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16 Mar, 2018 by Paris
Helped me with a traffic violation, he was great! Made it very simple, we were in and out of the district in minutes! Highly recommended
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19 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Zak provided much needed guidance and support both legally and emotionally throughout my divorce. He was blunt when it was needed and caring as well. He is a professional and does a great job. He was prompt at responding to my issues and concerns and understood the legal procedures to get things settled.
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10 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Used Attorney Morey for a landlord tenant hearing and he did a great job. Could not recommend him more.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Juan bolivar
I Highly recommend Andrea Mertz and the stuff, She helped me with a Really Difficult case, the way she represented me and her commitment to my situation was very professional, a very Intelligent attorney , I can just say Thank you so much! Price was good too, for what she did I felt that it was an investment. Good luck Andrea!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Dennis charriez
EXCELLENT LAWYER
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12 Sep, 2024 by Daisy paneto
Joe is a great attorney! He is very helpful and knowledgeable. He truly helps and does his best work and shows his best interest in his job to help others and fight for what’s right. I highly recommend him! Thank you for representing me!
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08 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Liz was great. She helped my son with his DUI, by getting him into a good DUI program that helped put him back on the right track. She was very caring throughout the whole process. I would recommend her as an attorney.
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02 Sep, 2015 by Kerilyn
Liz Ebner was awesome! She fights for her clients. She is reasonable and will work with you. She loves what she does! Wait till you see her in the court room!! I'm so glad I was able to have her as my attorney!
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14 Feb, 2012 by Anonymous
Excellent communication and overall results. I was informed and all responses were prompt and easy to understand throughout the legal process.
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22 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
Ms Lecher was very helpful in preparing me for an ongoing case. She is very knowledgeable in what steps I need to take to in the timeline and incidents of my case,
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09 May, 2022 by Shannon stevens
I had another attorney previously and had Kristen take over. I have never felt more comfortable, supported, and confident that my case has hope. Kristen will fight for you above and beyond! She has done so much more than I feel any attorney would. She will fight for you and your child!
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25 Aug, 2021 by Katie
Attorney Doleva was a great advocate for me in my custody hearing. She is strong, matter of fact, knowledgeable in the law, and will be your greatest advocate. It gave me great comfort knowing I was in good hands. I felt that she more than adequately prepared me for my court date, which kept me calm and professional.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Jake pinkerton
Highly Recommend Ann, she has been patient and has done a wonderful job as my divorce lawyer.
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09 Nov, 2024 by Anonymous
Didn't put much time or thought into my case. Took 2-3 weeks at times for her to get back to me about urgent matters. Never wanted to push back against the other party, but instead insisted that we remain calm and don't fight back, which did not help at all.
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22 Oct, 2024 by Tommy kosmo
Lauren is the total package - professional, knowledgeable, and respected in the legal community. I fought my case for 13 years and was finally successful once she got involved.
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30 Dec, 2021 by Danielle
We have worked with Mark since 2012 through a very messy custody matter. He has given us exceptional representation and success. Even though the fight was long, Mark worked hard and prevailed every step of the way. We recommend him to anyone and everyone.
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27 Apr, 2021 by Richard
Marks opening statement to the court was " Your honor this case is a crap shoot" I knew I picked the wrong attorney. After thousands of dollars paid he demanded payment in full for the balance or he was quitting the case. And he quit. Never won at anything in court but to have the judge let him quit. He than sued me for the money owed. We settled on a lower amount.
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02 Sep, 2020 by Dave
I have been working with Mark over the last few years with a custody battle. My ex was causing problems with me and stopped, but then started up again this past spring. Mark has been very helpful with whole situation. I would highly recommend him as a lawyer. He has a lot of knowledge with the law and works with you.
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26 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
First off I will say that I was rushed in picking a lawyer and didn't use very good judgment. This one will take you for all you have and not do the work for what she charges. She basically stood by while I stated my case in court. She came to court late on several separate occasions because she had other cases to attend to. She doesn't communicate almost at all. I would have to ask all the questions and never got straight forward answers. She doesn't offer any legal advice for your situation. She will send paperwork through the mail as often as she can and charge you an arm and a leg. She has no compassion and will not explain anything. She also gets annoyed and irritated when asked to explain something. During her consultation she will do what she has to and say what you want to hear so you retain her but never actually follows through with what she said. I did "win" my cases but it was in no part thanks to her or her doings.
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13 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired Ann to handle a child custody case. I recently moved into my son’s school district and was hoping for a 50/50 custody arrangement. My son is 8 years old and his mother has had primary custody since he was little. At the first meeting with Ann, I knew she was the attorney I would hire. She was knowledgeable about the process, the judges and was very strategic with next steps. She did not over promise but she did exceed my expectations and over delivered. At the custody master level I received a recommendation that was not favorable. Ann worked through the issues with me and I ultimately decided to move forward to a trial. Ann’s competence and suggested strategy were main deciding factors that led to taking the financial risk of trial. During the process, the relationship with my son’s mother became very hostile and Ann was always responsive to emails and phone calls. At the end of the day I ended up receiving a favorable outcome. I plan to use Ann in the future for any family law issues.
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03 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
Was interested in someone specific at firm, unfortunately it got handed off to her instead. That should have been my first sign. Upon sharing with her what I was looking for and hoping to obtain - she was passive, disorganized, and in the end I spent thousands of dollars that got me nowhere. It's as if she was in her own world and didn't even put forth an effort to fight for my rights regarding custody.
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20 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
Denise was very unprofessional. As I was waiting for my consult she was very inappropriate with her previous client, hugging her and then blowing her a kiss. I believe that is out of line and she should be disbarred for having romantic relations with clients.
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21 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Maybe she use to be ok but not anymore. Messed everything up to not returning phone calls promptly and not ignoring emails. Always claiming to maybe have used the wrong email address. Kept referring to my ex as my husband when we were never even married. Ended up leaving me stranded in the middle of the court house after I lost money at work and for gas and parking. Claimed she was scared of the other lawyer she had to go up against. Walked out acting scared and quit my case and left my ex to laugh at me that I could not find a competent lawyer.
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25 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Worse lawyer I’ve ever delt with. Told me to record every interaction with my child’s father. I did. Then she told me she couldnt use it because of PA wiretap laws. Terrible advice. Wouldnt return calls/emails for weeks. We were supposed to have a meeting a couple weeks before the trial. She postponed it 3 times and then removed herself from my case 2 days before the trial. Do not waste your money.
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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.

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