Lawyers map
>24
experienced lawyers
Filter by
12 Aug, 2024 by Damon
I was referred to John by a co-worker, and after my initial consultation I knew he was the attorney for the job. John is a fantastic lawyer who is extremely knowledgeable, and communicated every step of the process to keep myself prepared for what was ahead. I felt that my problems were now his problems. He was able to get my kids out of the awful living situation they were in while living in another state and into my custody when the services in that state failed to ensure my kid’s safety. He was relentless when the other party thought they could weasel their way out of the situation. He is no nonsense and to the point, and you will truly believe he is out for your best interest in both the situation and financially. I am so thankful for John, and would recommend him to anyone who is looking for an attorney to represent them.
Read more
16 Mar, 2024 by Jeff
I hired John to represent me in my divorce. He responds quick and is a great communicator. He bills extremely fair for his high quality of work. Would highly recommend John as a attorney.
Read more
08 Sep, 2022 by Rob
I have entrusted John with the security and future of my Children and Family through three separate custody battles. I have also hired John for other area's of his practice and he has come through for me time and time again. When you are faced with situations that can be completely life changing and you are overwhelmed with the process, feel very helpless and it's such a great feeling to have someone who you can come to that will step right in front of you and take the fight head on. John is passionate about what he does, has an unsurpassed skill-set and knowledge of how to help you accomplish your goals. If you meet and explain to John what you are facing or needing he will tell you immediately if it is something within his area of practice and if he tells you he will go to work for you then you can relax knowing that you have just hired the big dog in the fight. One thing to consider when choosing an attorney is that if you go to someone else you may end up facing him on the other side and that wouldn't be good for you. If you approach John and you are not honest or are asking for something unreasonable or if you're trying to get him to bully someone he will simply tell you he can't work with you. John takes his work seriously, has a respect and reverence for the law and will work to get you the absolute best outcome he can. It's a great feeling to be able to walk out of his office and immediately have a buffer between you and whoever may be attacking you. In my life I try to avoid conflict and confrontation but John actually likes it. He will go straight to the source of the problem and turn the tables immediately. It may sound like an easy way out, but the fact is that I consider John somewhat of my "hired gun". Bottom line, you pay him money, he takes your problems and makes them his. I have several times had this experience with him and will return to him any time I find myself in need of his services.
Read more
13 Mar, 2024 by Valerie
Patrick Crawley was already busy enough when I called looking for a divorce attorney after another had me wait for five weeks and emailed they wouldn’t take my case. I had lost valuable time. Patrick said he would be my attorney. He saved my house from being sold without my knowledge. He refused to compromise concerning a future asset. Patrick is empathetic, ethical and knowledgeable. I recommend him with confidence.
Read more
11 Jul, 2023 by Robert
Affordable service. Great overall experience, extremely knowledgeable and helpful during my time of need
Read more
09 Feb, 2022 by Douglas
Patrick and Lacey were very knowledgeable in helping me navigate through my custody issues.
They are very punctual in communications and great in negotiating the terms of my settlement with the opposing attorney.
Read more
09 Aug, 2020 by Taylor
Erin was great, she took all of the confusion out of this difficult & confusing time for me. She was always respectful of my decisions & let me know when she thought I could do better. I felt like I had a knowledgeable & kind juman being advocating for me through my divorce. She was also always so quick to get back to me when I had questions which I also very much appreciated. I would 10/10 recommend Erin to anyone seeking legal help!
Read more
20 Apr, 2019 by Tim
I had the pleasure of having Erin as my attorney through my divorce. Erin and her team were great through the process.
Erin led me through it all and was very professional, caring, passionate about her job and very good at what she does! She is very detailed and leaves no stone unturned!
I would recommend Erin to anyone at anytime. Thanks Erin and your team for doing a great job for me and getting me through this!
Read more
22 Mar, 2019 by Christopher
Very professional and extremely thorough. All matters responded to in a very timely manner. Would 100% recommend.
Read more
04 Jun, 2018 by Casey
I really can't recommend Kelsea enough. She remained professional through some pretty frustrating and stressful litigation with my ex. Most of all I always felt confident that she was advocating for my wants and needs. Needless to say, going through a divorce is an emotional process but I knew that I had an ally through it all who kept in constant communication about every step and made sure that I felt heard and taken care of. Not only was Kelsea available for my every question, the front desk and other employees that worked with her handled my entire divorce process tactfully and with grace. If you want someone in your corner, I recommend her highly.
Read more
15 Dec, 2017 by Cathie
I am disabled, my husband left me, after 32 years, because he didn't want a disabled wife. I was a hot mess, when I came to Kelsea. She could have told me no, I had to switch to her, with only weeks to go. She took me on, and, because she's in an office with other attorneys, it's like you get all their advice. Kelsea asked others in her firm, more experienced, to make sure all our info was correct. She was fantastic, I was falling apart at the end, and, she hung in there with me, helped me make decisions, get it settled out of court. I was so scared of being sick and alone, no money to live, as I can't work. Kelsea made sure I got the settlement I needed, so I would be OK. I got served again by my ex last night, he wants to terminate my support, and, life insurance he has to keep, with myself as beneficiary. I sent Kelsea an email, and, I have no doubt, she'll do as fantastic a job as before!
Read more
30 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Working with Kelsea and her firm through a custody case was an exceptional experience through a very hard time. From the first phone call, Kelsea really listened to the situation where other lawyers simply dismissed us. She jumped right into a complex and time-sensitive situation. Kelsea was responsive, thorough and insightful throughout a very long process. She not only knew the case, the law and the judge, she really got to know us and argued eloquently and tirelessly for our needs and priorities. When the judge threw curve balls in chambers, Kelsea hit home runs every time. The whole team at the firm supported each other well and were all incredibly helpful and friendly. We could not recommend Kelsea more highly.
Read more
17 Mar, 2016 by Carrie henson
I have used Ralph for several civil cases where I was seeking damages. I was very pleased by Ralphs results and professionalism and his ability to communicate on a personal level . Some lawyers spend very little time learning about there client or actually hearing what a client says but not Ralph . He communicated effectively and always made sure I had a good understanding of what my choices were . He refused to settle for what seemed like a good amount but informed me that he believed I needed and deserved better for my long term effects of my damages . He was right and I felt well informed and confident in how my case ended up . I would recommend Ralph to anyone who wants a positive outcome with there case.
Read more
23 Feb, 2016 by Victim information
I had a wonderful experience with Ralph Bradley and his office support staff. I found Ralph to be one of the most insightful competent accurate trial lawyers in practice. His attention to details ensured my cases had the best outcome. He always had time to explain the process thoroughly. I would recommend anyone facing possible litigation to contact this brilliant man and professional first before settling for anything less. He is a honor to his profession
Read more
16 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Beth is an incredible attorney that worked hard for me. She really helped me understand the process and was always quick to answer my questions. She was great! I would recommend her to any of my close friends and family.
Read more
19 May, 2013 by Wendy
I think Mr Baldwin is an excellent lawyer! I feel like I can trust him! His team responds in record time. I would recommend him to EVERYONE!
Read more
23 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Jordan is amazing at what he does. He's very cool headed and does a great job removing emotions from the equation while focusing on the facts and presenting them in a way that will be received well in the court room. He got me through a parenting time enforcement and two separate parenting modifications over the course of my military career. He did a phenomenal job highlighting that I was a highly involved, loving and caring father in spite of my occupation creating distance between me and the kids and a very resentful ex spouse who actively tried to limit my access to our children. Each time he was able to come away with a favorable outcome. He was even able to overcome a parenting time evaluators recommendation and help me win equal access parenting once my time in service ended and I was able to move back to the area. I can't thank him enough for all that he's done for my family and I highly recommend his services if you find yourself in need of them.
Read more
12 Aug, 2024 by Brian
Jordan was an all-star. His communication was stellar. He was very clear and explained everything in terms a non attorney could understand. He got me the best possible outcome for my situation. I highly recommend Jordan Becket.
Read more
5.0
8 Reviews
4.7
15 Reviews
27 Feb, 2023 by Michael niedzwiadek
Great person! Played sax at the show wouls love to play more:)
Read more
27 Nov, 2021 by James
Chelsea and her staff are second to none. Compassionate, tough, knowledgeable and they care about you as a person. Chelsea and her staff worked very hard for me and my case. Advised me on what was happening each step of the way and weren’t afraid to let me know if they thought I was making an emotionally charged decision or one that was in my best interest. In the end, they got me out of a very difficult situation to my advantage in the long term, all while dealing with a less than cooperative opposing side. I’ve heard from other attorneys in Eugene that Chelsea is truly the best and I couldn’t agree more. Please consider her and her team for their services.
Read more
11 Jun, 2020 by Andrew snodgrass (andrew sweets)
I've know Bryan for years. Very professional and Helpful. He recently helped me in a time of need when I ddnt know where else to turn. He's honest and true to the point and there when you need him.
Read more
14 Aug, 2024 by Chas c
Amazing experience from start to finish, excellent communication throughout . Would highly recommend.
Read more
18 Jul, 2024 by Christina christiansen-hedge
Very responsive, friendly, and professional. Clearly explained important information and answered all our questions for my Dad’s probate. Reasonable rates. Made things as easy as possible to complete and understand, which was much appreciated. Would definitely recommend to anybody needing legal services related to probate in Oregon! Zach and Sam are awesome.
Read more
06 Jul, 2024 by Jan jones
When my brother passed away unexpectedly last August, I had no idea what to do next. I live 2800 miles from him and I had no idea what the laws in Oregon were. I contacted an attorney that was extremely busy and could not help me, but they recommended Kirk Strohman. I feel like that was truly the luckiest recommendation for me. Kirk was the best attorney for my situation for sure. He and his staff guided me through a very difficult situation with kindness, patients and empathy. I would highly recommend Kirk Strohman and his associates for anyone that needs help with settling an estate.
Read more
09 Sep, 2024 by Mamascleaningful
We had a very bad experience with Mr. Hwang. This was the only appointment we had with him. I think he is impersonal, angry, self absorbed and not patient.
What do people need when they are going through the worst of their lives? -Patience, kindness and awareness of other people’s feelings, as death can be devastating for the family and friends.
Knowledge without these traits is like getting a big enciclopedia.
Please read all the reviews that have been written about him. I did not before setting an appointment, and regretted it.
Read more
17 Jul, 2024 by Terry williams
Northwest Legal did an outstanding job putting together our somewhat complicated estate planning. Jinoo covered all the bases to make sure my husband and I, as well as our beneficiaries, are protected. I can’t say enough about the professionalism and dedication shown to us on every aspect of our estate. We and our grown children (live in a different state) are very grateful to know that when the time comes, all the legal aspects of managing our affairs have been already professionally addressed and Northwest Legal is just a phone call away should they need them. Thank you so much Jinoo and Stephanie!
David and Teresa Williams
Read more
03 Jul, 2024 by Bkat1138
Jinoo Hwang was referred to me by another lawyer who recommended him for his skills in creating a trust that was more useful for me because it was applicable in all 50 states and not just one. Jinoo's knowledge of recent changes in trust laws were invaluable in creating a trust which is inclusive of my estate but also allows me the flexibility to designate specific things to individuals in the event of my passing. The final piece that I was impressed with was the succession of trustees and the inclusion of a third party to act as the trustee in case of need. All trustees are fiduciary and charged with administering the trust in my best interest. This final piece afforded me much peace of mind. I recommend Jinoo's services in this manner.
Read more
20 Aug, 2024 by David howard
We are beyond happy with the our experience with Casey Law. We were treated with kindness, respect and professionalism. The Casey Law team immediately had us feeling less anxious and worried after our consultation. Our legal matter is now over (with the exact results we were hoping for) and we are beyond grateful for Lissa Casey and her team. And while I hope I never have to call them with a legal problem again I would in a heartbeat. And I would suggest you do the same.
Read more
11 Jun, 2024 by Christine ray
I retained Larry in 2017 for an assult 2 case. He didn't properly communicate over the phone, return phone calls or do anything he said he would, he always had an excuse for why he didn't do his job....I served 70 months due to his lack of negotiation skills. He made no effort to get me a better plea deal. I've talked to other attorneys who have told me I should have been convicted of assult 3 and served 2-3 years. Please listen and don't retain him for yourself or your family. I have met many of his clients he represented that had this same experience...fair warning!!! You don't want to serve way more time then necessary.
Read more
19 May, 2024 by Chelsey devault
20 Feb, 2019 by Haley
Bradley Litchfield is extremely competent and did everything he could to get my husband and I custody of my stepson. He was confident and made us feel that he could do what he told us he would and we felt very comfortable using his judgment. He never promised anything and always told us the downside of every option we had. He and his assistant were always helpful and available to talk for you the most part when we had issues or just needed clarification. Without him, we would have been lost. He is the best lawyer we could have asked for.
Read more
16 Nov, 2017 by Tami
If I could give 10 stars out of five, I would. I was involved in a civil case in which my 15 year old son was expected to testify. My son was very nervous about this and so was I. Brad Litchfield accepted the case and we feel so fortunate to have been in his care. I feel certain my case was not the most important matter in his caseload, but he always made me and my son feel as though it was. It was a great pleasure to meet him and to see how professionally and empathetically he handled our case. He is clearly a caring and compassionate person and was respectful to everyone involved. Importantly, I appreciate that he at all times made my son feel informed, at ease, safe, and cared for. And, of course, he won our case!
Read more
25 Aug, 2017 by Ryan thompson
Brad helped me so much through my divorce and helped me keep my mind level while doing so. I had other charges that he wasn't related to but he took it on his own to help guide me through them as well by working with my other attorney. He is a real class act, and I would recommend him to anyone!
Read more
07 Sep, 2024 by Mckenzie barckley
John is an incredible attorney. He is dedicated, punctual, professional, and aggressive. He is one of a kind. He told me to trust his process and I am so thankful for him. Not only for his work, but the reassurance and guidance. He genuinely cares and shows it. He will not give you false hope and lays everything out.
Two of the most precious things in my life were priority and he made sure my voice and problems were heard.
He is extremely well versed, direct, and no nonsense.
I highly recommend him!
Read more
13 Aug, 2024 by Damon gathright
I was referred to John by a co-worker, and after my initial consultation I knew he was the attorney for the job. John is a fantastic lawyer who is extremely knowledgeable, and communicated every step of the process to keep myself prepared for what was ahead. I felt that my problems were now his problems. He was able to get my kids out of the awful living situation they were in while living in another state and into my custody when the services in that state failed to ensure my kid’s safety. He was relentless when the other party thought they could weasel their way out of the situation. He is no nonsense and to the point, and you will truly believe he is out for your best interest in both the situation and financially. I am so thankful for John, and would recommend him to anyone who is looking for an attorney to represent them.
Read more
22 Jul, 2024 by Holland christensen
I have used Mr. Woodworth a couple of times on landlord/tenant cases. He was amazing to say the least. The only person in the world that i know that has left my husband wanting to cry when he left his office lol. He is 100% straight forward and knows the law like the back of his hand. Sadly he no longer practices Landlord Tenant Law any more cuz i could sure use him right now.
Read more
05 Apr, 2023 by Fridah
Extremely intelligent and professional. He paid attention to every little detail. My case was very complex with my ex trying to hide assets in an llc and a corporation. Marc was incredible, he was able to disentangle and simplify things. I am sure the judge thanked him as he made a very intricate case clearer for him. Mr Perrin has a lot of integrity and was very careful not to waste my time or money.
Read more
05 Feb, 2023 by Mckenzie gibson
23 Sep, 2022 by Magnificent man
My Go-To for legal issues especially concerning real estate and landlord concerns
Read more
14 Oct, 2021 by William
Jacy Arnold is the type of lawyer every client wants, and all other lawyers strive to be. Jacy Arnold has the utmost respect and admiration for her clients. I highly recommend her to others based on my experience as a client. Jacy has proven herself to be a vigorous defender of her client's rights with a passion for justice.
Additionally, Jacy displayed excellent negotiation skills in my divorce case and was a beacon of hope to me. Jacy is highly knowledgeable on the law and was very strategic with my case, which allowed me to relax and put all of my trust into her and her firm throughout my case. I was amazed at the results. She and her staff genuinely care about their clients and fight for what is important to them. Every day she is a living example of what all attorneys should be and helped instill hope within my disparaging situation. I am glad and blessed to have found such a fantastic attorney. I am eternally grateful for her service, and I strongly recommend Jacy Arnold at Arnold law.
Read more
08 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
We hired Jacy for what we would consider to be a complex case (unmarried, one night stand, father seeking custody, we had the bare minimum parenting time, etc.).
We intervierviewed several lawyers. Then we talked to Jacy. We knew within the first three minutes of our conversation, she was the one. She was thorough, honest, professional, and instantly made us feel like not only were we doing the right thing, but she was going to stand by our side start to finish. She absolutely did just that. Never were we uninformed. She returned every call, every email (even the ones where I was truly just babbling because I was scared); she was there. Her entire team was there. We felt like we were family. Her partners helped us, her assistant was nothing short of a hero. We met her husband/partner Mike. He assured us we were in the best hands, and that he would be there cheering us on. They are the epitome of Family Law in their treatment of clients, knowledge, staff. We felt like, and still do, family.
Jacy is a mom; kind, gentle, protective. And that's excacty what we felt from her. She was kind, gentle and when I say protective, I mean just that. She is fierce! She doesn't lose. She doesn't fold. She does what is right. And she protects her clients as she protects her young.
Jacy Arnold and her team (shout out to Jessica!) changed our lives. She did what we needed, and what was right. We knew she stood by us and never faltered. She told us what would happen from start to finish- and she was spot on.
She wins the battles. She wins the wars. She does this with competence, professionalism, strategy, fearlessness, and most importantly- love.
First we went for 50/50 and won. At that time Jacy thought we should have been fighting for full custody. We didn't listen. We were just too scared. Eight months later we came back. We won an emergency custody order, then we won full custody. I could tell you all the details in the case, but who cares? We won. It wasn't always easy, it wasn't fun. But we can't imagine being able to make it through this whole thing without Jacy and her team.
There's no doubt that Jacy Arnold and her team are the best you can find. She changed our lives. She can change yours.
Read more
11 Oct, 2015 by Laura
Before I learned about Jacy Arnold I discreetly started my divorce proceedings w/ an incompetent attorney who provided dreadful advice and attempted to represent me inadequately. I quickly realized this and after further inquiring, Jacy Arnold came HIGHLY recommended. She represented me reverently throughout an extremely complex & unique case that lasted nearly a year. In conclusion, Jacy surpassed my greatest expectations.
My case initially involved a standard divorce and child custody, but shortly after acquiring Jacy as my attorney criminal charges evolved with my ex-husband. He was in a heinous car accident, in a rural area, while intoxicated with our 7 year old. He never notified me and deliberately delayed seeking medical treatment for hours. My ex-husband didn't have a scratch on him but my son sustained a deep contusion down to his skull with 15 stitches internally and externally which I saw personally when I finally arrived to the ER. He was under investigation by the district attorney & child protective services, yet somehow the DA's office recently determined they didn't have sufficient cause to prosecute him, despite not having a valid license for 8+ years, (due to multiple DUIs, including a hit and run) child endangerment charges, compelling evidence, witnesses and testimonies. Furthermore, our divorce was postponed three times due to unusual circumstances and by no fault of our own, during which Jacy ensured only supervised visits for his dad until we were finally able to go to court. She then presented my case to the judge as a fearless prosecutor and provided irrefutable evidence and testimonies, perjuring my ex-husband and those who testified on his behalf. Even more awe-inspiring was witnessing her prove what the DA's office neglected to even investigate, which I personally presented to them on a silver platter. My son and I have endured such unfathomable atrocities and would not have been able to survive this horrific nightmare without having Jacy on our side. She was available when I needed her, day and night, throughout my entire case, including weekends when necessary. Jacy was extremely personable, yet professional and kept me apprised continually.
I appreciate her candor and genuine concern and compassion for my family, which also reflected from her entire team of professionals. I trust Jacy implicitly and respect her immensely. I have and will continue to refer friends and patients to her. She has changed my outlook regarding a negative preconceived notion many of us have regarding attorneys. She is NOT an attorney practicing family law for the purpose of monetary gain or fame. She genuinely cares about her clients and fought incessantly for the rights of my family and safety of my son. I trusted Jacy with what I value most in this world, my son's life and his well being. I know with his alcoholic father she will be someone we will turn to throughout his life and find great comfort knowing this. Jacy Arnold is an extraordinary attorney and her resolve to help people in need is a quality that everyone should emulate. I am confident she will fight relentlessly and valiantly for you and your family as well.
(If you'd like to contact me personally I give Jacy permission to provide potential clients w/ my contact information upon request.)
Read more
24 Mar, 2020 by Joe
Both my wife and I like Mr Palmer, very personable, straight forward, friendly. Not afraid to tell you all about his accolades and then some, but that's okay, you want to know the attorney you have is worth his salt. Some of the meeting times we had seemed redundant, like, didn't we already cover this? In some ways, I felt after we left the appointment, he set his tablet aside and forgot most of what we went over times past even though he took copious notes. Our case was simple, not heated and hateful, we knew what we wanted for outcome and actually got less than where we started. His interrogation of the ex spouse was pitiful. We had gone over some talking points that he either forgot or decided at the last minute not to use, of course once the case starts, you can't say a thing and if you try to pass him a note he pushes it away. His knowledge of courtroom procedures and family law is really very good, we just didn't like his style and the judge in our case evidently didn't either. For us, the missed outcome didn't hurt us but we could think of other cases where it could be crucial. We will not recommend against him because, like I said, he knew his stuff. Maybe just not a good day for us. If you're looking for a bulldog attorney, then you might want to consider someone else, if your looking for a gentleman attorney, then that description is more in line with his style and personality. You can't have them both.
Read more
24 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Quoted me $150/hr to take my case. Sent me an Email saying he worked ~3 hours to review my case then charged me almost $1500 to tell me he was not going to take the case based on information I gave him the first day in the consultation! This lawyer will take your money without providing any services whatsoever! Take your money elsewhere, there are plenty of lawyers who are not out to steal your money. James A Palmer should be disbarred!
Read more
17 May, 2018 by Anonymous
Jim represented me in a child custody matter. He took my case when others were frighted off. He knew his stuff. I got the outcome I was seeking. I recommend him.
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.
