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05 Jan, 2024 by Barbara
This lawyer Wes ver unprofessional, He waited until he used all of my money unti he told me that he was not going to be able to help me. He schedule two appts. for me and he waited that day of and cancel both appt. at the last minute and I took of work both days and I had to take him to court and ended up firing him be cause I was very dissatisfied. So please think twice before hiring this so call lawyer. Never again.
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29 Jun, 2020 by Shadrick
Mr. Andrew Patzit has gone above and beyond to represent me in every way possible. He cut me tremendous breaks and was always available and working to help me. No matter what time of day he was always there! One of the most hospitable people you'll ever meet and gets the job done right! If I could give more stars I would! I would highly HIGHLY recommend Mr. Andy Patzig to any of my closest friends or family without a doubt! Thank you so much again for all you've done for my daughter and I Andy!
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23 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
The review by Christine is the same as the one on yelp. I suspect its a fake. This lawyer screwed up badly, lost me lots of money, charged me lots of money for doing so, taking years for a simple case, and wrote the order so badly that the judge subsequently threw it out.
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28 Aug, 2021 by Christina
I could not have asked for a more supportive, thorough, and professional experience during a very difficult custody trial. This was one of the longest custody trials that our judge has ever seen. Throughout my experience, from the initial phone call to the final day of court, I felt well taken care of and I was confident the best interest of my child was always at the forefront of the case. Mr. Jeffries was straightforward throughout the entire process, steadfast, and provided me with the confidence I needed to make it through this trial. Michelle, his assistant, always greeted me in a warm and friendly manner and was a pleasure to work with as well.
Mr. Jeffries is not your average attorney. He is constantly committing his time to researching the most up-to-date legal practices, laws, and relevant information available to provide you with a reliable and competitive advantage in the courtroom. He pays incredible attention to detail and was always prompt to respond when I needed to speak with him. I didn’t think I would find an attorney who would care about my case as much as me, but I feel Mr. Jeffries was just as committed and passionate about my case.
It is incredibly rare to find an attorney with the experience, knowledge, professionalism, commitment, passion, and care he offers.
If you’re looking for an attorney, Mr. Jeffries is a wise investment. I highly recommend him!
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19 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
He does not care about the best interest of the children involved. Only cares about the narcissists that hire him. Mr Jones advises his clients to continue to financially abuse the primary parent especially after a loss. He is a disgrace.
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24 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
Attorney Jones is thorough and diligent. When I met with him, he answered all my questions. I felt at ease during an extremely stressful time in my life. He took the time to explain every avenue I had the option to take and made sure I had all the information I needed during my appointment. Should I decide to move forward, it will be with him.
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23 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
Attorney Barnett has been legally representing our family for over a decade. He and his legal team are professional, punctual, knowledgeable, prompt, and caring. Attorney Barnett ensures we understand legal terminology and always consults with us with his determinations. We will continue to use his services!!
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18 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
I was arrested in mid- March 2018 of stalking. This attorney was court appointed due to the plaintiff getting me fired by arranging to have me arrested at my place of work. My attorney came to jail to speak with me for approximately for 20 minutes prior to my bond hearing. He told me the judge would deny me bond, which is what happened. My trial was to take place July 23, 2018.
I needed to work to maintain my mortgage and other bills and tried to obtain a work release. I sent a letter to the York county circuit clerk to obtain permission from the judge to work. After not receiving a reply from the court, I had a friend contact the court and she was told the work release request had to go through my lawyer and that the clerk had forwarded my letter to the lawyer. Again, not having received a reply, I had my friend call (leaving a message with an assistant) and send a fax to the attorney – still no reply. I attempted to call my attorney from jail but the phone would cut off if the number called went to voice mail, which was the case. Finally, I sent a letter to the attorney to the address that was on a business card that the jail provided. The letter came back as “address unknown”. The address was the same as listed on the attorney’s website. This process took over a month.
In early May, my cell door opened at 5 am. I was told by the block officer that I had court that day. I had not been previously contacted that I would be taken to court on that day. I was taken to the courthouse and placed in a holding cell. After several hours I was led to a small room where this attorney was present. He said something to the effect of let’s get you out of here. There was a plea deal and knowing I needed to return to my job, I accepted it – with the court providing paper work that stated I accepted the plea deal after having had an opportunity to go to trial.
I would rather have gotten the work release and stayed in jail until the initial July 23 trial date. I wanted to present evidence at the trial that proved that my accuser had lied. Had I not accepted the plea deal that day, this attorney would not have been prepared to effectively represent me. The 20 minute meeting prior to my bond hearing was our only contact and he never asked for evidence.
Steven Barnette did not inform me of my new court date and I believe he did this knowing full well that I needed to work to pay my mortgage. I further believe he allowed me to be “surprised” so that I would be willing to accept a plea deal and he would not have to put forth much effort in this case.
Mr. Barnett showed a lack of professionalism and a lack of integrity.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Lauren ambrogi
Georgia is absolutely one of the best lawyers I’ve ever worked with. When you’re truly doing right & need help she is your person. She truly fights for what’s right & advises you in the right direction. She’s been available at anytime for me during my case. It really helps when your lawyer takes the time that she does with a case. She will be my go to for anything needed in the future. Cannot recommend enough.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Reyne polk
This attorney was recommended by another attorney to contact for information regarding divorce. I was not able to speak with Ms. Ashby; however, I was consulted by her partner. This attorney answered my questions but informed me it would be a long process and by the time we finished I would owe her $200,000.00 - 400,00.00 US dollars what a crock!!! Then she sent me a bill for our 6 minute conversation over the telephone for $ 400.00. Which they stated she charged $400.00 an hour. How does 6 minutes constitute one hour. STAY CLEAR OF THIS LAW FIRM THEIR OUT FOR YOUR MONEY NOT TO HELP YOU!!
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21 Mar, 2024 by Laura trout
Got my answers that I need
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05 Sep, 2015 by Peter
He did not represent me properly, no suggestion as to how to prepare for my support case. I was just an income to him, which is costing me so much now.
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09 May, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Ward never sent me any bills. He stated that he did things that I found out that he did not. He fails to return emails and phone calls on almost every occasion.
Stay away and get a Real Good attorney. Recommend him to your wife or husband if you want to win your case against him.
A real waste of time and money and he needs to modernize, hire a larger competent staff and provide at least minimal levels of professional courtesy and return calls.
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05 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
While you will feel very comfortable with his knowledge of the law, it would probably work in your favor on judgement day if he would apply that knowledge upfront with any form of preparation. Just the simplest effort would have changed the outcome to my favor. As my current attorney (working to undo the damage that was done due to Mr. Ward's lack of any effort toward my case) stated, "you were totally screwed!". I simply do not have the assets to pursue the case as this attorney perfectly presented everything I have and more to my ex. Best advise that I can offer is to run fast and do NOT look back!
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31 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
I was very happy with the results from Ms. Peterson. She told me what my rights were, helped real in some of my emotions and helped make sure that my kids and I got what we needed. Thank you !
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02 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
I don't see how any court would agree to separate a child from her mother and siblings. All behind a father that lies and show no proof, he doesn't comply with the courts in filling out his paperwork knowing he has epilepsy! when he has his attack there will be a law suit with your name on it!!!!!!
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21 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Never seemed to answer any questions directly. Reached out multiple time and she never responded or got back and for that reason I would not recommend. Glad the case concluded.
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07 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Paid for the first half of my bankrupt but then he dropped my case and never returned any money and the office stop returning my calls. This was a few years ago but I still post reviews because the whole experience with his office was awful
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07 Nov, 2018 by Daniel
I had a bankruptcy in process paid in full and he never contacts me to let me know so now I paid for a service that was never completed
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12 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
It's like dealing with a child continually having to remind him to follow through with details in my case! It was more stress added to my already stressful situation! Maybe it's time to retire (my thoughts)
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21 May, 2022 by Anonymous
He puts unnecessary items in your case just so he can charge you more to remove them. Doesn't serve the defendant correctly which causes which grants them an extension which you still have to pay the attorney for showing up in court. Just horrible service all around. Do yourself a favor and look elsewhere for an attorney that even acts as if they care. Oh, and you will speak to the paralegal 99.5% of the time who will bill you for their errors.
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12 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
My husband hire Mr. Frank for son custody case. At 1st he seemed to care about my son situation. My son had done everything that he supposed to do when the other party didn't follow the court orders. My son had called Mr. Frank several times for advice. (When the other party had lied on my son in court) Mr. Frank didn't even bother to check into that to make sure if it was true or not. Took him awhile to return all calls. Before the court date, there was some documents were email to my son on what was going to take place before court. The day of court, the two parties (lawyers) were discussing of what to do. At that time, we noticed our son was very UPSET of what was said by his lawyer. To make a long story short, Mr. Frank didn't even FIGHT for my son in his custody for his child. He pretty much WAS GLUED TO HIS SEAT AND DIDN"T DEFEND HIM. We had evidence. (Text message, pictures, videos, show cause) he didn't even bother to bring it up in court. So pretty much WE lost over a GREAT LUMP SUM money of him NOT doing not his job. So now my son is losing time with his daughter/granddaughter life. As a family we were VERY UPSET. And the sad thing about it, Mr. Frank told my son, so I guess you are going to fired me. So that tells us he didn't care if my son didn't win his case. He was ALL ABOUT THE MONEY! And that was wrong. So now we are looking into another lawyer who will do the job and do right by my son.
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06 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Hired Mr. Frank for a modification to spousal support. It's been year and to date, Mr. Frank has failed to find out any important information like how much my estranged spouse makes for one, file any motion with court, is not very good at returning phone calls or emails regarding the case or what he has done in regards of said case. And now he is asking to be dismissed from said case. Achieving little to nothing must be exhausting. So its been a total waste of time and finances to get nothing but sand slipping threw your hands. I am sure I will do better just filing the paperwork on my own and going to court by myself. At least I know I can finish what I start and not have wonder how long before I hear back from a MIA attorney. I wish I would have just paid myself for all the work.
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06 Sep, 2023 by Miracle parish
Terribly rude assistant answered the phone. Would not recommend this company.
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07 Oct, 2022 by John mcbride
A true group of lying criminals. Presented false evidence to the fairfax court was a direct cause of me being beaten half to death. Is why I am homeless and disabled. Also due to this firm I stand a very high risk of losing my leg and possibly my life from being forced to live outside for a year.
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29 Sep, 2021 by Lisa merrill
Convenient location considering 66 /495/ 7 corridor. Parking is validated and provides easy access to building.
Meeting was timely, achieved and set future agenda, comfortable while professional and exceeded expectations as a legal resource.
Excellent referral.
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27 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
Would give no stars if not forced to give one. I could not agree more with the review for March 22, 2018. Kimberly Chadwick was assigned to my girls case. She had no concrete reason why she told both the J&DR court judge & the circuit court of appeals judge the same thing at the very end of each hearing. She waited until very end of each hearing to give her opinion that the mother was better suited to have full custody. The circuit court judge on the appeal asked her why she gave a different opinion in her closing than she did in her report. She mumbled oh either house is fine judge. She has a clear biased against men and should go into a different type of law. The judge ruled in the kids favor granting 50/50 arrangement, against the recommendation of Kimberly Chadwick’s closing argument in favor of the mother. If you are a father fighting for your kids the do anything you can to have her removed from your case. Its been 3 years and my girls are doing fabulous. One of my girls was struggling with peer relationships during the time we where in court. Once the 50/50 started it Suddenly got better and ended up disappearing altogether. They both thank me from time to time for working to have them live with me. Fathers don’t give up on your kids! Always appeal J&DR that court is biased and a joke in Fairfax County.
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22 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
She has been assigned to our case for several years and yet has no clue as to what she is she is doing. She has failed to investigate any of the blatant issues of abuse and neglect from one parent and makes no effort to learn why our child is not thriving and why they have been in therapy for many years. Her reputation in the community indicates that she always sides with mothers . That is obvious as she is extremely prejudice, biased, lazy and incompetent. Made no effort to observe child and parents interact together nor has she made any effort to seek the facts in this case . Her reports are solely based on hearsay from one parent . Her decisions have repeatedly proven harmful to our children. She ignored and contradicted advice and orders from the Juvenile judge. She is a continued danger to children since she repeatedly ignores facts and evidence of abuse and children not thriving under the custodial parents care. We will seek removal of her licenses to practice with the Virginia BAR due to the complete failures in the responsibilities of this attorney.
She must be removed before she puts another child in danger.
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27 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Doesn't seem to care about the best interest of the child, didn't do much background information on the case in general. Never contacted me about information given to her or changes in her report I had to constantly contact her. Insisted on for me to do one thing to retain custody of the child and then she changed it to me needing to do other things 3 weeks before the hearing. Very biased in my opinion. With the lack of correct information, probably will not get a fair trial.
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31 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
He did such a poor job, I wanted to make sure I leave reviews for others NOT to use for family law. He was railroaded in court and did not do anything but argue. He did not listen or state case in court. Very unprepared.
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18 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired this attorney to represent me for a traffic & civil infraction. After evidence required by discovery was shared by the arresting department Mr. Jack’s proceeded to inform me of my guilt and what the judge would sentence me possibly without even looking at or considering the discovery evidence. He neglected to even watch my arrest or what transpired on the video provided to my disappointment.
Mr. Jack’s did not want to do the job for which I hired him and was just going through the motions to collect the money I paid him for defense. I suggest hiring an attorney that will defend you instead of one who just agrees with the prosecution to push you through the system.
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06 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Julie Cillo didn’t care about me, my case or my children. After a year, 50K in lawyers fees, not even a separation agreement, I was asked to replenish my retainer in the sum of 15K. When I wasn’t able to come up with the money, she dumped me. I had to declare bankruptcy because of her over billing and failure to represent.
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19 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
I hired Ms. Maccormac for a couple of different legal matters involving family law. She did no trial preparation or investigating in order to prepare the case. If you want to lose custody of your children this is the attorney to hire. She doesn't really seem to care about your life or your children, just the bottom line. If you are looking for an attorney to just show up to court without putting in any of the work then this is who you should hire! I know in the legal field there are no guarantees as to the outcome, however in this case there wan no effort put forth to protect myself or my children. And if you do hire her pray that you do not have a trial as in my case she was not prepared or put in any of the work in order to have myself or her prepared to walk into court.
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16 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Dawn Deboer to handle my divorce. At the time, she was a Partner at a firm that was recommended to me. She was quick to ask for a retainer, and then did very little for me. My experience with her was very similar to the client who posted on Feb. 14, 2014; like that client, I experienced many delays, broken promises, as well as a lack of returned phone calls and follow-up. I eventually received a letter from the firm stating that she was no longer with the firm. Through much back and forth, I eventually had an Associate Lawyer at the firm finish the job that Dawn had started. (And yes, the Associate Lawyer handled the case in a timely and efficient manner.)
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26 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
Tried to use him for child custody matters and it was a horrible experience. He has a lot of book knowledge with legal matters, but his advice was horrible and he seemed distant and uncaring about my matter. Upon going to hire him, he told me I had no leg to stand on (which is false) and turned me down as a client and just gave me my money back. I still don't understand why he did that to this day and it was very uncomfortable. This turned out to be a blessing though, as I went to hire a fantastic (and more affordable and compassionate) lawyer than Mr. Luck ever would have been. My current lawyer was very successful with all of my needs and things turned out great for myself and my child. I am so glad I didn't listen to his advice, because it was false. One of the least caring attorneys I have ever spoken to without question. He may do good things for others, but my experience was depressing.
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27 Sep, 2024 by S.
If I could give Mr. Danieli zero stars, I would. He dragged my divorce case on for over a year and a half, claiming he couldn’t do anything. After I switched to a new lawyer, my case was resolved in just one week—and completely in my favor.
During his time representing me, Mr. Danieli didn’t listen to my requests and consistently took steps against my wishes. He seemed more focused on sending bills for every little detail than actually helping me. His office was just as bad—ignoring emails, making numerous mistakes, and still charging me for them.
I’m so relieved I finally switched lawyers. I would never recommend Mr. Danieli to anyone because it was clear he doesn’t know how to do his job or care about his clients.
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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.
