Erin V. O'Connell

anonymous · litigation · May 2026

Prior to signing with Marilyn Longwell & Associates, I expressed my concerns and what I was looking for in a firm to represent me. It was very important to me to hire an attorney who understood the emotional effects this matter had on me and didn’t just view me as a case number. I was assured that th ey understood and that my needs would be met. After shopping around and talking with different firms, I decided to move forward with Longwell & Associates, as I was assured that Marilyn would care about my case and work diligently for me. She was mostly friendly to begin with in my initial meeting, although no phone calls, emails, or other communication about my case was given to me. After signing the contract and several thousand dollars later, I was appalled to find that she had no interest in me as a client as she quickly assigned my case on to an associate. Marilyn is not concerned with your needs as a client, and the most I heard from her is when she was worried about her check being on time. This was even more clear after working with a new firm and having only pleasant experiences.  With Longwell & Associates I had to chase them down after every court appearance to find out what occurred. They seemed put out to give me updates on my case. With the new firm, I received a prompt phone call after each appearance with an explanation of what happened and the plan moving forward. My new attorney would email and call to check in and see how I’m doing, and not even charge for that. It was clear that they cared about me and how this was affecting me. It's unfortunate that this is the case, but even upon finding new representation, it was made apparent to me that Longwell and Associates has a terrible reputation in the industry, and had I known this, I would have thought twice before hiring them. I should also say that their questionable reputation was made apparent from multiple firms when I made the decision to look elsewhere. Marilyn and her legal team often seemed clueless and getting facts from them was extremely difficult and I was often pushed back with a generic response of “I’ll have to check on that” and not hearing anything again regarding my question. If you are concerned with communication from your lawyer, this is not the firm for you. I had to actively call and email to get any form of status which is not what you want in this scenario. Any legal issue is draining, but it's made worse when people you hire to represent you are working against you the whole time. I hired a new lawyer who was quickly able to get the case thrown out. He provided me with the answers Longwell & Associates were never able to give. If they had any clue what they were doing, they would have realized that the cause should have been dismissed almost a year ago. Instead, due to incompetence, they continued to bill me for months of work that didn’t need to be done. I suppose the joke is on me as I wasn’t more proactive in finding new representation until late in my case. I cannot make the decision for you to hire Marilyn Longwell & Associates or not, I can only urge you to deeply consider your options and if your legal matters are prevalent to you and cause you stress, then please go elsewhere and save yourself the aggravation. Other attorneys will not string you along to ensure they have a steady income from you.

Val · family law · May 2026

Marilyn really assisted me though the most difficult time in my life. She not only knows the legal system inside and out, but she also shows compassion for you. I was able to hire Marilyn and have her walk me though the process as well as offer genuine support. She is quick to answer any questions an d was able to process my divorce timely and I am truly grateful. From the first time you speak to her, you will know she is the one that you need. Smart, strong and understanding.

Ronald · family law · May 2026

Marilyn and her team are simply AWSOME! She recently represented in a particularly nasty and frustrating divorce case. Her and team's knowledge of divorce the law is exceptional. I would recommend her firm to everyone!

Ousmane · family law · May 2026

When I contacted this law firm, 3 others has declined to handle my case. I travelled from overseas were I am based on limited passport valid only for return in the USA (2 months validity). it was about arrears in child support that I believed i paid already. based on the letter I received I owe more than $43,000 to my ex. Marilyn took the case and reviewed all payments made and documented. I finally only owe $2,600. she saved me the trouble to get a loan to pay another loan. and this was done in less time that I ever expected. she was very professional and efficient above all, the fees of the retainer were very affordable.. the case was interstate and a bit complicated. she helped very efficiently .. Appreciate it Marilyn, Thank you.

Joe · family law · May 2026

My divorce was amiable. She reviewed the law with me and saw what was already set up by me and my ex. She didn't get in the way, but facilitated an efficient legal process. This kept the cost down while still having legal representation.

Roshaynae · May 2026

Working with Atty Brinkmeier has been such a pleasurable experience. Her understanding of her clients needs and wants are excellent. She provides patience, respect and her goal is to provide the best possible outcomes for your case. If you're looking for quality, detailed work to serve your legal nee ds. Alexandra Brinkmeier is your attorney.

Heidi · May 2026

Alex was everything I needed in an attorney through the most tumultuous and difficult times I've experienced. I feel incredibly lucky to have had her at my side--with her expert knowledge and dedicated advocacy for my voice--all while working with tender sensitivity for my personal experience. I am s o thankful, and would recommend her for anyone in need.

Victoria · litigation · May 2026

Alexandra Brinkmeier is an outstanding attorney. She's highly skillful and motivated in her practice. She did a phenomenal job fighting for the case and got it done faster than I even anticipated. Very pleased with the outcome and I'm very grateful to her.

Sarah · family law · May 2026

I came to Alexandria Brinkmeier and her colleague, David Zwaska, with a very delicate matter involving an order of protection, grandparent rights and the well-being of a child. They moved quickly, efficiently and methodically to get the outcome that was best for my granddaughter. In addition to getti ng the result that positioned the family to give our little one the best chance in life, they approached the work as if they were fighting for their own relative. Their part of the work is done to my 100% satisfaction and they even provided wise counsel for the next phase of the work that is in a county where they don’t practice—thus ensuring my granddaughter’s continued well-being.

Gene · May 2026

I could not imagine going down this tough road without my attorney, She was there for me every step of the way. Could not have asked for a better outcome.

Michelle · litigation · May 2026

I would highly recommend Blacha Law Office. Everyone was professional from my first call to the office for my initial consultation to the end of my case. Erin O’Connell was very responsive and fought to get the best outcome for me. Also, Erin (EJ) Groenewold (paralegal) was a pleasure to work with an d helped explain each step along the way. Thanks to the entire team at Blacha Law!

Sankar · family law · May 2026

I contacted Blacha Law Office to handle my highly contested divorce case. Monica Blacha and Erin Victoria O'Connell from Blacha law office did a great job handling my divorce. My case became increasingly more challenging as it progressed further towards the trial. I would highly recommend the legal s ervice of this law firm. Should the unfortunate need arise, seek out the counsel of Erin Victoria O'Connell. It was pleasure to work with Blacha Law Office. Thanks!

Robert · family law · May 2026

Erin and her staff worked incredibly well as my team. Erin was clear and upfront with all communications. Spoke to me as an individual, not as a client. My case became increasingly more challenging half way through. She knew what the goal was and achieved the goal originally set; 100%! From what I un derstand, my divorce was rather quick, and Erin made it simple as well. Should the unfortunate need arise, seek out the counsel of Erin O'Connell.

Nancy · family law · May 2026

Erin O’Connell and her team at Blacha Law are professional and compassionate. From the beginning of my case Erin she made me feel safe and supported. Her advice was true all the way through the divorce and post-divorce proceedings. Though the case was difficult she was successful in helping us get to a place where we can move forward. If you need a divorce attorney, I highly recommend Erin O’Connell and the Law firm.

Faraji · family law · May 2026

Erin O'Connell was able to work out an agreement with my son's mom and be recognized as the residential parent. This was extremely difficult but Erin was there every step of the way. Extremely knowledgeable, professional and courteous af. Five stars are not enough.