Best Child Custody lawyers in New Jersey

490 Child Custody Lawyers in New Jersey

>490

experienced lawyers

Michael Weil

425 Eagle Rock Avenue, Roseland, NJ

Appeals Child Custody Domestic Violence +1 +4

3.7/5

5.0

6 Reviews

3.5

37 Reviews

11 Oct, 2024 by Claudia

The operator Page is rude and condescending. When I asked her to take my number down she did it in a rude manner and did not even ask for my name.

09 Aug, 2024 by Amanda benjamin

Horrible law firm with awful customer service I have never in my life spoke to a company that was so rude ! It’s honestly really really bad ! I hope no one ever has to experience them you will be disappointed from first conversation believe me everyone that works for this firm is rude I thought it was just who I initially spoke to but every single person so far is horrible and not helpful at all ! I’m surprised nobody has reported them to the bar ! Believe me I will be once this is all over !

18 Jul, 2024 by J k

David R Tawil

150 John F. Kennedy Parkway, Short Hills, NJ

Child Custody Child Support Family Law +3

3.7/5

3.7

19 Reviews

23 May, 2023 by Anonymous

This guy is a joke. If you see a lawyer here with more than 2 negative reviews- stay away. Don't hire this guy.

10 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous

Although this may be something that you want in my case in 2019 David went overboard and ruined my relationship with my ex due to his vociferous disingenuous and vicious tactics I do think he has good qualities and is highly responsive but rude and arrogant as well. Avoid if you don't want to make your ex an enemy needlessly.

18 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous

This man is a fraud is not worth the ridiculous price given massive incompetence.

Jacqueline F Pivawer

575 Route 10 East, Whippany, NJ

Child Custody Criminal Defense Domestic Violence +2 +5

3.7/5

5.0

1 Reviews

3.0

2 Reviews

29 Mar, 2024 by Mike b

17 Mar, 2024 by Faysal ahmed

22 Mar, 2019 by Linda

My husband and I hired Jacqueline in 2013 to emancipate two of his adult children (from his previous marriage). Jacqueline went above and beyond our expectations. She got the courts to emancipate not only his two adult children we had requested, but also had his third adult child emancipated. It was a difficult case to say the least yet Jacqueline persevered and we won on all angles. We are now hiring Jacqueline again to prepare him for his retirement . We would highly recommend Jacqueline (and Tanya) as they are worth their weight in gold!

Kimberly Ann Greenfield

135 High Street, Mount Holly, NJ

Child Custody Domestic Violence Family Law +3

3.7/5

5.0

1 Reviews

3.7

45 Reviews

12 Sep, 2024 by Ben

I am so grateful for the advice, counsel, direction, representation, encouragement, and faith that I received from Kimberly Greenfield, ESQ and the Musulin Law Firm. Kim went toe to toe with the most expensive Divorce lawyer in South Jersey and fought tirelessly for me to keep custody of my kids and everything else that was important to me. She carefully guided me through the struggles of Custodial Interference and in the end, she was the only one left in the ring. She is wise beyond her years and a big reason why the next chapter of my life will be a happy one.

20 Aug, 2024 by Michael jenkins

Totally useless. Lied to my entire family every time we spoke. Never visited my son (her client in 2 years. All the time knowing that her license was suspended for months. She was absolutely horrible. To add to all of that, come to find out she is a family attorney not criminal.

24 Jan, 2024 by Lorrie demetratos

Very disappointed in dealing with Mary, since November something simple that needed to be taken care has yet been submitted per courthouse. She continues to tell me it has been submitted but NO PROOF. This is something that needed action ASAP! She has helped me 6 yrs ago and did amazing job. Not sure the issue with a simple task. Very sad now I need to call another lawyer because I do not know the status. Just been FRUSTRATING!!

Christina Marie Fulton Groves

135 High Street, Mount Holly, NJ

Child Custody Family Law +2

+1 (609) 793-8752

3.7/5

3.7

45 Reviews

20 Aug, 2024 by Michael jenkins

24 Jan, 2024 by Lorrie demetratos

18 Nov, 2023 by Natalye faison aud

My case involved highly sensitive matters and my child was very much at risk. Carolyn was not consistent in returning calls or emails (but would bill for reading my emails). Carolyn, apparently in poor health at the time, missed deadlines and ended up completely abandoning me. Despite several emails and calls to her office, she never returned my retainer. I hope and assume she’s in better health now, but still haven’t heard from her office regarding my retainer..

Jennifer D. Zoschak

34 Frankin Corner Road, Lawrenceville, NJ

Adoption Child Custody Domestic Violence +1 +4

3.6/5

3.6

6 Reviews

25 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous

Ms. Zoschak did not do discovery, did not prepare for my MESP and refused to talk to me about the panels conclusion. I was not told until after it already started that I couldn’t attend. She was supposed to call me right afterwards, but never did. I called and emailed her for 9 days until I finally went down to her office. She wasn’t in. She never is. Another lawyer called her and told me while she was on the phone that it wasn’t a good deal and not to take it. Jen didn’t even have the decency to talk to me herself because she knew she messed up, big time! After that I pleaded with her to at least get my rightful amount of child support. She lead me on for months, but never actually applied. I’ve lost out on thousands of dollars of support. I make 1/5 the income my husband does. I have a permanent restraining order against him and she refused to help me get my support and also refused to get him to pay the kids court ordered medical bills. My children’s primary doctor refuses to see them since his share of the balance is so outstanding. Jen doesn’t care that my kids and I are struggling. I wanted a lawyer who would fight for me. She won’t even return my phone calls or emails. Jen let me down. I would have been better off representing myself.

07 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous

Jennifer was an amazing legal resource and a tremendous source of support. She listened to all of my concerns, addressed each of them, talked me through the pro's and con's of all actions, and then executed our plan just as we had discussed. I would recommend her to anyone who is going through a tough situation: domestic violence or divorce.

09 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous

Jennifer is the most caring lawyer I have ever had the priveledge of knowing. Going through a divorce was the hardest thing I ever had to do and I know I couldn't have gotten through it without her. Jennifer makes sure that you are always informed with what is going on, she is very prompt in answering back phone calls and will go the extra mile for you. She is open and honest and looks out for your best interests. She made sure everything was done as promptly and accurately as possible, she never made me feel uncomfortable about anything. I couldn't thank her enough for everything that she has done for me. When you go through a divorce your emotions are all over the place and she understood that, and was very patient and caring with what was going on. She will make sure you get the best legal advice possible!

Robert M Zaleski

146 Green Street, Woodbridge, NJ

Child Custody Family Law Mediation +3

3.6/5

3.6

3 Reviews

02 Apr, 2021 by Richard

Probably the worst attorney I have ever had represent me, the misrepresentation and mistakes cost me thousands. It was all about billable hours from this firm. It took me over two years to get my divorce and finally I had to fire him so I could move my divorce along. All as I can say is stay clear!!

22 Jun, 2017 by Srabasti

I have been represented by Mr. Zaleski in my case and I must say, he is an amazing Attorney and Mediator. He has complete attention to detail, is extremely knowledgeable and experienced in the field. From the first conversation, he correctly predicted what to anticipate in my case and provided accurate guidance. He impressed me not only with the professionalism, but also with the art of communication as an outstanding attorney. His expertise helped me gain favorable results with an extremely difficult case. Since he is an amazing mediator, he would educate one on all the possible alternatives, explain the pros and cons etc. I was very pleased with Mr. Zaleski and his staff and every call was answered back in a timely manner. Each call had the utmost professionalism and I would use your firm again in the future. Thank you so much for your help. My heartfelt Thanks to Mr. Zaleksi for helping me with my case. I am extremely satisfied with the results of my case and I further recommend Mr. Zaleski and his law firm.

20 Jun, 2017 by Deepa

After past experiences with other attorney's, I learned that the truth alone is not enough to win in court, you need the right attorney to explain it to the judge and an aggressive one who can counter the opposing attorney in court, not just on paper or via mediation. Mr. Zaleski was amazing and represented me very well. He got the results I needed, protecting my and my daughters interests. I am so lucky to have found him and will continue to use his services in the future. I highly recommend him.

Eduardo Javier Jimenez

89 Headquarters Plaza North, Morristown, NJ

Appeals Business Child Custody +6 +9

3.6/5

3.6

3 Reviews

10 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous

This attorney handled all landlord-tenant affairs for my building in Jersey City, Nj. He eventually assisted me in the sale of the property with great competency and dedication. He is well versed and knowledgeable in this area.

22 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous

Mr. Jimenez won my custody trial in court which took three years. He worked very hard and got me the result I wanted. He still represents me to this day in my family matters. I highly recommend him.

02 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous

I can only speak for the outcome of our child custody case. In the early stages of our case, prior to hiring him, he told us there was the Tender Years Doctrine that he could use an an argument in our case. Having never heard of that, and going online to Google it, found out that has not been used in many years, because it was deemed to violate the equal protection clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. When we questioned him on that, he backed away from it. It seemed as though he was attentive, and he spent time with us going over all our notes. But in the end, on the most important day in court, it was like he just wasn't 'there'. He didn't much object to anything from the other side, didn't challenge the important evidence, and overall left us to flounder. We cannot speak for other cases he handles, for which he may be perfectly fit. But in our personal experience with him on an important child custody case, we felt he was a poor choice for our situation.

Jacqueline Rodriguez

5135 Bergenline Ave Fl 2, West New York, NJ

Child Custody Child Support Family Law +3

3.6/5

3.6

3 Reviews

25 May, 2018 by Jannyl

DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME ! This is the most unprofessional lawyer's office my family has dealt with. My mother was given three appointments and she wasted her time going to the office EVERYTIME; the receptionist claiming the lawyer is not available or in court. NOT even a courtesy call to my mother let her know to not come in because she wont be helped. WHY WE WASTED OUR TIME I DO NOT KNOW. SOMETIMES YOU WANT TO GIVE PEOPLE THE BENEFIT OF THE DOUBT . DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME !

19 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous

Very good lawyer, cares about her clients and all her cases, fights for you and listens to you! If you need help with a divorce or family case she is the best attorney you can get!

15 Dec, 2015 by Ana

Ms Rodriguez is an amazing attorney. She represents you zealously throughout your entire divorce. She takes the time to listen to you and explain the process. I wouldn't change her for any attorney in the world.

Laura Guinta Gencarelli

425 Eagle Rock Avenue, Roseland, NJ

Child Custody Child Support Family Law +3

3.5/5

3.5

37 Reviews

11 Oct, 2024 by Claudia

The operator Page is rude and condescending. When I asked her to take my number down she did it in a rude manner and did not even ask for my name.

09 Aug, 2024 by Amanda benjamin

18 Jul, 2024 by J k

Michelle Alyssa Wortmann

425 Eagle Rock Ave., Roseland, NJ

Child Custody Child Support Family Law +3

3.5/5

3.5

37 Reviews

11 Oct, 2024 by Claudia

The operator Page is rude and condescending. When I asked her to take my number down she did it in a rude manner and did not even ask for my name.

09 Aug, 2024 by Amanda benjamin

18 Jul, 2024 by J k

Josie Anne Scanlan

425 Eagle Rock Ave Ste 302, Roseland, NJ

Child Custody Civil Rights Consumer Protection +6 +9

3.5/5

3.5

37 Reviews

11 Oct, 2024 by Claudia

The operator Page is rude and condescending. When I asked her to take my number down she did it in a rude manner and did not even ask for my name.

09 Aug, 2024 by Amanda benjamin

18 Jul, 2024 by J k

Megan Elizabeth Clark

10 Poplar Tree Lane, Sparta, NJ

Child Custody Child Support Domestic Violence +1 +4

3.4/5

3.2

7 Reviews

3.6

3 Reviews

22 Sep, 2022 by Andy

After having a falling out with my partner, I started exploring legal representation to discuss a divorce. I met with a number of attorneys in the area and decided to move forward with having representation from Megan Clark. I couldn’t have asked for better services provided through the divorce process. As this was a difficult time for me, Megan was able to keep me focused on what is most important. So much happens through a divorce process that it is easy to get lost but Megan is incredible at knowing what the important issues to focus on are. She was patient with me, listening to my situation and hardships. It was difficult not to react to every issue that arose during my divorce but having support from Megan kept things clearer. Keeping it simple and educating me gave the confidence I needed to get through my divorce. Megan kept my best interests at heart and cared for me as a client. I would highly recommend Megan Clark to all friends, family, and anyone else that is in need of reliable legal advice. After a lengthy legal battle, Megan provided me with his superb legal skills that eventually ended my divorce in success.

30 Jan, 2022 by Peter

I hired Ms. Clark years ago due to a dispute in my divorce settlement. $7000 later, I wouldn't say I was fully happy but could've been worse. 4 years later, I have $600 left on credit and now trying to get that measly bit back is impossible. No one is answering my emails or voice-mail. I got her secretary FINALLY on the phone last month and was told "Invoices will be mailed out in January". Wait... no... that's not what I'm calling about. Too late; she hung up. I am truly and honestly confused. Am I not entitled to any monies on account? At least answer me and tell me that. I wouldn't recommend this firm being that my ex's attorney got everything they asked for and very little went my way... But that's not why the 1 star. Not only did I draw the short straw in the end, but lost the $600 crumb leftover as well.

14 Jun, 2019 by Sherriann bessette

This woman represented my late husband. It was awful. She was terrible to me in the court room. But she cares. I realized when all was said and done that the reason I hated her was because she is amazing at her job! If you are looking for a shark and a lawyer who actually cares she is it! A Laywer like her is hard to find!

Angelo Sarno

425 Eagle Rock Avenue, Roseland, NJ

Child Custody Child Support Family Law +3

+1 (973) 833-4747

3.4/5

1.0

1 Reviews

3.5

37 Reviews

11 Oct, 2024 by Claudia

The operator Page is rude and condescending. When I asked her to take my number down she did it in a rude manner and did not even ask for my name.

02 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous

I was deeply disappointed with this divorce attorney's services. They were consistently unresponsive and failed to communicate important updates. Furthermore, the lack of empathy and strategic guidance made an already stressful situation even worse.

09 Aug, 2024 by Amanda benjamin

Theresa Ann Lyons

76 East Main Street, Somerville, NJ

Child Custody Child Support Domestic Violence +1 +4

+1 (908) 333-4148

3.0/5

3.0

8 Reviews

12 Aug, 2022 by Tessa

First - know Lyons’ firm charges by 0.2/hr versus the normal 0.1/hr. So say she’s $575/hour — a one-line email that’s 30 secs to read & a 20 min phone call cost the same ~ $114. And raises hourly rates WHILE you still have $ from initial retainer. Apparently she “can,” but most just don’t. Especially in FAMILY LAW! Reviews I just read here describing Terry drawing you in with “charm,” TRUE. With reassurances that you are already and will be her absolute priority and then…didn’t even remember impt details of my case. And yes, my case was pawned off to brand new associate too, to save ME money. Knowing I’m a disabled, single mom who’d been bankrupted by lawyer fees to fight false allegations (as in hundreds of thousands) by children’s father, and referred to by her respected peer, when I saw the invoice charging me over $250 for the time I called just to ecstatically let her know EVERYTHING was dismissed, I felt nauseous. That’s repugnant. As the firm’s owner, I believe that’s her choice. Then, in the middle of what she said was “near the end,” she actually demanded my balance in full, saying not another word would be written on my behalf until fully paid. Pretty sure that’s not or is not fully legal, but what? Sue my lawyer who I need to finish an order? I had to BEG several times for huge (for me) lump sums then monthly payments that are the same as my rent (I had to move as a result). STILL paying off, but guess what hasn’t changed? My family court case for which she was retained. Probably redundant, but I do not recommend.

20 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous

Talked with Terry in first meeting, who I thought was great, then was assigned to an associate. She was the worst. Spent more time on the billing, or should I say overbilling then she did my actual case. For one sentence emails I would be charge a half hour. I had to learn more about the law because she was so incompetent. The missed over 100k in hidden assets, all because the would not file a subpoena like I requested. Everything was terrible, communication, the way they handled thing. I understand that Terry didn't handle my case, but when you name is on the door, your ultimately responsible.

28 Jan, 2020 by Nonja

Ms Terry worked hard for my divorce case with my difficult ex, she did her homework in presenting information to the court, she was compassionate and all my expectations were met. I am very happy with the quality of her work.

John Victor Dember

600 Lawrenceville Rd, Lawrenceville, NJ

Child Custody Criminal Defense Estate Planning +2 +5

3.0/5

3.0

4 Reviews

08 Nov, 2019 by Tamika

I used John for a tenant issue and power of attorney request. He took his time to explain everything to me and I understood exactly what was needed. He also gave me very insightful information that I was not aware of at all that I feel most attorneys would not take out the time to advise. He is a friendly guy and fights for his clients. Thanks for everything John. I will continue to use your services and refer others to your office for legal help.

17 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous

hired him for tax appeal using my employers legal plan. Refused to take any input during the tax appeal. Kept telling me why, how we are going to lose the appeal or why we don't have the case. Ultimately i decided to go with his comparable for the appeal as he would not accept the once i was suggesting. Did not tell me he was going to make me present the entire case to appeal board. His partner did not said single word other then to introduce me as client. Wont say single thing to counter appeal board argument or direct me what he want me to say, I was caught totally off guard doing all the defending of the comparable chosen by him. I lost simple appeal where assessor had priced my home higher by 40K then what i had paid, with mistakes in assessment by putting incorrect information. We would have just pointed that mistake to the board and we would have better shot at winning then hiring this guy.

23 Apr, 2018 by Eric

I have worked with John Dember on many matters and would gladly use him again. I have hired him for 2 house closings, divorce, DUI (dismissed), and an animal at large matters. John has been helpful, friendly and professional. I don't know the law and don't pretend to know. I like that I can give John the information that he needs and the outcome I desire and he makes it happen. Calling him right now for another matter.

Bryan Francis Ferrick

35 Journal Square, Jersey City, NJ

Bankruptcy Business Child Custody +6 +9

3.0/5

3.0

2 Reviews

09 May, 2013 by Lori

Terrible attorney took my money promised to go to court and get my back due rent and never did any work besides a phone call to my advisory.

03 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous

He is very knowlegabe about the law. I was charged with unregistered handgun. I was facing prison but he got my probation. I would definately recommend him.

Cathy J Pollak

Mack-Cali Corporate Center, Woodcliff Lake, NJ

Child Custody Domestic Violence Family Law +1 +4

3.0/5

3.0

2 Reviews

19 Jul, 2018 by Ed connors

Used this firm personally so I can honestly say it was not a god experience. Be forewarned, smiling faces making promises but in their own words "We have a hard time with transitions" cannot get billing out in a reasonable time frame and estimates for legal fees double. Horrible results. Only gave them 1 star because there are no negative stars

03 Oct, 2017 by Louisa borell

Sean Patrick Gaynor

1085 Raymond Blvd, Newark, NJ

Child Custody Child Support Criminal Defense +2 +5

3.0/5

3.0

2 Reviews

25 Oct, 2021 by Peter flower

Bill Waldman was the attorney that handled a closing for Lakeland bank whom held an SBA loan I had. After closing the deal in December 2020 and wanting to pay off the balance in the first 6 months I sent 3 requests starting in June of 2021 requesting a pay off balance after I had paid down a large amount of the loan. It was not until OCTOBER that he finally got back to me and Fedex me out a demand letter saying I owed almost twice the amount money and I needed to satisfy the loan in 10 days. In addition, he continued to add interest on the loan which I had planned to pay off in full back in June. After a bit of back and forth I had to do his job and correct him on his $70K error because he was asking ME to show him where he had dropped the ball. Makes you a little nervous that these banks have lawyers that represent them and they make such huge errors. I guess this is what you get from K&L Gates LLP.

28 Jan, 2021 by Paola disla

Craig William Kugler

Hoffman Dimuzio, Turnersville, NJ

Child Custody Family Law +2

2.8/5

2.8

7 Reviews

26 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous

Are you a stay-at-home wife who does nothing all day and feels like you deserve it all? Does your hard-working husband leave the house at 5:30 in the morning and come home at 5:30 at the night to provide for you and all the kids that you complain about watching? Wouldn't it be better if you had your own tiny little apartment in a community of special needs people and got paid for all your husband's hard work? Maybe he has a nice retirement might as well take some of that too right? Don't worry this man will get you child support and alimony. He will show up to zoom meetings in a tracksuit like he was at the gym but everyone knows he was out there fighting for you that's just his warm-up jacket. I would hire this man because he obviously is the perfect man for the job defending men's rights around the country from his basement on Zoom. Make sure you ask him what that cologne is he's wearing because it's definitely success.

13 May, 2022 by Anonymous

Craig was late to my court hearing. While going through my custody battle, he routinely said that I should “give into” what my son’s father wanted and seemed to side with him more since he was for dad’s rights over the wellness of the child. When we first met, he never introduced himself or shook my hand. He left the middle of our consultation to answer a phone call. Overall very unprofessional.

10 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous

I feel that Mr. Kugler did not represent me well during my divorce proceedings. I felt he was an overpaid paper pusher and did not advise me well and did not seem interested in fighting for the things I felt were important. I wish I had listened to advice and retained a different attorney but felt I was too far along in the process and just wanted to move on.

Lawrence Charles Kroll

One Auer Court, East Brunswick, NJ

Child Custody Family Law Personal Injury +2 +5

2.3/5

2.3

3 Reviews

03 Sep, 2024 by Amit

I had began a process to do a name change on my property deed in February and paid in full. Every couple of months I checked in and saw that that there was no progress. I received explanations that the process is stalled or the application was rejected but after 7 months I called the county clerk and discovered that it was not showing as rejected because they had never even received an application. It is now September and no one is getting back to me despite repeated attempts to contact the office.

29 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous

My experience after hiring Larry Kroll was not a very good one. I don’t think Larry actually ever listened to what I actually wanted during my the divorce. After him not advocating for my desires or what would be in my son’s best interest at the ESP, 4 way conference, and economic mediation I finally decided to get another attorney. The other attorney got me double the amount of time with my son, significantly lowered my alimony in both amount and term. I had hired Larry because of the lower price but in the end it cost me a lot more because I had to hire another attorney to do what he was not able to do for me.

08 May, 2014 by Mara

I hired Larry to help me with my divorce and custody needs. He was dedicated, focused on getting through the process with an unwilling divorce partner. Excellent person to have defending you.

Toni Belford Damiano

51 E Main St, Little Falls, NJ

Child Custody Domestic Violence Family Law +3

2.1/5

2.1

7 Reviews

23 Aug, 2023 by Cathy nasiuta

She doesn't care about winning your case, it's about running up the bill and dragging your case out as long as possible so she can make as much money as possible. When you're all out of money she will drop you like yesterday's paper and put liens against your assets.

11 May, 2023 by Anonymous

My case was post judgment and there was very little to be settled. Toni dragged out my case with never ending letters instead of calling opposing counsel. She prepared inaccurate correspondences that wasted my time and a lot of money. She was rude and condescending. These negative reviews are all accurate as they reflect my exact experiences. My new attorney resolved my case within two phone calls to opposing counsel.

20 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous

Toni Damiano does not care about her clients, she only cares about getting your money and doing absolutely nothing for it. If you want to pay $400 an hour for one line emails to go back and forth Toni Damiano is the one to hire. She refuses to answer questions, she is completely unprofessional using intimidation and humiliation toward clients. Then she will sue you for work she has not done.

Misty A. V. Avallone

4499 Route 27 Ste 1, Kingston, NJ

Child Custody Family Law +2

1.8/5

1.8

5 Reviews

18 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous

Misty made my case as expensive, painful, long, drawn out, and miserable as possible. She sought extension after extension after extension, effectively tripling anticipated costs. She performed needless busywork to run up the bill to astronomical proportions, and her work product displayed a fundamental lack of understanding of even the most simple legal propositions. My experience of her was that she was dangerously incompetent, and easily manipulated and outmaneuvered by the other side. She aggressively demanded astronomical sums for her services and made threats when they could not be paid in full immediately. There are a lot of lawyers out there, this one was my worst nightmare. I would hate to see others suffer as we did.

18 Sep, 2024 by Beth

She knew how the case should be handled and what the outcome should be from day 1. Run for judge if that’s how you’re going to be.

29 Aug, 2024 by Allison

I have had the pleasure of working with Ms. Avallone and would highly recommend her. She truly cares about her clients and is a great advocate!

Edward J O'Donnell

200 Campus Drive, Florham Park, NJ

Child Custody Child Support Family Law +2 +5

1.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

24 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous

I personally had a terrible experience with him and had to get a new lawyer in middle of my divorce which cost me so much money but it was the best decision I made.

William Timothy Howes

26 Anderson Street, Raritan, NJ

Child Custody Criminal Defense +2

1.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

07 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous

It is unfortunate that I retained him prior to this admonishment being made public, and I have suffered the same, and worse. Another complaint has been filed and It will not be long before the matter is escalated further.

Ronda Lillian Casson Cotroneo

1599 Hamburg Tpke, Wayne, NJ

Child Custody Child Support Domestic Violence +1 +4

+1 (973) 846-2775

1.0/5

1.0

2 Reviews

01 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous

Very unprofessional person, she couldnt fet an agreement on a decision to have my buy out more money and i deserve more being married for a long time, not to mention she just got up and left her practice and didnt tell me about it , Gave her 4, 000 for what she didnt even finished my case.

06 Sep, 2024 by Yasmen

If you want to be homeless - robbed - rapped - hospitalized go to Ronda - me and my daughter were used and abused by her and her “paralegal” “Elia Schneider“ who probably didn’t even graduate from high school. There is more to come for a detailed book review written by me and my daughter.

Louis Michael Ragone

993 Lenox Dr, Lawrenceville, NJ

Child Custody Child Support Family Law +3

0.0/5

Crystal G. Surface

9 Forrest Rd, Randolph, NJ

Child Custody Child Support Family Law +2 +5

0.0/5

Wesley Krompier

515 Iron Bridge Road, Freehold, NJ

Child Custody Criminal Defense Domestic Violence +1 +4

0.0/5

Elliot Steven Solop

530 Prospect Avenue, Little Silver, NJ

Child Custody Child Support Family Law +3

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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