What our clients say
Client Reviews
Real feedback from families we’ve had the privilege of representing across North Carolina.

Recent Client Reviews
These reviews come directly from clients of our current attorneys.

Sean McIlveen
Co-Founder & Partner Attorney
4 client reviews, tap to read
I am truly grateful to Sean and his staff for being such strong advocates for my children’s well-being. Sean was a true champion throughout the entire process, and I always felt that I was in knowledgeable, capable hands. I especially appreciated Sean’s honesty and transparency about what to expect. He took the time to explain every step of the process in detail and was always patient in addressing my questions and concerns. His genuine care and commitment gave me confidence during a very challenging time. I wish I had found Sean sooner, doing so would have saved me significant time and frustration. His experience and keen insight allows him to quickly recognize tactics and unnecessary distractions. Sean has both the tenacity and the skill to handle even the most difficult situations. I highly recommend him to anyone seeking a dedicated, compassionate, and highly effective advocate.
Sean McIlveen was an excellent lawyer and his paralegal Kim was great as well. They helped me out throughout this whole difficult process and got excellent results. I highly recommend the McIlveen Family Law Firm.
I cannot recommend Sean McIlveen and his legal team highly enough. Over the past year, he demonstrated exceptional diligence, thoroughness, and attention to detail in preparing my custody modification case. What set him apart was his true compassion and empathy. It felt as though he was as genuinely invested in my outcome as I was. He took the time to walk me through every step of the process, ensuring I was supported and informed at all times. Ultimately, his hard work led to an incredible outcome, bringing an immense sense of relief. Mr. McIlveen was everything I needed in an advocate and more.
I have been a client of Sean’s for almost 6 years now. He has helped me through my divorce, as well as a custody case where my child’s safety was a huge concern. Him and his team are incredible with communication, giving me information straight without sugarcoating so i truly understand, and laying out what all future steps looked like. I would recommend him over and over again.

Jennifer Palmer
Senior Associate Attorney
4 client reviews, tap to read
Jennifer Palmer and her team were excellent. My mom and I went to get her Will in order. We didn’t know the process, the correct questions to ask but Mrs. Palmer was very patient with us. We really felt valued and heard with regarding our request. We would highly recommend Mrs. Palmer and her team for any and all legal matters.
If anyone needs an AMAZING custody lawyer who genuinely cares about the child or children involved and spends the time and energy/resources, you name it.. Jennifer is a GREAT woman first off and one heck of an attorney. I am more than blessed and grateful I hired her for me and my daughter! Thank you Jennifer and your amazing team!
Jennifer Palmer and Madison Pachter have been a dream to work with. They sincerely care and take pride in their work. I definitely recommend McIlveen Family Law Firm for all your family law needs.
Jennifer Palmer was assigned to my case in 2023, and from the very beginning and currently she remains very professional, down to earth and straight forward. She doesn’t tell me what I want to hear being her client. As my attorney, she gives me the facts, the good, the bad and the possibilities. She exerts nothing but legal professionalism. Jennifer is always available to answer all my questions, listen and most importantly she allows me to be heard while going through an unfortunate legal matter.

Chelsi Jolly
Senior Associate Attorney
4 client reviews, tap to read
If you’re going through a high-conflict custody or child support battle, you need a lawyer who is sharp, steady, and genuinely cares. Chelsi was all of that and more. My case was extremely difficult, emotional, and drawn out, but she remained calm, strategic, and committed from start to finish. She handled the constant curveballs with professionalism and strength. Chelsi kept me grounded when things got overwhelming and I will always be grateful for that. She genuinely cared. I walked away with a fair and stable custody and support arrangement that protects my child and brings peace to our lives. If you’re in a high-conflict situation and don’t know where to start, retain Chelsi. You won’t regret it!
My attorney Chelsi went to bat for me! It was a very complexed case and she guided me through all the steps even though we had some uphill battles, she did not give up. She fought harder and came up with new strategies each and every time! I’m truly blessed to have Chelsi on my team!
McIlveen Family Law Firm, and more specifically Attorney Jolly, helped with my case more than I could’ve hoped for. They’re dedicated to their clients and were a key part in stabilizing the living environment of my family. Again I can’t thank you all enough for what you’ve done for my children and I. Hopefully this review inspires anyone who is hesitant, to quickly decide that McIlveen Family Law is the right choice.
There are so many positive adjectives to describe Chelsi Jolly and Erin Jones, but I think the overall description with regard to my relationship with them in this past year is CARING. They cared what happened to me, not just with regard to my divorce case but what happened before I met with them and what would happen afterwards. Never a missed beat or hesitation to help me, with the legalities and emotional side, as well. I’m so glad I chose McIlveen Family Law and my case was given to this very capable attorney.

DaVon Maddox
Associate Attorney
4 client reviews, tap to read
DaVon Maddox is an outstanding family attorney. She was professional, knowledgeable, responsive, and genuinely cared about helping me through the process. She took the time to explain everything clearly and made what could have been a stressful situation feel much more manageable. I highly recommend DaVon to anyone looking for a trustworthy, dedicated, and professional family attorney. Five stars without a doubt!
I can’t thank DaVon enough for everything she did for me during my child custody case. She was kind, compassionate and incredibly efficient. She made one of the most stressful times in my life feel so much more manageable and I always felt supported and cared for. I truly appreciate all of her hard work and highly recommend her to anyone who needs an attorney they can trust.
DaVon represented me for over a year, while I went through DV and custody court. She was the absolute best. She was personable, always there when I needed her & always had an answer to my worries. She truly treats you like family, not only just a client.
You will not regret it! Best law firm in Gaston county. Miss Maddox was the best. Great communication and handled my case very well! You can’t go wrong with this law firm.

Joshua L. Finney
Senior Litigation Counsel
4 client reviews, tap to read
Josh did an amazing job on all three of my legal matters. Best in the business!
Hiring Mr. Finney was an amazing decision! He successfully, professionally and empathetically handled custody and equitable distribution matters for me during the dissolution of my marriage. Navigating that unexpected, stressful time in my life wasn’t always easy, but my encounters with Mr. Finney and his peers were. They consistently handled delicate matters with ease and grace. While I would consider my situation a high conflict divorce, Mr. Finney and his team didn’t flinch. They dove head first into matters with legal accuracy and precision. Throughout the process, he was communicative, timely, efficient and accessible. When Mr. Finney was in court handling matters for other clients, I dealt with his paralegal Robert who was an absolute joy and mirrored the same professionalism and courtesy exhibited by Mr. Finney. Sufficed to say, it was a joy and privilege to have Mr. Finney represent me. I am, and will continue to be, incredibly grateful to him and his team!
Mr. Finney was very responsive, responsible, punctual and very helpful! I highly recommend his services!
I can’t thank McIlveen Family Law enough for everything they did to help me through one of the most stressful times of my life. From the very beginning, Joshua Finney and Robert Dimitrov were professional, compassionate, and always took the time to answer my questions. My case involved a difficult child custody and relocation matter, and their guidance gave me confidence during a very emotional situation. They genuinely listened to my concerns, focused on what was in my daughter’s best interests, and developed a strategy that ultimately led to a successful outcome. If you’re looking for a family law firm that is knowledgeable, honest, and will fight for you while keeping your child’s best interests at the center of the case, I highly recommend McIlveen Family Law.

Alexander French
Partner Attorney
4 client reviews, tap to read
Mr. French and Ms. Thomas have been wonderful. They assisted with a very complicated task and they succeeded. Communication during this was superior and they helped me feel at ease during the whole process. I would definitely recommend if you need any family law help.
Alexander represented me in a case that was so close to my heart and something I put off for years due to fear. I did my research and was really convinced from his experience to his teachings in child cases. The moment I walked in the office my spouse and I felt seen and comfortable by not just Mr. French but also Denise Thomas his paralegal. They calmed me down and re-assured me the whole way that everything would be okay and it was. I’m so happy I chose him to represent me and my family, he really knows what he is doing.
Alexander French is your guy for family law. This firm delivered real and meaningful results for me and my children. His defense was a game changer to achieve the best for my kids and I.
I cannot recommend Alex French, his paralegal Denise Thomas, and Heather Whitman in the Finance Department highly enough. Over the course of a two-year journey, they have demonstrated unwavering dedication, professionalism, integrity, and transparency every step of the way. Legal matters can be emotionally and mentally demanding; however, they consistently made me feel supported, informed, and confident throughout the process. What truly sets this team apart is their commitment, not just to the legal work but to their clients as people. If you are looking for a legal team that will advocate fiercely, act with integrity, and remain steadfast no matter how long the road, I wholeheartedly recommend The McIlveen Family Law Firm.

Angela McIlveen
CEO, Co-Founder & Partner Attorney
4 client reviews, tap to read
My custody case felt very hostile from the beginning. The opposing counsel tried very hard to present me as a bad person, father and convolute the facts. It took me off guard. Then, I found Angela. Angela took a personal responsibility to do her best to first learn about the case and then represent me. She didn’t play into the games and negativity that the opposing counsel was trying hard to pursue. Instead she focused on who I was as a father, the connection I have with my child and the positive environment that I could provide. The case went how I wanted it to. If I had a friend or family member going through a divorce, I would insist that he or she chooses Angela.
I had the privilege to retain Angela and be represented with a class act, no-nonsense and efficient lawyer that I had complete confidence in. Knowing Angela had my best interest regarding a protective order along with a custody battle sure made the experience less stressful for me. Angela is personable, knowledgeable, and most importantly accessible! She always answers her phone and responds quickly to emails. Her staff is proficient, and I am thrilled with the outcome of my case.
I have used Angela on several occasions, and honestly there is no one more organized, thorough, and all around tiger when it comes to fighting for you in the courtroom. She knows her stuff…she won’t waste your time or money trying to do something that she doesn’t think will work. She’s upfront and absolutely professional. Not just Angela, but her whole staff. I’ve worked with and met several people at her firm, and you will not be sorry!
Separation/Divorce is a very difficult, hard and emotionally draining experience, so on my first consultation I was very nervous and really did not know what to expect. When I met with Angela, she put me at ease about the process and what I would need to do and get for her in order to get the process in motion. She was so sincere with me, and with that I felt that I could trust her to have my best interest at heart, which in the end she most certainly did. I must say she always fought for me, in every aspect of my separation, and made sure I was well aware of my options and the possible outcome. I was very well pleased with them and would highly recommend Angela McIlveen to anyone.

Ashley Prince
Senior Litigation Counsel
3 client reviews, tap to read
I highly recommend Ashley, she’s very professional and sensitive to the clients’ needs. Very down to earth, all while remaining focused on everything necessary.
Ashley and her team were absolutely amazing and very supportive throughout my entire custody and child support process! Very informative, always answered my questions when I had one and incredibly friendly as well. Always tried her hardest in court and very very knowledgeable on all the laws and procedures of things. 11/10 recommend!
Going through a divorce is easily one of the most stressful experiences of my life, but working with Ashley made a world of difference. From our very first consultation, she was compassionate, realistic, and exceptionally sharp. Communication with her and her team was prompt and clear throughout. If you need a skilled, steady hand to navigate family law, I cannot recommend Ashley highly enough.

Arianna Pearson
Associate Attorney
4 client reviews, tap to read
Arianna has been right by my side throughout the whole process. She is really for her clients. She really knows her stuff and knows how to run the courtroom. I highly recommend Arianna Pearson.
Arianna is hands down the BEST divorce attorney. She handled my high conflict divorce with care and compassion, while remaining firm and advocating for me and my children. If you are looking for someone who is calm, compassionate and calculated, and who will fight for you and your rights, look no further.
I hired Arianna Pearson to represent me in a complex custody matter, and I cannot recommend her highly enough. Throughout the entire process, their communication was seamless. I always knew exactly where my case stood and never felt left in the dark. What I appreciated most was their honesty. She provided a realistic assessment of my situation from the start, which gave me the direction I needed to make informed decisions for my family. Rather than just telling me what I wanted to hear, they told me what I needed to hear to achieve a positive outcome. If you want an attorney who is professional, transparent, and proactive, Arianna Pearson is the one to hire.
I had an excellent consultation experience with Attorney Arianna. From the start, she was professional, patient, and truly attentive to my concerns. She took the time to listen carefully, answer my questions thoroughly, and explain my options in a way that was clear and easy to understand. Even in a consultation setting, she went above and beyond by offering helpful, practical advice that gave me clarity and confidence moving forward.

Kisha Patel
Senior Litigation Counsel
5 client reviews, tap to read
I am deeply grateful to attorney Kisha Patel at McIlveen Law Firm for guiding me through the most devastating experience of my life: my child’s abduction. Facing such a traumatic situation was overwhelming, but Kisha provided unwavering support, legal expertise, and a clear path forward. Her deep understanding of family law, strategic thinking, and genuine compassion were instrumental in securing my son’s safe return. Thanks to her dedication, I was reunited with my child. If you are facing a complex and emotionally charged family law issue, I highly recommend Kisha Patel, she truly fights for what is right.
Kisha is an amazing attorney. She was hired for a very complexed custody case. Not only did she provide a prompt request for a consultation, she also laid out all options for moving forward with the case which allowed us to make the best financial decision. She was very patient with us and the communication barriers we faced as well. She tried the case with fierceness and confidence. I definitely recommend Kisha for any family case. Without her we wouldn’t have won our case.
I’ve had the pleasure of working with Kisha and I can confidently say she is an outstanding professional. Kisha has been incredibly knowledgeable, approachable, and detail-oriented. She handles every case with a high level of expertise and dedication, always ensuring that all aspects are carefully considered.
I absolutely loved my attorney, Kisha Patel. She was wonderful and very thorough with her explanation about the separation and divorce process and things to consider. She and her staff were very responsive in a timely manner and organized. She went above and beyond my expectation and helped simplify the process for me. I would highly recommend her to everyone.
Preemptive, prepared, professional and extremely knowledgeable. Kisha Patel has demonstrated every quality a great advocate possesses. We as clients have benefited from having Kisha represent us with decisive ease and compassionate understanding. Highly recommend her for her brilliance and the confident competence of her craft.
More Client Reviews
Disclaimer: These testimonials represent a small sampling of clients the firm has helped. Case results depend upon a variety of factors unique to each case. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome in your case.
