Lawyers map
>22
experienced lawyers
Filter by
04 Jun, 2024 by Chrissie
Lisa Bowman did an awesome job for me. When you hire her, she will fight for you, she is on your side. She is very smart and experienced. The Best
Read more
04 Jan, 2022 by Andrew
Lisa went above and beyond for me to help prove my Innocence. As she never lost patience with me even how difficult I was for my lack of remembering court dates being on time or forgetting to call probation. She sure gave me my money's worth and then some . Highly recommend her she's a fighter and she got my case dismissed and expunged off my record thank God and Lisa Bowman!!!!
Read more
24 Aug, 2021 by Bryan
5-Stars don't do Lisa justice! Lisa literally gave me my life back 8/19/2021!!!
Read more
05 Nov, 2020 by Jessica
You won’t find a better lawyer! Sam really goes above and beyond to build a relationship with you and build your confidence which inevitably suffers when dealing with difficult legal matters. I couldn’t have gotten a better outcome from the family legal matter he helped me with, and can’t imagine anyone else could have gotten the job done so successfully!
Read more
21 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
Sam and his staff helped me in the most difficult time of my life. My daughter died and had a 3 yrs old child that I wasnt allowed to see. Him and his staff never stopped fighting for me
It was a long hard process but in the end he was able to get me visitation with my grandchild. Sam and his staff were the best. I would reccomeend Sam to anyone.
Read more
25 Jan, 2020 by Dustin
Excellent attorneys...hard workers, thorough research and communication...there for you for your justice you deserve...Thank You Covert Law Group
Read more
5.0
20 Reviews
21 Sep, 2022 by Royal
Highly recommend this entire firm! They go to bat, are honest, and care for their clients!
Read more
13 Jul, 2022 by Hannah
Tessa was wonderful to work with. She made this difficult time in our family less stressful when it came to paperwork and what choices we had.
Read more
22 Jun, 2022 by Rebecca
I worked with Charlie on two different matters, first a protective order and then later child custody. He was wonderful. He was very informative, and he has a compassionate demeanor and sense of humor that helped reduce the stress of court proceedings. I appreciate the advice he gave during negotiations for child custody and child support. I was planning to push the case to court, but on his advice I came to an agreement. I’m very happy with how things stand today, and I’ll use him again should the need arise.
Read more
04 May, 2022 by Debbie
Tracey Ciox is a Great attorney. She helped my son and his little family. She was always there to help him thru the process of getting him added to my Granddaugjter's birth certificate and her name changed. We appreciate everything she has done for our family.
Read more
05 Aug, 2021 by Trey
Tracy is hands down one of the best lawyers around. Initially, I hired her due to her impressive knowledge on divorce matters but I learned later that she is also incredibly dedicated. There was never a moment where I was left questioning the process. If I had any questions, she was very quick to respond.
Tracy handled my somewhat complicated divorce case very well through some difficult situations. I highly recommend 10/10.
Read more
14 Sep, 2020 by Linley
Not only was Tracy very attentive, but also extremely well communicated through the entire process. She went above and beyond and actually admitted to being excited to help with my case. She came to court extremely prepared and ready to get down to business. She is the most professional, caring, committed lawyer I’ve ever come across and I will absolutely be coming directly back to her In event that I find myself needing legal council again.
Read more
10 Jul, 2018 by Patricia
My son was arrested on a weekend on a mistaken identity, and Janie's first comment was "I've got this." She went to court on Monday morning, had the warrant and extradition recalled that morning, and worked non-stop to have him released in another state - all two days prior to July 4, with everyone else headed out of town. At the follow-up court hearing, all was dismissed. Janie was incredibly knowledgeable and prepared, which contributed greatly to the speed of handling the case. There are not enough stars for her.
Read more
31 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Janie is a truly wonderful attorney. She is smart, strong and will not back down from a challenge. My case was bleak. It seemed inevitable I would be convicted and subsequently go to jail and no longer be able to work in my field. She wasn't going to let that happen. She fought hard for me and saved my career! She managed to get all charges dropped and I am forever grateful to her!!
K.M.
Read more
14 Dec, 2015 by Derrick
I was arrested on November 12th 2015 in Oregon on an outstanding warrant for Probation Violation from Chattanooga, TN. I was extradited back to TN. Janie was able to get my court date set on Dec 4th instead of Jan 12. She was in constant communication with my family. She was able to get all charges dismissed and return me to my family. It was money well spent and I would suggest to you, if you find yourself on the wrong side of the law, give Janie Varnell a call.
Read more
04 Dec, 2015 by Kate
We recently had a need for an attorney and are so glad that we were referred to Kathy. She is prompt in communicating; efficient in getting the job done; effective in court. She is honest and realistic in guiding the client's expectations. We would solicit her again in the future without hesitation.
Read more
06 Apr, 2015 by Kevin
We recently had the need for an Attorney and were fortunate enough to get Kathy Rowell. She was very knowledgeable about the law and kept in contact extremely well through the whole process. We were very happy with her professionalism and ability to not only fight our case, but her determination to do what was right. We would recommend her without reserve.
Read more
01 Mar, 2014 by Vaibhav doshi
Super Nice Lawyer!
Very Accomodating, Concerned for Clients Issues and not just behind my time and my fees!
Very Professional and A very good job done for my divorce case!
Strongly recommend her!
Read more
22 Oct, 2021 by Kevin
Corrin handled my divorce. She is very responsive, usually returning my emails and calls the same day. She gave me great tips on what to ask for and what might damage my case. During the back and forth with the paperwork, Corrin went on vacation, but she got one of her associates to step in for her in case anything came up when she was not available. I wholeheartedly recommend her.
Read more
19 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Corrin has stayed on top of my court case. She has been able to find and prove the truth when it was not apparent to others. I am very pleased with her services.
Read more
27 Aug, 2016 by Brenda
We hired Mr. Thompson on a criminal case where our son was falsely arrested , where a witness lied about the conduct of my son . It seemed to us that Mr..Thompsonwas as outraged about the circumstances as we were and pursued the defense of the case with zeal , we did. It know if he did this for the money or for the fact that he was outraged by the case. When the case against our son was dismissed , we said to each other that he is worth every dollar that we spent to hire him . God bless you Mr. Thompson !
Read more
12 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
I hired Rachel for my divorce case. Calm and collective, she helped me reach exactly what I asked for in my case. She was smart in knowing when to hold, and when to push. She gave me realistic expectations always. I felt I was in good hands. Fair. I recommend this lawyer.
Read more
14 Oct, 2024 by Timothy
Mary Sullivan Moore is an outstanding criminal defense attorney, as well as a remarkable human being. I could not have been happier with the outcome of my case. I don't know how I could ever show her how much I appreciate her. I promise, you will not be disappointed!
Read more
15 Oct, 2024 by Melonie lusk
Very concise and efficient process. I highly recommend.
Read more
04 Oct, 2024 by Barbara williams
During my lengthy and difficult divorce, Lisa Conner represented me with professionalism, attention to detail and diligence. She was pleasant and patient with me at all times. I highly recommend her.
Read more
02 Oct, 2024 by Hope lovern
I DO NOT RECOMMEND this law form unless u have money to throw away !! My son paid $300 just to talk to the lawyer ON THE PHONE only to be told he would have to pay $6000 just to come in and talk and he MIGHT be able to get his daughter back . Believe me I would pay any amount for my granddaughter and so would her father but when u don’t have money like that and u paid $300 just for a phone call Ridiculous. So if u have money like that to just throw away go away ….
Read more
5.0
22 Reviews
4.3
36 Reviews
01 Jul, 2024 by Dianna sexton
Tabitha is a very nice and sweet person. She always was professional. She always treated me with kindness and Mr. Lawson thank you for taking my case and making it reasonable and affordable. I highly recommend this law firm. They are true professional .
Read more
15 Jun, 2024 by Sean
While helping Ken with an insurance matter. I asked if I could pick his brain about a current custody case in which I was involved. He listened and gave me excellent advice. Although he could not represent me because I was in a different state, he took time to listen to my story and then go into detail about what I could expect and what to plan for, how the laws work, and how and what questions to ask when hiring an attorney, What impressed me more is when I would follow up with him about insurance he would also ask me how my case was going and again give me time and advice. I have dealt with attornies in the past, and I can tell you by how he treated me, someone who could not hire him. I know that he is willing to go the extra mile when hired. He is a rare find, a strong advocate, and a tremendous resource. I highly recommend working with Ken!!
Read more
03 May, 2024 by C.j. uribe
Ken and Tabitha were top notch professionals. A small but incredibly capable law firm. I have dealt with many attorneys and law firms in several different states. Ken was genuine and thorough. He didn’t just make promises and take my case on and drag it out to collect money. He was realistic and gave me a honest legal opinion which saved me lots of time and money. It’s hard to find a legal professional who will be as honest and transparent as he is. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for superb legal representation.
Read more
5.0
20 Reviews
4.4
119 Reviews
30 Aug, 2024 by Cariena smith
If your looking for a good attorney you have found him he has many years of experience and he is very respected man people crowd in the court room just to see him in action. My family and I are forever grateful!
Read more
29 Aug, 2024 by Mark blaylock
TERRIBLE...Absolutely do not use!!!! We used for a custody case and he lost miserably. We felt like we were stuck and allowed a lot due to false hope he continued to give as a means to keep sucking in your money. Examples: we paid retainer and never knew what it went towards. Scheduled meetings and he would be 20 min or more late for and during the private meetings we had, he would take other client phone calls and discuss their case on the phone openly with us in the room. This was taking away from our allotted time of which he as always late for. The meetings would have numerous interruptions yet would still be billed for the entire hour. There was a lot of fraudulent billing for work or services not performed. Most all scheduled court hearings, he would show up to court late. Continue to put off the court dates as a means to extract additional billed hours. Charged 8 hours full bill rate for a 15 minutes in court to schedule a new court date(never know a real reason) and then wanted to sit out on the bench outside court room and smoke while talking about motorcycles. Yet, he billed for entire day fraudulently. Yes, you will be billed for his smoke breaks! He smokes a lot. Absolutely do not use this attorney! Almost a year after the case was resolved we received an additional 2800 bill from him. When questioning it was bills for made up items like the additional time spend talking on the park bench about motorcycles while he smoked. The numerous times the called us to get information that they had been provided up front in a 3 ring binder printed off and emailed. yet since they lost it, they charged again for us obtaining it. Numerous items such as this. Never once received a statement or breakdown of anything even though it was asked for several times. I denied the 2800 additional fraudulent charges. Never heard anything for a year and a collections company called. I explained and denied the charges with them and contacted Meeks office again to dispute the charges. Again they agreed to discontinue the charges. 6 months later I was served a week before a scheduled court hearing over the charges. I contacted the courts and asked to reschedule due to preplanned work trip the week of the hearing. I was directed to reschedule with Meeks office since they requested the date and hearing. I contracted them and explained the business trip for my work and had proof of it. They gave new proposed court date and would reschedule it so we could have it heard. They did not do as we agreed and had the case heard while I was on work trip anyway getting a judgement against me due to default. This attorney is crooked and will only steal your money. As far as my case was concerned. He told of all these wonderful things he could make happen in court and when it came down to it. Absolutely, did NOT deliver on anything. Actually cost me all these wasted attorney fees on top of dragging out the case a year longer then he should have. It was a custody case and this Attorney got his Butt handed to him in court. Absolutely terrible attorney and as a business, they are liars and fraudulent in their billing. You must Have a written contract and record ever single occurrence with this legal team. Yes, its a family affair. Choose a different attorney to represent you by all means. You will be money ahead and thankful. This attorney was never prepared and was blind sided ever step of the way as a result. Which will only cost you in the end. He IS going to charge you for all his mistakes and all his breaks. You will pay for his motorcycles and his daughters working for him. Choose wisely- choose someone else. This is my experience with Mr. Meeks and his team. Hope it helps others not fall victim.
Read more
24 May, 2024 by Brooke banks
30 Aug, 2024 by Cariena smith
If your looking for a good attorney you have found him he has many years of experience and he is very respected man people crowd in the court room just to see him in action. My family and I are forever grateful!
Read more
29 Aug, 2024 by Mark blaylock
TERRIBLE...Absolutely do not use!!!! We used for a custody case and he lost miserably. We felt like we were stuck and allowed a lot due to false hope he continued to give as a means to keep sucking in your money. Examples: we paid retainer and never knew what it went towards. Scheduled meetings and he would be 20 min or more late for and during the private meetings we had, he would take other client phone calls and discuss their case on the phone openly with us in the room. This was taking away from our allotted time of which he as always late for. The meetings would have numerous interruptions yet would still be billed for the entire hour. There was a lot of fraudulent billing for work or services not performed. Most all scheduled court hearings, he would show up to court late. Continue to put off the court dates as a means to extract additional billed hours. Charged 8 hours full bill rate for a 15 minutes in court to schedule a new court date(never know a real reason) and then wanted to sit out on the bench outside court room and smoke while talking about motorcycles. Yet, he billed for entire day fraudulently. Yes, you will be billed for his smoke breaks! He smokes a lot. Absolutely do not use this attorney! Almost a year after the case was resolved we received an additional 2800 bill from him. When questioning it was bills for made up items like the additional time spend talking on the park bench about motorcycles while he smoked. The numerous times the called us to get information that they had been provided up front in a 3 ring binder printed off and emailed. yet since they lost it, they charged again for us obtaining it. Numerous items such as this. Never once received a statement or breakdown of anything even though it was asked for several times. I denied the 2800 additional fraudulent charges. Never heard anything for a year and a collections company called. I explained and denied the charges with them and contacted Meeks office again to dispute the charges. Again they agreed to discontinue the charges. 6 months later I was served a week before a scheduled court hearing over the charges. I contacted the courts and asked to reschedule due to preplanned work trip the week of the hearing. I was directed to reschedule with Meeks office since they requested the date and hearing. I contracted them and explained the business trip for my work and had proof of it. They gave new proposed court date and would reschedule it so we could have it heard. They did not do as we agreed and had the case heard while I was on work trip anyway getting a judgement against me due to default. This attorney is crooked and will only steal your money. As far as my case was concerned. He told of all these wonderful things he could make happen in court and when it came down to it. Absolutely, did NOT deliver on anything. Actually cost me all these wasted attorney fees on top of dragging out the case a year longer then he should have. It was a custody case and this Attorney got his Butt handed to him in court. Absolutely terrible attorney and as a business, they are liars and fraudulent in their billing. You must Have a written contract and record ever single occurrence with this legal team. Yes, its a family affair. Choose a different attorney to represent you by all means. You will be money ahead and thankful. This attorney was never prepared and was blind sided ever step of the way as a result. Which will only cost you in the end. He IS going to charge you for all his mistakes and all his breaks. You will pay for his motorcycles and his daughters working for him. Choose wisely- choose someone else. This is my experience with Mr. Meeks and his team. Hope it helps others not fall victim.
Read more
24 May, 2024 by Brooke banks
23 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
Megan protected me and my children throughout an incredibly difficult domestic assault situation and subsequent divorce. She knows the legal system on both the civil and criminal side, and is unafraid to take on cases involving dv. Her recommendations were spot on, and she listened to my concerns and input throughout the entire process without judgment. I highly recommend her for anyone needing a strong, intelligent, and caring attorney.
Read more
21 Dec, 2021 by Leigh ann
I can’t say enough wonderful things about Megan! She has been my attorney for 8 years and has handled everything (from my divorce to visitation issues and child support collection) quickly and to my satisfaction. She is professional, straight-forward and knowledgeable; she definitely knows her stuff and even helped me stay level-headed (and drama-free) during a terrible time. She won’t tell you something just because it’s what you want to hear - she is straight-forward and I whole-heartedly appreciate her honesty with me from day one! She’s not someone I’d want to go up against in the courtroom!
Read more
14 Sep, 2021 by Armando
She’s an amazing attorney I will recommend her she’s a very honest attorney I’m so glad that I hired her she helps me to get full custody of my daughter
She really knows what she is doing
Read more
06 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Ms. Larkins was more concerned with my financial plans and her obsession with diet soda during divorce proceedings than the safety of my self and children from an abusive ex. She was my retained, hired, then released due to her incompetence.
Read more
19 Jan, 2022 by Jay
This is not an easy job, nobody wants an attorney, very professional and aware of my time. I always felt Angela was well prepared and on my side. I have and will recommend Angela to my friends.
Read more
09 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Angela was an outstanding lawyer and worked very hard to make sure that my case was a success. She was professional and personal and kept me informed throughout my case. I would recommend Angela for anyone who wants a fair and positive experience when dealing with legal matters that are dear to the heart. The staff was great to work with and made me feel at ease during this stressful time in my life.
Read more
19 Sep, 2016 by Leigh ou
David answered an obscure legal question for me pertaining to something that happened to me at a U.S. Consulate in Europe. He managed to find law relevant to my case, and he proposed a solution for me. David found the answer to my question quickly and easily.
Read more
17 Aug, 2016 by Heather
My husband and I hired David for a custody dispute over my nephew. He was always kind, answered our questions appropriately, returned calls promptly and explained the complicated juvenile court system to us. I recommend him to all my friends in need of representation. Our case hasn't always gone as we would have liked but not because of David. He has been wonderful to work with and we wouldn't go elsewhere.
Read more
17 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
I've not hired Mr. Veazey myself, but am fam illiar with him through the Occupy Chattanooga lawsuit. Not being one of the main organizers, I was not personally his client. However, Mr. Veazey was clearly a capable attorney who fought for a client with whom the public in Chattanooga had little sympathy.
Later when I thought I needed an attorney, I consulted Mr. Veazey who could have taken my case and charged me quite a bit of money. Instead he directed me to a not-for-profit who would assist me in filing a complaint via a regulatory agency and gave me the name of a more specialized firm to consult if that process was unsuccessful.
If I ever need a lawyer again, he will be my first call.
Read more
19 Oct, 2023 by Dee farris
04 Oct, 2023 by Travis hudson
Please take my advice and stay away! Yes emails are $58 a pop. Yes they charge you $290-$330 per hour. Yes you have to deposit at least $1250-$1800 in retainer fees. Yes you do have to put $5000 in your retainer at court. No I was not happy with the outcome for $20,450.... that's right $20,450! Not for men for them! I wish I could charge them $100 per letter in this review.
Read more
07 Aug, 2023 by C w george
I guess business is good. I'm on a waiting list for nothing more than a consultation
Read more
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 a Child Custody Lawyer Can Do for You
A child custody lawyer specializes in helping parents navigate legal matters related to the custody and care of their children, particularly in the context of divorce, separation, or other family disputes. These lawyers assist with determining custody arrangements, drafting parenting plans, and advocating for your rights in court. They also help resolve disputes over physical custody (where the child lives), legal custody (who makes decisions for the child), visitation rights, and modifications to existing custody orders.
Whether you're going through a divorce or need to change an existing custody arrangement, a child custody lawyer can help you understand your rights and protect your child's best interests throughout the legal process.
When Should I Hire a Child Custody Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a child custody lawyer in several situations, especially when disputes arise or complex legal issues affect your parental rights. Some common reasons to hire a child custody lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: If you're going through a divorce or separation and need to establish custody and visitation arrangements, a lawyer can help ensure the custody order reflects your child's best interests.
- Disputed custody cases: If you and the other parent cannot agree on custody or visitation terms, a lawyer can advocate for your rights in court and help you develop a strong case.
- Modification of custody orders: If you need to change an existing custody arrangement due to changes in circumstances (e.g., relocation, changes in the child’s needs), a lawyer can help file a modification request.
- Parental alienation: If the other parent is interfering with your relationship with your child, a lawyer can help address these issues through legal action.
- Domestic violence or abuse: If there is a history of domestic violence or abuse, a lawyer can help protect you and your child by requesting restraining orders and advocating for appropriate custody arrangements.
- Grandparent or third-party custody: If you are a grandparent or another relative seeking custody or visitation rights, a lawyer can guide you through the legal process.
- Paternity disputes: In cases where paternity is in question, a lawyer can assist with establishing or challenging paternity, which may affect custody and visitation rights.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process can help protect your parental rights and ensure that the custody arrangement is in your child's best interests.
What Does a Child Custody Lawyer Do?
A child custody lawyer provides a variety of legal services to help parents resolve custody disputes and secure favorable custody arrangements for their children. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing custody petitions: Helping you file the necessary paperwork to request custody or visitation rights and ensuring all legal procedures are followed.
- Negotiating custody agreements: Assisting in negotiating custody and visitation arrangements, often working toward a mutually beneficial parenting plan without going to court.
- Representing you in court: If you and the other parent cannot agree on custody terms, representing you in court by presenting evidence and making legal arguments to support your case.
- Drafting parenting plans: Helping you draft a comprehensive parenting plan that outlines the schedule for physical custody, decision-making responsibilities, and visitation.
- Handling child support issues: Assisting with related issues such as child support, ensuring that financial obligations are properly calculated and enforced.
- Modifying custody orders: Helping you request a modification from the court if you need to change an existing custody arrangement due to significant life changes.
- Mediating custody disputes: Acting as a mediator to help both parents reach an agreement on custody and visitation without the need for litigation.
How Are Child Custody Lawyers Paid?
Child custody lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case, the time involved, and the nature of the legal work. Common payment methods include:
- Hourly rate: Most child custody lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer's experience and location. The total cost depends on the time spent preparing documents, negotiating, and representing you in court.
- Flat fee: For simple custody matters or uncontested custody agreements, some lawyers may offer a flat fee for specific services, such as drafting a parenting plan or filing a custody petition.
- Retainer: Many lawyers require an upfront retainer fee, which is billed against as the lawyer works on your case. The amount varies based on the expected complexity and duration of the case.
- Sliding scale or pro bono services: Some lawyers may offer reduced fees or pro bono (free) services for clients with limited financial means, particularly in cases involving domestic violence or other serious issues.
It’s important to discuss fees and payment arrangements with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand how much you will be charged and what services are included.
How Much Does a Child Custody Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a child custody lawyer depends on various factors, including the complexity of the case, whether it’s contested or uncontested, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost estimates include:
- Uncontested custody cases: Legal fees may range from $1,500 to $5,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the paperwork and any negotiations.
- Contested custody cases: Legal fees can range from $5,000 to $40,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the issues, the need for expert testimony, and the time spent in litigation.
- Hourly rates: Lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, with higher rates for more experienced attorneys or complex custody disputes.
- Mediation services: If both parents agree to work through mediation, costs typically range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more for the mediation process.
Always ask for a clear cost estimate during your consultation to ensure that you understand the total legal fees and payment structure.
Top Questions to Ask a Child Custody Lawyer
Before hiring a child custody lawyer, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure they are the best fit for your case. Some key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with child custody cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, especially if your case involves complex issues like domestic violence, relocation, or paternity disputes. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, offers flat fees for certain services, or requires a retainer, and ask for an estimate of the total cost. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask for an honest assessment of your case, including potential challenges and expected outcomes. -
How long will the process take?
Inquire about the expected timeline from filing the petition to reaching an agreement or going to trial. -
Will you personally handle my case?
Ensure you know who will be managing your case and representing you in court. -
Can we pursue mediation or alternative dispute resolution?
Ask whether the lawyer recommends mediation or other forms of dispute resolution to avoid a lengthy court battle.
How to Check the Credibility of a Child Custody Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable child custody lawyer, follow these 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 and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for family law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in family law and child custody cases.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to gauge the lawyer’s professionalism and success in child custody matters.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on custody cases.
- Check for certifications: Look for lawyers who are board-certified in family law or have memberships in organizations like the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) or local family law sections.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a child custody lawyer, come prepared with relevant documents and information:
- Court orders or existing custody agreements: Bring copies of any existing custody or visitation orders for the lawyer to review.
- Communication with the other parent: Provide copies of emails, texts, or letters regarding custody, visitation, or disputes.
- List of your child’s needs: Prepare a list of your child’s specific needs, such as medical care, education, and extracurricular activities.
- Timeline of the case: Outline key events related to your custody case, including changes in living situations or parental involvement.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions about the custody process, legal fees, and the lawyer’s strategy for your case.
By being well-prepared, you can help the lawyer assess your situation effectively and receive the best possible advice for protecting your rights and your child’s well-being.
