Filter by

Tanya Melissa Gravel, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Providence, RI with 2357 reviews
Good
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
50,42
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
5.0
22 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
2335 Reviews
star star star star star
07 Feb, 2025 by Lisa cote
This man did absolutely nothing to help me. He ignored all of my calls. Made me beg for responses and belittled me for not understanding how court went. He did nothing to fight for my case and knew nothing about details until he let die process happen. I feel ripped of and taken advantage of. Stay away from this swindler
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
23 Jan, 2025 by Michelle areiza
10/10 . I seen how he works with his clients and how much he cares so that is the reason I chose him to represent me. I felt confident having him as a lawyer but absolutely exceeded my exceptions!! Doesn’t disappoint. Highly recommend!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
23 Jan, 2025 by Francis rigney
An illegal immigrant that somehow became a judge. His law office was just raided and he resigned his judicial position in DISGRACE. Enjoy Columbia, I hear it's warm this time of year.
Read more Google Maps
See more
John P Larochelle, experienced Child Custody, Criminal Defense attorney in Providence, RI with 390 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
48,34
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
5.0
21 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
369 Reviews
star star star star star
18 Jan, 2025 by Billy araujo
Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Jan, 2025 by Kateryna kudinova
Brett V. Beaubien is a great attorney who helped me win my case. He was clear, responsive, and always focused on what was best for me. I highly recommend his services!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Dec, 2024 by Sheila whalley
We meet Jason Knight at the court. We are thankful for all his help and support. He took care of two of my husband court cases and made easier for us to have peace of mind. We appreciate everything he did.. That's why he is and always will be our family Attorney. Thank you Jason Knight
Read more Google Maps
See more
Brenda F. Rioles, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in Providence, RI with 46 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
47,18
star star star star star
4.8/5
Avvo
4.7
21 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
25 Reviews
star star star star star
27 Jan, 2025 by Rod nice
Attorney Rioles helped me through a life event that totally upended my world, namely, divorce. Now such a thing is common in the human experience but when it happens to you a lot of confusion and loss of clarity in one's life can enter in. Without having a good support and counsel around, too many missteps could enter in to worsen an already bad situation. Looking back now, I am glad that I reached out to Attorney Rioles, although; I should have done so sooner. I initially opted for the short in-person consultation to see if she could help me make sense of it all. She was very thorough and clear as to what I could expect in the divorce process. She had no problem answering each question I had. At times I felt like maybe I shouldn't ask too many questions because it seemed later in the afternoon, however she was calm throughout and was genuinely wanting to help me through. At the end of the consultation, I told her that I would need time to think about proceeding officially and filing the necessary paperwork in a few months. She confirmed that she would be ready when I was ready. No sales pressure whatsoever. (I want to say that her experience had allowed her to see the end from the beginning of my case, which gave her that confident assurance that I was lacking.) Well, days later, I was calling her back kicking myself that I didn't start the process during the initial consultation. When a friend of mine looked at the lawyers retained for my case, he told me that I managed to get a serious lawyer. Attorney Rioles had to deal with my incessant texts/emails throughout the process when each time I was thinking that the sky was falling. Many of her responses were answers that I realized later that she already had provided to me, but being in a mentality stressful situation, I was forgetting and misunderstanding them. She had no problem clarifying each and every time (And I had no problem apologizing each and every time). I don't think I have apologized enough, though. I think she treated me better than what my behavior had earned. The law office's online platform made it super easy and convenient for me to send over any necessary documents. The court appearances were nerve-racking but Attorney Rioles made things go smoothly for me. She passed certain legal motions that I didn't even know could be done but were perfectly in line with what I was looking to get accomplished (In court, it seemed like the couple of lawyers I heard conversing, felt that Attorney Rioles was not one they would want to challenge.) I was fortunate to have had her in my corner through it all. I felt that she went above and beyond several times (and even now weeks after the close of the case helping me tie up some loose ends). Before Attorney Rioles, I had never known a lawyer to be of a type to treat a person with a bit of sympathy and, well, like a person. I truly cannot express how satisfied I am. "Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies." -Proverbs 31:10
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Jan, 2025 by Peter
My divorce was a bit of an unpleasant surprise, but one thing that helped was having a very good attorney. Brenda took the time to know my case and argued aggressively in my best interests. Her office is efficient and she is very responsive. Honestly, without her help I’m not sure if my case would not have ended in an equitable result, but it did, and I’m very grateful to her for helping me so much.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
15 Nov, 2024 by Wanda
Brenda took her time to make sure I understood the process.She really worked very hard and I received more than I expected.
Read more Avvo
See more
Rui P. Alves, experienced Child Custody, Criminal Defense attorney in Providence, RI with 20 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
44,62
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
20 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Rui represented me on a couple of difficult occasions (divorce and DUI) and each time did a great job resulting in the best possible outcome. He is knowledgeable, diligent, experienced, and really cares about the client and their best interest. I would highly recommend him to anyone!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
28 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
I’ve used Rui and his firm on multiple occasions. I couldn’t be happier with serve’s, accessibility and follow up during those times .
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
09 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Rui has been an exceptional attorney since I first hired him two and a half years ago. When I first consulted him about my separation and divorce I was not anticipating the high level of conflict my divorce would have. Rui was there for me every step of the way offering his extensive legal expertise, support, compassion, and the hard truths of the family court system as necessary. He was able to get my children and I out of an abusive situation and obtain an advantageous divorce agreement both financially and in regard to custody arrangements. When my ex has attempted to drag me back into family court Rui and his team have been there to assist me quickly and with excellent results. Rui is mindful of his clients’ time and money, and is a caring and honest person. I would recommend him wholeheartedly to anyone in need of a family court attorney.
Read more Avvo
See more
Dawn M. Cook, experienced Child Custody, Family Law attorney in Providence, RI with 322 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
42,29
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
3.4
5 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
317 Reviews
star star star star star
06 Feb, 2025 by Catherine fisher
Wow! Amazing that So many people had such great experiences with this law firm. For our family it was very difficult to get a hold of someone, let alone a lawyer. We did not receive what we thought we would for our circumstances and the law firm made out much better than our family in the end. It was extremely uncomfortable and unfortunate for our family. We had to continue to check in. We did not hear from the law firm without checking in first.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
22 Jan, 2025 by Jennifer leo
Working with Mr. Resmini over the past two and a half years has been a great experience. He and his entire team were always friendly and supportive throughout the said time. They are super knowledgeable and caring too. Thank you for absolutely everything this amazing team has done to help me. Eulanda has always been one of the best point of contacts, and has always made ever visit and call relaxing and calming even when I was anxious or not feeling well at the time of visit. I genuinely wish the best to the team and would always recommend them whenever I can. Thank you greatly.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
15 Jan, 2025 by J stanish
Hung up on me when following up on a case.
Read more Google Maps
See more
John L Quigley Jr, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Providence, RI with 5 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,15
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
5 Reviews
star star star star star
21 Jun, 2023 by Benjamin
Extremely great lawyer , handle my case extremely well with out come. I still work with him , and have referred people to him..
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
10 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
If you're in search for a lawyer to represent you regarding family court matters, look no further. This man is amazing and very meticulous in his work on every detail. My standards are extremely high, he meets and exceeds all of them. Highly recommended.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
16 Jul, 2018 by Clare
Jack Quigley handled my very difficult divorce that my husband dragged out for years. He worked with me to find the financial records my husband had hidden and to finally negotiate a property settlement that gave me my life and sanity back. Whether your divorce is amicable or not, I recommend Jack.
Read more Avvo
See more
Angelina Helen Landi, experienced Child Custody, Domestic Violence attorney in Providence, RI with 4 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,12
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
29 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
She’s was amazing. Helped with all questions quickly. Along with making sure I was involved in every action that happened.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
25 Aug, 2017 by Steve
Angelina provided excellent counsel during my divorce proceedings. She discussed and reviewed all of my options in great detail, which was especially important to me regarding placement of my children. I especially apprecaited that she presented all options, with the pros and cons and likelyhood of success, without leading in me in one direction or another. I appreciated having the information to make the decision instead of having it made for me. It left me with the confidence that I chose the best available path forward. In writing the agreement, she anticipated a number of areas that needed to be covered in the agreement that later proved to be critical. In addition, her billing was very fair and accurate. Although I was the plaintiff and she did most of the work (initial complaint, wrote entire agreement and entered the order) her bill was smaller than my ex-wife's attorney's bill, which represented only a fraction of the effort of Angelina's work. Lastly, going through a divorce, especially with small children involved, can be very emotional. She dealt well with my occasional emotion state by acknowledging my concerns and then calmly discussing the path forward.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
02 Sep, 2016 by Mary
Angelina worked with me on a relocation case for nearly a year. She was prompt getting back to me and did so much leg work during the case and has continued to remain on top of things after it was settled. She was always understanding and explained things so that I didn't have any further questions. She was incredibly thorough and a constant professional. Angelina is very easy to talk to, which is helpful in high stress situations, and was able to calm situations that would have otherwise been worse off. I would recommend her to anyone and have.
Read more Avvo
See more
Vera Osiro Okelo, experienced Child Custody attorney in Providence, RI with 1 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
01 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
Attorney Okelo was the best lawyer to ever represent me at Rhode Island Family Court. I won the judgement and my family was reunited. She interpreted to me the law to the common language and she was positive and encouraged me throughout the entire process.
Read more Avvo
See more
William Devine Jr, experienced Child Custody, Family Law attorney in Providence, RI with 89 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,39
star star star star star
4.9/5
Google Maps
4.9
89 Reviews
star star star star star
29 Jul, 2024 by Ann marie dibiasio
Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Jul, 2024 by Patricia delgado
Pleasure working with Christine Piti, She’s compassionate and just the best !
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Jul, 2024 by Mercedes degroat
Google Maps
See more
Christine Anne Stowell, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in Providence, RI with 1 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
06 Feb, 2015 by Andy
I originally hired Christine Borzilleri (now Stowell) in March of 2013 to help me adopt my son. She told me the process wasn’t complicated and it should take about six months. I was unemployed and didn’t have unlimited resources so the price was very reasonable but I guess it’s true...you get what you pay for. My adoption case became final Nov. 12, 2014. Seems that the only way I could get Christine to respond to my emails was to threaten her with calling the Bar Association or something. I could never just get a timely response. One of the documents I had to provide for the court was my son’s original birth certificate. That had to come from the Philippines and it was not easy to procure. I gave it to Ms. Borzilleri and the court says they personally handed it back to her the day my son’s adoption was final. Now, she can’t find it. I requested all my documents before the final hearing and Ms. Borzelleri said she would bring them all to me. The day of the adoption she did not. When I asked her what happened to my files she replied that she keeps them for many years. Then I found out that I’m actually entitled to have my files. Ms. Borzilleri didn’t respond to my subsequent requests for them (as well as my son’s birth certificate) until I’d informed her that I’d called Mr. Ken Luke at the MA Board of Bar Overseers. As I write this today, Feb. 6, 2015, I still don’t have my files but Ms. Borzilleri says they’re “in the mail”. She still says that she can’t find my son’s birth certificate and that’s pretty much the end of that, she’s done. My option here is to hire another lawyer to sue her to pay for my expenses in procuring yet another birth certificate. I’m so tired of this process but now, if I want my son’s birth certificate I have to go to court again? Agggggh. Buyer beware. If you hire Christine Borzilleri (Stowell) it will take you twice as long to resolve your case and get minimal response (if any) to your inquiries. Plus she may lose your original, important paperwork. I just don't want someone else to have to go through what I experienced with this lawyer.
Read more Avvo
See more
Kelly Ann Schwartz, experienced Child Custody, Family Law attorney in Providence, RI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Andrea Dunbar, experienced Child Custody, Child Support attorney in Providence, RI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Robert J. Sgroi, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in Providence, RI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Edythe C. Warren, experienced Adoption, Child Custody attorney in Providence, RI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Deborah Miller Tate, experienced Business, Child Custody attorney in Providence, RI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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:

  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.

Scroll to top