Lawyers map
>71
experienced lawyers
Filter by
17 Sep, 2024 by Michael caras
Eric Pacy and Colby Macdonald along with their team are top notch! They have completed closings for dozens of my clients in the pass and they always make it a smooth and timely transaction. Their availability and efficient communication is above and beyond. Thank you!
Read more
10 Sep, 2024 by Ryan richards
Kayla was very helpful and very responsive! And the closing was made easy with everything explained clearly
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Josh lopez
I had the pleasure of working with Eric and Kayla on two deals, one contingent on the sale of another. Eric and team did a fantastic job with communication, and assisting in the close on a challenging situation with multiple delays. I look forward to working with them in the future.
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Stephanie parker
03 Sep, 2024 by Martha smolen
It's been great working with the Family Estate Planning Law Group. They are very knowledgeable and have been so helpful to our extended family around trust planning, inter-generational planning and estate management. We all feel lucky to have them as partners and feel like our estate and future is in great hands. Thank you!
Read more
07 Jun, 2024 by Gayle maganzini
We have found everyone at Family Estate Planning to be knowledgeable, courteous, caring and thorough. It is easy to set up appointments and they follow up to make sure everything is in order.
Read more
16 Nov, 2020 by Adam
Theresa is great, very straight forward and truly wants the best for her client. She helped with my child custody case and worked tirelessly to give the the best outcome. i highly recommend.
Read more
14 Oct, 2019 by Esther
I had the pleasure and reassurance of having attorney Gomes on my side during my divorce. It was a very stressful time for me and I immediately felt a sense of calm from the moment I walked into Theresa's office. On my first meeting with her, it was clear that she was very knowledgeable and knew the answer to every legal question I had. Theresa is responsive, attentive, and accessible throughout the process; she is punctual and returns phone calls and emails without delay. I highly recommend her services.
Read more
08 Jul, 2019 by Rith
I recently went through a divorce, the hardest thing I guess part of adulting as that wasn't the picture I had when I got married. It happens, I was so fortunate through looking for someone to be a resource that I can offer to my clients for I'm an agent for New York Life. Attorney Theresa Gomes was the person that I know that I can trust with my clients, friends, and family. I am so grateful to how she was professional and caring throughout my divorce. Highly recommend her to anyone who can use her legal guidance.
Read more
03 Aug, 2021 by G l
Working with Marian’s office was a pleasant experience. Her services are exceptional. Our client was very happy with the outcome! Thank you
Read more
14 Dec, 2020 by Meghan
Eliza has helped my husband and me navigate real estate and estate planning questions to ensure we knew about our options and risks, so that we are able to make sound decisions. She also provided excellent guidance for an employment contract question, which enabled me to navigate a potentially thorny issue with confidence. I highly recommend Eliza for her knowledge, wisdom, candor, and fairness in all areas, from giving legal advice to billing accurately and transparently for her work.
Read more
10 Dec, 2020 by Celia
I've had a superb experience with Eliza as my divorce attorney. She enabled us to go through the process very smoothly, in spite of some unexpected difficulties derived from lockdown. Eliza worked hard to ensure my deadlines were met, as I was dealing with sensitive immigration timelines, and I am most thankful for it, especially in such a difficult life period. Her dedication was superlative. 5 stars.
Read more
27 Oct, 2009 by Meghan porter
I thought Oona was wonderful. She kept me posted and up to date on my case. She always took the time to hear my thoughts and counted in my opinion. I would reccommend her to anyone.
Read more
27 Sep, 2009 by Anonymous
In my first interview with Oona Kingston she provided a clear and accurate assessment of the potential options for divorce settlement and the likely outcome of the settlement. In an arena in which many lawyers seem to thrive on creating confusion and anxiety, Oona was a calm voice of reason and worked diligently to get a fair settlement as efficiently as possible. Oona was more than a match for the big-city, high-priced lawyers on the other side and my legal costs were a fraction of those of my ex-spouse. I highly recommend her services.
Read more
29 Aug, 2009 by Anonymous
During the duration of my divorce I struggled with the sadness of it as well as feelings of being so alone. While my ex had already moved on...I was still trying to process it all...how do I go from here...how do I make ends meet....my only identity was wrapped around my husband...how do I start over? I felt so completely alone with two kids and a house to worry about. Needless to say I felt overwhelmed by the divorce process and the decisions that needed to be made. Oona has the ability to take the entire picture and break it out into what is important and not important. She can simplify the decisions based on what needed to be addressed at that time and what could wait or what didn't need to be addressed at all. Although she is sympathatic to your situation, she has the ability to keep emotions out of the decision making process. I felt this allowed me the confidence to make good, fair, clear decisions based on her advise even while I was an absolute mess. She was honest with me about what was worth fighting for and what was a waist of time. She understands the process and is confident in her abilities and this shows. I had such low self esteem at this point and really felt as though I would never recover and yet, Oona had a away of making me have just enough confidence to at least stand up for myself and my kids. Although my divorce was at the time heartbreaking to me, somehow with Oona's help I stood up for myself. I feel to this day that this was the best thing I have ever done!
Read more
13 Mar, 2024 by John benchoff
Highly recommend Nancy. She's not only a great attorney, but a great person a well.
Read more
11 Aug, 2023 by Paul f coughlin
Excellent experience, thoughtful and pleasant. Good and fair outcome.
Read more
27 Apr, 2016 by Dylan caldwell
Great lawyer !
Read more
28 Jul, 2023 by Sharman
The sense of relief I am feeling after having a consultation with Susan Devine is the best feeling I've experienced in quite some time. I had consultations with several other attorneys and she is the only one who actually reviewed the documents I forwarded her prior to our phone meeting. She was ready with excellent recommendations to share with me. She really listened and responded accordingly. She truly understood me and my situation. She is a wise attorney with practical common sense advice/ideas. Anyone who is fortunate enough to collaborate with her will be blessed!
Read more
14 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
My daughter Kaylee is 4 and she represents her. She has done an amazing amount of work and really cares for her clients if you want your child to be safe then there is no other choice but miss devine
Read more
17 Apr, 2016 by Rich
Let me start by saying that Attorney Susan Devine has been representing my foster child since December. Susan has shown us that she is extremely knowledgeable and has made us both feel very confident. She always anwers my calls and keeps us informed with any new developments. Susan is very genuine and makes us feel that we are all working as a team. She makes us feel very comfortable and addresses any questions or concerns we may have. We really appreciate her hard work! I would highly recommend Attorney Devine without any hesitation whatsoever!!
Read more
25 Jan, 2022 by Nelia
Attorney Assunta Petez was my divorce lawyer. She is terrific. Very caring and experienced!! In Addition she is down to earth and her fees are reasonable. I am very happy with her hard work!! If you need an honest , awesome Attorney...give Assunta Perez a call!!!!!!
Read more
13 Aug, 2020 by Dean
Assunta Perez is a very hard-working attorney that will always fight for you. She excepts all challenges from every direction and manages all types of interference very well. She is poised with professionalism and good character. She is the attorney that you want to work for you. I highly recommend Assunta. It was enjoyable working with her over the past 13 months of my divorce.
Read more
13 Aug, 2020 by Martha
Assunta set up our house so our daughter was executive of the house as my husband has dementia. This was we save the house from a nursing home taking it. She did an awesome job.
Read more
25 Feb, 2020 by Ashley
After contacting several lawyers with questions regarding adoption, a friend recommended Michael. From the start it was easy to talk with Michael and lay out all of my questions and concerns. At first we were simply exploring our options of adoption, foster to adopt and embryo adoption. We eventually moved forward with a unique embryo donation/adoption case that Michael was able to navigate smoothly. We don't live very close to Michael's office so he accommodated us by promptly returning emails and having several phone meetings. Michael is knowledgeable with infertility and sensitive when speaking to you. We highly recommend working with Michael for your fertility and family building needs!
Read more
24 May, 2018 by Brady
Mike has been incredible in helping my wife and I through our adoption. We must've contacted a dozen lawyers trying to find the best and Mike was hands down the most helpful and friendly.
Read more
13 Jul, 2017 by Greg g.
16 Jun, 2017 by Vyacheslav kraplin
Incredibly attentive and knowledgeable about estate planning, wills, and tax law.
Read more
06 Oct, 2009 by Amanda
We are still clients of Mary and she is a wonderful, caring and very smart. She has and is gong above and beyond any of the lawyers I have had. She is top notch in our book
Amanda and Linda
Read more
03 Apr, 2012 by Nancy
Fantastic experience. We would highly reccommend Attorney Nichols to represent you in your surragacy process. He is extremely knowledgeable, supportive and honest.
Read more
31 Jul, 2022 by Jeanne
Without hesitation Cheryl Garrity’s work on my divorce needs to be rated 4 stars. She allayed many of concerns during my divorce and custody case. She consistently( and staff) responded to me in a timely manner.
Cheryl also handled my estate planning just as efficiently.
In addition her sense of ethics elevates her work
She is my go to attorney
Read more
25 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
I found Jessica through Avvo after I was raped on my college campus. Not only did she help to make my situation at school safer, she continuously checked in on me and recommended numerous helpful resources. These resources entirely benefitted me, she had nothing to gain from them. Jessica is extremely intelligent, empathetic, and, most importantly, great at her job. She answers emails quickly, takes the time to talk to you on the phone for as long as necessary, and is a fantastically eloquent writer. She has been such a big influence in my life, and because of her, I made the decison to be a lawyer myself and do work similar to hers. She has been a role model and a godsend for me and my family. If I could give her more than 5 stars, I would.
Read more
17 Feb, 2016 by George
When I started the process of getting a divorce, I wanted a lawyer who would both advocate for me and also keep the proceedings as civil and compassionate as possible. I am so glad that I found Joyce. From the first meeting She was honest and clear on the process, the pitfalls and the effort (both financial and emotional) that a divorce was going involve. She kept me informed and was great in dealing with my wife's very difficult and quite maddening lawyer. What I thank Joyce the most for is that when everything was over I was able to look back and honestly feel that I did a very difficult thing the right way. I am so thankful for Joyce and her advice, support and professionalism.
Read more
28 Dec, 2023 by Franklin youth hockey
31 Oct, 2023 by Jonathan cavanagh
Handled our home sale perfectly. Thanks again!
Read more
27 Oct, 2023 by Rual r
19 Dec, 2023 by Liz mccormack
27 Oct, 2022 by Jane kaiser
A very efficient law firm which enables a difficult situation to run quite smoothly. Transactions in real estate and handling wills are done very efficiently.
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Nicole was my third attorney, the one who ultimately resolved a grueling three-and-a-half-year divorce battle. She joined the case when I was deeply affected by the conflict, fully cognizant of the general disdain for lawyers and the imperfections of our legal system. My previous lawyer had become a source of fear and distrust, as I did not believe she prioritized my best interests.
I engaged Nicole to finalize an agreement that had been pending for years due to my former lawyer's lack of availability and reluctance to follow the judge's guidance. I was unable to counteract my husband's deceptions and the ongoing smoke and mirrors. Within an hour, Nicole grasped the nuances of the case like no one else had. She proposed a new perspective on an asset managed by my husband, which resulted in me receiving a slightly larger settlement, something my previous lawyer had overlooked.
For those feeling vulnerable during such a challenging time and in need of a lawyer who is both gentle and assertive, knowledgeable, up-to-date, compassionate, and brave, I wholeheartedly endorse Nicole. Although she has the qualities of an excellent therapist, it is her legal expertise that is most beneficial—she guides and educates you about the legal system, your options, and stands by your side.
.
Read more
25 Sep, 2024 by Scott
A 3-yr divorce required 4 different attorneys to have my voice heard, and Nichole was my closer. When the Judge repeats back to opposing Counsel what she said - word for word - it's a power shift not seen often. Very happy with her results and I would refer her expertise, knowledge, and insight to anyone.
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Jsenkevi
Brian is incompetent. He should go back to doing finance. He has written on his website that he serves his clients interests rather than his own; however, he serves his own interests and then some. It is important for a lawyer and his/her client to have a strategy and not to have swirling drama, especially when the lawyer is representing the father as the father doesn't have the same privileges as the mother with the Boston courts. Brian had no strategy and provided no case law; but rather just his opinion. He took hours to review documents which should have taken 1/10th as long. He even charged me for withdrawing as my attorney. $3500 retainer at $350/hr resulted in no action items. If you want to waste your time and money Brian is a good choice. The bar is low with him.
Read more
01 Aug, 2024 by Edward devolve
It's been a little over a month since I started with the firm to
handle my case and I have heard from them once asking for a little information, so I assume things are going ok, I'll let you know if anything changes,
Read more
31 Jul, 2024 by Richard mcnair
Complicated real estate transaction based on an estate sale initially the firm recommended I do appointment as personal representative myself which saved over $3,000. The rest of the process was handled efficiently.
Read more
19 Jun, 2024 by Maria arvi
We are very grateful to have requested Chris services. We were dealing with a mediocre attorney and awful real state agent and Chris helped us to figure it out the whole issue. If we had met him before we would have hired him, now we know he will represent us in the future.
Read more
25 May, 2024 by Diethard unterweger
Just completed our estate plan and were extremely impressed with Ashley and staff for their knowledge, professionalism and thoroughness. Overall a great experience for a complicated job.
Read more
18 Apr, 2024 by Jim cote
17 Dec, 2016 by Amanda ellason
He wasn't my lawyer but he still gave me pretty good advice and looked out for me when he didn't have to. He also answered my questions very quickly. If I lived in his area I would probably hire him.
Read more
26 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Mike's help was crucial it getting our family through a difficult time. We had a case opened at DCF--an organization that has broad administrative powers and little oversight--during a difficult time for my son. Another lawyer told me there was nothing I could do except follow DCF's requests. Mike was much more helpful. He told us all of our options and the associated risks. We worked out a plan going forward, and he implemented it to perfection: today we are free and clear of DCF involvement. This has been an enormous relief to my son who is suffering from anxiety, as well as my wife and me. I am glad we found Mike; I would recommend him to anyone in a similar position.
Read more
19 Jan, 2016 by Andreea
Mike was referred by a friend. From the beginning he was very compassionate and caring and understood my case. I can't even describe the scary moments when you get the DSS/DCF call.
That is nothing compared to the thorough interview they complete. You will feel like you have no privacy whatsoever. You will feel that your kids can be taken away any minute, for the most stupid and simple reason ever, reported by people that don't even know you. Well, throughout the whole DCF in-person interaction, I always felt safe when Mike was around because I knew I had someone that believed in me and was there to protect my family.
I wish no real parent in this world goes through those moments but if you see yourself there, I would not even make a call to DCF without hiring Mike!
Read more
23 Jul, 2024 by Alexis c.
My husband and I had an incredible experience working with Matt when we bought our house and sold our condo. He was deeply knowledgeable in all facets of the process, helped us through a variety of hurdles we ran into along the way with patience and understanding, and was unfailingly kind throughout the entire experience. Should we ever choose to buy or sell again we would reach out to him in a heartbeat, and we recommend him and his firm without reservation.
Read more
22 Dec, 2022 by Rachael f-n
Matt Rando was an amazing resource in my first time home-buying experience. He was friendly, thorough, and non-judgemental. Highly HIGHLY recommend working with Matt.
Read more
12 Oct, 2022 by Renee hoekstra
I used Matt to purchase my home and the process was straightforward, succinct, formal, and timely.
Read more
03 Sep, 2024 by Michael norwood
Attry Angela Cavanaugh is extremely professional under the truncated timetable delivered extraordinary testimony with literally less than 24 hours given unfortunate circumstances for me to provide evidence and that amount of time. Her testimony and cross-examination was something you could write a book about literally. If you ever have a scenario we'll get an unfortunate mess, you cannot go wrong with this law firm as a whole and or attorney Cavanaugh. Thanks
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Max lafrance
Attorney griffis saw my case through from the begining to the end with the upmost professionalism. I am truly greatful I hired him as my lawyer and will do so for any of my legal needs. He and his team routed for me throughout my entire recovery process. Highly recomend him
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Bryan
Darren Griffis is an extremely knowledgeable and capable attorney. He is always there for his clients. He never promises you anything but always delivers. He gives great advice and puts you at ease. He gave me a new lease on life with the dismissal of my case, and I can't thank him enough. If you're ever in need of a lawyer who cares about his clients, look no further, Darren Griffis is your man he will always do his best.!
Read more
25 May, 2024 by S y
I have known Ed as as a colleague, friend, and personal counsel for over 20 years.
Ed has thorough knowledge of the law and with his expertise and creativity, he knows how to come up with an innovative solution. He is an attorney other attorneys hire for their own matters.
Read more
28 Feb, 2024 by Erxat mmt
Mr.Hung, my attorney, exemplified a remarkable commitment to his work, demonstrating a strong sense of responsibility and meticulous attention to detail. In less than two years, I achieved the successful acquisition of the necessary documents. I am genuinely pleased with his professionalism and the effective manner in which he managed my case.
Read more
30 Jan, 2024 by Adrian stafford-browne
Mr. Hung was readily available as a consultant to provide insight into my situation regarding a transfer of deed. He was thorough in reviewing the details and provided alternative options to make the best decision for my family and I. Based on his advice a positive outcome was achieved in a matter of days. I would definitely recommend him based on his professionalism and responsiveness.
Read more
25 Sep, 2023 by Kelly jenkins
Deb was fantastic to work with: prompt with her reply, genuine in her concern for my situation, very clear and helpful in explaining the law and options I needed to know about. I highly recommend her to anyone looking for a kind, professional, knowledgable attorney to help with your real estate legal needs.
Read more
13 Sep, 2023 by Joshua herzig-marx
We're so lucky to have found Debbie Danger and Danger Law. She did a great job for us and we've recommended her to friends and family.
Read more
29 Jun, 2023 by Izzy maxwell
Came highly recommend but my experience was not good.
Read more
28 Jul, 2023 by Dean crosby
Tracey has been an excellent lawyer. She helped our family navigate a difficult estate settlement, she was always there to answer questions and solve problems. We couldn't have done it without her. I highly recommend Tracey and her staff for any legal matters. They did a great job!
Read more
25 May, 2023 by David cancian
24 Aug, 2022 by Fulanito de tal.
💩💩💩💩💩💩💩💩
Read more
09 Apr, 2024 by Akihiro kanamori
I was represented by Jill Brofsky of this firm through a years long
divorce proceedings that involved many layers of financial discovery and ultimately went to trial. The judgment was very favorable to me, in a way that I did not anticipate when my now-former wife first petitioned for divorce.
When I first approached Jill to represent me, she upon initial consultation informed me of unforeseen favorable possibilities for settlement. Over years of discovery, depositions, motions,
and finally, a long trial, Jill brought to bear her expertise with
divorce law and the intricacies of financial settlement. Ever astute and sharp in her approach, her decisions as to what is
best to do proved right, and in fact, put my situation in a more and more favorable light. Although the entire process proved
tortuous and meandering (often because the various maneuvers that the other side attempted), I was very pleased with the outcome.
With respect to the wider firm, first, Jill brought in her
firm partner Amy Green to be present at parts of the trial and in fact to advocate my side from time to time. Through the many depositions, interrogatories, and motions, Aly Werth and Mary Bussell were very forthcoming with logistic support with
respect to the documents and exhibits to be worked out.
I felt that I was in good, competent hands, and that the wider firm was working in concert on behalf.
Read more
21 Nov, 2023 by Nic matzen
21 Mar, 2023 by Sue fertig
I'm so appreciative of the legal support I received from Jill Brofsky and associates in dealing with a recent post-divorce financial issue. Not only was Jill legally astute and exceptionally well prepared when we went to trial, she was empathetic. I felt like I had a friend beside me in court and not just legal representation. I wouldn't hesitate to refer anyone to her.
Read more
05 Dec, 2022 by David lyons
There is nobody better!!!
Read more
17 Aug, 2022 by Dawn
I have used Attorney Twombly Lee multiple times to enforce my grandparent rights. Each time he got me exactly what I asked for. He explained everything to me so I understood exactly what would happen. He is more than reasonably priced and truly fights for his clients! I highly recommend him to anyone who needs a probate lawyer
Read more
19 Mar, 2022 by Brian
I came to Mark with a challenging and contentious child custody case. He handled both sides with professionalism using his years of experience to facilitate an end, which was fair and honest to both sides. His expertise showed from day one in and outside of the courtroom. I would highly recommend him for any child custody case
Read more
25 Jul, 2024 by Todd parker
On 23 July 2024 Luke Ryan stated that hundreds of thousands of deaths occure every year at the hands of police. This is an absolute lie and is inflammatory. I agree that unarmed deaths should never happen, but to lie about the number by hundreds of thousands is disgusting. Please don't lie about the facts!!!!!
Read more
28 Jun, 2023 by Jonathon wintle
12 May, 2023 by Gabriella deluca
Never got back to us
Read more
10 Oct, 2023 by Zlatinka gougoumanova
26 Sep, 2023 by Denise olivares-molina
23 Oct, 2021 by Diane buonanduci
Andrew knows Elder law. He helped me with my mother's estate as well as ours. I would go to him with anything that I need help with. He gets the job done and more. Everyone is very helpful.
Read more
Browse lawyers
Cities in Massachusetts - Find a Lawyer Near Me
-
Boston
-
Cambridge
-
Worcester
-
Springfield
-
Quincy
-
Waltham
-
Newton
-
Framingham
-
Salem
-
Wellesley
-
Woburn
-
Braintree
-
Andover
-
New Bedford
-
Fall River
-
Lowell
-
Brookline
-
North Andover
-
Brockton
-
Needham
-
Burlington
-
Hingham
-
Beverly
-
Natick
-
Northampton
-
Lexington
-
Milton
-
Concord
-
Pittsfield
-
Westborough
-
Dedham
-
Plymouth
-
Marlborough
-
Wakefield
-
Haverhill
-
Canton
-
Hyannis
-
Chelmsford
-
Lynn
-
Taunton
-
Norwood
-
Peabody
-
DANVERS
-
Somerville
-
Wellesley Hills
-
Arlington
-
Westwood
-
Winchester
-
Lynnfield
-
Medford
-
Watertown
-
Charlestown
-
Leominster
-
Lawrence
-
Malden
-
Newburyport
-
Acton
-
Attleboro
-
Southborough
-
Stoneham
-
Norwell
-
Franklin
-
Methuen
-
Sudbury
-
Holyoke
-
Gloucester
-
Melrose
-
Amherst
-
Belmont
-
Stoughton
-
Hanover
-
Marblehead
-
Bridgewater
-
Jamaica Plain
-
Walpole
-
Saugus
-
Chestnut Hill
-
Falmouth
-
Mansfield
-
Reading
-
Scituate
-
West Roxbury
-
Mashpee
-
NEWTON CENTER
-
Westford
-
Sharon
-
South Easton
-
Bedford
Browse lawyers
Practice Areas in Massachusetts
-
Business
-
Real Estate
-
Litigation
-
Personal Injury
-
Family Law
-
Criminal Defense
-
Estate Planning
-
Intellectual Property
-
Probate
-
Government
-
Insurance
-
Consumer Protection
-
Appeals
-
Tax
-
Civil Rights
-
Immigration
-
Elder Law
-
Medical Malpractice
-
Workers Compensation
-
Mediation
-
Trusts
-
Child Custody
-
Car Accident
-
Lawsuit / Dispute
-
Bankruptcy
-
Child Support
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Discrimination
-
Class Action
-
Domestic Violence
-
Wrongful Death
-
Debt Collection
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
Juvenile Law
-
Divorce
-
Entertainment
-
Employment / Labor
-
Foreclosure
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Wrongful Termination
-
Adoption
-
Sex Crime
-
Copyright Application
-
DUI / DWI
-
Federal Crime
-
Debt Settlement
-
Landlord & Tenant
-
Construction
-
Drug Crime
-
Cannabis Law
-
Credit Repair
-
Education Law
-
Admiralty / Maritime
-
Life Insurance
-
Corporate
-
Environmental Law
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.
