Sumner Law LLP

On 9/26/2026: To Prospective Clients: Please Read Negative reviews, don't rely on 5- Star rating to protect hardwork money. # Original posted June and edited July to reply# I retained Sonya M. Sumner and Sumner Law LLP for a New Jersey family law matter. I paid approximately $23,000, and my total costs related to this matter ultimately reached more than $74,000.00. I ultimately terminated (fired) the representation after 8–9 months. From the beginning, communication was conducted almost entirely through email, without structured meetings such as Zoom, phone, or in-person consultations to discuss strategy, planning, or key decisions. I did not receive a clear roadmap or consistent case planning despite ongoing billing. Despite extensive billing over 8-9 months, I did not receive a clear, consolidated custody or parenting plan presented in a court-ready format for review. I also experienced delays in the handling and sharing of very important financial documents during the representation, and I was provided incorrect court date information, which caused confusion and unnecessary travel. I was billed for the Mediation-related preparation and asked to provide funds for Mediation, but NO Mediation took place during the representation. After termination, I was additionally charged fees though a successor/new counsel was retained by me. Certain court filings were submitted without my final review or approval, and I later had to correct financial information with my new counsel. In my view, the billing structure and communication practices did not reflect the scope and transparency I understood under the Retainer Agreement. Some billed tasks did not clearly correspond to substantive legal work on my matter.I did not feel that my rights, options, and long-term strategy were fully explained or discussed. I also found most of the communications were unnecessarily confrontational and disrespectful. Certain interactions left me feeling that my concerns, personal circumstances, and religious beliefs were not treated with the level of respect and sensitivity I expected from legal counsel. Overall, the representation lacked structure, clarity, and transparency relative to the fees charged. The experience was extremely stressful, and I even required additional support to resolve issues. This review is based on my personal experience as a Former Client of the firm and my own records, communications, invoices, court-related documents, etc. I stand by the substance of my review as written. Based on my personal experience, I do not recommend retaining Sonya M. Sumner and Sumner Law LLP. In response to the firm's reply, I reiterate that this review reflects my personal experience as a former client and is based on my records, including the retainer agreement, emails, invoices, court-related documents, and other communications. The firm's description of its general policies does not change my experience or the basis for this review. The firm's response describes general policies, but my experience was different. I do not recommend this firm. After I posted this review, I observed a significant increase in the firm's Google review count within a few hours - from approximately 96 to approximately 120 reviews; and the overall rating returned to 5.0 stars. I cannot explain why this occurred, but I believe prospective clients may find this information relevant. I retained this firm in past because of its 5-star Google rating. My experience was completely different from what I expected based on that rating. I encourage prospective clients to read negative reviews carefully and not to retain Sumner Law LLP. The firm's response refers prospective clients to New Jersey's fee arbitration process and appeal rights. I pursued that process. Because it includes confidentiality requirements, I cannot discuss the details. In my opinion, the response may give the impression that fee arbitration is an effective solution. Based on my personal experience, I was not satisfied with the outcome and encourage prospective clients not to move wrong direction.

Working with Drew and Sonya at Sumner Law over the past four years has been an absolute blessing. They have guided us through every home purchase and closing including our builds with Ryan Homes and Lennar with so much care and dedication. Whenever we had a question or worry, they were right there to reassure us and take care of every detail. They don't just treat you like a client, they truly care about your family and your peace of mind. They are the exact kind of lawyers you want in your corner! Thank you Sumner Law! The Centeno Potter Family and Milo & Oliver!

I returned to Sumner Law Firm for another legal matter, and once again, their team was wonderful to work with. They were personable, professional, and attentive, helping me through every issue that arose. Their responsiveness and support made the entire process much easier than I expected. What I appreciate most is knowing that my concerns matter to them. They have earned my trust through their consistent care and commitment to helping me achieve the best possible outcome. Sumner Law Firm is the most professional law firm I have dealt with, and I highly recommend them to anyone seeking knowledgeable, trustworthy legal representation. Thank you again for all your help and superior world class service!

Selling a home while buying another can be stressful, but having Sonya and Drew at Sumner Law in our corner made a huge difference. They stayed on top of the details, answered our questions clearly, and kept my wife and me informed throughout both transactions. I appreciated how approachable they were and how seriously they took looking out for our interests. We’re grateful for their help and would absolutely ONLY use them again.