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17 Dec, 2024 by E t
Mr. Bryant was my divorce attorney who drafted our divorce agreement.
When I had a consultation with him, he promised to file a show cause against the husband who had been harassing me with email, text and letters. I was unable to eat and sleep and lost over 20 lbs. at that time, having very difficult time. However, he did not file a show cause after hiring him.
Mr. Bryant was the one who drafted our divorce agreement. He did not include two retirement accounts of the husband so that I could not receive the two accounts marital assets. Ex-husband kept majority of the marital assets. I realized this loss last summer, so I wrote to Mr. Bryant and his firm about this matter by email and a letter, but I have never received a response from him nor his firm. I still have the mediation notebook that he explained to me that I will receive 50% of all three retirement accounts.
Mr. Bryant explained to me that ex-husband had right to claim child tax because he pays me child support. Even though I am a primary physical custody of three children, the husband can claim two child tax credits every year. This was the best scenario for him.
There was a conflict of interest between the husband and his firm. The husband had a consultation with his firm, then I had a consultation with his firm during the divorce. When Mr. Bryant realized this conflict, still he did not withdraw my case.
The husband did not disclose all financial documents. Our all-financial documents were under his name only, so I did not know what we had had. I wish that Mr. Bryant flighted for me so that we could negotiate fairly. Our child support and spousal support were measly compared to guidelines and what I should have received. Later, I had to hire a new family law lawyer to modify our child support. When I filed this motion, the child support was significantly higher. Our children should have received this correct amount since beginning.
Mr. Bryant explained that I will receive a survival benefit of the pension. The husband is much older than me, so this benefit was a good option. However, Mr. Bryant did not include this statement in our agreement, so I am unable to receive such benefit. If he did not explain about this benefit, I had no idea, but he did explain to me, and I wrote it down in my mediation notebook.
I really do not understand why Mr. Bryant did all this to me. Financially and emotionally has been hurting to me even today. I felt unimportant and neglected. I trusted Mr. Bryant so much, and he was my attorney.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Linda park
I’ve been going to Mr. Jhon Bryant for more than 10 years. I was in an abusive marriage and thought I was doing the right thing staying with evil. For my only son. When the evil was abusing my only son, I had to do everything & anything to save my 12-year-old son. My only son & I got help from counseling and a psychiatrist. Wasn’t for John & his amazing stuff, I couldn’t have come this far or still standing. “He is worth every penny.!!! “ God bless you, John Bryant! They have saved our lives. BEST LAWYER & BEST STAFF IN VIRGINIA!!! 🙌🙌
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02 Oct, 2024 by Angie hensley
To be fair Mrs. Stubbs is the only divorce lawyer I have worked with but she was amazing! Her entire team was so supportive I truly felt cared about. She held my hand through much of the process answering every question with patience and I always felt protected. My ex husband was not as big of a fan often referring to her as my personal guard dog. I would simply reply with “That’s because you’re on the teeth end, as the one holding the leash I think she is is wonderful.” Mrs. Stubbs & her team were worth every penny, and I never for a moment regretted hiring them. Would give 6 stars if I could.
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17 Dec, 2024 by E t
Mr. Bryant was my divorce attorney who drafted our divorce agreement.
When I had a consultation with him, he promised to file a show cause against the husband who had been harassing me with email, text and letters. I was unable to eat and sleep and lost over 20 lbs. at that time, having very difficult time. However, he did not file a show cause after hiring him.
Mr. Bryant was the one who drafted our divorce agreement. He did not include two retirement accounts of the husband so that I could not receive the two accounts marital assets. Ex-husband kept majority of the marital assets. I realized this loss last summer, so I wrote to Mr. Bryant and his firm about this matter by email and a letter, but I have never received a response from him nor his firm. I still have the mediation notebook that he explained to me that I will receive 50% of all three retirement accounts.
Mr. Bryant explained to me that ex-husband had right to claim child tax because he pays me child support. Even though I am a primary physical custody of three children, the husband can claim two child tax credits every year. This was the best scenario for him.
There was a conflict of interest between the husband and his firm. The husband had a consultation with his firm, then I had a consultation with his firm during the divorce. When Mr. Bryant realized this conflict, still he did not withdraw my case.
The husband did not disclose all financial documents. Our all-financial documents were under his name only, so I did not know what we had had. I wish that Mr. Bryant flighted for me so that we could negotiate fairly. Our child support and spousal support were measly compared to guidelines and what I should have received. Later, I had to hire a new family law lawyer to modify our child support. When I filed this motion, the child support was significantly higher. Our children should have received this correct amount since beginning.
Mr. Bryant explained that I will receive a survival benefit of the pension. The husband is much older than me, so this benefit was a good option. However, Mr. Bryant did not include this statement in our agreement, so I am unable to receive such benefit. If he did not explain about this benefit, I had no idea, but he did explain to me, and I wrote it down in my mediation notebook.
I really do not understand why Mr. Bryant did all this to me. Financially and emotionally has been hurting to me even today. I felt unimportant and neglected. I trusted Mr. Bryant so much, and he was my attorney.
Read more
12 Dec, 2024 by Linda park
I’ve been going to Mr. Jhon Bryant for more than 10 years. I was in an abusive marriage and thought I was doing the right thing staying with evil. For my only son. When the evil was abusing my only son, I had to do everything & anything to save my 12-year-old son. My only son & I got help from counseling and a psychiatrist. Wasn’t for John & his amazing stuff, I couldn’t have come this far or still standing. “He is worth every penny.!!! “ God bless you, John Bryant! They have saved our lives. BEST LAWYER & BEST STAFF IN VIRGINIA!!! 🙌🙌
Read more
02 Oct, 2024 by Angie hensley
To be fair Mrs. Stubbs is the only divorce lawyer I have worked with but she was amazing! Her entire team was so supportive I truly felt cared about. She held my hand through much of the process answering every question with patience and I always felt protected. My ex husband was not as big of a fan often referring to her as my personal guard dog. I would simply reply with “That’s because you’re on the teeth end, as the one holding the leash I think she is is wonderful.” Mrs. Stubbs & her team were worth every penny, and I never for a moment regretted hiring them. Would give 6 stars if I could.
Read more
17 Dec, 2024 by E t
Mr. Bryant was my divorce attorney who drafted our divorce agreement.
When I had a consultation with him, he promised to file a show cause against the husband who had been harassing me with email, text and letters. I was unable to eat and sleep and lost over 20 lbs. at that time, having very difficult time. However, he did not file a show cause after hiring him.
Mr. Bryant was the one who drafted our divorce agreement. He did not include two retirement accounts of the husband so that I could not receive the two accounts marital assets. Ex-husband kept majority of the marital assets. I realized this loss last summer, so I wrote to Mr. Bryant and his firm about this matter by email and a letter, but I have never received a response from him nor his firm. I still have the mediation notebook that he explained to me that I will receive 50% of all three retirement accounts.
Mr. Bryant explained to me that ex-husband had right to claim child tax because he pays me child support. Even though I am a primary physical custody of three children, the husband can claim two child tax credits every year. This was the best scenario for him.
There was a conflict of interest between the husband and his firm. The husband had a consultation with his firm, then I had a consultation with his firm during the divorce. When Mr. Bryant realized this conflict, still he did not withdraw my case.
The husband did not disclose all financial documents. Our all-financial documents were under his name only, so I did not know what we had had. I wish that Mr. Bryant flighted for me so that we could negotiate fairly. Our child support and spousal support were measly compared to guidelines and what I should have received. Later, I had to hire a new family law lawyer to modify our child support. When I filed this motion, the child support was significantly higher. Our children should have received this correct amount since beginning.
Mr. Bryant explained that I will receive a survival benefit of the pension. The husband is much older than me, so this benefit was a good option. However, Mr. Bryant did not include this statement in our agreement, so I am unable to receive such benefit. If he did not explain about this benefit, I had no idea, but he did explain to me, and I wrote it down in my mediation notebook.
I really do not understand why Mr. Bryant did all this to me. Financially and emotionally has been hurting to me even today. I felt unimportant and neglected. I trusted Mr. Bryant so much, and he was my attorney.
Read more
12 Dec, 2024 by Linda park
I’ve been going to Mr. Jhon Bryant for more than 10 years. I was in an abusive marriage and thought I was doing the right thing staying with evil. For my only son. When the evil was abusing my only son, I had to do everything & anything to save my 12-year-old son. My only son & I got help from counseling and a psychiatrist. Wasn’t for John & his amazing stuff, I couldn’t have come this far or still standing. “He is worth every penny.!!! “ God bless you, John Bryant! They have saved our lives. BEST LAWYER & BEST STAFF IN VIRGINIA!!! 🙌🙌
Read more
02 Oct, 2024 by Angie hensley
To be fair Mrs. Stubbs is the only divorce lawyer I have worked with but she was amazing! Her entire team was so supportive I truly felt cared about. She held my hand through much of the process answering every question with patience and I always felt protected. My ex husband was not as big of a fan often referring to her as my personal guard dog. I would simply reply with “That’s because you’re on the teeth end, as the one holding the leash I think she is is wonderful.” Mrs. Stubbs & her team were worth every penny, and I never for a moment regretted hiring them. Would give 6 stars if I could.
Read more
17 Dec, 2024 by E t
Mr. Bryant was my divorce attorney who drafted our divorce agreement.
When I had a consultation with him, he promised to file a show cause against the husband who had been harassing me with email, text and letters. I was unable to eat and sleep and lost over 20 lbs. at that time, having very difficult time. However, he did not file a show cause after hiring him.
Mr. Bryant was the one who drafted our divorce agreement. He did not include two retirement accounts of the husband so that I could not receive the two accounts marital assets. Ex-husband kept majority of the marital assets. I realized this loss last summer, so I wrote to Mr. Bryant and his firm about this matter by email and a letter, but I have never received a response from him nor his firm. I still have the mediation notebook that he explained to me that I will receive 50% of all three retirement accounts.
Mr. Bryant explained to me that ex-husband had right to claim child tax because he pays me child support. Even though I am a primary physical custody of three children, the husband can claim two child tax credits every year. This was the best scenario for him.
There was a conflict of interest between the husband and his firm. The husband had a consultation with his firm, then I had a consultation with his firm during the divorce. When Mr. Bryant realized this conflict, still he did not withdraw my case.
The husband did not disclose all financial documents. Our all-financial documents were under his name only, so I did not know what we had had. I wish that Mr. Bryant flighted for me so that we could negotiate fairly. Our child support and spousal support were measly compared to guidelines and what I should have received. Later, I had to hire a new family law lawyer to modify our child support. When I filed this motion, the child support was significantly higher. Our children should have received this correct amount since beginning.
Mr. Bryant explained that I will receive a survival benefit of the pension. The husband is much older than me, so this benefit was a good option. However, Mr. Bryant did not include this statement in our agreement, so I am unable to receive such benefit. If he did not explain about this benefit, I had no idea, but he did explain to me, and I wrote it down in my mediation notebook.
I really do not understand why Mr. Bryant did all this to me. Financially and emotionally has been hurting to me even today. I felt unimportant and neglected. I trusted Mr. Bryant so much, and he was my attorney.
Read more
12 Dec, 2024 by Linda park
I’ve been going to Mr. Jhon Bryant for more than 10 years. I was in an abusive marriage and thought I was doing the right thing staying with evil. For my only son. When the evil was abusing my only son, I had to do everything & anything to save my 12-year-old son. My only son & I got help from counseling and a psychiatrist. Wasn’t for John & his amazing stuff, I couldn’t have come this far or still standing. “He is worth every penny.!!! “ God bless you, John Bryant! They have saved our lives. BEST LAWYER & BEST STAFF IN VIRGINIA!!! 🙌🙌
Read more
02 Oct, 2024 by Angie hensley
To be fair Mrs. Stubbs is the only divorce lawyer I have worked with but she was amazing! Her entire team was so supportive I truly felt cared about. She held my hand through much of the process answering every question with patience and I always felt protected. My ex husband was not as big of a fan often referring to her as my personal guard dog. I would simply reply with “That’s because you’re on the teeth end, as the one holding the leash I think she is is wonderful.” Mrs. Stubbs & her team were worth every penny, and I never for a moment regretted hiring them. Would give 6 stars if I could.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Sameerah williams
She lost my case
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03 Jul, 2024 by Tim ortiz
Both Janet and Ms Kym were amazing, my case went just as I prayed it would and got what was best for my children accomplished. Thank you!
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15 Apr, 2024 by Ann pons
I would not recommend. There were many times I had to remind her she represented me and not the other party because she prioritized getting any information THEY requested over what I needed before court. I also had the exact same experience another client posted for their review, despite stressing that we needed to ask for child and spousal support she said, we can ask for that during your divorce case and waited until right before we were about to walk into court to run the paperwork up to the clerks office so not only did we not get that set but because paperwork had not been submitted until the last minute I was ordered to pay the other parties attorneys fees. The only time she was quick to make sure I recieved paperwork was when I went to sign off to end her representation as my lawyer. I was told I owed her thosands of dollars and because my retainer had been used up and when asked why this was the first time I was hearing about this was told "we've been emailing the bills to you" despite me repeatedly informing her I was having issues recieving emails. The multiple times I was in her office there was no mention that she was now billing me well after and that my retainer was used up. Instead I was handed a large envelope on the spot that was as thick as a book listing billed hours. You are better off handing your money directly to the other party and saving yourself the time and frustration.
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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.
