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29 Dec, 2024 by Joe brandon
Ms. White has a very difficult job. At the end of the day at least half of a party will not be happy with her because she has to make a decision about her client, your child, and decide which home is best for them. I found her to be absolutely incredible, very fare, extremely direct, and a pleasure to work with. I would absolutely recommend her to anyone needing a fare and balanced GAL.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Cheryl
Great firm to work with! Tori is the best.
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05 Oct, 2024 by Jazminn walker
If you are not the one whom is paying her please do not choose her. I was young and very nieve. child custody cases are very sensative and triggering and she'll take full advantage of this. she'll make you comfortable with confiding in her telling your story only for the purpose of you choosing her as your Gal and will then become very bias and intentionally try to prove the points of the paying party. If you are the paying party she's absolutely great at siding with anything and everything you claim and will work over time to do so. For single mothers living in low income areas please do not pick this women. she'll bring up a case where a mother thats "less fortunate" won to make you feel comfortable tell you how finances don't play a part in the case then she will indeed use your financial state against you and even things happening In your neighborhood that has absolutely nothing to do with you. she'll offer you legal advice to make it seem like she "helping you" only to then turn against you in court. she lacks intuition and foresight greatly and will project what ever she's personally went through and her previous cases on to you. You will indeed input loosing your child while she convinces herself and the courts that that is "what's best" her opinion "what's best" boils down to who financially has more money. I had hope and faith in her hearing my story and using her intuition and skills to see what's happening and actually speak the truth the absolute total opposite happen and its saddens my heart to even have to write this. save yourself and your relationship with your child and do not choose this women if you are not paying.
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14 Feb, 2024 by Just the kings
Paid $200 for a consultation with Attorney Potter and I’m honestly not sure what I paid for. I gave a detailed description of my case and asked 7 questions to gauge whether I wanted to hire her or not and she just talked in circles for the entire hour. She didn’t answer none of my questions and was very long winded. I will not be hiring this firm bc if she talked for 1 hour about absolutely nothing, I can’t imagine how much my total cost would be at $390 a hour for her to represent me. Honestly, I want a refund. Some of the questions I asked were how long would it take her to get up to speed on my case, has she handled cases like mine and what were the outcomes, what are the possible outcomes of my case, can she identify anything that I can settle on, and how can I avoid future cases. All of her answers were “I don’t know.” I am looking for an attorney with a strategy. If I explain my case in detail, I expect you to be able to provide insights based on your experiences. This was supposed to be legal advice. I want my $200 back.
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06 Mar, 2023 by James vogel
THIS LAW FIRM DOES NOT FIGHT FOR RIGHTS OF FATHERS--------LOOK FOR A LOCAL LAWYER!!
Disappointment is a complete understatement with this law firm and Ms. Dione Potter.
This law firm drags out the process and charges for each email and phone call they make while continuing to drag the case out.
I truly felt Ms. Potter was working for opposing counsel. Everything opposing counsel wanted she got with NO fight from Ms. Potter. Everything opposing counsel said in court was just allowed to be said about me with not one objection. I lost everything except what the mom allowed me to have....thank goodness she allowed me visitation because honestly if she said "no" to that I would not have gotten that either.
I've asked the firm why I did not get anything I asked for and of course they nor she could answer.
She truly feels she did a good job........
child supoort increased from $700.00 to 1,130.00 per month
absolutely no final decision making for my child, even though I was told I would get some rights, but the mother has all those rights
I requested a Guardian ad Litem, I was told I would get it and the judge goes that route. But NO GAL assigned, opposing counsel did not want one
she sat and watched as opposing counsel said tons of untruths about me
and I got the privilege to pay my ex's lawyer fees
So I spent close to $30,000.00 with this firm with nothing to show for it, except for a laywer who thinks she did a good job. They are only good at doing one thing........billing you
IF YOU ARE A FATHER FIGHTING FOR RIGHTS.......DO NOT HIRE THIS FIRM
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25 Oct, 2022 by Terry moses
You pay for a consultation 125, then you pay a retainer 1800, then you pay their processing fee (400)…. He called me to set up meeting. Told him I work 3 shift the later the better. How about 3pm? Great I said, whatever works for you. Then he offered 330…. Again whatever works. Called me next day saying he had court on day HE scheduled me, but may be continued…. If continued I wouldn’t hear from him, if not he would call to reschedule. Literally called me the next day to tell me it was continued. So I came into the office concerned that his lack of scheduling abikity was costing me money. His very unprofessional receptionist finally got him to discuss we’re he claims it wasn’t being charged. Had one meeting with the lawyer. Left out of their doubting he could walk and chew gum at the same time. Literally talked in circles the entire time. What a joke. He told me it would cost 50k and I was only going for a contempt accusation. Fired him after first meeting Robert was first name in st Charles location. Paid over 2400 to them, and then I get a bill for another 125. Hired a new lawyer Dodd, she showed up, had it thrown out with most my new retainer refunded. Do not waste your time or money with cordell cordell.
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14 Sep, 2024 by Phyllis camille gadson
The Manely’s justice. Cafe that saved me. He took my money put me out and divorced me after almost 20 yrs of homemaking raising kids. I wasn’t good enough anymore. But they swooped it and gave me my babies back. I am always grateful. Although Lindsey stopped fighting for me and the next lady said plea out. They started off great. I took over myself didn’t plea and it was over I was exonerated and the liars exposed. Manely was awesome bc he offered me free advice on the phone. He cared. He wasn’t my lawyer but gave great advice. I appreciate that so much. Would you know the same narcissist is still coming for me. But I’m stronger now. Thx manely firm
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06 Sep, 2024 by Dana deveaux
I am treated like a member of the family. I absolutely LOVE working with Cherish and her team.
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31 Aug, 2024 by Jim l
I had this firm on retainer for the last 6 or so years for a child custody matter at first they were great but since 2021 they started raising there rates and billing thousands of dollars with no communication with me when there was nothing going on in my case then when I dispute the charges it takes 6 months for the attorney to call me about it had a discussion about how to end the case and the fraudulent billing and was told she was going to fix the problem received a email a few days later that they were removing themselves from my case and refused to talk further just continued to send billing statements worse lawfirm if you have a case that isn't quick and easy
Beware anyone who has them or is looking at hiring them in the savannah area be prepared to be ripped off
Ps To owner maybe pay attention to your lawfirm and less about your podcasts and seminars
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04 Jul, 2020 by Kelly
Parri has a heart of gold and always kept what was best for our family at heart. We were EXTREMELY pleased and blessed with the outcome of our case. I would highly recommend Parri Abbott.
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24 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
When the hard time hit with my stepdaughter deciding to move out of our home and back to her mothers we were devastated. We took all of our hurt and confusion to Parri and she not only got our legal stuff in order but walked with us through the emotion behind the messy business of changing custody.
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23 Jun, 2020 by Ayman
Parri is such a brilliant lawyer. Anyone who is to hire her services is sure to experience her passion, dedication, and professionalism for her career. She brings creativity, perseverance, and analytical judgment skills to the table with every discussion we have. You are truly the best, I've worked with. Thank you!
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03 May, 2021 by Candice
Watch out for this lady she will try to but you in a corner and manipulate you she isn't to be trusted she screwed my family.She gave kids to a abusive felon instead of a hardworking mother tried to hold it against her the hours she worked and made moving after a year into a bigger place a bad thing tried to say she was unstable even though she finished her lease.but gave to father that didn't hold a job and lived with his parent said he had a support system!! She's a joke very rude I see that hasn't changed!!
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13 May, 2017 by Cheryl starks
I hired Jessica on behalf of my son for a custody case. My son was trying to get custody against the maternal grandmother. One would think this is a slam dunk type case for a parent to get custody but unfortunately, it's not. Jessica worked on this case for a little over a year and did a great job based on the circumstances. We had a GAL who recommended that the grandmother get custody of the child but her recommendation had nothing to do with understanding of the law. Jessica was extremely passionate about this case and I would say she was amazing in trying to overcome so many obstacles that should not have been apart of this case. I would highly recommend Jessica as a Father's Rights Attorney.
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06 Sep, 2016 by Robbie
Jessica actually did me a favor by taking my case. I could have used other lawyers, but would have shorted myself.
She is honest with you about your situation, tells you what to expect, and fights for you. She protected my rights as a father, who had done nothing wrong, against someone who had been working with "big name" lawyers to paint me in a negative light and build a divorce case against me for almost a year, without my knowledge. She had multiple lawyers as opponents for my case and was on top of the application of law and facts in a manner which almost made me feel embarrassed for them.
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29 Dec, 2024 by Joe brandon
Ms. White has a very difficult job. At the end of the day at least half of a party will not be happy with her because she has to make a decision about her client, your child, and decide which home is best for them. I found her to be absolutely incredible, very fare, extremely direct, and a pleasure to work with. I would absolutely recommend her to anyone needing a fare and balanced GAL.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Cheryl
Great firm to work with! Tori is the best.
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05 Oct, 2024 by Jazminn walker
If you are not the one whom is paying her please do not choose her. I was young and very nieve. child custody cases are very sensative and triggering and she'll take full advantage of this. she'll make you comfortable with confiding in her telling your story only for the purpose of you choosing her as your Gal and will then become very bias and intentionally try to prove the points of the paying party. If you are the paying party she's absolutely great at siding with anything and everything you claim and will work over time to do so. For single mothers living in low income areas please do not pick this women. she'll bring up a case where a mother thats "less fortunate" won to make you feel comfortable tell you how finances don't play a part in the case then she will indeed use your financial state against you and even things happening In your neighborhood that has absolutely nothing to do with you. she'll offer you legal advice to make it seem like she "helping you" only to then turn against you in court. she lacks intuition and foresight greatly and will project what ever she's personally went through and her previous cases on to you. You will indeed input loosing your child while she convinces herself and the courts that that is "what's best" her opinion "what's best" boils down to who financially has more money. I had hope and faith in her hearing my story and using her intuition and skills to see what's happening and actually speak the truth the absolute total opposite happen and its saddens my heart to even have to write this. save yourself and your relationship with your child and do not choose this women if you are not paying.
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10 Feb, 2016 by Donna
I am very thankful for all the help and support that I received from Ravelle Smith. He took a very difficult situation and helped me find a reasonable solution. He always protected my child and myself. I could not be more pleased.
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19 Sep, 2012 by Sharon
Ravelle Smith represented me on two occassions. He was originally given the case at the last minute by another Attorney that had a conflict in schedule with my court date. I was amazed at how knowledgable he was regarding my case with such a short time to prepare. He was my third Attorney and the only one that I felt did a great job!! He represented me with professionalism and tenacity. My entire family was very impressed by his presentation of my case in court. The outcome was more than I expected. We won on all counts. I highly recommend Ravelle and would continue to count on him for any future legal needs.
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19 Sep, 2012 by Unsatisfied
i used him a few years ago when he was with another firm. I was totally upset with the service he provided and how he behaved when I fired him from my case. In my opinion he is totally unprofessional and is the personification of the slimy lawyer just out to run up your bill.
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24 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Money hungry law firm. Our initial consultation was a waste of money. We were quoted an initial deposit and escrow fee which barely lasted a couple weeks. The emails from the firm were asking for more money with very little information. The home check they said we wouldn’t need cost us $250 because the judge said otherwise. They sent my husband to a fingerprinting facility that couldn’t even do that right. They failed and their staff couldn’t even figure it out. Waste of money and time spent trying to get that sorted. They couldn’t even show up to our court date on time. The after adoption instructions were basically figure it out yourself. We of course had to pay for that lack of information. I would never recommend them to my worst enemy. Don’t waste your time or money on them. It only stresses you out and ruins the experience.
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15 Dec, 2020 by Daniyar
I am glad I contacted your law firm for my legal needs. My expectations were met during this stressful time for me and my family. A special thank you to my paralegal Viktor Katkalov who was very attentive and patient. Highly recommend!
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22 Dec, 2016 by V
I have known Mary for quite a while and have worked with her on community improvement initiatives. Due to Mary's passion and commitment to doing the right thing and making her community a better place to work, live and play, I strongly recommend her.
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08 Aug, 2022 by Tim
My ex took my Son to Illinois on an order written by a Commissioner in Bakersfield. She wanted a $50 consult fee. I paid $25 in cash, and wrote a check for the other $25. After getting paid and putting out her cigarette, she told me, "I can't help you, take it up in Illinois." That was twenty years ago, without a visitation order, I HAVEN'T SEEN HIM SINCE. I PUT A STOP PAYMENT ON THE CHECK. JUSTICE?
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02 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Cynthia yelled at me while explaining a visitation order. I could not for the life of me understand the judges order and during a phone call she yelled at me while explaining it. She l apologized after - said she had a long day, but the experience rubbed me the wrong way. Her staff was great and always gave our family updated through email and phone calls.
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14 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
Considering hiring this attorney , but her prices are doubled compared to a few other local offices…so do some research beforehand. Her personality was great and I found some helpfulness in the advice I was given. After my consult I spoke with a friend who hired her as her attorney to gain insight on what it’ll be like working with her. she said lots things would always pop up because of personal events happening in Cynthias life. Which caused delay with her case. She also mentioned her office manager just wasn’t the best to work with and always made her feel stupid for asking about her case or having any questions at all. She ended up hiring someone different.. I will mention.. I didn’t like how her office manager spoke with me when I scheduled my consult either. So extremely rude with snide comments. When I called back to see how I could pay, I was greeted with a different office staff who seemed more polite and helpful to my concerns for payment! I spoke with this lady for about 10 minutes. If I remember correctly her name was Marlene! If you call this attorneys office just make sure to speak with her! Extremely helpful!! Thought I’d leave a more recent review since I struggled to find one. Still debating hiring Cynthia. Will leave an updated review when I have decided.
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06 Nov, 2023 by David
In my experience, they overbilled me and did not advance my case. They never return calls and even hung up on me when i called. Do not you these guys, it was a huge mistake I made, I am out 10K.
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08 Apr, 2023 by Lk
After researching companies that were successful in cases against HOA's I hired this firm 5 years ago. I asked if they could win and was told yes. February 2023 we had to agree to a settlement. In that 5 years we changed lawyers 5 times. I would call to find out what was happening and was always told that they were waiting on the HOA attorney and that's just the way this worked. I ended up paying this attorney more than if I had just paid the HOA fine. There is no real update from them, unless you call their monthly bill an update. The last attorney assigned did manage to get a settlement worked out. We took it because I was not going to drag this out another 5 years and 5 different attorneys.
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19 Nov, 2021 by Keith
This is a poor start. After speaking with the staff and an attorney with the John Miller and Associates Law Firm...
I paid the non-refundable fee, agreed to the initial date and time set by the staff and called 1 hour before the appointed time to confirm the appointment.
After the appointed time and 15 min before the close of business, I called the office and was informed that the attorney was not going to make the meeting.
Summary: the attorney did not display the expected professionalism and courtesy to take the time to call to me, and provide an apology and reschedule the meeting.
This is definitely a teachable moment for John Miller and his Associates...provide timely information to the clients and be more considerate of our time.
Thank you
Keith Wright
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10 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
Despite coming highly reviewed, I was extremely disappointed with her lack of objectivity. She did not consider all the facts and information that was presented to her by several parties. She made a very skewed recommendation that sided with a sub par parent. By all means, do your research and choose your lawyer carefully.
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07 Sep, 2011 by Anonymous
Case assigned to underling who could not hold her own for the client in a negotiation with a high school drop out. Often wondered if she was representing the person I paid her to represent or the lazy convicted meth manufacturer she should have been defending her client against. Would never recommend her and the cost was extreme.
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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.
