Cecilia Sardiña Guzman
Google Rating
4.6(83 reviews)
- (201) 845-7400, (973) 968-4380, +1-201-845-7400
- No email available
About:
Cecilia Sardiña Guzman
DVLawyers AI Summary:
The Law Offices of Peter Van Aulen focuses primarily on divorce and family law, offering services that address the complexities surrounding divorce proceedings, child custody issues, and protective measures for individuals facing domestic violence. With over 25 years of experience, the firm aims to empower clients during emotionally charged times and help them navigate the often overwhelming legal landscape. Their content reflects a trauma-informed and empathetic tone, providing practical information and strategies for survivors. The firm recognizes the emotional and financial toll that divorce can take, advocating for clients to maintain control and protect their rights throughout the process. They emphasize the importance of knowledge, encouraging clients to understand their legal positions and the implications of their decisions, particularly in custody disputes and financial matters. While the firm offers a wealth of knowledge about divorce and custody, potential clients should consider their personal needs and comfort level. If you are a survivor of domestic violence seeking legal representation, the firm’s focus on empowerment and understanding may resonate with you. However, if your situation involves immediate safety concerns or requires specialized domestic violence advocacy, you might also want to explore firms that specifically highlight their expertise in handling such sensitive cases. The Law Offices of Peter Van Aulen does provide a supportive environment, but it's essential to assess whether their approach aligns with your needs for safety and legal guidance.
Jurisdiction:New Jersey
Practice Area
Family Law
Handles divorce, custody, parenting time, and support with DV-informed safety planning, temporary orders, safe exchanges, discovery protections, and long-term financial stability.
Languages
English, Spanish
Fees
Free Consultation
Education
J.D.
Associations
Member
Member
Reviews
RATED 5.0
Sep 2, 2025via Google
Joe DeVleming
"Very helpful consultation on a family law matter that resolved my issue without further follow-up. Thanks!"
RATED 1.0
Aug 2, 2025via Google
L R
"On June 3, 2025, I consulted Mr. Peter Van Aulen about legal representation in a matter. On June 4th, I received the Retainer Agreement. On careful review of the Retainer Agreement, I found that 2/3 of the Retainer focused exclusively on Legal Fees, Costs and Expenses, Bills and Other Legal Services, with no detailed description on Scope of Work. Mr. Van Aulen requested a $6,000.00 retainer fee and said nothing more than the payment will go toward fees and expenses according to the Agreement. I had no written assurance that Mr. Van Aulen understood my specific goals and objectives. Despite good faith attempts at getting Mr. Van Aulen to include Scope of Work in the Retainer Agreement, he refused. I decided to pursue another attorney. Mr. Van Aulen may be a good attorney, but his unwillingness to provide me with a detailed plan was unacceptable to me. This was very telling and unfortunate. I do not recommend The Law Office of Mr. Peter Van Aulen for this alone. Dear Reader: In response to Mr. Van Aulen reply, consider what he said. “We do not provide a “detailed plan” in a retainer agreement because we formulate the same after we been retained, review both parties’ Case Information Statements, review all relevant documents and further consultation with the client.” In effect, Mr. Van Aulen is saying pay me now and worry about the details after the fact, whereas I maintain that memorialization of Scope of Work is critical upfront, not on the backend, to ensure that he understood the goals and objectives discussed. I have made meaning business happen for both small and large companies, and under no circumstances would a business partner enter into a contractual agreement without a “detailed plan” as Mr. Van Aulen puts it, or a Scope of Work as I put. In closing, my review is based solely on “my” personal experience; it is not intended to disparage or defame Mr. Van Aulen. This is nothing more than a matter of differing perspectives, or expectations. I wish Mr. Van Aulen the best. You the reader can draw your own conclusions."
RATED 5.0
Aug 2, 2025via Google
Christine Ellinger
"Mr. Van Aulen handled my Hudson County divorce after I had moved to NV. He is very knowledgeable, honest and had my best interest as a priority. This entire process was new for me, and he made me feel comfortable every step of the way. I don’t know what I would’ve done without him. And his staff! Debbie is absolutely wonderful. She always made me feel like I was a priority. I’d like to say I will definitely use Peter’s services again, but I hope I never have to. 😊"
RATED 5.0
Jul 2, 2025via Google
Aber Weiss
"Got the outcome I was looking for. Thank you"
RATED 5.0
Jul 2, 2025via Google
Pillar Planning
"Peter was so helpful prompt and knowledgeable... His understanding, listening and advice through the process is stellar... Top notch!"