Lawyers map
>355
experienced lawyers
Filter by
03 Jul, 2024 by Christopher wright
I hired Blake Cosentino for a civil case, and although every case is unique, with Blake I went into court feeling confident, informed, and well-protected. Blake is passionate about law, and passionate about winning cases. If a case is even theoretically winnable, Blake can win it. Extremely attentive, responsive and communicative firm overall. Every time I called into the firm I was able to speak to someone, and every email I sent was replied to same day.
Read more
07 Jun, 2024 by Mark rogers
This law firm, WILL CHARGE YOU MONEY, FOR ANSWERING QUESTIONS THAT YOU HAVE, from a intake form, sent to your email. I WOULD NOT RECOMMEND THIS LAW FIRM.
Read more
16 Apr, 2024 by Brian eide
Nina is the attorney that I used and does a fantastic job when working with her clients. She is very knowledgeable and does what she can to make her cases fair and equitable, with understanding and compassion. I would highly recommend Nina!!
Read more
15 Oct, 2024 by Marypatriece wendt
Cynthia is an exceptional lawyer who looks out for her clients! When I was focused on getting through the challenging years of caring for three, growing, dependent children, she advocated for reasonable financial responsibility adjustments. I am immensely grateful to her for her diligence and fairness in all aspects!
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Teresa rich
As a repeat customer 😁😁😁, I can say with confidence that Cynthia, and Michelle are the best divorce attorney around. They are compassionate, efficient, and try to take care of your business as low cost as they can. Thank you guys!
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Diane h
Cynthia was professional, patient, understanding, and successful in advocating for me throughout the process of my divorce. She knows the law well and what the judge considers in court. I appreciated her efficiency, quality of work, and consideration of my time and finances. Cynthia was recommended to me by a friend, and I would have no qualms to do the same for someone looking for a high value, high quality lawyer.
Read more
23 Sep, 2024 by Dustin burmeister
I think when they’re good, they can be good. However, it’s been my experience that unfortunately, you will be left high and dry during active court proceedings and left in the lurch. I unfortunately cannot recommend this location because of it. It’s unfortunate and i hate to leave any review that doesn’t help build someone or some business up but this is far more important than my morals. Don’t take the work on if you can’t get a judgement or resolve. It’s that simple. I would hate to work that way….
I met a random person this week. Last name Diehl. I have never spoke to, never met, or could not pick out in a lineup. He has said the very exact same thing that he paid thousands of dollars to get a bunch of unresolve, and then had his legal counsel remove themselves from the case for personal reasons. Left in the lurch without counsel. 15,000$ to collect 5000$ seems out of line unless that was the plan and i assume it wasn’t based on his testimony. Also the 5 collected happened after he hired new counsel…. To finish what was started. There needs to be accountability. Fair ?
So the 2 star… i believe the business should be shut down and authorities called if it’s a one star business still having open doors. So they don’t deserve 1. 2-3 is a strong needs work but a bad experience for sure.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Corrine carmen
Highly recommend for any legal issues. Always helpful and easy to work with
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Sarah b
Dana is the best attorney. Very on top of everything, professional but also very kind, and genuinely cares about what you want, but also helps you navigate other options that may be more helpful to you. She is just overall incredible at her job. I wouldn’t go to anyone else!
Read more
15 Oct, 2024 by Cheryl watkins
One of the best attorneys I’ve ever met. Don was diligent while helping me. He is both professional and detail oriented. He knows the law and is all about justice for his client. I highly recommend this attorney. Thank you Don Carey Collins and associates for all your hard work.
Read more
06 Oct, 2021 by Annette peoples
01 Jul, 2021 by Gwen brown
He stepped in at the last moment and represented me to the best of his ability.
He's direct, prompt, reasonable, very fair and teaches his clients to be a reflection of him in the courtroom.
I'm grateful he took me when he did.
Thank you, Don, Abigail and the whole Atty. Don Carey-Collins team!
Read more
15 Nov, 2024 by Chelsea ryan
15 Nov, 2024 by Pamela sweet
12 Nov, 2024 by ปรเมธ ซอหนองบัว
We retained her for two separate matters but communication was inconsistent and updates on our cases were sporadic.
Read more
06 Dec, 2023 by Sun cocks
25 Mar, 2023 by Garry williams
01 Sep, 2022 by Anthony kendall
If I could give him 0 stars I would.
Find a lawyer who is interested in what is BEST FOR YOU and not just stretching your checkbook. Find someone who is interested in resolution, not conflict. No sense wasting as much money as possible just to be in a continuous fight.
Read more
04 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
When my estranged father died, I didn't know where to start because, unbeknownst to me, his will documents had been removed from the house. Christine answered my call and spoke with me about possible next actions. Once his will was returned and placed where it could be easily found, I followed up with Christine and she spoke with me again as to next steps. Christine would be my first choice through the legal process if there had been any further legal action needed from me.
Read more
30 Jan, 2023 by Cynthia aleidan
After getting myself into a bind by firing my previous lawyer and suffering almost five years of continuations/deliberations against my ex-husband's notorious criminal/divorce lawyer, she won my case. She is friendly and kind, unlike most lawyers Ive encountered. Meticulous record keeping and fair pricing, I highly recommend her.
Read more
30 Jan, 2023 by Cynthia
Christine was recommended by Child and Family services after I got myself in a bind by firing my previous lawyer and stood trial alone against a notorious criminal/family/divorce lawyer in Madison County. After almost five years of deliberations and continuances by my ex-husband's lawyer, she won my case. She is honest and friendly unlike most lawyers Ive come across. I highly recommend her. Meticulous record keeping and runs her office/billing herself so there is no run around and when you call, you speak directly to her.
Read more
26 Apr, 2024 by Michele wolf
23 Feb, 2024 by Perry roni
27 Nov, 2023 by Scott cranford
Great staff
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Judy pershey
Took over for retiring partner. Billed for things already pd for. Also billed a yr after estates closed. Never even met. Always busy with someone 🙄 else. Just no@!!!! Stacy was her name o
Read more
02 Aug, 2024 by Sonja kolesar
Staci is awesome to work with and very helpful. You should definitely see Staci for legal purposes.
Read more
26 Apr, 2024 by Michele wolf
02 Apr, 2024 by Tyler cooper
Very Rude
Read more
30 Apr, 2023 by Phillip amesquita
27 Jan, 2023 by Emmy lou tague
Helpful.
Read more
07 Nov, 2024 by Bri “brizz” lynn
I normally don't this but this lady was out of line and pure rude. I called and barely got a sentence out, and she immediately cut me off and threw out another attorney’s name and number and rudely got off the phone. It's too bad she didn't know who she was on the phone with. I was also looking for some other business too but hey I will gladly give another office my money. If you make it past the initial phone call best of luck. Because if she is a reflection of that office, I think I dodged a bullet. Good day!
Read more
25 Jul, 2024 by Kerry gifford
I would give them a zero if I could.
Read more
21 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Stephanie Hall and her assistant @ Meyer Capel represented me in my divorce. It was an absolutely awful experience.
1. Very disorganized - I was constantly having to resubmit documents.
2. I repeatedly asked that motions of relief be submitted to the judge. I was told they would be....they never were.
3. Communication was terrible - I would have to send emails multiple times over a week or two before they were finally returned.
4. In a meeting with opposing counsel, Stephanie Hall was not prepared at all and had no questions prepared. I felt totally unsupported.
5. When the judge met with her and opposing counsel to go over the status of the case. The judge recommended a 55% - 45% split of assets and debts. This was what I expected. However, when opposing counsel submitted a settlement proposal which was much less favorable. Stephanie Hall advised I take that. When I asked why, she had no good reasoning for it, other than to just get the divorce finalized. ..........when I disagreed with her because of what the judge said, Stephanie threatened to stop representing me.....I told her I could not afford to change attorneys at that point and it was ridiculous for her to threaten that , just because I did not agree with her on the proposed settlement.
Again, I wish I would have sought out other counsel. However, I simply did not know if I could afford to start over with another attorney.
Read more
10 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
For my my divorce I used Aaron. It took 3 years. Some of my other girlfriends had used him as well, same thing. There’s only so many divorces in the area and Aarron will make the most out of it. When looking for representation, look in a bigger town.
Read more
10 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
Aaron has been my ex wife's attorney now for years of court. Basically he's a great attorney at divorce but if you want a mess of a divorce, he'll bring it. His legal guidance is less than standard and often includes hiding and not attending to business if its not in his clients favor, but life isn't a "client" its peoples lives he has no regard for. If you let him, he will drag things out. Clients of any divorce need to realize that no one "wins", its a divorce! The entire family pays the price. He's basically not a fraud, but extremely close to that line in the sand. If you have a brain and basic a divorce and you need someone close to the courthouse, he would be fine. If you have a business...stay away! His lack of business understanding or lack of interest will tank all parties in his quest for everything..in closing, he's smart but not that smart. He knows basic law, aside from that he's very weak.
Read more
10 Dec, 2017 by Jason
Nate and him have been my lawyers for almost 3 years through thick and thin bankruptcy and everything these guys have helped me just to cope with life and have kept me out of trouble and have helped me through everything Arron has taken late night texts from me and has been there for me through tons so has Nate these guys are not only my lawyers but also my friends
Read more
16 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
If I could give zero or even negative stars I would. She ignored about 98% of my phone calls, emails & texts. She made agreements/arrangements with the opposing council, without my knowledge. Then signed an order on my behalf to an order I didn't agree to, nor did I have any say in.
I wish I could get my time & money back.
Read more
13 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
After my initial consult I thought she seemed great and wanted to hire her for my case, but she never called or emailed me back for the retainer. I called several times, left messages and even talked to the paralegal who assured me every time that she would call me back. In the end, I'm very glad I never hired her. If she can't even manage to call me back to take my money, she probably couldn't handle anything else.
Read more
03 May, 2023 by Rick jacobsen
We have used Meghan twice this year. She was awesome to work with. Highly recommended
Read more
28 Nov, 2024 by Ken barkdoll
Family lawyer for many years. Also my parents and my brothers have employed the talents of this firm.
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Did not fully divulge information to the court on a regular basis. Did not fully investigate the homeostasis of the children. Filed paperwork with opposing litigation's address as Maureen's client's address to try to stir up more litigation. Just seeks to get money from any parent in the case who has income and is forced to pay. One of the worst if not the worst attorney I have ever experienced. Worst enough to not even bee called an attorney and should be investigated by the Illinois State BAR.
Read more
10 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Absolutely horrible attorney. She does not care about anything. She will treat you like easy money, She didnt even remember who filed the motion first. She is rude, and manipulative. Please save yourself the trouble, money and time because you will lose everything.
Read more
12 May, 2023 by Sam
Alan Pearlman (theeclectroniclawyer) is one of the worst people in law you can get to represent you and he is an even worse human being. This guy stole money from my family, did not do his job, and then dropped out of the case. All while making threats and harassing my family. If I could give a worse review than 1-star I would.
Read more
28 Oct, 2015 by John
Alan was top-notch! From the first moment I met Alan, I was impressed by his willingness to listen to me and understand my issue.
Alan reassured me that he would do the best he could for my case. Though the price seemed a little high at first, I was willing to put my faith in Alan. I figured it was my life after all. I'm so glad I did because Alan was worth every penny. He was polite, humorous and very easy to get into contact with. He outlined everything I would need to have ready and do. From obtaining my evaluation summary from NICASA and miimal risk training to great recommendations for obtaining an MBAIID ("Smart Start") ignition locking device.
Ultimately, Alan was able to get my charges dropped to Reckless Driving with Court Supervision. This means that there will be no conviction on my record for DUI, pending I meet all conditions of the supervision.
I would definitely recommend Alan to anyone in need of a great DUI defense attorney.
Read more
10 Mar, 2011 by Michael
Alan is the Attorney you need when you have lost all faith in things that are good. He listens, evaluates, requests your needs or expected results and then plans together with you on how to achieve the results. What he says he will do, is done in the time frame outlined. He is man of impeccable integrity that I recommend with a great amount of confidence. Your experience with Alan will be as joyous as possible when dealing with Attorneys. I slept a lot better at night having Alan on my side.
Read more
08 Feb, 2025 by Cheyanne jessica
My lawyer Thomas Ewick was amazing. 🙏 Really hard worker, and very organized! Great person to work with.
Read more
24 Oct, 2024 by Heather kloeppel
emma had been amazing! personal and professional. amazingly dealing with the bs of the case with a diligent and timely manner. I'm totally satisfied
Read more
23 Oct, 2024 by Ashlee wagner
Emma walked me through every detail of my case. Made me feel confident and less stressed. Answered every email & phone call promptly. My case was settled pretty quickly as well!
Read more
08 Feb, 2025 by Cheyanne jessica
My lawyer Thomas Ewick was amazing. 🙏 Really hard worker, and very organized! Great person to work with.
Read more
24 Oct, 2024 by Heather kloeppel
emma had been amazing! personal and professional. amazingly dealing with the bs of the case with a diligent and timely manner. I'm totally satisfied
Read more
23 Oct, 2024 by Ashlee wagner
Emma walked me through every detail of my case. Made me feel confident and less stressed. Answered every email & phone call promptly. My case was settled pretty quickly as well!
Read more
08 Feb, 2025 by Cheyanne jessica
My lawyer Thomas Ewick was amazing. 🙏 Really hard worker, and very organized! Great person to work with.
Read more
24 Oct, 2024 by Heather kloeppel
emma had been amazing! personal and professional. amazingly dealing with the bs of the case with a diligent and timely manner. I'm totally satisfied
Read more
23 Oct, 2024 by Ashlee wagner
Emma walked me through every detail of my case. Made me feel confident and less stressed. Answered every email & phone call promptly. My case was settled pretty quickly as well!
Read more
18 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
Hiring Sarah was a colossal mistake! My divorce agreement is so bad people do not believe the circumstances of my outcome. A disgrace to the profession
Read more
30 Oct, 2019 by Brian
Sarah represented me through my divorce. She was professional and understanding. I could not ask for a better lawyer!
Read more
07 Aug, 2019 by Michelle
Sarah helped me through a difficult divorce. I cannot say enough good things about her! She made everything easy to understand and walked me through the whole process. She was professional, caring and extremely knowledgeable. I would highly recommend her.
Read more
03 Jan, 2022 by Norman lewis
Represent yourself & save thousands of $$$$'s. Absolutely worst attorney I've ever used.
Read more
16 Jul, 2020 by Barbara kilhoffer
John helped my husband and I remarkedly when we needed advice and a great attorney. He is one of the BEST in Springfield area and this pathetic state.
Read more
06 Jan, 2020 by Samantha haggerty
26 Jan, 2025 by Jacob hince
01 Mar, 2024 by Morgan luca
Robert Steele has already sued me once for 7,000 of unpaid medical bills. He is now going after my boyfriend for a hospital bill from 2011. The hospital is closed and the bill is over 10 years old. On top of all this I was diagnosed with breast cancer so my boyfriend is the only one getting a paycheck right now. . He makes just over minimum wage. We can barely afford food and every cent goes to bills and medical coverage. This shark is garnishing his wage. Thanks steele
Read more
13 Feb, 2024 by Nick van schaick
Greedy and soulless corporate scumbag.
Read more
06 Mar, 2024 by Kimberly beiermann
08 Jan, 2024 by Daquan richmond
I wouldn’t trust Lawyer Andy With anything terrible job I paid close to $4000 just to be ripped off don’t let him scam you very hard to get in contact with in a terrible attitude after he takes your money just a flat out crook
Read more
18 Aug, 2022 by Ron schuman
Ex wife was going for everything plus the dogs. Andy was fantastic and help dramatically. Was absolutely pleased with the results. Wife got what was fair and I can finally move on with my life.
Read more
28 May, 2021 by Yjk
Mr. Weaver helped me prepare my Will. He was always very professional, responsive, and I am very happy with his job! He is awesome attorney and all around person. I would highly recommended him to anyone who needing legal assistance.
Read more
13 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Alex Weaver for my legal case. After significant attorney fees he didn't generate any results. As a matter of fact he proposed the settlements that is in favor of the opponent. I lost another 10K after the settlement because he failed to protect my rights in the settlement agreement he signed off. Before you hire this attorney you may contact me at
Read more
15 Jul, 2014 by Michael
Alex Weaver is an excellent lawyer of the highest standards of client loyalty and service.
He and I were co-counsel in the successful mediation of a condominium association construction dispute several years ago, in which I noted the fine quality of his work.
Since then, we have continued to “talk shop” about a range of professional matters, and I have found his advice to be invariably astute and helpful.
Most recently, when I needed the services of a first-rate lawyer in regard to an alleged traffic violation, I looked to Alex’s services immediately, and as usual, he did a fine job.
He is not only an excellent lawyer but also a long-time family friend. I vouch for him without reservation.
Read more
12 Jun, 2024 by Norm scranton
Awesome. . Very knowledgeable been in business for years . The Best . Thanks Britt
Read more
01 Jun, 2024 by Billy faiyad
Left five messages with the secretary for the attorney to call back. Never received one. Do not recommend this office at all.
Read more
24 Feb, 2024 by James stanford
12 Jun, 2024 by Laishah shelton
Clark is extremely knowledgeable. He knows the law. I received the best help from Clark. He stood up for me, fought for me, helped me. I would recommend Clark to anybody who’s looking for help.
Clark is a hard worker and does a great job and works very hard for you. He does go above and beyond.
Read more
12 Jun, 2023 by Troy barclay
Very rude receptionist. Website offers free legal advice. Asked question, was put on hold, she (the receptionist) came back on line, was told can't help, and hung up on me. If thats how they treat a prospective client, don't waste your time. What a joke. Zero stars
Read more
26 Apr, 2023 by Gabrielle klinefelter
Highly recommend Clark as an attorney and Amy is great with communication and answering questions I have been using him as my attorney for over a year now and have gotten the results I’ve wanted, they will work with you on payments and are very understanding of my situation. Take the time to set up an in person consultation and you won’t be disappointed!!! My situation deals with custody/ child support and they both are very knowledgeable with these subjects !!!!
Read more
28 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Hired this Attorney, after she was paid the end! I couldn’t get her to talk to me or my son whom I hired her for and never returned calls and just basically done nothing we asked of her!
Read more
25 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
This was by far the worst experience i have ever had dealing with an attorney. Initially everything was going well, as the case progressed everything started going wrong. I was usable to get a hold of Amanda, every time i called the office i was told she was busy and asked to leave a message. I would get an email response a week late. After waiting 3+ months of my time and delaying the case i got an email for the court that she was requested to remove herself form the case with no explanation. Never received an final invoice and all attempts to contact her were ignored.
Read more
18 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
Took a lot of stress off, friendly, professional, the process was fast, thankyou !
Read more
12 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Month after month passed, and each time I met with him he would scribble on his notepad but not offer me legal advice. I felt like I was paying for a very expensive scribe rather than a divorce attorney. He did not show any compassion or consideration for my case, and at times I felt he was working on my wife's behalf with his advice. I had to fire him and seek another attorney which was like night and day.
Read more
20 Dec, 2010 by Anonymous
I was very happy with Blake & Allen, P.C. They not only showed professionalism but made me feel "at ease" when discussing my legal matter. I found my needs to be handled appropriately. If and when I need a law firm again, Blake & Allen would be my choice. Thank you for everything.
Read more
31 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Very poor representation throughout. Michelle did the bare minimum. Would definitely not recommend.
Read more
12 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Came highly recommended (from a friend whose ex had actually used her services in their divorce). Very thorough and straight forward. Quick response time. Available to answer questions. Very happy with her services. I even referred a friend.
Read more
26 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
Contacted and met in August from a car accident I had in dec ! Called again today ( nov) found out she moved and the secretary knows nothing of my paperwork I left for her to copy!
Read more
17 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
She is GREAT since she is away from Harvey's office !!!! Recommend her highly. She now practices law like it should be, I had to stand back and watch her be a puppet with my cousins case at Harvey's which is still not settled and has cost over
$ 100,000. Penelope kept wanting to settle Ashley"s case two years ago and she couldn't, you could see the aggervation in her face. To bad Ash is still suffering because of Harvey !!!
Read more
30 Apr, 2020 by Mary
Ms. Hawkins quit on my case the business day before my trial for no reason and cost me a half a million dollars. Then proceeded to bill me. How completely awful and unethical. What kind of person does something like this.
Read more
05 Dec, 2017 by Robert
She listens and doesn't beat around the bush. We have been using her for over 3 years now in coustdy battle.
Read more
Browse lawyers
Cities in Illinois - Find a Lawyer Near Me
-
Chicago
-
Springfield
-
Northbrook
-
Wheaton
-
Naperville
-
Peoria
-
Rockford
-
Schaumburg
-
Evanston
-
Oak Brook
-
Joliet
-
Bloomington
-
Deerfield
-
Belleville
-
Oak Park
-
Lisle
-
Skokie
-
Champaign
-
Edwardsville
-
Waukegan
-
Park Ridge
-
Arlington Heights
-
Downers Grove
-
Aurora
-
Saint Charles
-
Highland Park
-
Lake Forest
-
Orland Park
-
Glenview
-
Barrington
-
Crystal Lake
-
Libertyville
-
Des Plaines
-
Rolling Meadows
-
Hinsdale
-
Elgin
-
Geneva
-
Rock Island
-
Wilmette
-
Northfield
-
Rosemont
-
Decatur
-
Palatine
-
Oakbrook Terrace
-
Burr Ridge
-
Elmhurst
-
Urbana
-
Moline
-
Winnetka
-
Alton
-
Buffalo Grove
-
Lombard
-
Itasca
-
Marion
-
Glen Ellyn
-
Palos Heights
-
Hoffman Estates
-
La Grange
-
Lincolnshire
-
Tinley Park
-
Vernon Hills
-
River Forest
-
Riverwoods
-
Mount Prospect
-
Carbondale
-
Ottawa
-
Lincolnwood
-
Woodstock
-
Warrenville
-
Mount Vernon
-
Bannockburn
-
Mchenry
-
Westchester
-
Bolingbrook
-
Quincy
-
Western Springs
-
Sycamore
-
Gurnee
-
Westmont
-
Homewood
-
North Chicago
-
Lake Bluff
-
Glencoe
-
Plainfield
-
Lake Zurich
-
Dekalb
-
Frankfort
-
Mundelein
Browse lawyers
Practice Areas in Illinois
-
Business
-
Litigation
-
Real Estate
-
Personal Injury
-
Family Law
-
Estate Planning
-
Criminal Defense
-
Intellectual Property
-
Government
-
Insurance
-
Tax
-
Consumer Protection
-
Workers Compensation
-
Medical Malpractice
-
Probate
-
Appeals
-
Civil Rights
-
Immigration
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
Lawsuit / Dispute
-
Child Custody
-
Car Accident
-
Class Action
-
Elder Law
-
Trusts
-
Bankruptcy
-
Child Support
-
Mediation
-
Wrongful Death
-
Debt Collection
-
Domestic Violence
-
Adoption
-
Divorce
-
Foreclosure
-
Juvenile Law
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Discrimination
-
Copyright Application
-
Entertainment
-
DUI / DWI
-
Federal Crime
-
Employment / Labor
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Wrongful Termination
-
Sex Crime
-
Debt Settlement
-
Landlord & Tenant
-
Construction
-
Drug Crime
-
Cannabis Law
-
Credit Repair
-
Environmental Law
-
Life Insurance
-
Admiralty / Maritime
-
Education Law
-
Constitutional Law
-
Contracts
-
Corporate
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What an Adoption Lawyer Can Do for You
An adoption lawyer specializes in navigating the legal complexities of the adoption process, ensuring that the rights of all parties involved - the adoptive parents, birth parents, and the child - are protected. They assist families through the different types of adoption, such as domestic, international, foster care, stepparent, and private adoptions. Adoption lawyers ensure that the adoption process complies with state, federal, and international laws, and handle any legal issues that may arise during the process, such as terminating parental rights, conducting home studies, and finalizing the adoption.
If you're looking to adopt or if you're a birth parent considering placing your child for adoption, an adoption lawyer can guide you through the legal requirements and ensure the process goes smoothly.
When Should I Hire an Adoption Lawyer?
You should consider hiring an adoption lawyer in the following situations:
- Private or independent adoption: If you’re adopting a child directly from the birth parents without the involvement of an adoption agency, a lawyer is essential to draft and review all legal documents, including consent forms and parental rights termination agreements.
- Foster care adoption: If you’re adopting a child from foster care, a lawyer can help navigate the legal process, ensure the child’s eligibility for adoption, and represent you in court to finalize the adoption.
- Stepparent or relative adoption: If you’re adopting a stepchild or a relative, a lawyer can assist in terminating the parental rights of the biological parent and ensure the adoption is completed legally and efficiently.
- International adoption: International adoptions are complex, involving multiple layers of laws from the U.S. and the child’s birth country. A lawyer can help navigate immigration requirements and ensure compliance with international treaties like the Hague Convention.
- Contested adoptions: If a birth parent changes their mind about the adoption or there is a dispute over parental rights, a lawyer can represent you in court and ensure that the adoption proceeds legally.
- Adoption for same-sex couples: If you're a same-sex couple looking to adopt, a lawyer can help ensure that your adoption complies with state laws and that both parents have equal legal rights to the child.
- Birth parent representation: If you’re a birth parent considering adoption, a lawyer can ensure that your rights are protected, help you understand the legal implications of terminating parental rights, and ensure that your decision is legally sound.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process can help avoid legal complications and ensure that the adoption is legally finalized as smoothly as possible.
What Does an Adoption Lawyer Do?
An adoption lawyer provides a variety of legal services, ensuring that the adoption process is completed in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing legal paperwork: Adoption lawyers handle all the necessary paperwork, including petitions to terminate parental rights, consent forms, and final adoption decrees. They ensure that the adoption is in line with state, federal, and international laws.
- Conducting home studies: Some adoptions require a home study to evaluate the prospective adoptive family. While a social worker usually conducts the study, a lawyer can ensure that the process complies with legal requirements and that the report is submitted correctly.
- Terminating parental rights: Lawyers assist in terminating the legal rights of the biological parents, either voluntarily through signed consent or involuntarily through court proceedings if necessary.
- Representing clients in court: Adoption lawyers represent adoptive parents, birth parents, or other parties in court hearings to finalize the adoption or resolve disputes.
- Navigating international adoption laws: For international adoptions, a lawyer helps ensure that all legal requirements, both in the U.S. and the child’s home country, are met, including securing the child’s visa and citizenship.
- Providing legal advice: Adoption lawyers guide clients through each step of the adoption process, advising them on their rights and obligations, as well as any potential legal issues that may arise.
- Drafting post-adoption agreements: In some cases, especially open adoptions, a lawyer can help draft post-adoption agreements that specify the level of contact between the adoptive and birth parents.
How Are Adoption Lawyers Paid?
Adoption lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the adoption and the time involved. Common payment structures include:
- Flat fee: Many adoption lawyers charge a flat fee for handling the entire adoption process. This is common for straightforward adoptions, such as stepparent or foster care adoptions, where the legal work is relatively predictable.
- Hourly rate: For more complex adoptions, such as contested or international adoptions, some lawyers charge by the hour, with rates typically ranging from $200 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Retainer: In cases where the adoption process may take longer or involve more legal work (e.g., termination of parental rights or court disputes), a lawyer may require a retainer, which is an upfront payment that is billed against as the lawyer works on the case.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront, so you understand the total cost of the adoption and any additional expenses that may arise during the process.
How Much Does an Adoption Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring an adoption lawyer depends on the type of adoption and the complexity of the case. General cost estimates include:
- Stepparent or relative adoption: Legal fees for these types of adoptions typically range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on whether the adoption is contested or requires a court hearing.
- Domestic private adoption: The legal fees for a private adoption usually range from $5,000 to $10,000, including drafting documents, terminating parental rights, and finalizing the adoption in court.
- International adoption: International adoptions are generally more expensive, with legal fees ranging from $7,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the adoption and the child’s country of origin.
- Contested adoption: If the adoption is contested and involves court disputes, legal fees may range from $10,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the length and complexity of the court proceedings.
In addition to lawyer fees, adoptive parents should also be aware of additional costs such as court filing fees, home study fees, and travel expenses (for international adoptions).
Top Questions to Ask an Adoption Lawyer
Before hiring an adoption lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the experience and knowledge to handle your case effectively. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with adoptions?
Ensure the lawyer has experience with the specific type of adoption you’re pursuing, whether it’s domestic, international, foster care, or stepparent adoption. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges a flat fee or hourly rate and ask for a detailed breakdown of the costs involved in your adoption. -
What are the legal requirements for my adoption?
Ask the lawyer to explain the legal steps involved in your adoption and any specific requirements that may apply to your case, such as home studies or parental consent. -
How long will the adoption process take?
Adoption timelines can vary depending on the type of adoption, so ask the lawyer for an estimate of how long the process will take, including any potential delays. -
What are the common challenges in adoption cases?
Ask about any potential legal challenges that could arise during the adoption process and how the lawyer plans to address them. -
Will I need to go to court?
Depending on the adoption, you may need to attend court hearings. Ask the lawyer whether your presence will be required and what to expect during these hearings. -
Can you help with post-adoption issues?
Ask the lawyer if they can assist with any post-adoption issues, such as obtaining the child’s birth certificate, finalizing the child’s U.S. citizenship (for international adoptions), or drafting post-adoption contact agreements.
How to Check the Credibility of an Adoption Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable adoption lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and experience:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no disciplinary actions on their record.
- Look for adoption experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in adoption law and have experience handling cases similar to yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about their experience with the lawyer.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on adoption cases.
- Check for memberships in relevant organizations: Look for lawyers who are members of adoption-focused organizations like the American Academy of Adoption Attorneys (AAAA), which can indicate their expertise in this field.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your first consultation with an adoption lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Information about the child and birth parents: Provide any available information about the child you’re adopting (e.g., age, country of origin, current living situation) and the birth parents, if applicable.
- Adoption preferences: Be clear about the type of adoption you’re pursuing - whether it’s domestic, international, foster care, stepparent, or private - and discuss any preferences you have regarding the child’s age, background, or special needs.
- Legal documents (if applicable): If you’ve already begun the adoption process or have signed any agreements, bring copies of all relevant legal documents, such as consent forms or agency agreements.
- Questions about the adoption process: Prepare a list of questions about the legal steps involved in your adoption, potential timelines, and any concerns you may have about the process.
- Financial considerations: Be ready to discuss your budget for legal fees and any additional costs, such as home studies, court fees, and travel expenses (for international adoptions).
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice for your adoption journey.
