Lawyers map
>21
experienced lawyers
Filter by
01 Aug, 2024 by Dan
Attorney Kathleen Scelfo was extremely knowledgeable,understanding, compassionate, and very supportive to my situation. She has tons of experience and it shows during the litigation process. I would highly recommend Kathleen to anyone looking for a quality top notch personable attorney thank you Kathleen and Michelle
Read more
31 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
I highly recommend Katie Scelfo to be your advocate for your case. Katie was extremely professional and efficient in gathering my information and recommending how we should proceed with my divorce case. She was very kind and took her time in explaining all legal matters and terminology. Katie's sound advise and quick responses guided me throughout this tumultuous time in my life. I felt safe and protected with Katie's knowledge during the proceedings and I am so satisfied with the outcome of my case. I would definitely recommend Katie to family and friends.
Read more
21 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
I never want any of my friends to have to use a divorce attorney, but if they do I am 100% recommending Katie. She went above and beyond getting my papers written up ASAP, laying out the options, walking me through the process and explaining everything in terms that anyone could understand. Pretty sure I had the fastest and most cost effective divorce in the history of divorces thanks to Katie.
Read more
19 Feb, 2017 by Lois
I will be forever grateful to Attorney Christine Whitehead for the outstanding legal representation that she provided from start to finish in my unwanted divorce. She was top-notch in all ways and offered the most amazing support throughout a terribly painful time in my life. I truly can't say enough about what a wonderful attorney and human being Chris is. She was the silver lining in my divorce.
Read more
14 Mar, 2017 by E
Counsel Ira was a reliable, excellent advocate for me throughout the divorce process. He answered questions thoroughly and thoughtfully. He accomplished this via email and phone conversations. Also, he displays a caring and punctiliousness towards his clients. I can personally vouch and have seen him in action. At times, in intense negotiations, when the parties emotionally break down due to the difficult process, he his calm and continues working for the client. I only plan on going through the a divorce process once. I am forever grateful that Attorney Ira was with me all the way through and afterwards.
Read more
01 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
He Was a Excellent Lawyer On My Defense In The Juvenile Court Case Thank You
Read more
28 Aug, 2023 by Jessica bauer
David McGrath is an outstanding attorney. His knowledge of the law along with his compassion for his clients, professionalism, comprehension of complex cases, and humor at just the right moments, is unmatched.
David always made me feel supported in my goals and heard in what my concerns were. He took the time to guide me through understanding the legal process, which at times, felt frightening and overwhelming. My custody case was complicated and contentious. Fortunately, in working with David, I feel we were able to meet our desired outcomes.
I have, and will continue to, recommend David McGrath as a family attorney.
Read more
20 Apr, 2023 by Marc atkinson
McConnell Family Law Group was an excellent choice for me. Not only were they responsive and knowledgeable, but they went above and beyond to guarantee my case was handled with the utmost care. If you need a divorce mediation lawyer in Hartford, look no further than this team!
Read more
05 Apr, 2023 by Linda prestley
Atty McGrath is awesome. He appeared before me often over my tenure in family court. Very well respected, prepared and does a great job for his clients!
Read more
12 Sep, 2024 by Kathleen mattox
Nicole Christie and her Team are the absolute Best in the State of CT! When you are dealing with serious issues, only the Best will do. Not only is the Christie Law Firm extremely knowledgeable, experienced, responsive, they treat you like family with great care and compassion. Everyone from the first call to your closed case, and everything in between is extremely professional, informative, and friendly! Nicole Christie came highly recommended to me from one of CT’s top lawyers and has an excellent, well respected reputation among her peers!
Read more
30 Aug, 2024 by Rosa young
27 Aug, 2024 by Heather blanco
23 May, 2024 by Sam crusan
Chris successfully negotiated a reduction in the fine our company received for a permit violation.
Read more
10 Apr, 2024 by Ioannis kaloidis
15 Mar, 2024 by Yagyavir singh verma
28 Aug, 2023 by Jessica bauer
David McGrath is an outstanding attorney. His knowledge of the law along with his compassion for his clients, professionalism, comprehension of complex cases, and humor at just the right moments, is unmatched.
David always made me feel supported in my goals and heard in what my concerns were. He took the time to guide me through understanding the legal process, which at times, felt frightening and overwhelming. My custody case was complicated and contentious. Fortunately, in working with David, I feel we were able to meet our desired outcomes.
I have, and will continue to, recommend David McGrath as a family attorney.
Read more
20 Apr, 2023 by Marc atkinson
McConnell Family Law Group was an excellent choice for me. Not only were they responsive and knowledgeable, but they went above and beyond to guarantee my case was handled with the utmost care. If you need a divorce mediation lawyer in Hartford, look no further than this team!
Read more
05 Apr, 2023 by Linda prestley
Atty McGrath is awesome. He appeared before me often over my tenure in family court. Very well respected, prepared and does a great job for his clients!
Read more
26 Aug, 2024 by Nihar reddy
Very responsive and you will have clear track what is happening with your case. Definitely i will suggest . In my case international serving was involved which is bit complex but with there experience helped me to resolve sooner ! Happy with service Thank you !
Read more
26 Aug, 2024 by Melissa lachausse
06 Aug, 2024 by Olivia dodd
28 Mar, 2024 by Jorge villalobos
Justin is truly amazing! He gives extremely detailed and honest explanations. If you have any questions he gets back to you really fast! I 100% recommend him to anyone in need of an immigration attorney
Read more
29 Aug, 2023 by Patry vidales
Es un excelente abogado, lo super recomiendo, es honrado, es organizado, siempre responde a las dudas, creo que no hay otro como él.
Read more
16 Apr, 2023 by Steve anaekwe
12 Apr, 2024 by Jeffrey hill
30 Jan, 2024 by Adi
Miss Priya Kiran is excellent with her expertise and professionalism. Her expertise and clear guidance were invaluable during my challenging time. Her professionalism and prompt attention to detail greatly relieved my concerns, and I am sincerely appreciative of her support throughout this process.
It was really a pleasure working with Miss Priya Kiran.
Cordell & Cordell was very responsive to my case and kept me well informed about the progress made on my behalf. I’m very pleased with their service !
Read more
18 Jan, 2024 by Jesus collins
Avoid!! Worse experience ever! This company WILL charge you for every little thing and the service is horrible. I went with another attorney and the experience was 100 times better. Look else where please.
Read more
20 Dec, 2023 by Elizabeth
My experience with Attorney Hide Inga was horrible. I tried for months, from approximately March 2023 to the ending of my case in November 2023, Attorney Inga did not do his due diligence. I asked for several documents that he never got from the opposing lawyer. I repeatedly asked in emails and in person and he repeatedly ignored my insistence to get that paperwork. When I asked for my alimony to be amended he told me that he would do it and it was never done. The court in March had ordered the alimony to be ammended. I told him that more than once. His paralegal Duane told me that he had done it and in fact it had not been done. When I asked to update the equity of the home to the present at the time, his response was that it would only be a little bit more money and he ultimately never did it. He seemed to have very little concern for my future financial situation. He was not sensitive at all to my disability and what my divorce meant for my future stability as a disabled person. I was forced to accept an outcome that I was not happy about because he repeatedly allowed the opposing lawyer to wait until the last minute to submit an agreement. In an email it was communicated to him that I needed atleast two weeks to look over paperwork and make a decision. The last agreement by the opposing lawyer was submitted on October 30th and my court date was November 1st. It was not the same as the agreement I had signed approximately a month prior. I was told by Duane that it was the same but the legal language was a bit different, and in fact it had a lot more added on to it. Because of the increasing fear as a result of the constant back and forth with Attorney Inga and his paralegal Duane, and inability to continue being at odds with my own lawyer, the fear of not knowing what would happen in court with the situation and not having any money to get another lawyer, I consented to the last agreement. Because at that point I could clearly see that he was not really interested or concerned about my case. I was under too much stress and felt worn down. He repeatedly acted as if a little more money was of no consequence, but when it came to the last $1,000.00 that I owed him, he took it without a problem from me and he even tried to get me to forget about the worth of the plow that I asked for, stating that I would only get about $1,200. 00. It was only a little bit of money for me and my future, but for him every penny counted. I regret hiring him and wish I had noticed that he had a disciplinary action against him in the past. I am distraught at the way he and Duane treated me. I am distressed about the negligence and indifference that he showed during the months he represented me. I felt run over and mistreated by him and his office and I do not recommend Attorney Inga.
Read more
19 Sep, 2023 by Samuel dixon black stallion entertainment
Totally wasted my time and money. If you’re a tenant looking to sue a landlord this is not her strong suit. They clearly are not for the people. They will give you the run around save your money.
Read more
07 Aug, 2023 by Latesha
I would recommend Mr. Inga to family, friends and anyone else who is looking for a reliable attorney who will fight for you every step of the way. Mr. Inga will make you feel like you're part of the family and will keep you updated with any information needed on your case.
Read more
15 Apr, 2024 by Zach leone
Pullman & Comley did a fantastic job helping me navigate my divorce and custody challenges. With a young special needs daughter involved, it was important to have a team with a broad range of expertise. Jon Kukucka specifically gave invaluable advice and was was spot on with his approach and arguments both in court and with mediators. I highly recommend Pullman & Comley.
Read more
13 Apr, 2024 by Kendra richards
Worst experience with an attorney in my lifetime. The performance falls well below the standard of care expected of an attorney and firm. I felt unheard and undervalued as a client. I do not recommend them to anyone going through divorce.
Read more
05 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Campbell Barrett took on my divorce case but had limited time to work on my case. After a year of filing motions and never appearing in court, to defend the filed motions I hired a second lawyer to get me through the divorce process. If I had not done this we would have gone to trial and spent most of the settlement. Please don’t let his lash offices fool you… You are paying dearly for them with. He offered very few results
Read more
28 Aug, 2017 by Wayne medeiros
She was very focused, to her advantage she didn't take any BS, but if you were up front and honest she worked with you, my first encounter with her was at best horrible, when she saw I was honest and committed to getting through a bad situation she was a totally different person, due to her commitment my son has become a very special young man who was afforded everything he deserved, some times we judge people to soon, I am truly grateful for my association with this woman
Read more
03 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
She is all about the money and not the best interest of the child. She will bill and bill for work not done! Kids hated going to her office, doesn't like when you write a check to her law office, wanted cash then I realized I was stupid I did money orders, she wanted it made out to HER, not her law office. Fishy! I finally got her removed from my case after years!
Read more
10 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Steer clear of Rhonda. All she wants to do is sit in family court and bill hours on end. She is supposed to represent my child whom she does not interact with, she doesn't take recommendations from the therapist, she isn't willing to discuss her own recommendations, and frankly she just doesn't know the best interest of a child. Oh, but wants to be paid yesterday! She is somehow simultaneously useless and obstinate. The worst excuse of a professional ever.
Read more
19 May, 2013 by Buffee
This lawyer uses all the supportive words a mother needs to hear. I trusted him and signed agreements that I should not have. When finances dry up, so does his services. Leaving a daughter with out her mother. Broke my heart in more ways than one.
Read more
12 Jan, 2024 by Bob
In summary, engaging Attorney James Ruel proved financially and legally Ruinous. See details below.
**Mediation Proceedings and Abandonment
*4/21/15 Engaged Atty James Ruel to review mediated Lump-Sum (LS) settlement.
*Ruel was strongly against LS & favored paying alimony for 11 years,132 alimony payments
*I directed Ruel to pursue LS agreement only
*9/28/15 Mediated LS settlement approved by all parties
Mediated LS (near final) total cost = $15K
*Ruel convinced parties to leave mediation by stating that the LS agreement would never be Judge approved due to my age and amount of savings.
*My appeals lawyer contradicted Ruel’s statement as did the Judge’s approval of a LS agreement reached during the appeal.
**Ruel Competency Issues
*Ruel failed abide by his fiduciary and competent representation duties driving costs from 15K to $350K
*Inaccurate financial models were run by Ruel team members lacking any accounting or financial planning SME or industry certifications necessary to identify model output errors or to competently analyze financial offers from spouse.
*My post-divorce financial health was predicated on having accurate financial models
*Model’s inaccuracy forced an emergency 401K withdrawal of $125K and an associated tax penalty of $1000 per month for 36 months.
*Ruel’s discovery process failed to ask spouse for information about any uncollected alimony or child support awards from her 1st marriage.
*My appeals lawyer identified $100K of assets due to spouse from 1st husband that she chose not to collect or to ask the court’s assistance to do so.
**Ruel Advocacy Shortcoming**
*Opposing Counsel OC subjected me to constant character assassinations and baseless accusations during negotiating calls and in front of the special masters.
*Pleas to Ruel to address OC’s behavior were met with condescension (e.g. quote from Ruel’s response to intervention request, "I can address OC’s behavior or get this agreement finalized, which do you want?”
*My response was I want both to be addressed and Ruel chose not to call out OC’s behavior.
*Refused to support audit request to verify compliance of OC’s billing against client funded retainer.
*Violated fiduciary duty by joining with OC to belittle me regarding above
*Allowed OC to cover for constant missed deadlines
*Above caused increased time/expense for travel, wasted PTO &months of increased time/cost to finalize divorce.
*Ruel failed to inform me that If it is clear your spouse is wasting your time and money, you can petition to have them pay for a portion or all of your divorce attorney fees and that the fees must be consistent with normal industry parameters
*Ruel responded to post divorce requests for assistance with reopening the settlement by saying there were no viable options and that I should live with it.
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.
