Reviews and Ratings

I've had the pleasure of working with Gregg Brauneisen from Collins Hannafin, and I can confidently say he's one of the most straightforward and experienced attorneys around. Gregg is incredibly responsive and accessible, and makes every interaction enjoyable. He tells it like it is and always backs his advice with a wealth of experience. I highly recommend Gregg.

— Perry Salvagne 08/11/2025

I have with Gregg Brauneisen on a number of different transactions and contracts for several years. Extremely professional, responsive and knowledgeable. Highly recommend Gregg and this law firm.

— David Robles 12/12/2024

A highly regarded company that conducts business with great kindness, directness, and professionalism.

— joey k 07/19/2024

We have worked closely with Attorney Goldman over the last several months. Throughout, it is clear that Attorney Goldman is a strong advocate for us and willing to jump through hoops to get us what is fair and best positions us for success. We also appreciate his responsiveness. Many thanks as well to Jen V. for her support.

— Christopher Hayes 09/13/2023

I highly recommend this firm based on my experience these past 2 weeks. I had not engaged the services of an attorney for a number of years, and based on many suggestions and recommendations for many local attorneys and firms I received from a community social media site, I did my research and decided to call Collins Hannafin to see if they would meet my needs. From the first phone call to their office to the execution of legal documents, I found their service, expertise and counsel to be impeccable. At one time in my life, I worked for a top 15 law firm in New York City. I have enough knowledge and experience of what a firm provides, and they did not disappoint. As a final comment, I read some of the other comments made on this firm. I would say that it is entirely possible that some have unreasonable expectations of what can be done regarding a legal matter. Often, people are in a crisis when they seek legal advice, and this colors their perception of what legal counsel, attorneys and courts of law can provide. One needs to keep in mind what is possible and not rely on legal intervention as some magical solution to complex life situations. People are responsible as individuals for their part in all situations, and expecting a lawyer to fix complicated situations which have been sometimes years in the making requires some adjustment in expectations. I would not hesitate to recommend this firm for any matter for which they have expertise. Special thanks to Jillian and Brendan Devaney.

— Susan 12/29/2022

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— Gail Evansco 12/27/2022

A gifted attorney. I've sought Hillel's advice and it's always been thoughtful.

— Peer 12/09/2021

Attorney Eva DeFranco and her team at Collins Hannafin Law Firm were wonderful to work with while executing my divorce through mediation. Eva's professionalism and experience with divorce in the state of Connecticut combined with her straight arrowed approach led the mediation process to a successful finish line. Each meeting, discussion and conference were facilitated quickly and effectively. She made sure each party kept a level head and stayed on target. If any mediation meeting became too heavy or difficult, she would quickly end the meeting and recommend to pick up at a later date. Divorce through mediation with Eva not only was much more cost effective, but ensured that myself and my ex-husband took the proper legal steps to dissolve the marriage. The best part of working with Eva through mediation is that neither party felt pitted against the other. Through proper direction and mediation, relationships can be preserved.

— Client 08/18/2021

Robert Opotzner represented me for a motor vehicle accident. He worked around the clock for me and answered all of my questions! All of his advice was spot on and in the end we got exactly what we set out to get! He will talk you through absolutely anything and he will be afraid to tell to the truth. He is someone you definitely want on your side if you want to win!! Not enough good things to say about him! It is funny to read comments about his prices because he is upfront with how much everything costs before you walk into the office. You are not paying for his time, you are paying for his expertise, ability to get his point across, and to not leave out. Some people may confuse his passion and wanting to get the absolute best for his client as him being rude... but that is not the case at all. It you want to feel well represented and stand a chance in any case hire him... hands down!

— Client 02/22/2021

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— Elsa Criollo 03/22/2019

Have worked with Chris Leonard for over 20 years. He is extremely competent and knowledgeable in all areas of Condominium law. Fair minded and encouraging to work with.

— joe bruschetti 02/08/2019

Eva DeFranco and her assistant Susan Baresi of Collins Hannafin (Danbury)provided world-class service in guiding us through an amicable, mediated divorce that was remarkably quick, inexpensive and pleasant. Eva is a brilliant legal mind who also has the empathy and toughness to deal effectively with couples. I sang her praises to the Superior Court Judge at our hearing, and the Judge agreed with my sterling assessment. Brava to Eva DeFranco and Susan Baresi of Collins Hannafin .

— Client 01/25/2019

Gregg is awesome- honest, hard working. He is not one of the belligerent lawyers looking for fights. His assessments are clear.

— Client 10/25/2018

In short order Mr Opotzner took charge of my divorce "second look" and negotiated an elimination of my alimony obligation based on my retirement. He is experienced, detailed, professional and made himself available to resolve my case in short order. While we did not always agree, I learned that he was using his experience to protect my interests, I absolutely trust him. It is amazing to watch a true professional at the courthouse, he was accorded tremendous respect by all we encountered there. To me that shows that he is honest, fair and works with integrity.

— Client 09/20/2017

Mr. Opotzner represented me as I was seeking a reduction on alimony paid. I found Bob to to be extremely competent and very focused on helping me achieve the best results. Bob is a great communicator and takes the time to explain one's options and how the system works. He was always prepared for meetings and very efficient in time spent on my case with a goal of minimizing expenses. I am surprised at some of the reviews on this site that say Bob is rude. Bob always treated me with respect and is a true gentleman. Bob was very passionate about doing a good job for me and yes, at times did show some emotion. Personally I would always want someone working for me to care enough that he is emotionally committed to a good outcome. Bob fought hard on my behalf and that is very much appreciated. In summary I found Bob to be a great advocate for me and my case and a true partner in trying to achieve fairness in a system that is very difficult to navigate If you are looking for a divorce lawyer that will dedicate himself to working hard on your behalf, I highly recommend you engage Bob Opotzner to represent you.

— Client 06/24/2017

13 days ago today I got divorced and I catagorize that day as 1 of the happiest days of my life...all thanks to Attorney Opotzner...my 2nd attorney in this very contentious divorce. 7 months into my divorce process I realized my attorney at the time was weak at best. I needed someone strong, aggressive and knowledgeable. Upon meeting Attorney Opotzner I realized he was going to be my new attorney. I hired him to represent me and I couldn't be more pleased with the results. He worked for me on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. I know this from phone calls we shared as well as emails sent back and forth. I am certain if it were not for Attorney Opotzner I would still be going through this very dark period of my life. My ex husband was trying to bankrupt me. Attorney Opotzner managed to bring this process to an end, get all parties to agree and most importantly saved my home for me. With a grateful heart, I would highly recommend Attorney Opotzner.

— Client 06/23/2017

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— Peer 08/22/2016

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— Peer 08/06/2016

Mr. Opotzner has represented me on several important personal issues with excellent results. He is very smart, knows the law backwards and forwards and knows how to negotiate on your behalf. I highly recommend his services.

— Client 02/18/2016

On multiple occasions our consultations with Bob on employment matters as well as a school system issue,Bob provided keen insights to us at key moments. Bob maintains the highest levels of integrity and most notably, compassion for his clients. Our son will be forever impacted by Bobs careful guidance and advice. Bob works harder than any attorney we know. It is evident through his outcomes, and excellent communication skills that he is beyond the best!

— Client 02/18/2016

Attorney Optzner was very helpful and instrumental in assisting us in getting services for our son through the school system. He was professional and responsive and didn’t alienate us from the school. Thank you Attorney Optzner and the professional staff at Collins Hannafin P.C.

— Client 02/17/2016

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— Peer 09/03/2015

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— Peer 06/23/2014

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— Peer 06/16/2014

Eva is a strong advocate for her clients and is a pleasure to work with.

— Peer 04/19/2014

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— Client 09/02/2013

Thomas Beecher is an excellent Litigation & Appellate lawyer who adheres to the highest standard of conduct & ethics. With unquestioned integrity, always prepared, he pursues every factual & legal aspect of his case very thoroughly. A former appellate law clerk, he is on top of his law & the rules of court. He has a reputation as a very knowledgeable attorney, has topnotch oral & written skills, excellent judgment & good common sense. Atty. Beecher is one of the best lawyers in Fairfield County.

— Peer 05/24/2013

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— Peer 05/22/2013

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— Peer 05/14/2013

Tom is extremely proficient and professional. He is an advocate for his clients, but also fair.

— Peer 05/14/2013

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— Peer 05/14/2013

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— Peer 05/14/2013

Gregg is very honest. Amazingly for his occupation, he also cares about the people. Did the paperwork that I needed in a very timely manner. I worked with him few times and if I need further real estate or other dealings in CT I would use him.

— Client 12/15/2012

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— Peer 12/30/2011

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— Peer 12/22/2011

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— Client 09/20/2010

Greg is a fine attorney with the highest ethical standards. I recommend him with no hesitation.

— Peer 07/14/2010

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— Peer 06/16/2014

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— Peer 08/15/2016

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— Peer 04/19/2014

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— Peer 08/12/2021

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— Peer 12/14/2011

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— Peer 11/01/2009

Attorney Opotzner is very knowledgeable and informative. He has a set way of proceeding that prevented me from getting answers to some of my questions. Eighty percent of our second meeting was a repeat of the first one. I would have thought you would have reviewed my file prior to our second meeting. His approach to fees and payment is clumsy and it can seem that the money is all he cares about.

— Client 07/09/2015

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— Peer 04/21/2014

If I could have given zero stars I would have. I have never dealt with someone who was ruder or more unprofessional in any legal capacity. Regardless of his ability to get a job done, there is no reason to want to work with someone like this nor is there an excuse for this kind of treatment from a supposed professional.

— Client 02/27/2025

I am extremely disappointed with my experience at Collins Hannafin, P.C., particularly with Attorney Stefanie A. Olivieri. I reached out for a “free consultation” to discuss a legal matter, but was shocked to receive a $300 bill after the consultation—despite the fact that the firm ultimately declined to take my case. The consultation consisted of little more than a brief discussion of my situation, with no substantive advice or action taken on their part. I was under the impression that initial consultations were offered as a courtesy to determine whether they could help with my case. Instead, I was blindsided by this unexpected and unjustified charge. This experience felt misleading and unprofessional. If consultations aren’t truly free, the firm should be upfront about any potential costs beforehand. I would not recommend Collins Hannafin, P.C. or Attorney Olivieri based on this lack of transparency and fairness. Save yourself the frustration—look elsewhere for legal advice.

— Client 11/16/2024

Terrible experience with attorney John Bowser. Use this law firm at your own risk.

— Edward Fitzgerald 03/27/2024

Terrible lawyer. Did not answer any of my questions but charged me as if he did. He purposely obfuscated the legal issues being discussed and was rude and insulting. I would not recommend this lawyer to anyone.

— Client 03/14/2024

I would not recommend this practice to anyone. The lawyer from this firm did not give me my entire case file. The attorney failed to keep all paperwork I gave them and failed miserably in representing me. This firm is probably the worst practice in the danbury bar association.

— jody williamson 07/25/2023

I called this law firm to ask questions about starting a business. The lawyer I spoke with, Mr. Goldman, spent 20 minutes bad-mouthing the local hospital....

— John W. 03/04/2023

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— Nadya Podolsky 11/02/2022

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— Daniel Afonso 10/03/2022

Worst experience ever.

— mika mikar 01/05/2020

In early March 2019, atty. Robert Opotzner of Collins Hannifin, P.C. of Danbury CT. agreed to take my personal injury case. Two months later he informed me that he really had no interest in the case. I then contacted the insurance company who my claim was being processed through. They informed me that other then the letter they received that Collins Hannifin was representing me, and then the letter they received saying that Collins Hannifin was no longer representing me, they had no other correspondence from Atty. Opotzner. So for two months I was led to believe that Collins Hannifin was working for my benefit, when in reality they did nothing for me. They were nice enough to charge me $125 for a weather report that was basically worthless. Thanks for nothing Collins Hannifin! I would give you zero stars here but that is not an option. Sincerely, Robert Jones

— Diane Jones 05/28/2019

Went for a consolation( many lawyers don't charge Robert charges 400 for the first hour). Robert was very rude to me and rushed me along. He didn't seem to have any interest in me or the problems I was dealing with. We only spoke for 35 minutes and he still charged 400 dollars and I walked out of there with nothing to show, not even any remotely usable legal advice.

— Client 06/22/2017

Worst lawyer. No communication skills, just asks for fees. Screams and yells all the time, cares more about what others think of him than his actual work. No manners.

— Client 01/22/2013