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18 Jan, 2011 by Anonymous
From the very begining of my case I was not sure Mr. Kinney ever even paid attention. He had a girl sitting with him taking notes as he stared off. He never took my calls or responded to my messages and I ended up talking to Julie more than him.
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03 Sep, 2010 by Anonymous
Kevin and his staff are both personable and very professional, and inspired confidence that my case was being handled skillfully and with a high level of integrity throughout the process.
I always felt that his conduct throughout the case and his answers to my questions were direct and straightforward, and that he did an excellent job of keeping his (and my) "eye on the ball" with regard to staying focused on the issues and appropriate strategies to move the case forward toward the best possible outcome as the case evolved.
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24 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Kelly has been a wonderful family attorney to me. Mine was a complicated case which ran at the same time as my ex-husband's criminal trial, and it took us a year and a half to finalize our divorce because of the many aspects and complications which stemmed from the criminal case. She went above and beyond her duties as a divorce attorney, she clearly cared about providing the best representation for me and my children, and made sure that I was well informed during the entire process. She kept me involved in every step of the process, and patiently explained the things I couldn’t immediately understand or I found confusing. She is responsive and professional, direct, determined and confident. At the end of an incredibly difficult personal experience, she was able to negotiate an excellent settlement for me and the children and I couldn’t recommend her more.
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10 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
Kelly Lemarr represented me in a recent divorce case. Not only was there very limited follow up during the case progression, but frequently Ms. Lemarr showed up to 1 hour late to our scheduled meetings. Many times she would confuse my case with other clients that she represented. On a few occasions she would refer to me by the wrong name or ask me to pronounce it for her. "Margo" is not to difficult to pronounce for anyone. After several thousands of dollars spent on a divorce attorney, I terminated our relationship and sought other representation. My new Attorney was "Night & Day" above what I was used to with Ms. Lemarr. In my opinion, a divorce proceeding is one of single most stressful life situations one must go through. My recommendation would be to steer clear of this attorney, if you want reasonable and professional representation.
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03 Apr, 2014 by Mark
As an attorney, I respect David and always believed he fought for his client
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31 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
This attorney convinced me to agree to a fifty fity that has affected my son so much. The other parent has huge anger issues that I had police reports for as well as witnesses. He had pot in car upon pick up and had been mad about money since pregnancy. I had log books and the courts have proof that he was after taxes. I tried to let him know I was unhappy but he fired me and used the excuse of consistantly late papements. I was late one month but I made next 4 months. He sent me s check back for over 500.00. He had this laid back casual attitude and I needed a fighter!! My son says every time when he has to go with dad, I don't want to go mom, I want to stay at your home... That sucks.. I respond to my son this is your home and I will see you real soon and work hard... My son calls this my home but ITS HIS HOME!!! He is only 3 1/2 and his father didn't even accept him until he was two. He actually bought a swab test at walgreens...Then never sent it. Missid his first easter, birthday, and gave me hell and I have the proof... David Hasen didn't pay attention to his fathers anger, greed or neglect and handed him right over... HE SUCKS!!!!
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17 Mar, 2010 by Anonymous
Ms. Soto neglected to inform me about the other attorney's motion which cost me thousands of dollars and a financial mess. She did not complete her work as requested and basically dumped my case.
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13 May, 2009 by Anonymous
Ms. Soto represented me in traffic court in 2008 and the ticket was thrown out. I was satisfied with her representation and she was very affordable.
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05 Sep, 2010 by George
Craig sorted out what was a difficult mixed-property dissolution and obtained a favorable result in a settlement. Craig was my first and only attorney in this dissolution. Craig was consistent during the transitions. He explained the law to me and at critical times during settlement provided good, sound, conservative advise. I was confident after being educated by Craig that I could stand firm on certain issues, while giving on others.
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05 May, 2009 by Anonymous
We hired this attorney for my son's divorce and found him to be passive and quiet. He let everyone walk over him in court and didn't represent my son's best interests. We felt he was siding with my son's wife and he didn't get us a court date after asking him frequently for one. We feel he was just stringing us along to bring in money for the firm. As we hadn't dealt with a divorce in our family before, we didn't realize how bad things were until my son was about 30 thousand dollars in debt and he still didn't get a divorce after over 2 years. My son fired him and hired another attorney. The divorce wasn't a difficult one so there wasn't any reason why it wasn't finalized much sooner. We don't recommend this attorney for anyone.
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29 Oct, 2023 by White
If your case is uncontested, then Pedrojetti might be OK for what you need. I hired him to initiate and represent me in a custody hearing. Drafting documents was always back and forth due to errors. He burned through my retainer account (and then some) without even stepping foot into court on my behalf. Opposing counsel filed to have a jurisdictional hearing for the matter and he gave me the ultimatum of coming to a settlement agreement with baby-momma before the hearing or else he would remove himself from the case….. within less than a week of the upcoming hearing!!! Being an interstate jurisdictional matter, I studied the UCCJEA which nationally governs interstate jurisdiction disputes. When I spoke with him and pointed out different points and provisions of the UCCJEA and showed that Oregon hands-down had home state and full jurisdiction over the case, he simply told me I was wrong. (I sincerely doubt he even bothered to familiarize himself with the UCCJEA.). With new counsel by my side Oregon decided that it DID have jurisdiction to decide the case. I guess on one hand I am glad that Pedrojetti refused to argue jurisdiction on my behalf rather than show up to court and not make a good argument. That said, he should have set his pride aside and admitted his ineptitude in arguing jurisdiction rather than tell me that I was wrong. I know lawyers aren’t cheap, but he cost me way more money than the little bit of work he did filing a few documents. Crooked as they come. “Saul Goodman” ………..but without the results.
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05 Feb, 2016 by Donna
Attorney Pedrojetti was extremely helpful in what was suppose to be a non contested divorce that quickly turned into a full custody battle. He was extremely knowledgeable and helped me navigate through the process. Hopefully I never need to get another divorce but if I did I would call him in a minute.
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22 May, 2024 by Samantha gile
13 Apr, 2024 by Nicole lillie
Does not communicate well or respond to emails. Perhaps she needs to retire or find a job that she enjoys? Very condescending and does not answer questions.
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11 Apr, 2024 by Kathleen d
Knowledgeable and caring. She helped us through a difficult time and made it bearable.
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13 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
Hired him to represent me to win my SSI. He guided me through the process with much empathy. Unfortunately I was presented with a disagreeable SSI judge at my hearing and didn't win my award. Fortunately I didn't have to pay for his services unless I'd have won my case.
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29 May, 2021 by Nik
I also believe that Todd was intentionally working against me. Possibly forwarding emails. Giving bad information. Giving terrible advice. And possibly lying. Either Todd is a court dodger or not truthful. Either way I feel betrayed. Beware!! Run away!!!
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18 Apr, 2021 by David
To be fair to Mr. Worthley, he did suffer a death in his family at the time, but still, I wasn't contacted by him or his staff for two months after I and my advocate consulted with him in person. (I'd been referred to him by the Oregon Bar.) After those two months, he said that he'd called the other person's lawyer, and that he didn't think I needed any legal help or even mediation. He then gave me a solution that we'd already explained to him wouldn't be possible. With all due respect, Mr. Worthley didn't remember any of the key issues in my case, and then only offered me a solution that would not only not work for my case but had nothing to do with the core issues which we presented to him at our meeting in person. He refunded only part of my retainer and wrote me a letter saying I had "mischaracterized" him (whatever that means). I was surprised and disappointed, and I would definitely not recommend him.
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07 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Seek council elsewhere. Doesn't respond to emails, is lacking in general knowledge, doesn't pay enough attention to your case to actually have the knowledge to fight for you, cares more about providing professional courtesies to other attorneys than fighting for you. Lacked the basic knowledge and foresight to see the repercussions that child support, parenting time, and alimony have on income and taxes and how that affects refinancing the family home. There was a pressing matter involving a parenting dispute. I called the office and emailed Chamber. She never responded. Months later I had another question. Emailed her and again, no response. I called the office looking for her and was treated like I wasn't even a client. Do yourself a favor and find someone competent.
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08 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Basic communication is nonexistent, consistently forgets to respond to matters and refers to her clients in emails by the incorrect name.
Save your time and money. In my opinion you are better off finding a competent attorney.
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25 Jul, 2023 by Shelley
I hired Chamber for my divorce, everything was very timely and professional. She told me exactly what to expect and was completely right on the money. Have also had her look at a contract for me and she broke it down for me and let me know it needed a couple of tweaks and then good to go.
Over all a great experience and will hire again for other needs in the future
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31 May, 2021 by Jamason
I’m sad to see that someone else has had the same experience that I had with Laura and the rest of her pathetic scum of the earth firm. These people are leeches and will turn your life upside down out of sheer incompetence and bad breath.
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25 Oct, 2018 by Jason
Laura Rackner is by far the best attorney I've ever worked with. She is fair, firm and extremely knowledgeable. She was very comforting during a very difficult time and always gave me confidence in her answers and approach with my case. I would highly recommend her to anyone.
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27 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
Had hired her but ended up getting her junior partner when it came for court time who could not even write a decent court document for the case. Also she kept giving bad advice putting my children and myself in danger. After finally switching to a less known but very competent and effective lawyer who listened to my concerns. Ms. Rackner would not believe all the things I was telling her and had to get 2 witnesses to talk with her who were professionals to have her even consider that going back to an abusive home was out of the question. She would not be my choice for an abusive situation or if there is any mental health problem in a divorce case.
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22 Sep, 2023 by Jess
Had to fire her during trial cause she hadn't helped with anything wouldn't object to anything. In my opinion she sold her soul to cps since she wouldn't hear me only them.
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18 Feb, 2020 by Frank
I was looking up my attorney’s mailing address and some comments and decided to leave mine in response. I’ve had a business relationship with linda for over 20+ years. She has always been professional, courteous and timely. She has helped me with a divorce, as well as real estate contract issues and other business issues. Always has done the best. I work intimately with the public and am aware of those types who spew far fetched stories - like the one where they say their attorney didn’t follow through or call them back for six months. I consider that lots of people lack candor (lie) in order to build themselves up and make themselves look better when they have bad cases. Remember: an attorney can try their best, but can only do so much, especially when their client is a mutt and is less than honorable. If you want a great attorney who will work hard for you, Linda is the one. Just don’t expect her to lie on your behalf. She is highly ethical.
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03 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
Linda was very prompt to accept payment from me to defend against my citation. However, after she received payment I did not hear from her despite leaving messages, emails, and texts for over 6 months! Upon which I received an email stating my court case was not decided in my favor. Completely worthless.
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24 Mar, 2020 by Joe
Both my wife and I like Mr Palmer, very personable, straight forward, friendly. Not afraid to tell you all about his accolades and then some, but that's okay, you want to know the attorney you have is worth his salt. Some of the meeting times we had seemed redundant, like, didn't we already cover this? In some ways, I felt after we left the appointment, he set his tablet aside and forgot most of what we went over times past even though he took copious notes. Our case was simple, not heated and hateful, we knew what we wanted for outcome and actually got less than where we started. His interrogation of the ex spouse was pitiful. We had gone over some talking points that he either forgot or decided at the last minute not to use, of course once the case starts, you can't say a thing and if you try to pass him a note he pushes it away. His knowledge of courtroom procedures and family law is really very good, we just didn't like his style and the judge in our case evidently didn't either. For us, the missed outcome didn't hurt us but we could think of other cases where it could be crucial. We will not recommend against him because, like I said, he knew his stuff. Maybe just not a good day for us. If you're looking for a bulldog attorney, then you might want to consider someone else, if your looking for a gentleman attorney, then that description is more in line with his style and personality. You can't have them both.
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24 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Quoted me $150/hr to take my case. Sent me an Email saying he worked ~3 hours to review my case then charged me almost $1500 to tell me he was not going to take the case based on information I gave him the first day in the consultation! This lawyer will take your money without providing any services whatsoever! Take your money elsewhere, there are plenty of lawyers who are not out to steal your money. James A Palmer should be disbarred!
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17 May, 2018 by Anonymous
Jim represented me in a child custody matter. He took my case when others were frighted off. He knew his stuff. I got the outcome I was seeking. I recommend him.
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04 Apr, 2024 by Tammy murray
This attorney only accepts, “easy” cases.
Disgusting!
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11 Mar, 2023 by Alora l lattimer
Good
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13 Nov, 2020 by Todd percox
Hired Clinton for a misdemeanor case. He told me $10,000 for lawyer fees and trial. We show up to trial and he was unprepared. Didn't properly submit some items into evidence, so they got tossed out. He tried to show a video and didn't even have it prepared, so that got tossed out too, and couldn't even show the video. The D.A made him look like a fool the entire time. I lost the case as a result. Then I get a bill on top of that for another $3,000 for "work he did". He wasn't even prepared for the trial!
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12 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
He totally screwed up my case. Did not file a response to a motion. Because of his failure at the hearing nothing we had to say could be heard. My cat could have done better. At the hearing his hair was greasy. He looked like a slime ball. $7000+ and he didn't do anything but hurt my case.
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19 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Tim was hired short notice for an emergency situation in my family. He was the only attorney that was available short notice on a holiday. (Now I see why)
During a phone call when I'm obviously stressed and panicking he shushes me. Which I thought was unprofessional but things had started moving, or so I thought.
In a hearing he shows up to, he flat out stayed silent. No defense against easily proven lies from my ex. Even when I had mentioned that these statements were untrue.
That same hearing he arrive very disheveled and his suit was covered in beard hair from possibly shaving in his car or who knows. I just know it was very unprofessional.
After a heating he gave me bad advice concerning my rights and actions which lost me ground to MY abuser because he didn't pay attention to the entire hearing.
He also failed to file important documents I spent days working on, reviewing, and re writing.
He said he had a plan. Seemed very motivated and driven for helping me.
But he didn't even take accurate notes that he himself asked for over the phone.
I had to speak up and correct my own attorney over details he couldn't seem to even take accurate notes on.
After that he tanked my hearing and did nothing.
After that I fired him and somehow my retainer that was just replenished was evaporated to almost nothing even though I had just replenished funds and he had no work.
You might as well defend yourself.
Heck, even the guy who serves coffe at the drive through could probably do a better job than TIm
A Clown in a cheap suit.
This is my opinion from working with him directly.
His only other rating is from another attorney. Imagine that.
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18 Dec, 2020 by Emily
Tim Brown has been the pillar in my understanding, interpretation, and overall ability to move forward with my child custody case. With every hiccup that has pushed us back in this process; his ability to think, act and react never siezes. He's truly and incredibly gifted at his occupation.
The communication, professionalism, and dedication he displays is absolutely out of this world and has blown every expectation I had out of the water, as well as having torn through every bit fear I had coming into this process.
Mr Brown's legal knowledge, interpersonal skills, respectful demeanor, and above the standard professionalism, has made this whole stressful and difficult process clear and more comfortable than I imagined possible.
A child custody case of ANY length creates undue stress and feelings of concern on parents and children, inadvertently. Mr Brown's ability to perform his expected duties along with his ability to calm my fears and help me focus on the bigger picture has been pivotal. His knowledge, experience, and genuine care is exceptional. Professionalism, hard work, and dedication worth it's weight is difficult to find. Tim Brown embodies all of these traits and continues to go above and beyond the typical call of duty in my case.
There is no shortage of human decency (in this seemingly indecent occupation) when working with the team at LaMont Law and I highly recommend Tim Brown.
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18 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
After 6 months she could not settle the case, and ultimately dropped my case. Tiffany came highly recommended to me and she was disappointing & hoped she could settle a simple divorce in less than 6 months. I wish I would have read her reviews prior to hiring her.
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05 Aug, 2022 by Paul
I used him for a divorce big mistake! Its all about the money. Has no people skills, compassion or Professionalism. Can't understand why he is still in business. Also if your looking for fairness in the Douglas court system for get it. Zero fairness or professionalism there as well!
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16 Feb, 2022 by Rob
Worst lawyer I've ever hired. 3000 dollars spent for him to file 2 petitions. Andrew Johnson didn't even try to help my daughter and I. Had to fire him and defend myself. Won the case without him in 30 minutes. Wouldn't hire him to defend my dog at the pound.
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07 Jan, 2020 by T sharp
Amazing lawyer! He has helped my family in civil matters and has never backed down to the adverse party. He knows the law and is quick on his feet when there are technical questions about a case in front of the judge... bc he knows his stuff! He won’t steer you wrong. He is up front all the way through your legal process with the good and the bad. Everyone in town knows who Andrew is and that he’s an excellent attorney. He’s actually pretty fun to joke around with. If you don’t like him it’s probably bc you were on the losing end! I’d recommend him to any family that needs a strong attorney that really knows how to argue the law.
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29 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
She was intimidated by opposing counsel, encouraged settling and giving more to them than was even necessary let alone fair. She is not a fathers rights attorney whatsoever. She has no experience (outside of our case) with high conflict people, and had no idea how to handle it. There were multiple instances of her giving advice, only to concede that she was wrong. She dropped the ball on multiple occasions. When she’d speak to the judge, she was too nervous to get across ideas. It was like she was a kid reading from a written speech, no ability to improvise. Hiring her and not firing her mid battle is one of my biggest regrets. I don’t mean to be cruel, but this needed to be said. It’s too important and too much money for others not to know.
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02 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
This attorney claims to be an expert in child custody matters, and states on his website that mediation with the other parent is important to the child's welfare (my paraphrasing). In fact, Mr. Cross encourages contention and strife between the opposing parties, uses the children as pawns in the divorce, refers to custody issues as the "custody battle"and even suggested that the "goal"of any custody fight is to "win, thus ensuring the custodial parent will get child support".
While my now ex-spouse and I are no longer friends, we are, thankfully,a united front regarding our children, and we have agreed to never disparage each other to the children, to respect each other in our individual lives, and to reassure them through our behavior that their Mother and Father are no longer married to each other through NO fault of their own, I absolutely WOULD NOT recommend Mark Cross as a family law lawyer.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Marlene
As soon as we met him I knew we would look for a different attorney. I have never met anyone more unprofessional in my 80+ years. It was obvious he wanted to be anywhere but where he was. It got worse during the consultation. I think he prejudged my granddaughter rather than the child custody case we were there for. He gave us completely different information than the lawyer who represented her in the CPS case. I would not recommend him at all.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Crystal
He refused to answer phone calls, refused to answer emails, refused letters, and refused to visit his client after the first meeting and saying he would return in two days. 6 months later after much fighting we had the Bar and the Client assistance office replace him. He didn’t even both to show up for court at one hearing. And lied out right at a second hearing stating that he had reached out to the Public Defenders Office personally to replace him, without realizing that in the hearing he misses the PDO had already stated they had not heard from him, only his client.
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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:
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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.
