How much does it cost to hire Michael for a adr case?

Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Michael walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

Does Michael offer a free consultation?

Michael charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Michael's office. Some adr attorneys offer free consults — check Michael's current terms during booking.

How long do adr cases in New Jersey typically take?

Simple adr matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Michael gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

Can Michael take my case if I'm outside Chatham?

Michael is licensed in New Jersey. Matters governed by New Jersey law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Michael will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

What should I bring to my first meeting with Michael?

Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Michael will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

Is Michael accepting new adr clients right now?

Michael's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

Michael B. Zerres, ADR Attorney in Chatham

Quick answer

Michael B. Zerres is a partner based in Chatham, NJ. The practice focuses on ADR, Aviation, and Business. Michael has over 38 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Blume Forte Fried Zerres & Molinari. Rated 4.9 out of 5 from 2 client reviews.

Based in: Chatham, NJ
Experience: over 38 years
Known for: ADR · Aviation · Business

Handles ADR, Aviation, and Business matters from Chatham, NJ.
Over 38 years of practice as a licensed attorney.
Recognized with AV Preeminent.

Areas of practice

Legal matters Michael takes on

Michael concentrates on adr, aviation, business, car accidents, and class action. Each area below outlines the kind of case Michael handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

ADR cases in Chatham, New Jersey

Michael takes adr matters in Chatham, New Jersey. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

Aviation cases in Chatham, New Jersey

Michael takes aviation matters in Chatham, New Jersey. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

Business cases in Chatham, New Jersey

Michael takes business matters in Chatham, New Jersey. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

Car Accidents cases in Chatham, New Jersey

Michael takes car accidents matters in Chatham, New Jersey. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

Class Action cases in Chatham, New Jersey

Michael takes class action matters in Chatham, New Jersey. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Michael agrees to represent you.

Biography

Meet Michael B. Zerres — adr lawyer in Chatham

Michael B. Zerres is a partner based in Chatham, NJ. The practice focuses on ADR, Aviation, and Business. Michael has over 38 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Blume Forte Fried Zerres & Molinari. Rated 4.9 out of 5 from 2 client reviews.

Michael B. Zerres practices at Blume Forte Fried Zerres & Molinari

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Working with Michael on a adr matter

Michael B. Zerres practices at Blume Forte Fried Zerres & Molinari Read Full Bio

Who Michael represents

Michael reviews new inquiries case-by-case for adr, aviation, and business matters in Chatham and the surrounding New Jersey area.

Credentials

Education, bar admissions, and languages

St. John's University
J.D. · 1987
Seton Hall University
B.A. · 1984

Jurisdictions

Michael's state bar admissions

New York
1988 · ACTIVE
New Jersey
1988 · ACTIVE
U.S. District Court,
1988 · ACTIVE

Michael studied at J.D. in St. John's University and B.A. in Seton Hall University.

Law school and academic background

Michael completed J.D. in St. John's University and B.A. in Seton Hall University. Formal legal training is one signal of substantive knowledge — the day-to-day practice Michael runs in New Jersey is where that training gets applied to real client questions.

Recognition

Recognition and thought leadership

Michael has received 1 formal recognition from bar associations, industry bodies, and peer-review services.

AV Preeminent

Legal awards and honors

AV Preeminent.

Locations

Michael B. Zerres's office in Chatham

Michael's primary office is at One Main Street, Chatham, NJ, 07928-2426. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

Blume Forte Fried Zerres & Molinari

One Main Street

Chatham, NJ 07928-2426

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Client feedback

Client reviews of Michael B. Zerres — 4.9/5 rating from 2 verified client reviews

Every review below is from a verified client of Michael. Reviews cover communication, case outcome, and value — the three signals that matter most when comparing adr attorneys in Chatham.

4.9

2 client reviews

Client ratings are sourced from public records and editorial research. Reviews on LawyersListed are accepted from verified clients once Michael B. Zerres claims this profile.

Read all reviews

Hiring guide

How to hire Michael B. Zerres — what to expect in your first consultation

Working with a new adr attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Michael usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Consultation formats and pricing

Michael charges for the initial consult. That fee is credited toward representation if you retain Michael's office.

What to bring to your first meeting

Bring any documents you already have — police reports, medical records, filed pleadings, correspondence from an insurer, a copy of the contract at issue. If you're not sure, err on the side of bringing everything; Michael will tell you what matters and what doesn't.

Questions to ask a adr attorney in Chatham, New Jersey

A short list to run through before you commit: How many adr matters have you handled in the last year? What's your fee structure? Who else in the office will work on this? What's your realistic estimate of timeline and range of outcomes? How do I reach you between meetings?

Fees & payment

Fees, payment methods, and consultation options for Michael

Michael discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in adr practice — ask which fits.

Hourly rates, contingency fees, and flat-fee options

Every adr matter is priced differently. Simple document review might be a flat fee. Injury litigation is often contingency. Complex commercial disputes usually run hourly with a retainer. Michael confirms the model in the engagement letter before any work starts.

Payment methods and payment plans

Michael's office accepts standard payment methods. Ask about payment plans if the retainer is a stretch — many adr practices work with clients on structured schedules.

Frequently asked

Frequently asked questions about Michael B. Zerres

How much does it cost to hire Michael for a adr case?
Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Michael walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.
Does Michael offer a free consultation?
Michael charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Michael's office. Some adr attorneys offer free consults — check Michael's current terms during booking.
How long do adr cases in New Jersey typically take?
Simple adr matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Michael gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.
Can Michael take my case if I'm outside Chatham?
Michael is licensed in New Jersey. Matters governed by New Jersey law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Michael will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.
What should I bring to my first meeting with Michael?
Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Michael will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.
Is Michael accepting new adr clients right now?
Michael's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

Community Q&A

Real questions asked by New Jersey residents in the last few months, answered by adr attorneys like Michael B. Zerres. Each link opens the full answer thread.

What Happens If We Can't Agree During Mediation In New Jersey?
My partner and I are trying to mediate our divorce in Newark, NJ. We’ve scheduled our first mediation session, but we have a lot of unresolved issues. I’m worried that if we can’t
1 verified answer · ADR · New Jersey
Can Mediation Be Used To Resolve A Workplace Harassment Claim In Illinois?
I reported a workplace harassment issue in Chicago, IL, but I want to avoid a lengthy legal battle. My HR department suggested mediation as a way to resolve the issue amicably. I’m
1 verified answer · ADR · Illinois
Is Mediation Confidential For Business Disputes In Nevada?
I’m involved in a business dispute in Las Vegas, NV, and I’m thinking about mediation. I’m concerned about privacy and what might happen if the details get out. Is mediation confid
1 verified answer · ADR · Nevada
Can Mediation Help Resolve A Debt Dispute In South Carolina?
I live in Charleston, SC, and I’m dealing with debt collectors regarding an unpaid medical bill. I really want to resolve this without going to court. I’ve heard mediation can be a
1 verified answer · ADR · South Carolina
Can I Mediate A Child Custody Dispute In California If We Agree?
I live in Los Angeles, CA, and my ex-partner and I have agreed to some terms regarding child custody after our separation in June 2023. We think mediation could help finalize our a
1 verified answer · ADR · California
Can Mediation Help Resolve An HOA Dispute In Arizona?
I’ve been having issues with my homeowners association in Scottsdale, AZ, over some unfair fines. I feel like we could reach a compromise, but I don’t know if mediation is an optio
1 verified answer · ADR · Arizona

Areas served

ADR attorneys serving Chatham, Trenton and Newark in New Jersey

Michael handles adr matters throughout New Jersey. Each city below is a direct link into the search page for verified adr attorneys in that community.

Michael B. Zerres, ADR Attorney in Chatham, New Jersey

Quick answer