team-member

Ronald Petroff

Columbus, OH

Licensed for 15 years

Law Degree

Awards

Primary Practice Area

Child support

Language

Russian

About

Ronald R. Petroff was born in Cleveland, Ohio and graduated high school from the University School in Hunting Valley, Ohio. He attended Vanderbilt University as an undergraduate where he earned a bachelor’s degree and double majored in Political Science and American History. He graduated cum laude and was a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity. Mr. Petroff then attended The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law where he earned a certificate in Alternate Dispute Resolution and was a member of the National Labor and Employment Law Moot Court Team. Mr. Petroff also was a member of the National Trial Competition Team. Mr. Petroff earned a CALI Excellence for the Future Award for his perfect score in the class, Criminal Law in the Boardroom.Mr. Petroff has been voted by the American Institute of Family Law Attorneys as one of the 10 best family law lawyers under the age of 40 in the state of Ohio for 2014 and 2015. He won a similar award from the American Society of Legal Advocates in 2014. In 2015, Mr. Petroff was voted as being one of the nation’s top 1% of attorneys by the National Association of Distinguished Counsel. Finally, in 2015, Mr. Petroff was rated by Super Lawyers as a rising star in the field of Family Law. Mr. Petroff has consistently held the highest 10/10 rating on the attorney directory site AVVO and recently won for the second time, AVVO’s “Client’s Choice” award.Mr. Petroff is admitted into practice in front of all state courts and agencies in the State of Ohio as well as before the United States District Court for the Southern and Northern Districts of Ohio.Mr. Petroff is fluent in Russian and is passionate about giving back to the community. After several years living in the Arena District, Mr. Petroff settled in New Albany with his family. In his free time, he enjoys traveling, S.C.U.B.A. Diving, theater, and cheering on all of Cleveland’s professional sports teams. Mr. Petroff is also passionate about his two alma maters, the Ohio State Buckeyes and Vanderbilt Commodores.

Practices Areas

Child custody

Child support

Divorce and separation

Family

Language

Russian

Contact

Petroff Law Offices, LLC140 East Town StreetSuite 1070Columbus, OH, 43215 Office (614) 222-4288 Fax (614) 222-4289 140 East Town StreetSuite 1070Suite 1070Columbus, OH, 43215 Office (614) 222-4288(614) 222-4288 Fax (614) 222-4289(614) 222-4289

Office: (614) 618-4153

Website: N/A

Reviews

Michelle
January 23, 2018

Even though I am from Toledo, Mr. Petroff contacted me very promptly in response to my inquiry. He provided very professional services and a wealth of legal knowledge. I highly recommend Mr. Petroff and his firm for their excellent attention to my case.

James
February 16, 2017

I don't normally do a review. But sometimes exceptions need to be made. Ron is a first rate attorney with his client first mentality. It was a long drawn out custody battle but Ron did not give up he kept me assured it would work out and that things were moving along. Ron went above and beyond what I was expecting. Answering after hour emails to give me the pressing answers and guidance I needed. I would strongly recommend Ron for any of your legal needs. Hope this review if you are looking for a great attorney helps you make a great choice as I feel I did. JM

Char
October 24, 2021

I would happily like to recommend the services of Petroff Law Offices, LLC. in which I used Ron Petroff for my recent divorce of my 31-year marriage. As a senior citizen, I couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome, advice and cost. Ron and his team gave me the utmost in respecting my privacy, protecting my interests and supplying solid helpful legal advice. From the start, Andrea Caldwell was welcoming and kind as she accurately explained what was needed from me in terms of a retainer and the initial meeting with Ron Petroff. Then Ron met with me so he could fully understand the dynamics of my situation. Ron advised me of my spousal rights, he gave me solid legal advise as to what to expect, what to do until the divorce was finalized and how to plan for my future. Ron Petroff negotiated on my behalf with the court for a more equitable settlement which will help me throughout the rest of my life and I am forever grateful to him for his tenacity and thoughtfulness. Amanda Ly was also a joy to work with as she took her time and was patient with me explaining legal documents and procedures. Amanda always had a sense of urgency and she fully advised Ron of any of my concerns and then Ron and I would quickly jump on a phone call to resolve any issue. I felt completely comfortable, well informed and excellently served by Ron Petroff and the Ron Petroff Law Offices personnel in every way and each team member helped to make this difficult time in my life less stressful. I recommend Ron Petroff Law Offices, LLC.

Nellie
June 24, 2020

Ron did such an amazing job with my divorce! He basically saved my life and gave me great start for a brand new future! If you going through divorce, he should be your pick #1! Thank you Ron and Michelle for everything you have done for me!

Lou
March 26, 2020

I have been involved in what turned out to be an extremely nasty custody, cpo appeals and four criminal case in three different counties. I felt defeated with no way out of the mess I was in. I was able too keep custody of my two children durning this time and have since went on to win every case against us because of this firm. I can’t find the words to describe what each individual from this firm has done for me and my daughters. I was represented by three attorneys ( Michelle, Chris, Ron) going into this dark part of my life, I knew this firm was a group of the best in Ohio as I was referred by a highly respected local attorney saying “ these guys are who you want, they are the best in Ohio”. So they’re reputation wasn’t what surprised me. It was the balance of personality’s in the firm that creates the ability to be the best in Ohio. Everyone from the office manager/Andrea to Jaime and Amanda/ paralegals and down the line. When one individual would be straight forward the other would give hope and reassurance and another would relate and understand. They kept me sane durning the hardest time of my life and gave me something no amount of money could be enough. After going through situations that was set up to break me, it’s been a blessing that I had everyone from the Petroff law office on my side. The way they make you feel will give you hope and strength to get through the things needed. Every individual at the firm is literally the best at what they do. The atmosphere, camaraderie and sense of family in the Petroff office is something special to walk into. I will recommend And be indebted to this office for the rest of my life

Aubrey
October 7, 2019

Ron Petroff and his team were wonderful. Not only were they professional and attentive, you can tell they truly care about their clients. I will not hesitate to use them again! Thanks!

Harry
December 20, 2018

If you are looking for a family lawyer Petroff Law Offices is hands down the best there is!!! I just went through a very difficult custody battle with my childs mother and Michelle made this process very easy. She was able to get me full custody of my son. I would highly recommend them....they are simply the best!!!!!!!!

Nicole & Chris
December 7, 2016

Attorney Ron Petroff and Erika Smitherman (along with the entire staff) at Petroff Law Office provided excellent and quality service for our custody case. My husband and I always felt that our needs were met and that the firm was invested in us, our children and our case. They were easily accessible, aggressive, got back to us in a timely manner, and got the results that we had hoped for. Their responsiveness, knowledge and authenticity during a complex case kept us stable and successful. Petroff and Smitherman were always engaged when needed and always made good value of the retainer by utilizing the right staff member for the right task. Not only are they top notch professionals, they are sharp strategists that truly care for their clients. Petroff and his entire team made a very difficult situation much easier to deal with and produced the highest quality that anyone would want when hiring a family law/litigation attorney. Highly recommended.

Chris
October 25, 2016

Attorney Ron Petroff and Erika Smitherman (along with the entire staff) at Petroff Law Office provided excellent and quality service. My husband and I always felt that our needs were met and that the firm was invested in us, our children and our custody case. They were easily accessible, aggressive, got back to us in a timely manner, and got the results that we had hoped for. Their responsiveness, knowledge and authenticity during a complex case kept us stable and successful. Petroff and Smitherman were always engaged when needed and always made good value of the retainer by utilizing the right staff member for the right task. Not only are they top notch professionals, they are sharp strategists that truly care for their clients. Petroff and his entire team made a very difficult situation much easier to deal with and produced the highest quality that anyone would want when hiring a family law/litigation attorney. Highly recommended.

Kimberly
October 3, 2016

I don't even know where to begin... I suppose I will start at the beginning, and in doing so, will also do my best to be as succinct as possible. I will say that when I decided to finally move forward with a divorce - which is something I delayed as long as I could - I was beyond lost. No one knows how to "do divorce." Furthermore, it's one of those things where you have to learn as you go -- and it starts with finding someone with the integrity and acumen that can help you navigate what is by far one of the most emotionally-impactful, life-altering (perhaps shattering at moments) transitions you may ever experience. That said, there are things you should know. Hire a family attorney. You should seek out someone who understands the complex nuances of family law -- which, incidentally, to this mom of three young children navigating this process, were completely foreign... There is no instruction guide for this - you just figure it out -- or you are fortunate enough to find someone with the integrity and industry-knowledge who will be the catalyst in that learning curve -- and bring you up to speed in the most efficacious (and hopefully cost-effective) manner. Because that is the other thing that one isn't prepared for going into this... the price tag attached. Sure, you hear jokes about the cost of divorce - movies immortalizing the truism of the expense of divorce (Think Billy Crystal in "When Harry Met Sally" - karaoke scene.), but nothing really prepares you for what it means to really squeeze blood from a stone. Platitudes aside, again, you hope that when you are at your most vulnerable, you can defer to someone who will help you make sense of something that really doesn't make much sense at all. Ron Petroff IS that person, but I had to experience the consequences of a wrong choice, before I finally found his firm. I reached out to friends and colleagues for referrals, when I finally decided to file for divorce. I learned quickly that I had not chosen wisely. When I had that epiphany, I changed counsel. I saw just how much my general attorney should have known -- and yet did not, given how specialized an area that family law was. That is when I scheduled a consultation with Ron. Ron was direct. Ron was professional. Ron was the response to the list of things I outlined above... and then some. I remember sitting in his office during that initial consultation, thinking to myself that I absolutely could not believe that I had not found him three months earlier. Yet no one knows how to "do divorce." Who should? No one goes into a marriage thinking that divorce is an option. (At least, I hope people don't.) Instead of continuing to feel like I was at the mercy of how things played out, I suddenly felt like I was on the offensive. I owe this to Ron. The truth is - to reference something I mentioned earlier, divorce really isn't like it is in the movies. Everyone loses. It is just the way it it. However, what the process becomes, it trying to minimize just how much each of you loses. And that is why I would shout from rooftops that Ron Petroff is the person you should hire to help you get through this transition. I was beyond clear about what I had wanted... and what I had hoped for... And as I said earlier, Ron was direct. He was sympathetic, yet pragmatic. He had an intensity and a spectrum of knowledge that were unrivaled (as far as I can tell)... that motivated him to consider all of the possible outcomes of each choice, and to move strategically on behalf of his client. He listened, and responded decisively. He was a tenacious advocate for his clients - and knew the landscape of his profession to the end that it fostered a powerful rapport and respect among others in his area. Having finalized my divorce in July, I am beyond grateful to Ron and everyone in his firm for making strides no one else could – and for being the advocate for me and my children that I should have hired from the very beginning.

Michelle
January 23, 2018

Even though I am from Toledo, Mr. Petroff contacted me very promptly in response to my inquiry. He provided very professional services and a wealth of legal knowledge. I highly recommend Mr. Petroff and his firm for their excellent attention to my case.

James
February 16, 2017

I don't normally do a review. But sometimes exceptions need to be made. Ron is a first rate attorney with his client first mentality. It was a long drawn out custody battle but Ron did not give up he kept me assured it would work out and that things were moving along. Ron went above and beyond what I was expecting. Answering after hour emails to give me the pressing answers and guidance I needed. I would strongly recommend Ron for any of your legal needs. Hope this review if you are looking for a great attorney helps you make a great choice as I feel I did. JM

Char
October 24, 2021

I would happily like to recommend the services of Petroff Law Offices, LLC. in which I used Ron Petroff for my recent divorce of my 31-year marriage. As a senior citizen, I couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome, advice and cost. Ron and his team gave me the utmost in respecting my privacy, protecting my interests and supplying solid helpful legal advice. From the start, Andrea Caldwell was welcoming and kind as she accurately explained what was needed from me in terms of a retainer and the initial meeting with Ron Petroff. Then Ron met with me so he could fully understand the dynamics of my situation. Ron advised me of my spousal rights, he gave me solid legal advise as to what to expect, what to do until the divorce was finalized and how to plan for my future. Ron Petroff negotiated on my behalf with the court for a more equitable settlement which will help me throughout the rest of my life and I am forever grateful to him for his tenacity and thoughtfulness. Amanda Ly was also a joy to work with as she took her time and was patient with me explaining legal documents and procedures. Amanda always had a sense of urgency and she fully advised Ron of any of my concerns and then Ron and I would quickly jump on a phone call to resolve any issue. I felt completely comfortable, well informed and excellently served by Ron Petroff and the Ron Petroff Law Offices personnel in every way and each team member helped to make this difficult time in my life less stressful. I recommend Ron Petroff Law Offices, LLC.

Nellie
June 24, 2020

Ron did such an amazing job with my divorce! He basically saved my life and gave me great start for a brand new future! If you going through divorce, he should be your pick #1! Thank you Ron and Michelle for everything you have done for me!

Lou
March 26, 2020

I have been involved in what turned out to be an extremely nasty custody, cpo appeals and four criminal case in three different counties. I felt defeated with no way out of the mess I was in. I was able too keep custody of my two children durning this time and have since went on to win every case against us because of this firm. I can’t find the words to describe what each individual from this firm has done for me and my daughters. I was represented by three attorneys ( Michelle, Chris, Ron) going into this dark part of my life, I knew this firm was a group of the best in Ohio as I was referred by a highly respected local attorney saying “ these guys are who you want, they are the best in Ohio”. So they’re reputation wasn’t what surprised me. It was the balance of personality’s in the firm that creates the ability to be the best in Ohio. Everyone from the office manager/Andrea to Jaime and Amanda/ paralegals and down the line. When one individual would be straight forward the other would give hope and reassurance and another would relate and understand. They kept me sane durning the hardest time of my life and gave me something no amount of money could be enough. After going through situations that was set up to break me, it’s been a blessing that I had everyone from the Petroff law office on my side. The way they make you feel will give you hope and strength to get through the things needed. Every individual at the firm is literally the best at what they do. The atmosphere, camaraderie and sense of family in the Petroff office is something special to walk into. I will recommend And be indebted to this office for the rest of my life

Aubrey
October 7, 2019

Ron Petroff and his team were wonderful. Not only were they professional and attentive, you can tell they truly care about their clients. I will not hesitate to use them again! Thanks!

Harry
December 20, 2018

If you are looking for a family lawyer Petroff Law Offices is hands down the best there is!!! I just went through a very difficult custody battle with my childs mother and Michelle made this process very easy. She was able to get me full custody of my son. I would highly recommend them....they are simply the best!!!!!!!!

Nicole & Chris
December 7, 2016

Attorney Ron Petroff and Erika Smitherman (along with the entire staff) at Petroff Law Office provided excellent and quality service for our custody case. My husband and I always felt that our needs were met and that the firm was invested in us, our children and our case. They were easily accessible, aggressive, got back to us in a timely manner, and got the results that we had hoped for. Their responsiveness, knowledge and authenticity during a complex case kept us stable and successful. Petroff and Smitherman were always engaged when needed and always made good value of the retainer by utilizing the right staff member for the right task. Not only are they top notch professionals, they are sharp strategists that truly care for their clients. Petroff and his entire team made a very difficult situation much easier to deal with and produced the highest quality that anyone would want when hiring a family law/litigation attorney. Highly recommended.

Chris
October 25, 2016

Attorney Ron Petroff and Erika Smitherman (along with the entire staff) at Petroff Law Office provided excellent and quality service. My husband and I always felt that our needs were met and that the firm was invested in us, our children and our custody case. They were easily accessible, aggressive, got back to us in a timely manner, and got the results that we had hoped for. Their responsiveness, knowledge and authenticity during a complex case kept us stable and successful. Petroff and Smitherman were always engaged when needed and always made good value of the retainer by utilizing the right staff member for the right task. Not only are they top notch professionals, they are sharp strategists that truly care for their clients. Petroff and his entire team made a very difficult situation much easier to deal with and produced the highest quality that anyone would want when hiring a family law/litigation attorney. Highly recommended.

Kimberly
October 3, 2016

I don't even know where to begin... I suppose I will start at the beginning, and in doing so, will also do my best to be as succinct as possible. I will say that when I decided to finally move forward with a divorce - which is something I delayed as long as I could - I was beyond lost. No one knows how to "do divorce." Furthermore, it's one of those things where you have to learn as you go -- and it starts with finding someone with the integrity and acumen that can help you navigate what is by far one of the most emotionally-impactful, life-altering (perhaps shattering at moments) transitions you may ever experience. That said, there are things you should know. Hire a family attorney. You should seek out someone who understands the complex nuances of family law -- which, incidentally, to this mom of three young children navigating this process, were completely foreign... There is no instruction guide for this - you just figure it out -- or you are fortunate enough to find someone with the integrity and industry-knowledge who will be the catalyst in that learning curve -- and bring you up to speed in the most efficacious (and hopefully cost-effective) manner. Because that is the other thing that one isn't prepared for going into this... the price tag attached. Sure, you hear jokes about the cost of divorce - movies immortalizing the truism of the expense of divorce (Think Billy Crystal in "When Harry Met Sally" - karaoke scene.), but nothing really prepares you for what it means to really squeeze blood from a stone. Platitudes aside, again, you hope that when you are at your most vulnerable, you can defer to someone who will help you make sense of something that really doesn't make much sense at all. Ron Petroff IS that person, but I had to experience the consequences of a wrong choice, before I finally found his firm. I reached out to friends and colleagues for referrals, when I finally decided to file for divorce. I learned quickly that I had not chosen wisely. When I had that epiphany, I changed counsel. I saw just how much my general attorney should have known -- and yet did not, given how specialized an area that family law was. That is when I scheduled a consultation with Ron. Ron was direct. Ron was professional. Ron was the response to the list of things I outlined above... and then some. I remember sitting in his office during that initial consultation, thinking to myself that I absolutely could not believe that I had not found him three months earlier. Yet no one knows how to "do divorce." Who should? No one goes into a marriage thinking that divorce is an option. (At least, I hope people don't.) Instead of continuing to feel like I was at the mercy of how things played out, I suddenly felt like I was on the offensive. I owe this to Ron. The truth is - to reference something I mentioned earlier, divorce really isn't like it is in the movies. Everyone loses. It is just the way it it. However, what the process becomes, it trying to minimize just how much each of you loses. And that is why I would shout from rooftops that Ron Petroff is the person you should hire to help you get through this transition. I was beyond clear about what I had wanted... and what I had hoped for... And as I said earlier, Ron was direct. He was sympathetic, yet pragmatic. He had an intensity and a spectrum of knowledge that were unrivaled (as far as I can tell)... that motivated him to consider all of the possible outcomes of each choice, and to move strategically on behalf of his client. He listened, and responded decisively. He was a tenacious advocate for his clients - and knew the landscape of his profession to the end that it fostered a powerful rapport and respect among others in his area. Having finalized my divorce in July, I am beyond grateful to Ron and everyone in his firm for making strides no one else could – and for being the advocate for me and my children that I should have hired from the very beginning.

Michelle
January 23, 2018

Even though I am from Toledo, Mr. Petroff contacted me very promptly in response to my inquiry. He provided very professional services and a wealth of legal knowledge. I highly recommend Mr. Petroff and his firm for their excellent attention to my case.

James
February 16, 2017

I don't normally do a review. But sometimes exceptions need to be made. Ron is a first rate attorney with his client first mentality. It was a long drawn out custody battle but Ron did not give up he kept me assured it would work out and that things were moving along. Ron went above and beyond what I was expecting. Answering after hour emails to give me the pressing answers and guidance I needed. I would strongly recommend Ron for any of your legal needs. Hope this review if you are looking for a great attorney helps you make a great choice as I feel I did. JM

Char
October 24, 2021

I would happily like to recommend the services of Petroff Law Offices, LLC. in which I used Ron Petroff for my recent divorce of my 31-year marriage. As a senior citizen, I couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome, advice and cost. Ron and his team gave me the utmost in respecting my privacy, protecting my interests and supplying solid helpful legal advice. From the start, Andrea Caldwell was welcoming and kind as she accurately explained what was needed from me in terms of a retainer and the initial meeting with Ron Petroff. Then Ron met with me so he could fully understand the dynamics of my situation. Ron advised me of my spousal rights, he gave me solid legal advise as to what to expect, what to do until the divorce was finalized and how to plan for my future. Ron Petroff negotiated on my behalf with the court for a more equitable settlement which will help me throughout the rest of my life and I am forever grateful to him for his tenacity and thoughtfulness. Amanda Ly was also a joy to work with as she took her time and was patient with me explaining legal documents and procedures. Amanda always had a sense of urgency and she fully advised Ron of any of my concerns and then Ron and I would quickly jump on a phone call to resolve any issue. I felt completely comfortable, well informed and excellently served by Ron Petroff and the Ron Petroff Law Offices personnel in every way and each team member helped to make this difficult time in my life less stressful. I recommend Ron Petroff Law Offices, LLC.

Nellie
June 24, 2020

Ron did such an amazing job with my divorce! He basically saved my life and gave me great start for a brand new future! If you going through divorce, he should be your pick #1! Thank you Ron and Michelle for everything you have done for me!

Lou
March 26, 2020

I have been involved in what turned out to be an extremely nasty custody, cpo appeals and four criminal case in three different counties. I felt defeated with no way out of the mess I was in. I was able too keep custody of my two children durning this time and have since went on to win every case against us because of this firm. I can’t find the words to describe what each individual from this firm has done for me and my daughters. I was represented by three attorneys ( Michelle, Chris, Ron) going into this dark part of my life, I knew this firm was a group of the best in Ohio as I was referred by a highly respected local attorney saying “ these guys are who you want, they are the best in Ohio”. So they’re reputation wasn’t what surprised me. It was the balance of personality’s in the firm that creates the ability to be the best in Ohio. Everyone from the office manager/Andrea to Jaime and Amanda/ paralegals and down the line. When one individual would be straight forward the other would give hope and reassurance and another would relate and understand. They kept me sane durning the hardest time of my life and gave me something no amount of money could be enough. After going through situations that was set up to break me, it’s been a blessing that I had everyone from the Petroff law office on my side. The way they make you feel will give you hope and strength to get through the things needed. Every individual at the firm is literally the best at what they do. The atmosphere, camaraderie and sense of family in the Petroff office is something special to walk into. I will recommend And be indebted to this office for the rest of my life

Aubrey
October 7, 2019

Ron Petroff and his team were wonderful. Not only were they professional and attentive, you can tell they truly care about their clients. I will not hesitate to use them again! Thanks!

Harry
December 20, 2018

If you are looking for a family lawyer Petroff Law Offices is hands down the best there is!!! I just went through a very difficult custody battle with my childs mother and Michelle made this process very easy. She was able to get me full custody of my son. I would highly recommend them....they are simply the best!!!!!!!!

Nicole & Chris
December 7, 2016

Attorney Ron Petroff and Erika Smitherman (along with the entire staff) at Petroff Law Office provided excellent and quality service for our custody case. My husband and I always felt that our needs were met and that the firm was invested in us, our children and our case. They were easily accessible, aggressive, got back to us in a timely manner, and got the results that we had hoped for. Their responsiveness, knowledge and authenticity during a complex case kept us stable and successful. Petroff and Smitherman were always engaged when needed and always made good value of the retainer by utilizing the right staff member for the right task. Not only are they top notch professionals, they are sharp strategists that truly care for their clients. Petroff and his entire team made a very difficult situation much easier to deal with and produced the highest quality that anyone would want when hiring a family law/litigation attorney. Highly recommended.

Chris
October 25, 2016

Attorney Ron Petroff and Erika Smitherman (along with the entire staff) at Petroff Law Office provided excellent and quality service. My husband and I always felt that our needs were met and that the firm was invested in us, our children and our custody case. They were easily accessible, aggressive, got back to us in a timely manner, and got the results that we had hoped for. Their responsiveness, knowledge and authenticity during a complex case kept us stable and successful. Petroff and Smitherman were always engaged when needed and always made good value of the retainer by utilizing the right staff member for the right task. Not only are they top notch professionals, they are sharp strategists that truly care for their clients. Petroff and his entire team made a very difficult situation much easier to deal with and produced the highest quality that anyone would want when hiring a family law/litigation attorney. Highly recommended.

Kimberly
October 3, 2016

I don't even know where to begin... I suppose I will start at the beginning, and in doing so, will also do my best to be as succinct as possible. I will say that when I decided to finally move forward with a divorce - which is something I delayed as long as I could - I was beyond lost. No one knows how to "do divorce." Furthermore, it's one of those things where you have to learn as you go -- and it starts with finding someone with the integrity and acumen that can help you navigate what is by far one of the most emotionally-impactful, life-altering (perhaps shattering at moments) transitions you may ever experience. That said, there are things you should know. Hire a family attorney. You should seek out someone who understands the complex nuances of family law -- which, incidentally, to this mom of three young children navigating this process, were completely foreign... There is no instruction guide for this - you just figure it out -- or you are fortunate enough to find someone with the integrity and industry-knowledge who will be the catalyst in that learning curve -- and bring you up to speed in the most efficacious (and hopefully cost-effective) manner. Because that is the other thing that one isn't prepared for going into this... the price tag attached. Sure, you hear jokes about the cost of divorce - movies immortalizing the truism of the expense of divorce (Think Billy Crystal in "When Harry Met Sally" - karaoke scene.), but nothing really prepares you for what it means to really squeeze blood from a stone. Platitudes aside, again, you hope that when you are at your most vulnerable, you can defer to someone who will help you make sense of something that really doesn't make much sense at all. Ron Petroff IS that person, but I had to experience the consequences of a wrong choice, before I finally found his firm. I reached out to friends and colleagues for referrals, when I finally decided to file for divorce. I learned quickly that I had not chosen wisely. When I had that epiphany, I changed counsel. I saw just how much my general attorney should have known -- and yet did not, given how specialized an area that family law was. That is when I scheduled a consultation with Ron. Ron was direct. Ron was professional. Ron was the response to the list of things I outlined above... and then some. I remember sitting in his office during that initial consultation, thinking to myself that I absolutely could not believe that I had not found him three months earlier. Yet no one knows how to "do divorce." Who should? No one goes into a marriage thinking that divorce is an option. (At least, I hope people don't.) Instead of continuing to feel like I was at the mercy of how things played out, I suddenly felt like I was on the offensive. I owe this to Ron. The truth is - to reference something I mentioned earlier, divorce really isn't like it is in the movies. Everyone loses. It is just the way it it. However, what the process becomes, it trying to minimize just how much each of you loses. And that is why I would shout from rooftops that Ron Petroff is the person you should hire to help you get through this transition. I was beyond clear about what I had wanted... and what I had hoped for... And as I said earlier, Ron was direct. He was sympathetic, yet pragmatic. He had an intensity and a spectrum of knowledge that were unrivaled (as far as I can tell)... that motivated him to consider all of the possible outcomes of each choice, and to move strategically on behalf of his client. He listened, and responded decisively. He was a tenacious advocate for his clients - and knew the landscape of his profession to the end that it fostered a powerful rapport and respect among others in his area. Having finalized my divorce in July, I am beyond grateful to Ron and everyone in his firm for making strides no one else could – and for being the advocate for me and my children that I should have hired from the very beginning.