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12 Feb, 2024 by Michele
I hired Ms. Keane for a child support enforcement/custody issue. She was so helpful, making sure I understood what was happening, what various things meant, and what "could" potentially happen. She never made promises that couldn't keep, just laid out possible scenarios. Her transparent approach was extremely comforting, especially when it involved my child. She gave me such peace of mind, on top of great legal advice/service. She listened to me, and just made me feel very comfortable from the start. I hope I never have to hire a lawyer again, but if I DO, I will not hesitate to hire Ms. Keane again
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03 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Dana is very personable, knowledgable, ethical, and responsive. She explained everything throughout the divorce process, and addressed all of my questions and concerns, resulting in resolution. I highly recommend her for your case.
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09 Apr, 2021 by Susan
Ms Keane was referred to me by my Estate Planning Attorney. She was able to assess the issue and resolve it quickly. Ms Keane was professional, efficient and timely in response to all questions and concerns. Would highly recommend her services.
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25 Oct, 2021 by Darci
I hired Monica because My ex took my kids and would not return them or let me talk to them. She was amazing and always was there for me with any questions I had.
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28 Apr, 2017 by Debbie
Monica was very thorough and made sure the process went smoothly. She also headed off a problem at the court appearance that would have cost us precious time.
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04 Mar, 2015 by Drew
I recently went through my first divorce. I was very upset and lost. I could not find a lawyer available or one that would even answer the phone. After a full day of calls, at about 7:15pm I was so afraid and lost. Then Monica answered her phone and gave me some guidance. Monica set an appointment with me the next day. I almost got a little bit of sleep that night. I hired Monica to represent me. This divorce was one of the most difficult things I have been through in my life. Monica was knowledgeable on the laws and offered the right path for my case to take. Being all alone through this, Monica was kind and considerate towards me and how I felt. I do recommend Monica and her services. Her personal touch made all the difference to me.
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13 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
As a lawyer myself (and with an understanding of one's options among family law lawyers), I can't recommend Bill more highly. As a counselor, he offered sound, pragmatic & knowledgeable advice and guided me through a difficult time with even-handed compassion and incite. As my advocate, he knew when to push, when to stand firm and when to back off. It was accomplished with efficiency, without unnecessarily complicating or prolonging the process and most importantly, in a way that left me feeling okay. In the inherently emotional arena of family law, I tell others, including my own clients, that you want Bill by your side.
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02 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
I was referred to Bill by another attorney. From start to finish he was able to help ease my worries about my case and walk us through it. We got just the outcome we were hoping for. Bill is knowledgeable and easy to talk to.
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17 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Mr Crary as my lawyer regarding my divorce and child custody case. He was extremely professional. Mr. crary explained every detail of every situation so that I felt at ease. I was extremely pleased with the outcome. He is an aggressive attorney that I will highly recommend to friends and family.
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18 Aug, 2024 by Michael schwieterman
I have been using Leslie as my attorney since 2019. Before 2019, I had never heard of Leslie, and I know several attorneys practicing within Sarasota. Leslie is kind, understanding, and thoughtful. Divorce is the hardest situation I have every faced in my personal life, and Leslie was there for every set of the way. I had to go back to court in 2023 for child support modification, and once again Leslie was there explaining to me how the process worked. In the end she was there helping me and my children and kept our best interest in mind. To say it simply, Leslie is more than just an attorney, she’s an amazing person. If any of my friends have issues in their marriage, I always recommend Leslie to them. I would recommend that anyone reading this use her services, you won't be disappointed.
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13 Aug, 2024 by Crismas carroll barber
The best. Classy. Experienced. Ethically strategic. Hire her. You’ll be glad you did!
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13 Aug, 2024 by Chris crew
Professional, caring, honest, and genuine. My experience with Leslie goes all the way back to 2010 and continues today. The best family lawyer that I know.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Ordóñez montaño
I highly recommend Smith & Eulo Law Firm. From my initial consultation to the resolution of my case, they were incredibly supportive and effective. Their commitment to their clients really shines through in every interaction
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25 May, 2024 by Yanneris mayerlen gamez palacios
No puedo decir suficientes cosas buenas sobre el servicio que recibí. En Smith & Eulo Law Firm fueron maravillosos. Siempre me mantuvieron informado en todo momento. Recomiendo encarecidamente esta empresa.
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03 May, 2024 by Jose aristides mogollon querales
El Equipo Smith & Eulo son los mejores, si tienes un caso de Defensa que resolver, no dudes en contactarlos, te sentiras tranquilo, a gusto y con la seguridad que tu caso sera resuelto.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Bill stockton
Debra handled my legal issue with professionalism. She came highly recommended and did not disappoint
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11 Jul, 2024 by Courtney kidd
Mrs. Salisbury not only handled my divorce with ease she handled my DCF case and won with flying colors. She gets stuff done, she’s open and honest with you rather you like her answer or not. She was always there to answer my questions. This woman saved mine and my children’s lives and brought us back together. I can’t thank her enough.
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01 May, 2024 by Paul gonzalez
Great attorney! Very knowledgeable. I would highly recommend Debra Salisbury!. Great experience!.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Brad siegel
Absolutely the best!!!!
I would highly recommend to everyone.
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19 Sep, 2023 by Wendy
If you're looking for an attorney who will fight for you and always has your best interest at heart, then hire Lisa Kleinberg! From day one I felt like Lisa respected me, listened to me and was always looking out for me. When researching attorneys, I wanted someone who was strong, a fighter but also kind and compassionate. She did not disappoint. She's hard working and goes above and beyond for her clients. Her office staff was also very responsive and professional as well. I don't hesitate to recommend the Family Law Office of Lisa J. Kleinberg!
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12 Jul, 2023 by Sally
Lisa Kleinberg and her colleagues, Chris, Tami and Marian, handled my recent divorce with professionalism, empathy and a thorough knowlege of the law. It was an emotional and stressful time in my life and the compassion that I reveived from Lisa and the entire team was more than I dared to believe. When it was time for my divorce mediation, held via zoom, Lisa was on top of every aspect and knew my case by heart. Lisa was quick to cite specific laws as they pertained to my divorce with accuracy and without hesitation. I highly endorse Lisa Kleinberg as the most competent and efficient and intelligentfamily law attorney in Sarasota County. She was unhesitantly able to zero in on what my rights were during the 4-hour mediation and allowed NO objection from keeping her off course as she defended me. Thank you, Lisa, Chris, Tami and Marian. You all, in my book, are the A-Team. I highly recommend Lisa Kleinberg! FIVE STARS!
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06 Aug, 2024 by Mike
Mark handled my divorce he was knowledgeable about the law and helped me not get taken advantage of by my ex-wife.
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14 Dec, 2023 by Elena kochutin
I recently had the opportunity to refer a client to Anthony G. Ryan, and I couldn't be more pleased with the outstanding legal representation provided. As a fellow attorney in the community, I know the importance of recommending competent and dedicated professionals, and Anthony G. Ryan exceeded all expectations.
Anthony's expertise in both criminal law and local procedural intricacies is impressive. He approached the case with honesty, ensuring clear and easy communication with the referred client. Anthony's commitment to fair and transparent pricing further underscored his professionalism.
I wholeheartedly endorse the law firm of Anthony G. Ryan to anyone in need of a criminal attorney in Sarasota. Anthony's knowledge, honesty, and fair pricing make his services stand out in the legal community.
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14 Dec, 2023 by Mac egeland
This man is amazing. I will definitely recommend to all of my friends. Very professional and he handled my case perfectly. Thank you sir.
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28 Oct, 2024 by Thomas e. mcclung
It was a pleasure working with MCT Law. They kept me informed through the entire process and hey were always available to take my calls if I had questions. I would highly recommend them.
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27 Oct, 2024 by Mj menein
All of the staff at MCT Law with whom I was in contact, were very efficient, helpful and managed my expectations. Any time I had a question or concern, they were addressed immediately. I felt very safe and assured in my involvement with MCT Law. I feel that I had the best possible outcome and I would not hesitate to recommend MCT Law. They were kind and professional and very respectful. At no time did I ever feel as though I was being processed, or that my concerns were trivial or unimportant. Thank you to Leslie and Michelle and all of the behind the scenes staff at MCT Law.
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26 Oct, 2024 by Susan rightmyer
They were the very best to work with. Leslie and Michelle were fantastic. I have come to think of Leslie as a friend even though we have never actually met.
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28 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
I hired Allan for 2 cases and was very pleased with the results. The only thing I wish that I had more of is prep time before the hearing as I did not feel very prepared, or as prepared as I would have liked. In the end I achieved my goal and that was the whole point.
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04 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Allan Baily represnted me for a criminal case, my sister on her dependency case, and my father with a divorce he is outstanding! Easy to talk with, very straight fowards, fast response, and great outcomes for all cases !! couldnt be more grateful.
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19 Oct, 2021 by David
Allan won a divorce case for me and did so because he was more thorough in his sighting of the law much more & better than his opposing attorney. He and his staff were a pleasure with whom to work.
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01 Apr, 2024 by Kate miller
Do not hire Adam Bragg as your divorce attorney!!! I paid him around $7,000 in total. I provided videos of my now deceased husband nodding out at our son's soccer practices that were only WEEKS before I wanted to take it to court to get full custody of our son (since his father was using fentanyl). He refused to go to court for my son & me even with all of the current evidence I had. My husband died of an overdose a day before he was scheduled to see our son for the weekend. Adam only cares about HIS daughter, not any of OUR children!! I am contacting the BBB about this.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Robyn erhardt
I worked with Adam over an extended period of time to resolve multiple issues pertaining to my divorce. Adam always remained calm and steadfast in handling my case and always guided me correctly, offering me the best options and explaining all the steps along the way. He was crucial to my success when all was said and done. Adam is one of the best, most honest attorneys in Sarasota. You should not hesitate to contact him if you find yourself needing legal help with a divorce. Highly recommend!!
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17 Jan, 2024 by Mike smith
28 Oct, 2024 by Thomas e. mcclung
It was a pleasure working with MCT Law. They kept me informed through the entire process and hey were always available to take my calls if I had questions. I would highly recommend them.
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27 Oct, 2024 by Mj menein
All of the staff at MCT Law with whom I was in contact, were very efficient, helpful and managed my expectations. Any time I had a question or concern, they were addressed immediately. I felt very safe and assured in my involvement with MCT Law. I feel that I had the best possible outcome and I would not hesitate to recommend MCT Law. They were kind and professional and very respectful. At no time did I ever feel as though I was being processed, or that my concerns were trivial or unimportant. Thank you to Leslie and Michelle and all of the behind the scenes staff at MCT Law.
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26 Oct, 2024 by Susan rightmyer
They were the very best to work with. Leslie and Michelle were fantastic. I have come to think of Leslie as a friend even though we have never actually met.
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11 May, 2024 by Shirley schwartz
A big "Shout out" to Michael Fayard my grandson's attorney. My grandson was facing 20 years in prison for an accident he was partially responsible for down to one year. Michael is a man of few word but he sure got what appeared to be the impossible accomplished.
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02 Apr, 2024 by John smith
This attorney gave me bad advice cost me $13,000 as of right now due to his bad advice on top of it. He did absolutely nothing but get me deeper in debt. This man is as dishonest as the day is long. Do not hire this attorney at any cost elsewhere. He never returned text messages. I would Go for extended periods of time never hearing from him and when you did try to give him information, he complain worst Attorney I’ve ever used and I have to have to file a complaint with the Florida bar because of him he’s done nothing but caused me financial difficulty. He’s destroyed my credit DO NOT HIRE HIM ! I now have to hire another attorney to do what he could not do! I now have to file a complaint with the Florida bar because of the situation that this attorney got me into and he is completely responsible for this situation. I’m bad advice from him and here he is billing me for the problem he caused it’s insanity.
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15 Jan, 2024 by Colleen merrick
Beware of this attorney he has been reported many times to the Bar. He’s nothing but a thief and a liar.
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15 Apr, 2021 by Keren
Brenda Nelms is the most unprofessional, unethical attorney .she is not reliable. She is not responding to emails, phone calls. most of the time she is traveling and neglect to file a motion. She is negligent. She represented me in high conflict divorce, pretended to understand what is abusive husband, told me she is my friend, came to my country (Israel) to celebrate my son bar mitzvah. promised me I will win. I lost big time. I have 3 kids. I lost my properties. Didn’t even get child support. till this day. ended up with 100k debt that I'm still paying. She got paid for her services, she settled an amount but then decided to go to court,so she can get her interest rates paid. Greedy!! still looking for more money. She Put a lien on my homestead where I and my kids live. I can’t fix my house and do refinance. She still has a lien on my property. she refuses to remove it, although she got paid. She took advantage of my situation. It took me 5 years to stand on my feet. She has no empathy, she is looking for people's weaknesses to satisfy her greed.
If you don’t want your life to get ruined by her evilness I don't recommend hiring her.
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25 Mar, 2020 by Rob
Brenda Nelms handled my dissolution two years ago. While she worked hard for settlement, when that failed she took the case through final hearing winning on all counts. She was empathetic, professional and hard working. I can't say enough to reflect my respect for Brenda and her work at an attorney.
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25 Mar, 2020 by Sam jones
I was a client of Brenda Nelms in a long standing custody case for the past year and a half. The moment I met her I knew my case and I were in good hands. Her professionalism, knowledge, and personal care exceeded my expectations. She fought hard for me until the end, and I will definitely be returning to her if the need arise. I’d recommend Brenda to anyone who needs representation or advice regarding Family Law. I’ll remember my time as her client fondly.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Arthur conforti
07 Feb, 2024 by Lon birnholz
02 Dec, 2023 by Sebastian (bosty)
So far, working with Kaylin has been great. I talked to other folk who recommended me to office, she definitely delivered to her expectations. She was also very right to the point & didn’t waste any time. Good lawyer, will work with if need be in the future.
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29 May, 2024 by Cat arnaez
If I could give less than one star, I would. Jamie is all too happy to take money, but not happy to be held accountable for the job for which you hire her. She and another lawyer screwed me and my kids, and when I begged and pleaded for her to fix it, make it right. She told me it wasn’t going to affect me and she didn’t know why I was worried about it (see attached email response). To this day, it does affect me, and my children, and she simply didn’t care to make it right after happily accepting thousands of dollars. I am still dealing with a case that she didn’t fix and reached out again to try to have her resolve but she doesn’t even bother to answer. I had to file a bar complaint for her to respond only for her to tell me she feels she did her job. If that were the case why doesn’t the state recognize the order she filed and why won’t she fix it? This lawyer has no integrity, so if you want someone who will take your money and offer no help, this is the lawyer you want. She is overpriced and doesn’t even do her job. It’s a wonder she hasn’t be disbarred.
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29 Jun, 2023 by Anikakat anikakat
28 Jun, 2023 by Desta ariyo
I had a horrible experience with Icard Merrill, I retained Lindsey Meshberger for a divorce case. There was a constant lack of communication but the 3 biggest problems were #1) changed her hourly billing, one month after retaining her and then when I asked about it, I received no reply. #2) Told the judge in court that the reason she lacked information on my case is because she just received the case when she had the case for 4 months prior. #3) I was not even informed of a case management hearing that I had until it was over and couldn’t participate. At this point, I don’t know whether to consider this maltreatment racist or negligent. Her paralegal, Kathie Summa was god awful and argumentative whenever approached with any concerns. This is an honest review from my very REAL experience with ICard Merrill. I understand that everything can not go my way in a case but there is a level of professionalism and transparency that should be handled with any business, that was not done with ICard Merrill.
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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:
-
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.
