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25 Feb, 2025 by Ashley windom
Daniel did fantastic work! He answered any questions we had and got us settled in 8 months! I highly recommend!
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22 Jan, 2025 by Jewell dixon
Oh my God! Never in my wildest dream did I ever think I would need a lawyer, but I am blessed to have Mr. Orlando as a friend, who was able to get Mr Scott (my lawyer) to reach out to me ASAP. Being on workman comp really blew through my savings. The firm was very interested in my case and encouraging. When the settlement finally came in, I was satisfied, but my lawyer wasn't. He said, "That's not enough for what you went through, let me see if I can get maybe 5K more for you". Well he did better than that, he got me 12K more! The check cleared and I'm hoping to never need a lawyer again, but if I do this firm will/is my only choice.
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20 Jan, 2025 by Keith nathan
The consultation with secretary/answering/paralegal was off putting. She asked questions that made no sense, Then asked why a case was put off by a solicitor for so long? That was a very huge red flag... Next when I told this assistant I wanted to do the attorney consult for $350 she starts asking me more questions? I'm assuming she misheard my request but at this point I was past wanting services with this firm. When I told her thank you but ill look elsewhere, she laughs and says "We've never lost a case". Unfortunately you lost a potential client. So 1 star.
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04 Feb, 2025 by Mario villa
I can’t thank Attorney Boyd enough for her dedication, expertise, and relentless fight for fairness. Before finding her, I had fired three previous attorneys who were essentially allowing me to get screwed. The odds were stacked against us, and we had to fight false allegations and corrupt system, but through strategic game-planning, thorough depositions, and her sharp courtroom presence, she turned the case around. She is a true advocate for fathers' rights, ensuring that the truth prevailed and that I had a fair chance in court.
Because of her efforts, I have 50/50 custody. I just spent Christmas and my son's birthday with him, something I once feared wouldn't be possible. Words can’t describe how much that means to me. From start to finish, she was prepared, confident, and relentless in defending my rights as a father. If you need a strong, knowledgeable, and results-driven attorney who truly cares, I highly recommend Attorney Boyd.
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06 Jan, 2025 by Stacy
Attorney Boyd did an excellent job with my case. She is very knowledgeable and I am very pleased with the outcome of my case.
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03 Jan, 2025 by Rob eskew
Spent thousands of dollars with this firm and got nothing but excuses and over promises. They would even cancel meetings and when I got the final bill, they’d charge me for when when they canceled the meetings. Makes no sense. Now it’s Christmas and I don’t have my daughter. I would not recommend them. Happy to share the invoice with anyone interested. Such a shame :(
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5.0
27 Reviews
4.6
68 Reviews
09 Jan, 2025 by Gloria
Ms. Torselli did an excellent job handling my divorce case and advocating for my interests. I thought this was going to be a very complicated process but she made the process very straightforward. She was able to grant what I asked for in my case. I highly recommend her
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20 Nov, 2024 by Rocio
Una persona muy capaz de desempeñar una gran defensa por luchar por la defensa de su cliente. Me enseñó a tomar decisiones firmes y a navegar una situacion que veia perdida. Yo la recomiendo para asunto legal.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Shanita
Can’t stress how incredible Paola Torselli has been from start to finish in dealing with my law case From the beginning, Ms. Torselli was extremely informative and explained the process to me as a whole and how we would go about the case. Over time, she kept me up to date and informed about where we were at in the order of things, and ultimately got the result that was a Win. Ms. Torselli was wonderful to work with and I cannot recommend her enough, thank you so much Ms. Torselli.
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06 Feb, 2025 by Dana floyd
Love them ! The best and fast and accurate
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03 Feb, 2025 by Treasure green
Great office!
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02 Feb, 2025 by Robert “kelly” brumbelow
Merritt & Merritt had one job—call back. And, to their credit, they did. On a Saturday. That alone put them ahead of the pack.
But then, the inevitable happened: they promised something and failed to deliver. No follow-up. No explanation. Just silence.
Now, a law firm not taking my case? Understandable. Not every firm is equipped for a complex civil rights case against a municipality systematically violating the rights of the poor. But when you say you will do something and do not, you have lied. And lying to a prospective client—not through malice but through sheer indifference—is a mark against your firm’s integrity.
Let’s be clear: Statutes of limitations exist. Time matters. If you waste a week of it making empty promises, you are not merely careless—you are an impediment to justice.
So, here is the verdict:
• Do what you say? 5 stars.
• Fail to follow through? 1 star.
Justice delayed is justice denied, and if you cannot be bothered to keep your word, you do not deserve a reputation for reliability. 1 star.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Glenn ford
I can’t say enough good things about Ken Lanier! From start to finish, he was exactly what I needed and more. He took the time to really understand my situation and went above and beyond to get me exactly what I was hoping for in my case. His expertise and dedication made the entire process smooth, and I always felt like I was in great hands. If you’re looking for a top-notch attorney who’s professional, trustworthy, and knows how to get results, Ken is the one you want. Absolutely the best choice I could’ve made!
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27 Sep, 2024 by Teri osabutey
The Office of Ken Lanier, LLC provided my family outstanding service during a challenging time. Offered superior legal advice and step by step guidance in plain English.
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10 Apr, 2024 by Alicia scott
18 Feb, 2025 by Courtney daniel
I just completed my trust process with Kimberly and I can honestly say that it was seamless. Kimberly is knowledgeable, personable yet professional. I came with alot of questions and Kimberly handled me with care. I highly recommend her! She knows her stuff!
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18 Feb, 2025 by Kevin moore
Mrs. Cain handled the formation of our revocable living Trust. She is thorough and explained things in a straightforward manner. I definitely recommend.
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30 Jan, 2025 by Mark darnell
BEWARE!!!!! PARENTS OF BLENDED FAMILIES DUE TO MULTIPLE MARRIAGES... DO NOT USE THIS FIRM!!!
For all those parents that have multiple marriages and want to make sure their own blood children are treated fairly through Probate STAY CLEAR of using this attorney firm.
My Dad died June 15th, Father’s Day. He was married to his 3rd wife. My Dad has two BLOOD children, myself and my brother. His 3rd wife has two daughters. My Dad’s second wife had three boys. Unfortunately, my dad’s second wife was murdered on a business trip in Mexico.
WHAT A MESS… BUT IS TYPICAL OF TODAY'S FAMILY MAKE-UP!!! You cannot imagine the emotional trauma that my brother and I experienced being raised with other families we did not know. I’ve always wondered why society does not mention the mental anguish that the original blood children are exposed to when you blend all these families together.
My Dad’s estate is large, and my brother and I had concerns on how he would handle the inheritance upon his death due to all these multiple blended families. My Dad was an executive for a large lighting company and was a very hard worker, always working. My Dad and I were very close. He worked up and until his death at 86 years old. I always asked him why he worked so hard. He laughed and stated, “building up your inheritance son”. “When I leave this earth you and Randy should never have to work.” I can at least leave you with that!
So, from time to time, I confronted my dad and asked him what happens with the estate when you die. It is very hard to ask a parent that but again this is the mental anguish the original blood children go through when they are exposed to blended families. He ALWAYS stated son upon my death contact McCurdy & Candler and speak to this specific attorney and he will guide you and your brother through the probate. Upon his death we did contact McCurdy & Candler and found that the original attorney had retired. So, they handed my dad’s probate to one of the principles of the firm.
My brother and I did get a copy of the Will and upon reviewing it found that there was nothing left for my brother and I. In speaking to the newly appointed attorney he saw that my brother and I were distraught, so he offered to advise my brother that he knew of an agreement between my Dad’s 3rd wife and my Dad about my brother and I’s inheritance.
Once we started pushing him on what this agreement was, he backed off and then decided to stop all communication with my brother and I. And now he has demanded that my stepmother, Dad’s 3rd wife, stop communicating with my brother and I regarding my dad’s probate. This attorney will not provide my dad’s own blood children with statues of this probate. His last correspondence to me with my dad’s 3rd wife copied. In part his email stated:
Mr. Darnell,
I have asked Mrs. XXXXXXX not to reply directly on matters related to the probate.
I can assure you that my dad did not hire McCurdy & Candler solely to represent his 3rd wife! WE ARE HIS BLOOD CHILDREN. My Dad is turning in his grave right now!!! How dare this firm exclude my dad’s first born and blood children through this very emotional time.
Instead of alienating his blood children this firm should be embracing the entire family and keeping all of us informed. If anyone understands probate, there is much information that must be learned to go through probate. It has now been 8 months since my dad’s death. NO PROBATE
BEWARE…PARENTS that have multiple marriages with BLENDED families DO NOT engage this firm to handle your estate and more importantly your probate. THEY WILL NOT PROTECT YOUR BLOOD CHILDREN!!!! This was not the intention of my dad or he would never have continuously asked my brother and I to contact this firm for information about this estate.
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18 Feb, 2025 by Courtney daniel
I just completed my trust process with Kimberly and I can honestly say that it was seamless. Kimberly is knowledgeable, personable yet professional. I came with alot of questions and Kimberly handled me with care. I highly recommend her! She knows her stuff!
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18 Feb, 2025 by Kevin moore
Mrs. Cain handled the formation of our revocable living Trust. She is thorough and explained things in a straightforward manner. I definitely recommend.
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02 Jan, 2025 by Vice verse
This law firm is by far the best. My lawyer was Grace Starling. Her guidance, professionalism, understanding, and hardwork was phenomenal. I was very fortunate and blessed to have her fighting in my corner. I was definitely overwhelmed, but Grace handled it all with so much poise. She worked diligently to make sure what I received was fair, and something I was satisfied with, and honestly more than what I expected. I would recommend Grace Starling, and Radford Scott Law firm to everyone. Thank you guys for making it a pleasant experience for me.
- Roshieka
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25 Feb, 2025 by Ashley windom
Daniel did fantastic work! He answered any questions we had and got us settled in 8 months! I highly recommend!
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22 Jan, 2025 by Jewell dixon
Oh my God! Never in my wildest dream did I ever think I would need a lawyer, but I am blessed to have Mr. Orlando as a friend, who was able to get Mr Scott (my lawyer) to reach out to me ASAP. Being on workman comp really blew through my savings. The firm was very interested in my case and encouraging. When the settlement finally came in, I was satisfied, but my lawyer wasn't. He said, "That's not enough for what you went through, let me see if I can get maybe 5K more for you". Well he did better than that, he got me 12K more! The check cleared and I'm hoping to never need a lawyer again, but if I do this firm will/is my only choice.
Read more
20 Jan, 2025 by Keith nathan
The consultation with secretary/answering/paralegal was off putting. She asked questions that made no sense, Then asked why a case was put off by a solicitor for so long? That was a very huge red flag... Next when I told this assistant I wanted to do the attorney consult for $350 she starts asking me more questions? I'm assuming she misheard my request but at this point I was past wanting services with this firm. When I told her thank you but ill look elsewhere, she laughs and says "We've never lost a case". Unfortunately you lost a potential client. So 1 star.
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18 Feb, 2025 by Courtney daniel
I just completed my trust process with Kimberly and I can honestly say that it was seamless. Kimberly is knowledgeable, personable yet professional. I came with alot of questions and Kimberly handled me with care. I highly recommend her! She knows her stuff!
Read more
18 Feb, 2025 by Kevin moore
Mrs. Cain handled the formation of our revocable living Trust. She is thorough and explained things in a straightforward manner. I definitely recommend.
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30 Jan, 2025 by Mark darnell
BEWARE!!!!! PARENTS OF BLENDED FAMILIES DUE TO MULTIPLE MARRIAGES... DO NOT USE THIS FIRM!!!
For all those parents that have multiple marriages and want to make sure their own blood children are treated fairly through Probate STAY CLEAR of using this attorney firm.
My Dad died June 15th, Father’s Day. He was married to his 3rd wife. My Dad has two BLOOD children, myself and my brother. His 3rd wife has two daughters. My Dad’s second wife had three boys. Unfortunately, my dad’s second wife was murdered on a business trip in Mexico.
WHAT A MESS… BUT IS TYPICAL OF TODAY'S FAMILY MAKE-UP!!! You cannot imagine the emotional trauma that my brother and I experienced being raised with other families we did not know. I’ve always wondered why society does not mention the mental anguish that the original blood children are exposed to when you blend all these families together.
My Dad’s estate is large, and my brother and I had concerns on how he would handle the inheritance upon his death due to all these multiple blended families. My Dad was an executive for a large lighting company and was a very hard worker, always working. My Dad and I were very close. He worked up and until his death at 86 years old. I always asked him why he worked so hard. He laughed and stated, “building up your inheritance son”. “When I leave this earth you and Randy should never have to work.” I can at least leave you with that!
So, from time to time, I confronted my dad and asked him what happens with the estate when you die. It is very hard to ask a parent that but again this is the mental anguish the original blood children go through when they are exposed to blended families. He ALWAYS stated son upon my death contact McCurdy & Candler and speak to this specific attorney and he will guide you and your brother through the probate. Upon his death we did contact McCurdy & Candler and found that the original attorney had retired. So, they handed my dad’s probate to one of the principles of the firm.
My brother and I did get a copy of the Will and upon reviewing it found that there was nothing left for my brother and I. In speaking to the newly appointed attorney he saw that my brother and I were distraught, so he offered to advise my brother that he knew of an agreement between my Dad’s 3rd wife and my Dad about my brother and I’s inheritance.
Once we started pushing him on what this agreement was, he backed off and then decided to stop all communication with my brother and I. And now he has demanded that my stepmother, Dad’s 3rd wife, stop communicating with my brother and I regarding my dad’s probate. This attorney will not provide my dad’s own blood children with statues of this probate. His last correspondence to me with my dad’s 3rd wife copied. In part his email stated:
Mr. Darnell,
I have asked Mrs. XXXXXXX not to reply directly on matters related to the probate.
I can assure you that my dad did not hire McCurdy & Candler solely to represent his 3rd wife! WE ARE HIS BLOOD CHILDREN. My Dad is turning in his grave right now!!! How dare this firm exclude my dad’s first born and blood children through this very emotional time.
Instead of alienating his blood children this firm should be embracing the entire family and keeping all of us informed. If anyone understands probate, there is much information that must be learned to go through probate. It has now been 8 months since my dad’s death. NO PROBATE
BEWARE…PARENTS that have multiple marriages with BLENDED families DO NOT engage this firm to handle your estate and more importantly your probate. THEY WILL NOT PROTECT YOUR BLOOD CHILDREN!!!! This was not the intention of my dad or he would never have continuously asked my brother and I to contact this firm for information about this estate.
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02 Oct, 2019 by Elizabeth
Elizabeth Marum is unmatched - with her extensive, in-depth knowledge of family law, her passion and drive to work through the tough issues, her ability to compromise when appropriate, and her compassion for families, she is a powerhouse to have on your side. Her rates are comparable to other attorneys in the area and she uses her paralegals wisely. I hired Elizabeth Marum to handle my divorce and I am very happy that I chose her to represent me.
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27 Sep, 2019 by Brad
Honestly, I wouldnt use anyone else. My experience was as great as a terrible time in my life could have been. Ms. Marum gave brilliant guidance and offered solutions that I wouldnt have thought of otherwise. She was able to get to the bottom of what I truly wanted and needed for my young son and I. There were very delicate issues dealing with addiction, but Ms. Marum was able to navigate those issues well and provided support for the fact that I wanted to give my ex every opportunity to see our son, but wanted the security of making sure that relationship was a safe and healthy one. I honestly would recommend Ms. Marum to anyone navigating a difficult or complex divorce.
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11 Apr, 2014 by Lauren
Mrs. Marum made me feel very comfortable during a difficult time in my life. The divorce process went as smoothly as possible thanks to her. I highly recommend her services for all family law issues.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Glenn ford
I can’t say enough good things about Ken Lanier! From start to finish, he was exactly what I needed and more. He took the time to really understand my situation and went above and beyond to get me exactly what I was hoping for in my case. His expertise and dedication made the entire process smooth, and I always felt like I was in great hands. If you’re looking for a top-notch attorney who’s professional, trustworthy, and knows how to get results, Ken is the one you want. Absolutely the best choice I could’ve made!
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27 Sep, 2024 by Teri osabutey
The Office of Ken Lanier, LLC provided my family outstanding service during a challenging time. Offered superior legal advice and step by step guidance in plain English.
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10 Apr, 2024 by Alicia scott
25 Feb, 2025 by Ansley riedel
Lauren Rea helped my husband and I with our estate planning. If you’re overwhelmed about the process and all of the legal jargon, let Lauren help you! She did a great job of explaining all of the decisions in plain English and is very professional. Highly recommend.
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25 Feb, 2025 by Emma domby
Lauren Rea helped do our estate planning. She helped us figure out what decisions we needed to make, was super detailed, fast and professional! Highly recommend
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03 Dec, 2024 by Melondy mcclure
I always felt well-informed thanks to your clear and timely communication. Thank you for going above and beyond to ensure my case was handled effectively! You are far better than ANY accident attorney I have dealt with previously! I will recommend you to anyone who can use your services! Thank you, Marks Law Group!
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18 Feb, 2025 by Courtney daniel
I just completed my trust process with Kimberly and I can honestly say that it was seamless. Kimberly is knowledgeable, personable yet professional. I came with alot of questions and Kimberly handled me with care. I highly recommend her! She knows her stuff!
Read more
18 Feb, 2025 by Kevin moore
Mrs. Cain handled the formation of our revocable living Trust. She is thorough and explained things in a straightforward manner. I definitely recommend.
Read more
30 Jan, 2025 by Mark darnell
BEWARE!!!!! PARENTS OF BLENDED FAMILIES DUE TO MULTIPLE MARRIAGES... DO NOT USE THIS FIRM!!!
For all those parents that have multiple marriages and want to make sure their own blood children are treated fairly through Probate STAY CLEAR of using this attorney firm.
My Dad died June 15th, Father’s Day. He was married to his 3rd wife. My Dad has two BLOOD children, myself and my brother. His 3rd wife has two daughters. My Dad’s second wife had three boys. Unfortunately, my dad’s second wife was murdered on a business trip in Mexico.
WHAT A MESS… BUT IS TYPICAL OF TODAY'S FAMILY MAKE-UP!!! You cannot imagine the emotional trauma that my brother and I experienced being raised with other families we did not know. I’ve always wondered why society does not mention the mental anguish that the original blood children are exposed to when you blend all these families together.
My Dad’s estate is large, and my brother and I had concerns on how he would handle the inheritance upon his death due to all these multiple blended families. My Dad was an executive for a large lighting company and was a very hard worker, always working. My Dad and I were very close. He worked up and until his death at 86 years old. I always asked him why he worked so hard. He laughed and stated, “building up your inheritance son”. “When I leave this earth you and Randy should never have to work.” I can at least leave you with that!
So, from time to time, I confronted my dad and asked him what happens with the estate when you die. It is very hard to ask a parent that but again this is the mental anguish the original blood children go through when they are exposed to blended families. He ALWAYS stated son upon my death contact McCurdy & Candler and speak to this specific attorney and he will guide you and your brother through the probate. Upon his death we did contact McCurdy & Candler and found that the original attorney had retired. So, they handed my dad’s probate to one of the principles of the firm.
My brother and I did get a copy of the Will and upon reviewing it found that there was nothing left for my brother and I. In speaking to the newly appointed attorney he saw that my brother and I were distraught, so he offered to advise my brother that he knew of an agreement between my Dad’s 3rd wife and my Dad about my brother and I’s inheritance.
Once we started pushing him on what this agreement was, he backed off and then decided to stop all communication with my brother and I. And now he has demanded that my stepmother, Dad’s 3rd wife, stop communicating with my brother and I regarding my dad’s probate. This attorney will not provide my dad’s own blood children with statues of this probate. His last correspondence to me with my dad’s 3rd wife copied. In part his email stated:
Mr. Darnell,
I have asked Mrs. XXXXXXX not to reply directly on matters related to the probate.
I can assure you that my dad did not hire McCurdy & Candler solely to represent his 3rd wife! WE ARE HIS BLOOD CHILDREN. My Dad is turning in his grave right now!!! How dare this firm exclude my dad’s first born and blood children through this very emotional time.
Instead of alienating his blood children this firm should be embracing the entire family and keeping all of us informed. If anyone understands probate, there is much information that must be learned to go through probate. It has now been 8 months since my dad’s death. NO PROBATE
BEWARE…PARENTS that have multiple marriages with BLENDED families DO NOT engage this firm to handle your estate and more importantly your probate. THEY WILL NOT PROTECT YOUR BLOOD CHILDREN!!!! This was not the intention of my dad or he would never have continuously asked my brother and I to contact this firm for information about this estate.
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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.
