly and easy-going demeanor made it comfortable for me to share all the experiences that led me to that point. He spent over two hours getting my backstory and figuring out what needed to be done to clean up my mess of a case. He was able to jump right in and help me figure out how to move forward. He came off as very invested, efficient, organized, and smart. I loved that he made no promises or guarantees that things would go in my favor, but that he believed me and he'd do everything he can to bring the facts forward and advocate for me. He is considerate of the judges and court and maintains good rapport with them by following the rules and being respectful of their time. He helped me avoid paying unnecessary fees by being diligent and thorough in paperwork and showing up to court prepared. He never once asked for a continuance or tried to drag out my case further. I saw first hand how shady and dishonest other lawyers can be and it made me appreciate Eric's integrity and professionalism even more. When we finally had our day in court, my lawyer and I were the ones celebrating and I'm forever grateful that I had the best lawyer helping me navigate one of the most terrifying and exhausting times of my life. Thank you, Eric! read more

So unbelievably gracious and welcoming! Eric made me feel comfortable immediately and less nervous about my situation. Thanks so much for your knowledge, expertise and mostly for taking care of a very complicated case! I came out very well! read more

I needed a very discreet and understanding attorney. Eric Mackey-Fitzgerald is a great listener. He has a great understanding of complicated divorce situations, and did not pressure me into any particular action. Many options were proposed. He spent more than the initially prepaid hour with me, and encouraged me to call with future questions. Love this guy and his moral compass. read more

This guys the best! I can't thank him enough for making everything a smooth and easy process! Thanks again Eric it was a pleasure but I hope to never have to see you again. read more

I'd highly recommend this attorney office! Mr. Eric is always responsible, helpful and fast in every service he offers. I cannot emphasize enough how professional and thorough regarding my case. I really appreciate his great work and he takes care of my needs well every step of the way. The best part about his office is that his service fee is very reasonable. read more

Eric represented me in my divorce. He was always very helpful. Whenever I emailed or called him, if he did not respond immediately he would always respond within a day. He is very personable and easy to talk to. I would say dealing with him was like talking to a friend. He also would not nickel and dime me and some of the services he provided, he did not charge me for. I highly recommend him. read more