GWHS P.A. - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Senior Associate
- Senior Associate at Gladstone
Abigail M. Cohen is a Senior Associate at Gladstone, Weissman, Hirschberg, & Schneider, P.A. She is Board Certified in Marital and Family Law by the Florida Bar (2023). Ms. Cohen earned her J.D. (magna cum laude) from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where she was ranked 7 out of 238 in her graduating class. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Florida.
Since her admission to the Florida Bar in 1993, Ms. Cohen has represented clients in litigation matters and in trial in both state and federal court. Since 2012, Ms. Cohen's practice is exclusive to marital and family law, including prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, dissolution of marriage, paternity, modification and contempt matters.
While in law school, Ms. Cohen served as an Articles Editor on Nova Law Review and was a Florida Bar Trial Lawyer's Award and Scholarship Recipient.
Ms. Cohen is a member of the Family Law Section of the Florida Bar. She is trained in Collaborative Law and is a member of Choose Collaborative, a South Palm Beach County Collaborative Law Group. Ms. Cohen has been rated AV Preeminent in Martindale Hubbell by her peers.
Alexa M. Turano was born and raised in New Jersey. She moved to South Florida where she graduated from Florida Atlantic University with a degree in Business Management. Alexa joined Gladstone, Weissman, Hirschberg & Schneider, P.A. in July of 2021 and brings five years of legal experience, primarily in Family Law. Alexa is a proud member of the National Association of Legal Administrators. Outside of the office, Alexa enjoys reading, cooking, and spending time with her cat.
Job Titles:
- Senior Associate
- Senior Associate With Gladstone
Casey A. Cusick is a Senior Associate with Gladstone, Weissman, Hirschberg & Schneider, P.A.. Ms. Cusick graduated with honors from Emory University's School of Law (J.D., 2013), where she received the Book Award for academic excellence in Family Law. She received her undergraduate degree from Boston University (B.S., 2009). Ms. Cusick is admitted to practice law in Florida and New York.
Ms. Cusick's practice focuses exclusively on marital and family law matters, with a concentration on complex dissolution of marriage issues including alimony, child support, parental responsibility, timesharing, and equitable distribution for high-net-worth individuals. She also routinely prepares prenuptial and postnuptial agreements for her clients.
Prior to joining Gladstone, Weissman, Hirschberg & Schneider, P.A., Ms. Cusick was an associate in the Family Law Department of a prestigious South Florida law firm. Before moving to Florida, Ms. Cusick spent the first eight years of her career practicing at one of the country's premiere litigation firms in New York City, where she represented clients in complex business disputes as well as high-stakes matrimonial and family law matters. Ms. Cusick draws on her background in commercial litigation to better advise clients in their complex divorce matters.
David L. Hirschberg is a Principal/Shareholder at Gladstone, Weissman, Hirschberg & Schneider, P.A. He is a graduate of the University of Florida Levin College of Law, cum laude (J.D., 2003) and received his undergraduate degree from the University of Florida, with honors (B.A., 2000). Mr. Hirschberg is Florida Bar Board Certified in Marital and Family Law, a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, a Fellow of the International Academy of Family Lawyers, and is AV Preeminent Rated by Martindale-Hubbell. He is licensed to practice law in both Florida and Illinois and is admitted to practice before the United States District Court, Southern District of Florida.
Mr. Hirschberg is an active member of the Family Law Section of the Florida Bar, where he serves on the Executive Council, and is past Co-Chair of the Legislation Committee. In 2020, Mr. Hirschberg received the Chair's Award for Extraordinary Service, an annual award bestowed upon a professional in recognition of their service, unwavering dedication, and continued commitment to the Family Law Section of the Florida Bar. In previous years, Mr. Hirschberg has also received the Spotlight Award, Legislative Award and Rising Star Award for the Family Law Section of the Florida Bar.
Mr. Hirschberg is a Master Member of the Palm Beach Chapter, Family Law American Inns of Court, which promotes professionalism and ethics in the legal system. He is also a member of the Family Law Section of the American Bar Association. In 2015, he was named a Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator.
Mr. Hirschberg has held important and prestigious positions within the Broward County Bar Association, including having served for seven (7) years on the Board of Directors of the Broward County Bar Association Young Lawyers Section. In 2010-2011, he served as the President of the Broward County Bar's Young Lawyers Section.
In 2012, Mr. Hirschberg was afforded the distinguished honor of the Paul May Professionalism in Practice Award, which is an annual award that the Broward County Bar Association bestows upon a lawyer in the community who exemplifies the ideals of professionalism, ethics, integrity, courtesy, credibility, preparedness, and zealous advocacy combined with civility in their day-to-day practice.
Mr. Hirschberg was selected for inclusion in the 2016-2023 editions of Florida Super Lawyers magazine (he was also selected to the Top 100 Miami and Top 100 Florida lists in Super Lawyers magazine for 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023); for inclusion in the 2018-2024 editions of Best Lawyers in America in the practice area of Family Law; for inclusion on the Top Lawyers list published in the 2021 edition of South Florida Legal Guide (he was previously included on the Top Up & Comers list published in the 2013-2020 editions); and for inclusion as a top marital and family law attorney in the 2019-2021 editions of Florida Trend Legal Elite magazine (he was previously included on the Up & Comers list published in the 2014-2017 editions).
Mr. Hirschberg has dedicated his time to civic and charitable organizations, having served as the Chairperson for the Eighteenth, Nineteenth, Twentieth, and Twenty-first Annual Young Lawyers Charity Golf Tournaments, as a member of the Young Leadership Division of the United Jewish Community of Broward County, and as a participant in the Holocaust Survivor Assistance Program. In 2014, he was selected as one of the founding forty members of United Way of Broward County's Envision United, a group that recognizes philanthropic leaders who are focused on improving the quality of life in the community. In 2016, he served as the Chair for March of Dimes' Signature Chefs Auction. Most recently, Mr. Hirschberg was selected to serve as a Board of Trustee for Congregation Kol Tikvah in Parkland, Florida.
Mr. Hirschberg's clientele is comprised of many successful professionals, including but not limited to, entrepreneurs, business owners and executives, doctors, lawyers, and professional athletes. He has also represented numerous stay-at-home parents who have devoted themselves to their spouse and family in a more traditional manner. Mr. Hirschberg advocates zealously for his clients, while simultaneously promoting the amicable resolution of disputes. He remains uniquely accessible and available to his clientele, recognizing the importance of maintaining frequent and continuing dialogue throughout what is commonly a very stressful and tension-filled process. His calming influence is one of his proudest attributes.
David Hirschberg made the process of going through complex divorce proceedings as easy as possible. Not only was he extremely responsive and accessible, but his extensive knowledge of family law combined with a genuine concern for the wellbeing of his clients also made him a pleasure to work with. Many times during the process Mr. Hirschberg went above and beyond to follow up with me or make sure I understood the next steps. He personally returned all calls and emails the same day. I always felt like I was in the most capable hands throughout the process and I always felt like Mr. Hirschberg was prepared and remembered the details of my case. I never had one moment during the process where I did not feel like Mr. Hirschberg had my best interests top of mind. I would strongly recommend him if you are looking for the best possible legal counsel in family law.
Denise L. Schneider is a Principal/Shareholder of the law firm of Gladstone, Weissman, Hirschberg & Schneider, P.A. She is Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Marital and Family Law. Schneider earned her J.D. (magna cum laude) as well as her Bachelor of Science from Nova Southeastern University. Prior to joining the firm in 2007, Schneider worked in several Fort Lauderdale area boutique marital and family law practices.
Following her admittance to The Florida Bar in 2002, Ms. Schneider has strictly limited her practice to complex matrimonial and family law cases, including prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, dissolution of marriage, equitable distribution, alimony and spousal support, parenting issues and timesharing, paternity, and complex financial matters.
Ms. Schneider is active in the Family Law Section of The Florida Bar and is a past Chair of the Family Law Section of the Broward County Bar Association. She also served on the Board of Directors of the Broward County Bar Association as well as the Board of Directors of Abi's Place, a non-profit school for children with moderate to severe developmental disabilities.
Ms. Schneider was recently recognized as a 2023 & 2024 Best Lawyer by the Best Lawyers in America. Selected as a Super Lawyer again in 2022 and 2023, she was also a Super Lawyer's Rising Star for 2009, 2011-2012 and 2014-2016 and was also named Top 100 Florida Super Lawyer by Super Lawyers. Ms. Schneider was also the recipient of the Practice Section Chair Award, recognizing her outstanding leadership and guidance for the year 2009. Moreover, Gladstone, Weissman, Hirschberg & Schneider, P.A. has been named to the 2023 list of 'Best Law Firms' by U.S. News - Best Lawyers® as a ‘Tier-1' Marital and Family Law firm in the United States.
Job Titles:
- Associate
- Attorney
- Associate of the Law Firm of Gladstone
Jacob C. Kieffer is an Associate of the law firm of Gladstone, Weissman, Hirschberg & Schneider, P.A. Jacob graduated summa cum laude from Alcorn State University in 2020, earning a degree in Business Administration. While at Alcorn State, Jacob was a student-athlete and starting pitcher on the university's baseball team.
Jacob attended Nova Southeastern University - Shepard Broad College of Law, where he served on the board of the Nova Trial Association, was an Advocate on Nova Southeastern's Moot Court Honor Society, and was a Senior Editor for Nova Law Review. He also competed nationally for the Nova Trial Association and Nova Moot Court in the 15 th Annual Stetson National Pretrial Competition. Jacob's commitment to excellence continued at Nova Southeastern University, where he made the Dean's List every semester, was awarded the Dean's Law Scholarship, and took on various leadership and mentor roles. Jacob graduated from Nova Southeastern University magna cum laude, ranking in the top 11% of his class in 2023.
Prior to joining Gladstone, Weissman, Hirschberg & Schneider, P.A., Jacob was an intern for the Honorable Michael Davis of the 17 th Judicial Circuit Court of Florida. Thereafter, Jacob clerked at Kelley Kronenberg in its Family Law practice. Jacob remained at Kelley Kronenberg as an associate attorney after being admitted to the Florida bar.
Jeffrey A. Weissman is a Partner of the law firm of Gladstone, Weissman, Hirschberg, & Schneider, P.A. He is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania Law School (J.D., 1994). Mr. Weissman is Board Certified in Marital and Family Law and is AV Preeminent Rated by Martindale-Hubbell 1. He is a Fellow in the International Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers. He is also a Supreme Court Certified Family Law Mediator and is formally trained in Collaborative Law.
Mr. Weissman was recently named the "2024 Family Law Lawyer of the Year" Best Lawyers in America 2. He similarly received this recognition in 2021, 2018, 2016, and 2014. Mr. Weissman has been listed in this publication as a top lawyer for the past 18 consecutive years. He is also widely recognized as one of the top mediators in the state and has been repeatedly included for that distinction too. He has been a longstanding member of the Nation's Top One Percent by the National Association of Distinguished Counsel 3 and has also been repeatedly selected for inclusion in Florida Trend Legal Elite magazine 4, Florida Super Lawyers magazine 5 (Top 100 List), and South Florida Legal Guide 6 - Top Lawyers among many other prestigious organizations. Mr. Weissman has also been listed in Chambers and Partners 7 as a ‘Band 1' top-ranked high-net-worth family law attorney, and he has been named in Lawdragon 500 Leading Lawyers in America 8.
Mr. Weissman limits his practice to high and ultra-high net worth marital and family law cases. His clientele is comprised of many successful entrepreneurs, business owners and executives, doctors, lawyers, celebrities, and professional athletes. Whenever possible, he strives to reduce the emotional and financial strain of protracted litigation by resolving matters on an amicable basis. However, where court intervention is necessary, Mr. Weissman advocates zealously on behalf of his clients and fights vehemently to protect and promote their legal rights and entitlements. He assembles a team of highly qualified professionals, including forensic accountants and business valuation experts, forensic psychologists, and vocational counselors to advance the claims of his clients. A team approach is utilized, and the client is often times the most important player. Consequently, Mr. Weissman interacts with his clients all throughout their cases and collaboratively designs strategies best suited to attain the goals that are set out from inception.
Mr. Weissman is a longstanding and respected member of the Family Law Section of the Florida Bar, where he completed serving an eight (8) year term on the Executive Council. He is a past Co-Chair of the Legislation Committee and has been instrumental in the enactment of many family law statutes, including the parental relocation law, Section 61.13001, which he authored and became effective on October 1, 2006. Mr. Weissman is a past Co-Chair of the following two (2) publications: The Family Law Commentator and The Florida Bar Journal, Family Law Section. Recently, Mr. Weissman was appointed to serve on the Board of Directors of the Florida Academy of Collaborative Professionals ("FACP"), an entity responsible for the promotion of collaborative law and the amicable resolution of family law matters in a private and discreet setting.
Moreover, Mr. Weissman has held important and prestigious positions within the Broward County Bar Association. He served a four (4) year term on the Board of Directors and is a past President of the Family Law Section. Mr. Weissman was afforded the distinguished honor of the Paul May Professionalism in Practice Award, which is an annual award that the Broward County Bar Association bestows upon a lawyer in the community who exemplifies ethics and integrity in his day-to-day practice. He is a past Chair of 17th Judicial Circuit Grievance Committee "A" of the Florida Bar, which is an entity authorized by the Supreme Court to regulate the practice and professionalism of lawyers within our community. Mr. Weissman was selected to become a Founding Master Member of the Susan B. Greenberg Family Law Inns of Court of the Palm Beaches, which promotes professionalism and ethics in the legal system. He is also a member of the Family Law Section of the American Bar Association. Mr. Weissman was appointed to the Advisory Board of the American Academy for Certified Financial Litigators. He was a past member of the Professional Advisory Committee for the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County. Mr. Weissman was recently selected for membership as one of the "10 Best" Attorneys in Florida by the American Institute of Family Law Attorneys (AIOFLA) and was invited to join the Fellows of the American Bar Foundation. He is one of the most sought-after speakers in the area of marital & family law and has appeared as a guest on the television series, "Your Legal Rights."
1 Ratings from Martindale-Hubbell reflect the confidential opinions of bar members and the judiciary, and attest to the individual lawyer's legal ability and adherence to professional standards of excellence. An AV Preeminent Rating shows that a lawyer has reached the height of professional excellence. He or she has usually practiced law for many years and is recognized for the highest levels of skill and integrity. It is the top rating that one can receive.
Jeff Weissman is simply, hands down, the most practical, creative and passionate matrimonial attorney in South Florida. He fights for his clients like they are his family but takes a very pragmatic approach to every case. He would rather settle than litigate, and he knows how to work with his adversaries to get the job done for his clients.
Gladstone, Weissman, Hirschberg & Schneider, P.A.'s reputation as the prominent family law practice is well-earned. The entire staff is dedicated towards producing effective results during the most trying of times. It provided great comfort knowing there was a team of caring and incredibly competent professionals working on my behalf.
Jeff Weissman was the obvious star of the team. He helped me clarify my goals and stay on track. Even when the case got contentious, I never once doubted who had my back. Jeff steered me through a mine field of complex and emotional obstacles with an obvious command of the law, the benefit of his experience, and a genuine caring which showed true compassion and empathy. I could not have ended up where I did without him, and will never forget what he did for me.
Jeff Weissman was recommended to me by another Attorney friend of mine. This friend saw the terrible experience I had with a previous Divorce Attorney and wanted to help me. Even though I had a very difficult divorce case, my experience working with Jeff and his team was very positive. He's extremely capable and honest. He always had the right attitude and was fair. The fees he charged me were always reasonable and I never had the feeling of being overcharged… which is a very common feeling when dealing with Attorneys…
I felt very protected working with "Gladstone & Weissman" and I would strongly recommend them in case you must divorce… but if there is any way you can reconcile with your wife or husband , try that first…
A recommendation from a top family lawyer in New York led me to Jeffrey A. Weissman. I showed up at Jeff's law office with a picture of my four teenage children, tears in my eyes and a desperate need to find someone to help me navigate through a divorce after 24 years of marriage. I had already met with two other lawyers whose main focus was on the monetary aspects of my case and I did not feel would represent me in the best way possible.
Job Titles:
- Senior Associate
- Senior Associate of the Law Firm of Gladstone
Joshua L. Plager is a Senior Associate of the law firm of Gladstone, Weissman, Hirschberg & Schneider, P.A. Josh graduated from the University of Florida with honors in 2006, earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the Warrington College of Business. Naturally, he remains an avid Gator fan. Following undergrad and before law school, Josh was a Series 7 and Series 66 registered financial advisor at AIG, assisting clients with financial planning and investing, including 401(k) plans, 403(b) plans, and IRA's.
Kenneth E. Nelms is a Legal Assistant to David L. Hirschberg and Casey A. Cusick. Having recently relocated from Minnesota to Florida, Kenneth brings more than 10 years experience working as a Legal Assistant and over 5 years in the area of Family Law. Nelms is a hard worker who presents a strong work ethic, making him a valuable member of the Gladstone, Weissman, Hirschberg & Schneider team. Outside of the office, Kenneth enjoys working out and spending time with family and friends.
Location
Boca Raton Office
101 North Federal Highway,
Suite 702
Boca Raton, FL 33432
Map & Directions
561-447-2274
Lori A. McKinley is a Legal Assistant to Peter L. Gladstone, Esq. She is a native Floridian born and raised in Miami, Florida. McKinley brings more than three decades of legal assisting experience to the firm. She joined Gladstone, Weissman, Hirschberg & Schneider, P.A. as a legal assistant to Peter L. Gladstone, Esquire in the spring of 2000. McKinley is patient, observant and has an incredible work ethic, which makes her an invaluable member of the team. Outside the office, McKinley enjoys spending time with her two children, rescue animals and loved ones.
Melinda L. Reinders is a licensed attorney who enjoys working as a family law paralegal. Ms. Reinders earned her J.D. from Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law. She holds a Bachelor of Public Relations from the University of Florida and spent a semester abroad at John Cabot University in Rome, pursuing International Studies.
Ms. Reinders' legal career has primarily focused on the area of marital and family law. She works closely with clients to prepare financial affidavits and ensure compliance with discovery responses and financial disclosure. She also assists with the preparation of various income, net worth, and equitable distribution schedules.
Melissa P. Rivera, CP, FRP, is a native of the Philadelphia area. Rivera relocated to South Florida in 1989 and earned a Paralegal Certificate from Legal Career Institute in West Palm Beach in 1991.
Rivera brings more than two decades of litigation experience, primarily in the area of family law. Ms. Rivera's experience has been solely focused on assisting attorneys who represent high net worth individuals in complex divorce litigation, child custody, prenuptial agreements, postnuptial agreements, and other family law matters.
Rivera plays a vital role in the preparation of all financial disclosures utilized in a wide range of family law matters. She works closely with clients to comply with financial disclosure requirements, discovery responses and preparation of financial affidavits. In addition, she works closely with the attorneys and forensic accountants to assist with the identification, tracing and characterization of assets in complex property cases. She also assists with the preparation of various income, net worth and equitable distribution schedules. From pre-suit to trial, Ms. Rivera's diverse legal abilities and experience contribute to Gladstone, Weissman, Hirschberg & Schneider, P.A.‘s positive client outcomes.
A Florida Registered Paralegal and a Certified Paralegal through the National Association of Legal Assistants, Rivera also serves as the current Treasurer of the Paralegal Association of Florida, Boca Raton Chapter.
Monique Del Giudice is a Legal Assistant to Abigail M. Cohen, Esq., Joshua L. Plager, Esq., Tova N. Verchow, Esq., and Jacob C. Kieffer, Esq. Monique was born and raised in South Florida. She brings nearly a decade of family law legal experience to the team with a focus on client communications. Monique passionately handles clients with patience and understanding as they navigate through challenging moments. She is poised and zestful, making her an invaluable asset to the team. Outside of the office, Monique enjoys spending time with her family, embracing her love for photography, and relaxing at the beach.
Patricia M. Gatto is a Legal Assistant to Jeffrey A. Weissman, Esq. She moved to South Florida in the fall of 1994 from Fort Smith, Arkansas, and joined Gladstone, Weissman, Hirschberg & Schneider, P.A. as a legal assistant to Jeffrey A. Weissman, Esquire in March of 2001. Patricia displays the utmost level of professionalism and incredible work ethic.
Away from work, Patricia is an avid reader and enjoys spending time with her family and friends.
Peter L. Gladstone is a Principal of the law firm of Gladstone, Weissman, Hirschberg & Schneider, P.A. He is Board Certified in Marital and Family Law (1999) and a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (2003), having practiced exclusively in this field since 1988. Mr. Gladstone is AV-Rated by Martindale-Hubbell and has been repeatedly selected for inclusion in Best Lawyers in America (2005-2024 editions), Florida Trend Legal Elite magazine3, Florida Super Lawyers ("Top 10 Florida Lawyers 2021 and 2022"), and South Florida Legal Guide - Top Lawyers. He is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A. 1985) and of The Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law, Yeshiva University (J.D., 1988).
Mr. Gladstone is a past President of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers, Florida Chapter, and sits on the Board of Managers. Mr. Gladstone is also a past Chair of the Family Law Section of the Florida Bar, making him one of a select few who have held both leadership positions within the family law bar. Mr. Gladstone served on the Executive Council of the Family Law Section of the Florida Bar from 1997 to 2010 and remains active as a trustee. Mr. Gladstone has held many positions within the Family Law Section, including serving as Chair of both the Legislation Committee, Publications Committee (Editor, Family Law Commentator, 2002-2003 and Editor, Florida Bar Journal, 2001-2002). He is also a past Chair of the Family Law Section of the Broward County Bar Association (1995-1996), a past member of the Family Law Rules Committee of the Florida Bar (1996 - 1999), and a member of the Family Law Section of the American Bar Association (1988-present). Mr. Gladstone was recently selected to become a Founding Master Member of the Palm Beach Chapter, Family Law American Inns of Court, which promotes professionalism and ethics in the legal system. Mr. Gladstone is licensed to practice law in both Florida and New York. Gladstone, Weissman, Hirschberg & Schneider, P.A. has been named to the 2022 list of ‘Best Law Firms' by U.S. News - Best Lawyers® as a ‘Tier-1' Marital and Family Law firm in the United States.
Mr. Gladstone has lectured throughout the state on assorted topics concerning Family Law, including equitable distribution, business valuation, executive compensation, trial advocacy, prenuptial agreements, discovery and depositions, attorneys' fees and costs, temporary relief hearings, and parenting plans. He is a published author of articles appearing in the Florida Bar Journal and the Family Law Commentator.