Best Child Custody lawyers in Massachusetts

459 Child Custody Lawyers in Massachusetts

>459

experienced lawyers

Gayle Ann deMello-Madeira

69 Main Street, Taunton, MA

Child Custody Child Support Criminal Defense +3 +6

3.6/5

3.6

3 Reviews

21 Mar, 2022 by Sarah

I can't recommend Gail My divorce lasted many years and she said she would keep the money I got from the settlement Big mistake never received a final bill and she left my case one week till the trial which I did without a lawyer I would not retain Gail THANKS Gail for NO final bill and leaving me to face my X and his new wife at the trial I now had to pay him child support and never did I think 60 thousand would be all given to you! Sarah Carlow

21 Jul, 2020 by Jen

Gayle was our rock during a terrible time. She is smart, funny, and takes no nonsense. Highly recommend!

11 Dec, 2015 by Kevin c

I think she is a wonderful attorney everything she told me worked out just as she planned I have used her on three or four different locations and each time she was professional and friendly to the point and a winner I highly recommend her

Dana L. Lauer

10 Cabot Road, Medford, MA

Child Custody Child Support Family Law +3

3.5/5

3.5

37 Reviews

19 May, 2024 by Victor gomes

Sold me down the river. Did not give me good advice. Cost me over $45,000 in legal fees. The absolute worst law firm. Better off hiring a small law firm. I swear they worked for my I paid them to work for my ex wife.

07 Nov, 2023 by Rob fairbanks

The attorney was never interested in following my requests to settle, or even accommodate requests from the OC. This firm only has their own interests in mind. Notice your attorney’s insistence that you score them 5s on their survey ( when your client “no care” rep calls). Probably no different than what other attorneys do, they just specialize in taking money from guys.

14 Sep, 2023 by Luis priego

Rosemary Purtell

144 Gould St Ste 202, Needham Heights, MA

Child Custody Child Support Family Law +1 +4

3.5/5

3.5

26 Reviews

31 Aug, 2023 by Linda gugliotta

Atty Susan Rossi Cook and staff came highly recommended to us when we were looking for a mediator for our divorce. We were so happy with her as she made a very emotional and personal time in our lives easier on us. She guided us every step of the way. She was very supportive, professional and responsive. Her assistant Joanne was nothing short of kind and compassionate and very helpful with all my questions. Thank you for helping us through this difficult and painful process.

23 Aug, 2023 by Michael brennan

I highly recommend Susan Cook to anyone who needs help with estate planning. She is very knowledgeable, professional, and friendly. She took the time to explain everything to us, answered all our questions, and was very personable while explaining complex ideas. She helped direct me and my wife to other excellent lawyers when the situation dictated. She offered options and services through her or others when appropriate, which met all our needs and wishes. She also gave us clear instructions with all the necessary steps throughout the process. I am confident that my assets and family are well-protected thanks to Susan. She is one of the best lawyers I have ever worked with.

11 Aug, 2023 by Peter lekakos

Thomas C. Jaffarian

300 West Main Street, Northborough, MA

Child Custody Child Support Elder Law +1 +4

3.5/5

3.5

8 Reviews

11 Dec, 2022 by Steve

I won't give this clown any stars. This is a smooth talking,over priced clown,that talks out his back side. This system does not care about your children,or family. It's a race to see who can bleed you dry first. Save your money, and represent yourself. Thomas will tell you he knows the guidelines, but in the end, it proves he doesn't. He doesn't do any research, and shows up to court unprepared. He even showed to a trial with his girlfriend, and only cared about spending the day in the city. The Massachusetts system is broken, and these people will bleed you dry. Stay away from this guy. Tommy was referred to me. Even after reading one star reviews. I'm warming you all. It's true, don't hire this man. He's not worth any dollar amount.

20 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous

Attorney Jaffarian is an incredibly competent, expert attorney who served as a legal advocate for my children and me during a very taxing divorce. He presented with consistent support, sound guidance, advocacy, and professionalism that was unmatched by apposing counsel. His effective, efficient legal approach ensured that my rights to my children and my assets were protected. I would highly recommend Attorney Jaffarian to all, including my closest friends and family.

11 Dec, 2015 by Jeremy

Thomas Jaffarian, I call him the Commander of the Court because of what I didn't realize when I started my divorce. Tom's command of the law and his experience will allow you to take control of the process, rather than just becoming another victim of divorce. Let me summarize what he managed to do for me: - maintain ownership of my properties - equal parenting time - children locked into my towns school district - Zero alimony payments - Reasonable buyout to my Ex - I did not spend hours waiting on some bench at the courthouse - I did not wait weeks or months for hearings - Most importantly his ability to work with the opposing council to achieve a very fair deal. I highly recommend hiring Tom, you will not be disappointed.

Dena R. Rando

10 Cabot Road, Medford, MA

Child Custody Child Support Family Law +3

3.4/5

3.0

2 Reviews

3.5

37 Reviews

19 May, 2024 by Victor gomes

07 Nov, 2023 by Rob fairbanks

14 Sep, 2023 by Luis priego

Lawrence P. McLaughlin

193 Main St, Athol, MA

Child Custody +1

3.3/5

1.7

6 Reviews

4.4

9 Reviews

01 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous

Unfortunately, this lawyer does not communicate well or, actually, at all. A friend referred me to him and he was kind on the initial phone call. He requested documents from me which I sent. Afterward, it was crickets! I tried calling and emailing, but he ghosted me. I would think that a reliable lawyer would at least say, hey, this isn't a case for me and let you know that he's not interested. I do not recommend this person for anything.

27 May, 2024 by Ken bassett

I will start off to say that Larry is slow to return phone calls. When my mother passed I trusted Larry with the probate hearings and what is needed to be done. I had seen Larry in May of 2023 after my mother passed to get the probate legality's going as I was the executor and beneficiary of the will. I was told it could take 6 months to a year for that process. In the meantime while this is in the courts I am still paying all the bills for the house including insurance. Come March 2024 my realtor had asked if I heard anything from Larry and I had not. So she took it upon herself to call Larry to see what was going on. He told her that everything was all set and that I could go ahead and sell the house. I had never received a phone call saying that everything was all set with probate. I called Larry and he said yes it was all set. I went in to sign court documents and the probate had been completed 4 months earlier in November of 2023. I never received a phone call to say probate was done. Now come to the sale of my mothers house. After the sale of her house a settlement statement was completed and signed by both parties. Included in that settlement statement were charges by Larry of 950 dollars for legal fees for closing and 45 dollars for an overnight mailing fee of documents. On line 603 it states Cash to Seller which is the amount I receive after all fees and all charges are payed off. When I went to get my check from Larry he said, oh I took 2000 dollars off the check. I showed him my copy of the settlement statement and pointed out to him that he already took legal fees and asked him what that 2000 dollars was for. He gave me some lame excuse that there was still a lot to do. I have asked for a receipt from him stating that I "payed" him an extra 2000 dollars including a detailed breakdown of what it was for. I have yet to this day received that receipt and its been over a month. I feel that 2000 dollars was illegally and unjustly taken from me. I will never use Larry ever again for any legal services nor will I ever recommend him to anyone.

09 Mar, 2024 by Billy cantrell

Great guy, hard worker

Arthur Sneider

1244 Boylston St Ste 200, Chestnut Hill, MA

Child Custody Child Support Domestic Violence +2 +5

3.3/5

3.3

3 Reviews

08 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous

My husband and I hired Mr. Sneider in 2012 to represent us for our case. I rate Mr.Sneider from temperament to professionalism for one star. Mr. Sneider definitely has no best interest for his clients. He cares about his feeling more than the client's case. He dropped out of our case even though we strongly against his action. He left us hanging. It's not a pleasant experience work with Mr. Sneider.

03 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous

Arthur is a highly experienced and knowledgeable attorney who did his best in my estimation for handling my divorce case. He is very responsive, and paid great attention to the important matters. He was quick thinking in response to difficulties/challenges posed by the other party and managed the case well.

03 Mar, 2016 by Jillian

Arthur Sneider represented me in a post-divorce case involving both financial matters as well as child custody issues. He is thoughtful and strategic as a professional while his extensive experience with the law and his interpersonal skills make him the perfect negotiator--able to be both reasonable and flexible yet dynamic and convincing when necessary in court. His understanding of the nuances of the law, as well as his dedication to truly thinking through how to best prepare for alternatives helped me to think about what was most important. Attorney Sneider came on to assist "late in the game" and was able to settle matters that several very expensive "downtown" lawyers had botched. Attorney Sneider, along with the other attorneys in his practice, make sure that all documents are organized and that your case is well-prepared. Arthur understands children and families and will assist you to determine what makes the most sense. This was the first experience with an attorney I did not dread! I would highly recommend Arthur Sneider if you are seeking a divorce attorney or dealing with matters of child custody.

Daniel T. Doyle

P.O. Box 167, Blackstone, MA

Child Custody +1

3.0/5

3.0

8 Reviews

18 Dec, 2021 by Lewis

He always cares about what I need. He always returns my calls and very professional. He’s very good in what he does. Never thought about going to a different lawyer.

13 Mar, 2021 by Kurt

Dan helped me, a single father, get full custody of my two daughters in 2002. 2 years and we did work together. He is very wise and his knowledge of Irish history in the Blackstone Valley is impressive. Good dude.

05 Dec, 2020 by Christine

I have lost my home! With my children, who have medical issues! I will soon be arrested, due to lack of legal protection, since attorney doyle is too caught up in his book deals! Never! Ever! Hire this man!!!!!!!!!!

Evan P. Bell

304 Turnpike Rd, Southborough, MA

Child Custody Child Support Family Law +3

3.0/5

3.0

4 Reviews

21 May, 2024 by Anonymous

Unprofessional, terrible communication and was rude. Clearly didn't want the job. Would NOT recommend.

28 Mar, 2024 by Carmen

Exactly unsatisfied. This attorney was appointed by family court to obtain a DNA test of my brother and after 7 months STILL has not the results. Mr. Bell was extremely disrespectful, condescending and rude. What he didn't realize is that our family is familiar with the law and knew he was NOT managing his responsibilities to court in a timely manner. If you are planning to retain his service DON'T wast your money.

28 Feb, 2021 by Jennifer

Divorce is extremely emotional and Evan does the best job navigating the emotions with honest facts and a superb understanding of the law. After a marriage of nearly 20 years, he really helped me to understand the entire process and what to expect. He promptly returned my calls and emails. His dedication made me feel like I was his only client and he was always extremely communicative about his schedule to let me know if he wasn't going to be available at certain times. he made me feel like we were a team and we always had in depth discussions about certain outcomes and whether it would be "worth" it to pursue certain legal remedies, in that manner he was really upfront about the legal fees involved and he wasn't just "racking up" his bill. I think the best characteristic of Evan Bell was his honesty, even if at times it was difficult to hear. In my case there was no doubt I had the best attorney representing me.

Katherine McCarthy Amato

1500 Main Street, Springfield, MA

Child Custody Child Support Family Law +3

3.0/5

3.0

2 Reviews

22 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous

Very unprofessional and made life more difficult for me and my legal situation harder but breaking contract for no reason. I asked her to send a email and wrote one that was not what I wanted so my boyfriend a lawyer and I wrote what we thought it should saw and she said that she wasn't going to be a ghost writer, she made me wait 3 months and never even. filed with the court what she told me was urgent. I was really hurt that I did what we agreed and she did the opposite and hurt me and my case but mostly my daughter.

25 Sep, 2018 by Elizabeth

If you aim to secure an exceptional lawyer, then Attorney Amato is highly recommended. She is an outstanding, multi-faceted lawyer who practices family law to the utmost standard. Her command of the law, coupled with her tenacity and prodigious work ethic, make Attorney Amato the right decision for someone seeking excellent legal representation. Her professional candor and personability is immediately apparent, continuing through even the most contentious situations. She remains on a progressive, forward course to resolve the matters at hand, and is readily accessible to her client and their needs. Her interactions are conducted with integrity and fervor, demonstrating her genuine vested interest in the outcome of her client’s case. Furthermore, she maintains comprehensive, up-to-date information regarding developments to her client’s case. In addition, Attorney Amato possesses a thorough knowledge of relevant case law, as well as continued participation in professional development pursuits. This means you will have a lawyer who keeps pertinent legal occurrences at the forefront, as well as a solid rapport with members of the judicial system including, but not limited to: fellow attorneys, judges, court clergy, administrative staff, etc. On a personal level, Attorney Amato transformed what would have otherwise been an unbearable situation into a manageable, gratifying experience. Because of her personal and professional excellence, our lives have been completely changed. I am confident knowing I have her legal prowess on our side, and you will too.

Donna L. Riani

303 Main St, Worcester, MA

Child Custody Family Law +2

3.0/5

3.0

2 Reviews

11 Apr, 2024 by Marcia

f you want an incompetent, weak, lawyer look, no, further, Donna will take your money and right before trial, she will withdraw from the case because she knows she cannot handle the case. When she gets in front of a judge she tells the judge she didn't have enough time to prepare. But the money you paid her is gone, She will just take your money and run a terrible Lawyer do not go for her.

13 Aug, 2020 by Jeff

I came to Donna because of a referral by a lawyer I’d hired for another matter. It started as a consultation to help me with retirement amidst a “separation “. It ended up being a divorce. Through it all Donna proved to be very considerate regarding my problem. Making inquiries, consulting others, mediating between me and my soon to be ex-wife. Professional, yet compassionate and sensitive. I was, am pleased with her work and grateful to have been referred to her.

Kurt M. Hayes

21 Industrial Ct, Seekonk, MA

Child Custody Family Law +2

3.0/5

3.0

2 Reviews

04 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous

I hired this guy for a divorce that was a very short marriage where I was cheated on by my ex wife and she was trying to take stuff from me that she was not entitled to. Kurt Hayes promised me the world and acted like my best friend before he got paid. After being paid in full he became lazy (and also somewhat beforehand). His communication skills lack incredibly. Towards the tail end of the divorce we were supposed to meet with the other party and her attorney before the court date to tweak the agreement and visitation because my ex wife was having my son around drug addicts and derelicts and whenever I would bring this up to Mr. Hayes he would tell me that I was not listening to him and would result in him on more than one occasion telling me that he was going to withdraw from the case. This ALL after getting paid almost 7 thousand dollars. The day of court he filed a motion to withdraw, I objected and the judge was nice enough to tell us to go in the conference room just me and him to try to talk and when we went into the conference room, Mr. Hayes became irate and would not let me speak a word. He walked out of the room like a child and filed his motion to withdraw because he got his money. This guy is a real blowhard twerp and I wouldn’t recommend him to my worst enemy. He also has been found guilty in Massachusetts of similar activity. Here are some links https://noethics.net/News/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=17501:z&catid=153:massachusetts-attorney-misfits&Itemid=100 https://www.thesunchronicle.com/news/local_news/lawyers-group-rebukes-north-attorney/article_988ec4e4-69e9-5777-b585-caec6df0ac43.html

29 Oct, 2014 by Francine

Attorney Hayes had a solid grasp of my case. Not only was he well prepared, but I felt he really cared the outcome. I would definitely recommend this attorney.

Christopher Michael Patalano

676 Bedford Street, Abington, MA

Adoption Child Custody Child Support +3 +6

3.0/5

3.0

14 Reviews

19 Jan, 2024 by Charles p.

How glowing of a review do you give someone who saved your life? Bad, short duration (3 years), too quick marriage for all the wrong reasons. I had the house (free and clear), wife had the credit rating to get a home equity loan so we could pursue a business venture. I quit claim'd the deed to a joint tenancy one (bad mistake) and she got a HELOC ON MY HOUSE!. Wife soon soured on the business venture and emptied what was left in the HELOC account after significant home improvements. Relationship went to hell and I reached out to Ms. Ryan whom I learned of through a friend. Best call I ever made. Talk about nasty divorces. Wife wanted 1/2 the house and relief from the HELOC. Ms. Ryan successfully parried ever motion wife's attorney filed and I got my house back (wife got no part of it), and I took responsibility for the HELOC - fair since the bulk went into the house. To me it is apparent that Ms. Ryan has the knowledge, experience and judiciary relationships in SE Mass like no other divorce attorney on the South Shore. She and her staff are worth every penny. My divorce became final two weeks ago and I'm back in my house pursuing my business venture with the help of my brother (should have reached out to him rather than marry a credit rating). If you are in the Massachusetts South Shore area (read Plymouth) and your spouse is contesting the divorce, Ms. Ryan is likely the lawyer for you - she will save your life like she saved mine.

19 Jan, 2024 by Jeanne

Susan did not represent me she was my husbands lawyer. My husband and I spoke though our whole divorce process. We still speak today, just saw him yesterday. Susan intentionally changed his Financial statement, all through email (We laughed). I’m not too sure who she knows in the courts that has gotten her to where she is today. The judge seems to be in her back pocket. Scumbag move on your part Susan (again we laughed and it ment nothing) but youll pay for your nastiness somewhere. Lots of love ❤️ sincerely Jeanne Farrar.

09 Jan, 2024 by Workerline worker

Bulldog that destroys families!!! She is your worst nightmare and will not fight for your children's interest - I haven't seen my children in months. By the way, I have no criminal record, DCF involvement, pay for the house he left me with and now I will become homeless, lose my children to a liar who is just after money and anger. She made up lies after lies, she will try to get you to sign custody without your knowledge of the law. She fought for a a guy with a DUI to be able to drive children around. She will fight for all substance abuser parents so if you are one of those hire her, she will fight for you and abuser spouses - she supports and parent alienation, no communication of vital information between parents as well such as medical - there is no reason for both parties to know about the children - one is always dirt and doesn't matter and has no rights.

Jenifer G. DeCristofaro

352 Turnpike Rd, Southborough, MA

Child Custody Child Support Family Law +3

3.0/5

3.0

2 Reviews

26 Jan, 2020 by Lisa ballard

30 Nov, 2018 by Jonathan b. david

Mia A. Frabotta

265 Franklin St, Boston, MA

Child Custody Family Law +2

3.0/5

3.0

2 Reviews

08 Oct, 2023 by John yu

Every year Boston magazine publishes the results for top attorneys in Boston from different legal specialties, from business and criminal law to family and employment law. If there are top 100 attorneys; Edward Wayland would be voted as the top 10 WORST attorneys in Boston. I'm very grateful I had made the right decision to terminate him for ineffectiveness of his counsel. About few years ago, To today's day, I never regretted (terminating) firing Edward Wayland. He almost ruined my life and my freedom. lack of communication, Failure to exercise diligence, ineffectiveness of his counsel, and Incompetence, Incompetence, and Incompetence. I'm in the process of filing a complaint against him to the Massachusetts Board of Bar Overseer; Attorney and Consumer Assistance Program (ACAP), I think he should get his license suspended or revoked. (everything I stated here is true except for the top 10 worst attorneys).

01 Nov, 2022 by Cindy allen

I would like to share with everyone the extremely positive experience we had with Attorney Edward Wayland. We were "in the weeds" and getting "bullied" by opposing counsel. Edward just calmly and rationally cut through "the sideshow" intended to distract and turned the situation around 180 degrees. Most importantly Edward held to his integrity and achieved a "just" outcome. I am happy to speak with anyone directly as this is a real experience. You can contact Edward for my details.

Thomas J. Frain

563 Main St Ste 11, Bolton, MA

Child Custody +1

3.0/5

3.0

2 Reviews

28 Dec, 2022 by Ken binetti

Incompetent

11 Jun, 2021 by M c

I recently had my Will done at Frain & Associates. Tom asked many questions before providing me with a draft for review. He listened and validated all of my concerns and made changes to accommodate those concerns, making me feel that he truly cared about my opinions. He was great to work with.

Christoph A. Rothschild

265 Franklin St Ste 1702, Boston, MA

Child Custody +1

3.0/5

3.0

2 Reviews

08 Oct, 2023 by John yu

01 Nov, 2022 by Cindy allen

Kathleen F. O'Sullivan

59 Interstate Dr, West Springfield, MA

Child Custody Family Law Mediation +3

2.6/5

2.7

7 Reviews

2.3

3 Reviews

06 Apr, 2024 by David willard

She will steal your retainer before your court date and has zero interest in whats best for your child. Absolute trash

31 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous

Horrible attorney. Focused on money and disparaging her clients. Did not show up for meetings, failed to do exploratory work, failed to communicate. This attorney made so many mistakes that cost families and children’s futures.

07 Dec, 2020 by Donald houle jr

Manipulates her own clients

Jeanne M. Kirkwood

859 Washington Street, South Easton, MA

Child Custody Family Law Mediation +3

2.0/5

2.0

1 Reviews

28 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous

She never gets back to you when you leave messages when you have questions after your case. I've tried over five times yet still no response to my question.

Anne L. Berger

210 Broadway Ste 202, Lynnfield, MA

Child Custody Child Support Family Law +3

1.7/5

1.0

5 Reviews

5.0

1 Reviews

27 Mar, 2021 by Joseph sturtevant

Professional prompt service... went the extra mile.. highly recommend...

05 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous

She has no concern for the children in a divorce case. My children directly suffered because of her. She in fact put the in harm's way.

27 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous

If I could give less than 1 Star, I would. Ms. Berger basically just took my money and I got nothing to show for it. When in court, I peeked over her shoulder and saw that she was reviewing someone else's on my time. When the judge asked her a question, she was too distracted by the other case. I will never hire nor would I recommend anyone from the Law office for which she is practicing.

Sue E. Scrogin

8 Rutland Cir, Worcester, MA

Child Custody +1

1.0/5

1.0

2 Reviews

11 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous

I had involvement with this lawyer when she was assigned to my family court case.Her actions traumatized my children and myself.She clearly showed favoritism to my ex who was not paying child support,had nothing to do with the children for years,had a criminal record and was abusive.All that and yet she still pushed for his involvement with the children,despite my warnings that it was not in the best interest of the children. This led to his brainwashing of the children and then going to briefly live with him.He then abandoned one of my children with his other ex and put the other in an institution.I was able to retrieve them but the emotional scars are lasting from the whole experience.I have thought about suing her several hundred times since then.

19 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous

She was assigned as a parent coordinator to get me custody after my X tried told my son to run away from home, and tried to kill him with a knife. The kids discussed this with a counselor, and a court appointed attorney - both wanted me to take custody. Sue-Ellen wouldn't listen when I tried to talk to her, and kept interrupting every time I tried to talk. She lied consistently to me and my lawyer, was severely unprofessional, and finally had to be fired by my lawyer. When she was in court being fired, she tried blaming everything on her secretary. She claimed her secretary wasn't mailing things, when come to find out, she never wrote them up (liar right up to the end). She has absolutely no concern for the kids, their welfare, nor does she take her job serious. She was involved for 2 years, kept charging us money, and couldn't even perform the menial task of scheduling holidays.

Jared D. Spinelli

53 State St Fl 15, Boston, MA

Child Custody Family Law Litigation +3

1.0/5

1.0

2 Reviews

18 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous

I hired Jared. He over promised, and under delivered. He was extremely cocky which made me feel confident in our case. We were laughed out of the court. The judge reprimanded him for false information, and the lawyers behind the bench were laughing at some of his claims. Get ready pay Boston prices for someone who is more concerned about telling everyone how important he is Personally, I think he might be a smart guy, but he absolutely craps the bed in court. He takes no responsibility after the courtroom hearing and will try to spin it that you were lucky to have him.

08 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous

Attorney Spinelli did not advocate for me and claimed a bad result was some sort of victory. I am still paying the consequences of his representation.

Janna K. Saad Esq.

P.O. Box 400, Kingston, MA

Child Custody Child Support Estate Planning +2 +5

1.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

10 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous

My gut told me go with someone else but I did not due to the money spent and time. She did make some gains but on our motions let opposing counsel control narrative. Was afraid to bring up vital information which could have damaged opposition's case. Sometimes you need to take a chance and throw stuff at the wall to see what will stick. Opposition did that to me, she was afraid to.

Kelly Neubauer Griffin

2 Dundee Park, Suite 304, Andover, MA

Appeals Child Custody Estate Planning +1 +4

1.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

20 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous

Did not return calls and billed exorbitant hourly rate for questionable work. Their firm changed names several times in a short period of time - did not provide services as advertised

Mark I Berson

One Federal Street, Greenfield, MA

Child Custody Estate Planning Family Law +1 +4

1.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

22 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous

Perhaps one of the greediest, most detached and unconcerned lawyers I've had to deal with in my entire life. More concerned with securing his exorbitant payment before answering any questions, be they basic and procedural in nature, than in instilling a feeling of having my interests at heart and a willingness to move forward with a very easy, very basic legal proceeding. Mark Berson is gruff, immature and from what I was able to gather I can only assume extremely hard of hearing as a number of questions went completely unanswered. As I say I must assume it be an issue of his age and hearing because I know of no professional, in any field, that would ignore or flat out refuse to answer questions and instead only bringing up his dire need for thousands upon thousands of dollars for a single, one day court hearing whose date I had secure without his assistance and before meeting with him. "This is one of the lawyers that gives other lawyers the bad reputation." - One of his colleagues.

Krista A. Wroldson Miller

25 Church St, Pittsfield, MA

Child Custody Child Support Debt Collection +1 +4

1.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

26 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous

Ms.Miller answered her phone with a “hello.” Not even pleasantly. I had to actually confirm I was calling the law offices of Krista Miller. I explained I was looking for representation and began to explain why, when I was immediately cut off and told I was to call her paralegal for a conflict check to see if I would even qualify for her services. Why is that my job to do her due diligence? Who answers a phone call from a prospective client with such an unpleasant and dishonorable attitude?

James M Ianiri

Norwell Executive Center, Norwell, MA

Child Custody Family Law Personal Injury +3

0.0/5

Sean Thomas Sullivan

214 State St, Northampton, MA

Child Custody Family Law Real Estate +3

0.0/5

Judith Duker Rosenberg

PO Box 509, Westborough, MA

Child Custody Elder Law Juvenile Law +1 +4

0.0/5

Donald Ball

303 Main St, Worcester, MA

Child Custody Consumer Protection Litigation +1 +4

0.0/5

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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.

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.

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