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03 Apr, 2024 by Susan
I was so thankful on the quickness Melanie worked with me. I had only 2 weeks and she really pushed to get the documents done and accurately. I would recommend her services to anyone. Thank you so much.
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20 Mar, 2024 by Chelsea
Melanie was extremely helpful in my case and I will recommend her to family and friends if anyone is ever looking for an attorney.
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13 Feb, 2024 by David massie
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20 May, 2021 by Sarah
Ashlyn is five stars!!! A dear friend recommended Ashlyn to help navigate a dispute between my ex husband and myself. I was blown away by Ashlyn’s attention to detail and familiarity with the court system. When it came time for the trial I wasn’t sure what to expect and was pretty nervous. Once our trial began all those feelings quickly faded as I watched Ashlyn move into action. I completely trusted her and knew she was on top of everything. The professionalism and confidence was beaming. Ashlyn definitely knows her way around the court room and she isn’t afraid to show it. She was truly AHHMAZING! Needless to say we won. And we won BIG. I highly recommend Ashlyn and if I ever need anything in the future, I will be contacting her again.
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30 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
They say getting divorced is never easy. Add to that getting divorced after 10 plus years to a very mentally ill spouse during a pandemic. I could not have done it with out Ashlyn. During the consultation with Ashlyn she did something that she may not have even realized. She gave me hope, with her understanding of the mental illnesses that my ex spouse has. Ashlyn gave me hope by her experience being a guardian ad litem (an attorney representing the child and what the best interest is for the child.) After she took my case, Ashlyn used her skills and ability to calm down the bull dog attorney that my spouse hired. In court Ashlyn represented me and my interests exactly, and was able to speed up the divorce process. (At that point my ex was stalling wanting to move forward.) I pray that no one ever has to divorce their spouse. If they do, I hope that they are lucky enough to have Ashlyn or an attorney of her caliber represent them.
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18 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
I was very pleased with my experience working with this firm. Ashlyn represented me, and listened carefully to everything I told her about my family's situation. She and her paralegal worked diligently to make sure everything was resolved in a timely manner. All parties are satisfied, and we are now moving forward. I appreciate so much the time and attention taken to resolve the matter. Every step of the way, methods were offered to diffuse conflict. Knowing how traumatic separations can be, great care was taken to make this as painless as possible.
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27 Oct, 2017 by Steve
Penny was outstanding to work with during my divorce. She listened to what was really important to me and guided me through the process with facts. I really liked that Penny was always available to answer my questions. It did not matter if it was after hours during the week or the weekends, Penny was always there to help. She always made me feel that I was the most important client she was working with. Due to the size of our assets, I would ask Penny to run through different scenarios and advise me what was best. This was extremely helpful to me as I made decisions on how to handle asset division. As I child of divorce myself, it was extremely important to me that I did not become a “every other weekend Dad”. Penny understood how important that was to me so she fought for it and was able to get a 50/50 custody arrangement for me.
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14 Oct, 2017 by Sandy
Penny was wonderful during a difficult and complicated child custody case. She was readily available by phone for any questions I had and prepared for our many hearings through the process. She stuck by my side throughout my finally getting my son out of a bad environment and gaining sole custody.
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13 Oct, 2017 by Denny
I have worked with Penny on several occasions regarding various family legal issues over the past 10 years and have always found her to be top notch. She is very logical and methodical and takes the time to fully understand each situation so they can be approached in the best possible way. Penny is extremely knowledgeable and willing to work though all obstacles. I have referred her to a couple of friends that have all had the same positive experience. Penny has become my go-to person for all legal matters.
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22 May, 2021 by Mya clark
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22 Jul, 2017 by Genece wheeler beadle
Richard Becker handled a family matter case for me. I found him to be a brilliant, skilled, efficient, concise lawyer. He did exactly what I had asked him to do, more efficiently and painlessly than I could have imagined, and thus saving me money, time, and stress. I have recommended him to friends and family.
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31 Oct, 2014 by Scott
Rich handled my divorce and always went the extra mile under very difficult circumstances. He represented me for about 18 months regarding my child custody/visitation and against very long odds won the case for me. I would HIGHLY recomend Rich for whatever your legal needs might be.
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10 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
Connie was sympathetic, calm & understanding and very capable. She kept things on track & moving forward. She respected my wishes on the overall approach & tone for this process. She recommended a financial resource who helped with the splitting of assets. At the end, she did several tasks for me & my ex because his attorney was slow & often confused. I requested the quickest, leanest approach & she did that while still ensuring my rights were protected. I highly recommend Connie as a divorce attorney.
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17 Jul, 2014 by Denise
I hired Connie as my attorney for my divorce. I was more than pleased with her complete knowledge of the law and the procedures involved. She was helpful, reliable and in the know at all times. It was something I really appreciated at such a difficult point in my life.
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07 Aug, 2017 by Aaron
I was a nervous wreck when I called Sarah Carmody's office. I had just been served divorce papers and other than a speeding ticket I had no experience with working with a lawyer. Attorney Carmody and her staff helped me feel at ease and explained the divorce process and fee schedule very well. I appreciated that Ms. Carmody helped to keep the proceedings on the "high road" and also that she helped me to laugh when the situation called for it. Ms. Carmody and her staff were very efficient and were able to help reach a settlement quickly. I appreciated her honesty and humor throughout the proceedings. I would definitely recommend Sarah Carmody Law, LLC when you need a divorce attorney.
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24 Oct, 2016 by Emma
I would highly recommend Sarah to anyone going through a divorce or custody case. I used her services a few years ago for my divorce and again more recently for my custody modification. She is highly knowledgeable about the process, deals in facts, and was able to help us find a resolution that was the best course of action for my son. Sarah did a spectacular job of offering feedback and keeping the lines of communication open. I trust her 100% and would recommend her to anyone, without reservation.
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07 Dec, 2015 by Reed
Sarah helped me through a very difficult and complex custody case. She spent the time to help me understand all of the procedures that we were going though. I would highly recommend her to anyone seeking legal council. Thank you again for all you did!
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03 Sep, 2023 by Susan gray meyer
Keith Wellman is a very professional knowledgeable and dedicated attorney in the bankruptcy field. The consultation went very quickly, and the whole process from start to finish, was explained very thoroughly and his advice was greatly appreciated! Thank you Keith for all you did for me and for helping me to get my financial life back in order.
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29 Aug, 2023 by Jessica rose
Yanky went above and beyond! He was patient, thorough, and extremely helpful and supportive in helping me get my O-1 visa.
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24 Aug, 2023 by Jessie garroutte
Keith Wellman is my lawyer at the time. He did great. I got out of my debt of payday loans and hospital bills. I'm on disability and I ONLY make so much money per month. The payday loans wanted me to pay more every month and I can NOT afford that on SSDI. He is the best lawyer. I would prefer him to anybody if you are filing for chapter 13. I pay so little of money to him now. I was paying over $300 dollars per month to my payday loans here in Kansas.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Alexxis pike
The Henry Law Firm was absolutely amazing to work with! I couldn’t have asked for a better team! Steve himself was so attentive to everything in my very complicated case. He was always there to explain what was going on and answer all of my questions I had. He was a key factor in the reason we were able to win our case. I would recommend him to all of my family and friends!
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11 Jan, 2024 by Jeff myers
Steve did an awesome job in the mediation of my divorce. He moved mountains and made some miracles happen along the way as well. I would highly recommend his services to all my friends and family. The Henry Law Firm provides excellence in their family law practice.!
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27 Dec, 2023 by Chelsea rude
Steve and his team were assigned to my high conflict custody case to help resolve the constant court hearings, and filings from the other parent. They helped bring the case to a civil standpoint and show the truth through all of the harassing messages, and court filings. Steve stood up for what was best for our child, and gave his honest and professional input to the courts which the judge agreed upon and followed. I appreciate your professionalism, hard work, and honesty throughout the extremely stressful time. Steve handled the aggression from my child’s other parent with grace and professionalism the entire time. I have recommended your firm to multiple clients of mine going through their own divorce and custody case.
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30 Nov, 2023 by Lisa burke-mata
Dennis Clyde is a fine, honorable individual.
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08 Sep, 2023 by Kristin filardo
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27 Apr, 2023 by Delon pirtle
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08 Sep, 2024 by Joy worthy
Great firm. They addressed all our issues/concerns. They took plenty of time to answer our questions. Highly recommend Stockton & Kandt Law Firm!
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12 Aug, 2024 by Tim o'connor
We contacted Mr. Covington regarding a family issue and he took plenty of time walking through an explanation of solutions. He and the staff were very prompt in forwarding all necessary paperwork and were very responsive to our contacts and questions. Highly recommend.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Clare haycock
We worked with Jason Covington to secure guardianship of our adult son and really appreciated the way he was able to explain the process and make it less intimidating. Jason also dealt with a follow up issue we had. He is calm and patient and goes the extra mile. The overall office atmosphere feels approachable when you walk in the door. Communication has been professional and friendly. We would not hesitate to recommend Jones, McCoy and Covington.
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25 Feb, 2024 by P walton
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05 Sep, 2023 by John
Kevin was the only one that called me back on a matter that was borderline small claims court. He took the time to walk through my case with me considering all aspects. I'll definitely be using him in the future should the need to rise. He's definitely worth a phone call!
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11 Apr, 2021 by Richard “rick” barry
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10 Dec, 2021 by Matt stephens
Best divorce and family law attorneys in Johnson County. Their expertise is bar none. Rachel is on top of her game. Listens, cares, and is a bulldog for her clients. Rarely “loses” in court; great with mediators and GALs. If you need representation for your family law matter, you can’t do better than Mike and Rachel.
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31 Aug, 2021 by Souhir ghachem
Michael E Whitsit is The best attorney.
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27 Apr, 2021 by Jeanne orke
Rachel did my divorce in a very timely and professional manner. I would recommend her to anyone. I give her five stars!
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03 Jan, 2024 by Mary zion
Very professional and helpful with their knowledge of information you need to know about trusts over wills.
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03 Jan, 2024 by Jo ann clement
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03 Jan, 2024 by Ed dale
Paths Law Firm, without question, is the wisest choice for help with my Family's Elder Law Legal needs. From the initial informational meeting, I knew paths Law Firm was going to be an asset in developing a "Path" that my Family could follow to meet our Trust, and Power of Attorney needs. Russell's understanding and care about our Family's situation and his unprecedented knowledge of the correct legal requirements were only the beginning. He was so kind that he even made a house call.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Jacquie mccunn
This law firm I would not recommend to anyone !!!!! I was in the hospital for months after having abdominal surgery , In which I was referred to Parmele for consultation and possible representation . I agreed to allow them access to my medical files for review to determine further action . In the interim and prior to surgery was working with disability help Group to establish a case for benefits . Adam neidenberg was my attorney with disability help group . Parmele law firm attached themselves to my disability case and have asked for a percentage , after doing nothing ! They reviewed my case for medical negligence and declined to represent , but are holding to a percentage of establishing my disability case and it’s criminal at best ! Do NOT use them for anything ! The service from the very start was awful. I literally talked with the paralegal Ashley. So many times indicating you DONT represent me , But my signature to release my records was used to indicate some connection to receive payment to the point it is holding up my disability payout ! My true attorney felt so bad the with drew their request for payment ! Awful business
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16 Aug, 2024 by Matt varnadore
Tina and the rest of the staff are amazing! I finally feel like I have someone on my side. I have dealt with several attorneys that talk a big game and then just bill you for a ton of random things with no results. Tina and staff go above and beyond to make you feel comfortable and taken care of. My divorce felt hopeless before Tina came on board, I can finally start to breathe again.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Aqua dragonfly
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13 Sep, 2024 by Jacquie mccunn
This law firm I would not recommend to anyone !!!!! I was in the hospital for months after having abdominal surgery , In which I was referred to Parmele for consultation and possible representation . I agreed to allow them access to my medical files for review to determine further action . In the interim and prior to surgery was working with disability help Group to establish a case for benefits . Adam neidenberg was my attorney with disability help group . Parmele law firm attached themselves to my disability case and have asked for a percentage , after doing nothing ! They reviewed my case for medical negligence and declined to represent , but are holding to a percentage of establishing my disability case and it’s criminal at best ! Do NOT use them for anything ! The service from the very start was awful. I literally talked with the paralegal Ashley. So many times indicating you DONT represent me , But my signature to release my records was used to indicate some connection to receive payment to the point it is holding up my disability payout ! My true attorney felt so bad the with drew their request for payment ! Awful business
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16 Aug, 2024 by Matt varnadore
Tina and the rest of the staff are amazing! I finally feel like I have someone on my side. I have dealt with several attorneys that talk a big game and then just bill you for a ton of random things with no results. Tina and staff go above and beyond to make you feel comfortable and taken care of. My divorce felt hopeless before Tina came on board, I can finally start to breathe again.
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14 Aug, 2024 by Aqua dragonfly
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17 Jun, 2024 by Cristian arango
I’m a real estate agent and I went there for they to help me with a case and didn’t want to help me. They have terrible service don’t use them
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09 Apr, 2024 by Georges hajj
Katie McClaflin is out of this world! Her unlimited knowledge, extensive experience, phenomenal commitment and very hard work are unparalleled. At a time when everything was literally falling apart, when all hope felt completely lost, she was confident of an outcome I never even imagined to be remotely possible. She is never intimidated, always professional and deeply cares about what is most important! She is never afraid to speak her mind, even when it was not what I wanted to hear. To me, Katie is not just a terrific attorney, she is an amazing mentor, advisor, friend, and above all a life saver, not in the medical sense, but certainly in every other aspect of life! I am eternally grateful for what she does. I would never want anyone else representing me. She is the one and only!
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01 Mar, 2024 by Kevin young
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03 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Kay will drag your case along until you’re broke. She does not have interest in resolution only personal finance gains.
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18 Mar, 2021 by J per
Called three time was put on hold and then disconnected
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10 Jan, 2018 by Tanya
I hired Kay to as my divorce attorney. She was always prompt and professional. She supported and assisted me in doing much of the legal work myself to save money, which I appreciated. I did not feel like she was stretching things out to make a buck. I'd definitely hire Kay if I have needs in the future.
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11 Jun, 2019 by Judy
My husband and I hired Ron when we were going through a custody issue with my step son. As I read the other comment reviews I was so shocked that I experienced the same thing and I am in 100% agreement with them. Ron comes with a great story, however, he is arrogant and prideful which unfortunately shows through his billing. He tried to bill us 10 yrs ago $350 for a 15 minute consultation. Reading his other reviews it looks like that his arrogance and pride has gone up to $500. Overall, he's not worth the money or the belittlement. Yes, he makes you feel stupid.
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07 Jul, 2018 by John
After paying the consult fee I hired Ron and went forward. After two months he had charged me outrageous fees for simply responding to the minimal emails of my case. I hired him for a focused, specific hearing but yet he charged me fees for being copied on emails relative to their parts of my case that were not relevant. I expressed concern multiple times to no avail, and then when I stood firm that I needed to cut him out of the irrelevant legal emails he told me he was withdrawing for "ethical" grounds. His story is good, but there's no merit or truth to it. Further, he tried to withdraw without a hearing and my approval, basically trying to skate out of appearing before the judge who eventually called him out for it. Lastly, he withdrew shortly before the hearing I hired him for and after I had spent enormous fees for him to prep for the hearing, leaving me without an attorney and starting over. He ran before the hearing because again, Ron sells an impression of knowledge but went yellow and ran before the hearing. He also directed me not to be on a call with the judge when I found out later i should have been, plus his advice was exactly the opposite of the judge's decision when I finally had the custody hearing. However, Ron walks away with $6,000 o fly money, mostly in "logistical fees", and left me with horrendously bad legal advice. If he responds to this it will simply be more spin. However, I am a very honest and fairly intelligent person that is stating the exact truth. You have been warned.
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29 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Ronald to provide a consultation. $500 for one hour of his time. His paralegal required that I submit extensive background information in advance of our telephone consultation. My family law case involves an ex-spouse who abducted our child. When I asked Ronald about a strategic tact for handling the abduction he said that would be illegal and he said that by the tone of my question that I intended to carry forth the plan. This of course was not true. When I tried to ask him other questions about the case he was reluctant to answer any of the questions. Essentially, he shut down our consultation interview. I was not prepared to pay $500 for 20 minutes of Ronald's time and receive so little information. I had additional questions I wanted to ask later based on the information he provided in our brief consultation and I had at least 35 minutes of time left. When I tried to contact Ronald's law firm they ignored my requests but they certainly kept my money which they required to be paid in advance by credit card. I review Ronald with low marks and I question whether he should have taken $500 for approximately 20 minutes worth of questions. Ronald comes across as a judgemental, elitist, arrogant and unresponsive attorney based on my consultation with him. Ronald may, or may not, be a skilled attorney but by no means is he easy to work with and I found he is indulgent in how he assesses his fees based on my experience with him. In sum, I would not hire him to work for me.
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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.

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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. What is the likelihood of success in my case?
    Ask for an honest assessment of your case, including potential challenges and expected outcomes.
  4. How long will the process take?
    Inquire about the expected timeline from filing the petition to reaching an agreement or going to trial.
  5. Will you personally handle my case?
    Ensure you know who will be managing your case and representing you in court.
  6. 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.