Lawyers map
>212
experienced lawyers
Filter by
29 May, 2013 by Anonymous
Besides myself, she is the only one who truly fought for and cared about my children's best interest. She did all she could.
Read more
21 Feb, 2017 by Heath n. wasserman
Absolutely great Attorney. Attorney Tishberg won both a civil and criminal trial for me in consecutive months. I must say Attorney Tishberg is one of the nicest people I have ever met. Thank you, Attorney Tishberg.
Read more
15 Nov, 2024 by Kathy sidders
03 Jan, 2024 by Aiden m.
25 Feb, 2023 by Albo 4life
Good people
Read more
28 Dec, 2023 by Bret koth
05 Nov, 2023 by Yvette harris
22 May, 2023 by Joseph brown
Michael was easy to work with and helped me through my divorce process. He explained in detail everything that I needed to know and guided me from the beginning to the end. I would definitely recommend Michael for any family law related issues.
Read more
20 Oct, 2024 by Jamie zudonyi
14 Oct, 2024 by Eric bourgeois
Been a client for years and all of sudden I cannot get a response from my attorney. Sent an email to Attorney Kuechler about my ex-wife moving my kids to a different county without telling anybody, and the only response received was a copy of my current bill. Terrible service, terrible communication, and apologies to anyone I recommended to Jaskolski and Jaskolski.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Anne kowal
24 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
Excellent. Highly skilled and qualified. As the female in a very contentious divorce, I always felt cared for and protected through out the long ordeal. Highly Recommend Keith and his law firm.
Read more
29 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
Do not recommend. Would not hire again. Poor experience. Underwhelmed throughout the case. Regret hiring this attorney
Read more
20 Sep, 2017 by Gary
My only regret was not using Keith first. I had gone with another firm that had been recommended to me by a few different friends. After watching my original attorney sit silently as I was removed from my house, lost my kids, and had to pay the mortgage and ALL the bills, I knew I needed a new attorney. Enter Keith Wessel. Not only was he able to reverse the damage my original attorney had done, he was able to cut through the games and drama my ex wife's attorney had been using. He worked well with the Social Worker, the Court Commissioner, and Judge. He has the knowledge and experience to navigate any situation and is very personable and easy to work with through the difficult circumstance that is divorce. I trust him completely. Excellent communication and response to any questions I had. He is worth his rate and it was money well spent. I would not hesitate to recommend Keith to anyone. My experience with Keith Wessel can be described only as outstanding!
Read more
06 May, 2024 by Pat mcdonnell
Great law firm.
Read more
06 May, 2024 by Paula ortega
Chris represented me in a personal injury claim after a vehicle accident. In the days after the accident the insurance company offered to just pay for expenses and settle. After talking to a few different lawyers I had a comfort level with Chris and felt like he was going to be the right person to fight for me. I was not let down by him in any way. Attorney MacGillis surpassed my expectations and stood up to the insurance company making them add a few zeros to the original settlement amount. Chris is a good, honest, straight shooter! I trust him and would hire him again without hesitation!
Read more
06 May, 2024 by Mark forster
Very responsive, respectful, and down to Earth. I felt very comfortable and in good hands at all times.
Read more
12 Nov, 2024 by Adam christoffersen
10 Jun, 2024 by Ken seehafer
Very helpful, easy to communicate with, and explained things well.
Read more
22 Feb, 2024 by Riley potter
Very productive dependable and professional group of attorneys able to awnser any law questions you may have
Read more
10 May, 2023 by Dustin leconte
26 Jun, 2021 by Donn felda
08 Mar, 2021 by Andrea delorimier
Vicki was so kind, thoughtful, and very thorough. My experience with her has changed my life for the better. I 100% recommend her services to anybody!
Read more
01 Oct, 2024 by Angela wilkenson
09 Sep, 2024 by Jenny stritzel
Chris has helped us with several situations. He was understanding but to the point. Just a ‘normal guy’ who happens to have the experience and knowledge to navigate us when we needed it the most. We also dealt a bit w his associate who we were just as satisfied with.
Read more
22 Aug, 2024 by Kelly moon
Attorney Kuehn has a thorough knowledge of the law and defended my case with determination. He took me through a 2 year brutal divorce with excellent results. I appreciated working with him because he cares and goes above and beyond instead of handing you as a “case”. He definitely has your best interest in mind, I highly recommend giving him a call.
Read more
27 Jun, 2023 by Carsten quinlan
Pam helped me in my divorce case. She was fair, hardworking, and honest, and reliable. Highly recommend her.
Read more
03 Feb, 2023 by Ms. never another me only1
I can say my experience w/this attorney was great very successful!! She's patient, caring & very understanding!! You deal directly w/her no third party. If you're having issues Pam Baumgartner is the go to lady!!!💯 😊
Read more
28 Nov, 2022 by Sarah grant
She was my free public defender. I asked for a different lawyer as she wasn't interested in really helping me in my case. Pam then told me how I could end up with an even worse lawyer. And when I lost, she showed not an ounce of compassion during the whole process.
Read more
17 May, 2024 by Jeremy jensen
19 Apr, 2024 by Randall andrews
08 Feb, 2024 by Sarah wirth
I will always recommend Chad Buehler, great work, ethnics, reasonably priced, he goes above and beyond for his clients. Best attorney I have had this whole time, got me everything I wanted for my family.
Read more
18 Sep, 2018 by Mark
I'm now 2.5 years separated from the anxiety, frustration, anger, and confusion of a rough divorce situation that lasted over a year and a half. I would like to thank Attorney Missimer for his legal work and hours put in to eventually finalize my screwy case but more so for his genuine concern for my mental and emotional well being during the process and for protecting my future interests. I highly recommend Attorney Missimer if you are going through any divorce situation that has gotten "ugly". His personnel knowledge of the court and attorneys involved and legal prowess will protect you from yourself and greatly reduce the stress and anxiety! Thanks Richard! All the Best.
Read more
25 Feb, 2015 by Denise
Whatever your needs are call this lawyer first.. You will be glad you did. He will either show you how to do it yourself for free, take the case or refer you to someone else who can help you..
I've honestly never talked to a lawyer like him before.. He seems to have a really good heart.
Read more
20 Feb, 2015 by Cheryl
Any person's divorce is one of the worst times of their life! I called approximately 10 divorce lawyers, many of them simply blowing me off or quoting me a ridiculous "flat rate" that I absolutely could NOT afford.
In my mind, my divorce was simple! No property to divide or minor children to deal with. We divided all our property ourselves and had no accounts to split. I simply needed someone to lead me through the paper filing process at a price I could afford. One lawyer had the nerve to say to me, "Lady, no divorce is simple. As soon as you get to court, your husband will change his mind and want it all. That is why I charge a higher rate......to prepare for the future fight you will have". SERIOUSLY?
FINALLY, I talked to Attorney Richard Missimer. He was sympathetic and treated me with respect. He never belittled me. I explained my needs and he told me "exactly" what the process would be and what time spans we were looking at. He NEVER made me feel incompetent and repeatedly told me to ask him any questions I had, no matter how silly they might seem to me. I finally found my savior! He took that heavy load off of me and proceeded to lead me down the process without any fears. When he said he would send an email, the email was there, listing what paperwork was needed on my end to start the proceeding. When he said he would call, he called. When he said we would meet, we met when signatures were needed and the whole process became cut-and-dry!
When the process was complete, there were absolutely no "hidden" charges. He charged me exactly what he quoted me!
I would recommend him to anyone looking for an honest lawyer that truly cares for their needs!
Read more
03 Sep, 2024 by Melissa ruthven
I hired them for my disability case. I have been unable to work since 2017. The only way I have mobility is by using the DONATED wheelchairs that were given to me because I have zero money coming in. I have Diabetes, chronic pain, IT Band Syndrome, Agoraphobia, anxiety and depression, and they tell me it's my problem that I wasn't approved. They were very lazy and didn't do one thing to help me get approved. You are better off trying to get SSDI yourself rather than hiring this lazy bunch of lawyers.
Read more
15 Jul, 2024 by Greg lecloux
I Was represented by attorney Burkham in my disability case. (2024) The professionalism from Attorney Burkham and her assistant were no less than top notch! They are no doubt all business which is what I needed and they were there to help you if you have questions. Always returned calls. Never sugar coated answers. Their knowledge level was very good. If you would ask if I would trust them with any other cases of any sort I may have ?? for sure. They do deserve a 6 star rating but a 5 is all the computer will allow us to give.
Read more
20 May, 2024 by Barry faust
Mark Sewell was incredible to work with. His diligence and background were helpful in guiding me to an equitable settlement for my personal injury case. I highly recommend the firm!
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by David iancu
As a fellow lawyer in the community I can attest to the quality of the lawyers at Welcenbach Law Offices, S.C.. They're extremely dedicated to their clients, knowledgeable about their craft and have an unrelenting passion for doing what's right. I regularly refer clients to this firm and you shouldn't hesitate to give them a call.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Carrie roque
I highly recommend having Robert Welcenbach and his amazing staff represent you. Attorney Welcenbach will go above and beyond and do everything in his power to help your case and make it very strong. Attorney Welcenbach is so professional, kind and calm when it comes to handling your case. He has been so helpful in moving my case along smoothly with impeccable detail.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Sheyanne hiemstra
Very professional and they won the class action suit I was involved in cuz they are beasts
Read more
30 Jan, 2025 by Tracy chernick
Attorney Morrell took over as my attorney in my divorce action from my prior attorney and I wish I never made that mistake. If I could issue a 0 start review I would, but Google does not allow that.
When Attorney Morrell took over he made several promises to me. I paid him $9,200 initially. He did not touch my case for 3 months. I sent him a message after 3 months saying I had not heard from him at all and asked him to contact me. He didn't contact me for about 3 weeks after, which was 2 days before my court date.
In my case there was an issue involving a pre-nuptial agreement. My attorney reached out to my prior counsel to get his opinion on what he thought the issues were. I found this to be very unprofessional because it told me he was lazy and did not want to do work on my case.
I want to make it clear that Attorney Morrell had my pre-nuptial for 10 months before we had a hearing on this issue. He did not read this until the day before court. I was in his office when this happened and he had 3 interns and another attorney with him. Again, he was unprepared.
Every time I would have meetings with Attorney Morrell I would have to go to his Appleton Office. If a meeting began at 12:00 pm, he would not get me until 12:20. When the meeting started I would sit down at his office and his first response was "what's up". Rather than use the time to discuss court he would divert and discuss what cars he wanted to purchase. He basically had me go to his office to make it appear we were discussing the divorce but that never occurred. Instead he made it about him.
As my case progressed to my final hearing there were deadlines set by the court. Before this occurred, I had to pay Attorney Morrell another $9800. He informed me that this would be all that is required. He told me the $9800 would be for discovery, a deposition, and for additional things.
Attorney Morrell NEVER did discovery and in fact missed a VERY important court deadline that impacted my case. When the deadline passed and was missed, Attorney Morrell tried to cover his rear end by filing a motion to compel with the court. He also tried to get a continuance. These were denied and the court found that his actions were not reasonable as he had over a year to get information requested.
He NEVER did a deposition, and there were never "additional things". When I questioned Attorney Morrell about this he blamed it on his secretary. Not only did Attorney Morrell not care about my case, but he tried to blame others for his laziness and lack of attention. It was only ever about the money for him.
Speaking of money, Attorney Morrell forced me to sign a document the day of court for my final hearing. I was not provided this document in advance and had no idea what I was signing. This document apparently was for me to pay him more money. He flipped to a page in court and said "here sign this". He didn't say what it was for. I thought it was for me to sign off as him still representing me. Instead it was a disguised contract for more money.
The day of my final hearing Attorney Morrell showed up with nothing prepared. The day before my hearing a time was set up to discuss the final divorce date but instead Attorney Morrell told me he was upset with me because I sent him a message with everything he did not do.
At my hearing Attorney Morrell played on his computer and was not attentive. I could not be more dissatisfied with Attorney Morrell.
I would not recommend him to anyone. If you want to pay a lot of money to have an attorney not work on your case, then he is your guy. If you are looking for an attorney that properly communicates, doesn't miss deadlines, doesn't blame others for his faults, is prepared for hearings, is punctual, and advocates, then Attorney Morrell is NOT who you want on your side.
I could go on and on about Attorney Morrell and his representation but there is a word limit to these reviews. Therefore, this is all I can write given that restraint.
Do not go with Attorney Morrell. Blank promises and lies. Huge red flag.
.
Read more
13 Dec, 2024 by Ashley casperson
I never thought I’d need an attorney, but when I needed one Jack was quick to help. He is really great at getting back to me about any questions or concerns that I have. Both Jack and Claire are wonderful, and I don’t feel like there is anything I can’t go to them about. The custody process has been hard on me, and Jack has always been kind, understanding, and he provides positive reassurance when it’s tough to see. I genuinely could not have gone through this process without Jack’s help.
Read more
10 Dec, 2024 by Marjorie lopez
I had the pleasure of being represented in family court by attorney Bailey Holt, whom was nothing short of exceptional. She was willing to hear my side of the story without judgment, while also providing critical feedback and options to choose from. Our meetings together were efficient and prompt. Although she is no longer representing me, she left the door open for questions and the opportunity to hire her again in the future. I highly recommend Sterling Lawyers, LLC and specifically attorney Bailey Holt.
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Sarina jane
25 Aug, 2023 by Todd
29 May, 2023 by Steve hicks
30 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
Very slow and reactive vs proactive with strategy. Poor communication, actually they didn’t communicate when should have. Find another firm if complex divorce case.
Read more
06 Nov, 2020 by Brad
Tajara was the third and worst attorney I have had to hire! Only ten grand for retainer to hire and that money was gone in no time with her other associates all getting there hands in the pot! Not to mention monthly billing statements have different hourly rates for the same people each month! I never even got to meet with Tajara face to face, or even see how she does in front of Judge an opposing counsel. Lastly, I’ve been fighting for custody(50/50 Placement) of my first born daughter for ten years. Now, after having at least 75/25 placement up until hiring Tajara who managed to get my placement taken away from me and then Tajara decided to file for withdrawal of counsel since she got what she wanted and left me broke and without my daughter!! Don’t hire for your own sake!
Read more
07 Jun, 2017 by Bob
Tajara and her staff, including her daughter and her paralegal Jennifer were very, very patient with my total ignorance in this divorce and anything else to help me move ford in this devastating time in my life. If it came to a questionable subject, Tajara took the time and initiative to find the legal answer. She is ruthless and will not back down unless the client insists. She and her staff are very down to earth and very easy to speak with. Do not be afraid to ask questions and make sure you record the answers for your own history to save time and money. Speaking of money, they are very fair with what they charge and do not charge for. Besides losing my wife of 35 years, Tajara and her team made me feel at ease which I felt was super important. Do I even have to say how much I recommend her?
Read more
30 Dec, 2024 by Todd martin
21 Dec, 2024 by Sam jones
One call is literally all I made! Attorney James Fields-Bowers was extremely professional, kind, and knowledgeable. Paralegal Cassidy Meyers kept me informed every step of the way. The kindness they displayed along with their commitment to get me the fairest possible outcome was remarkable. Attorney David Gruber even checked in on me and my case personally to ensure I was satisfied with their representation. I can honestly say that “One Call, That’s All!” Isn’t a cliche or fancy slogan but it is an actual statement! Please continue the great work and commitment to helping others. Thank you.
Read more
19 Dec, 2024 by Sara williams
03 Oct, 2024 by Samuel rail
Where to begin? My divorce was not easy there were so many hurdles in my divorce but that is a story for another day. From the second I met Kelly my decision was made this was my attorney and on top of that a sounding board for me to bounce ideas off of. She helped me fight for my children, and never stopped. She was always very well thought out when speaking to me and explained things in terms that I could understand. I would recommend Kelly to anyone in need of a lawyer. If I had to explain Kelly to anyone I would say the she is Smart, capable, rational, dependable, outgoing, kind, consistent and a leader. From the bottom of my heart, Kelly is truly amazing. Thank you so much.
Read more
18 Apr, 2024 by Jason bleier
23 May, 2023 by Michelle kostuck
Very professional atmosphere if you need a lawyer
Read more
18 Jan, 2025 by Todd wileman
Not a great experience.
Read more
24 Oct, 2023 by Vickie manke
Impressed with how fast we got the documents completed....great people!
Read more
02 Oct, 2020 by Aren larson
This niche law firm on Main Street in Fort Atkinson is a go to for our family... we are long-time clients - great people work here— Kitty and Jim Vance are awesome. I’ve experienced Excellent customer service. . Mr Vance has a broad understanding of the law, Including wills and trusts. Vance Law is our trusted advisor.
Read more
01 Dec, 2023 by Matt reynolds
Craig is amazing and knows his stuff. Im glad I was able to get ahold of him
Read more
30 Oct, 2023 by Dorien ah sam
Got the job done! Great to work with and was with me throughout the whole process.
Read more
23 Oct, 2023 by Oliver pugh
If you're looking for an Estate planning attorney Steven is the one to go to. He found things missing in our original documents as well as with the way our house was titled. He's knowledgeable and takes the right amount of time to carefully meet your needs.
Read more
07 Sep, 2020 by Keri
After paying a different attorney to set up a Living Trust, we discovered he was not knowledgeable and should not have been practicing Estate law. It caused our family much grief, stress, and problems. Someone gave us Stephen Howitz's number. He was extremely knowledgable about Living Trusts and helped us navigate around the problems caused by previous attorney. He also looked up several things for us when he wasn't recently-familiar with an issue. I highly recommend him as someone who will put the client's interests first.
Read more
07 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
Stephen was great with my on-going legal battle with my ex husband, but ended up dropping the case at a crucial moment, stating that the topic was different (although he had done work on it) and that as I hadn't paid off the large bill for the last case, he couldn't do anymore. Very understanding regarding payments. A little new to the law system, and it sometimes showed in his work.
Read more
04 Apr, 2011 by Anonymous
Excellent attorney, and I highly recommend. . I was not familiar how to handle an inheritance I received, and Stephen not only listened to me, but gave me advice and suggested what I should do.
I listened to what Stephen had to say, and I took his advice, and
it all worked out beautifully. If you are looking for an attorney who will
listen to his client, and give you his best advice, I would recommend Stephen J. Howitz.
Read more
09 Feb, 2024 by Corissa klages
27 Sep, 2023 by Tanya rennhack
18 Aug, 2023 by Terry webster
They are booked up but very friendly and they were able to connect me with an attorney I can get right away
Read more
25 Oct, 2024 by Carina koenig
Fast and easy! Thank you!
Read more
11 Sep, 2024 by Stephanie mcshane
Very informative. Great reasonable prices. I didn't feel pressured at all.
Read more
10 Sep, 2024 by Jason berlin
Has been very helpful through this situation. The communication was going to be very important to me and Jack has gone over and above to make sure I'm always informed with my case. Highly recommend!!
Read more
14 Aug, 2024 by Rebecca bohmsach
So rude on the phone I would never want to do business with them.
Read more
20 Jun, 2024 by Justin force
27 May, 2024 by Josh bane
08 Jul, 2024 by Stacey bolen
Attorney Dickey was the attorney on behalf of my son and myself in a very stressful and financial ruin for both of us. His professionalism, knowledge and compassion he had towards us the entire time we were working with him proved to us that there would be no other Attorney we would have wanted to help with this lawsuit. His hard work and dedication to not only our insurance company but to my son and myself showed volumes on not only who is as an Attorney but as a person as well! I would highly recommend Attorney Dickey and his Law Firm to anyone I know in the future. There are not enough stars to show our gratitude to him and his staff. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts, keep being who you are because that's what makes you an outstanding person! Stacey and Taylor.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by J c
30 Mar, 2024 by Aaron & terri “mr&mrs.superbatshitcrazy†nearman
28 Sep, 2024 by Clayton and jennifer
Both my husband and myself have both hired Attorney Annabelle Vang for our family case as well as civil disputes, her and her firm are by far the best choice we could have made. She and her team are professional, respectful, prompt and have gotten us only positive outcomes. We will continue to work with her for any and all of our needs. If you are looking for a family lawyer who fights hard for you, and has your best interest in mind, look no further!
Read more
26 Sep, 2024 by Marcus rockiett
My brother hired this firm to handle his divorce. From the very beginning it was a bad decision. The first hearing was handled by an attorney in their office he had never even spoken to before, the guy showed up minutes before the hearing unprepared causing the need for another hearing. He then showed up at this hearing with all of the documentation needed to fix his original blunder, which by the way my brother paid for by needing to have another hearing which they charged him for. He proceeded thru this hearing and totally forgot to speak on one of the reasons he was there and the judge made her judgement leaving an order in place that should’ve never been. So another hearing was needed which again they charged him for. Time after time throughout the divorce they have dropped the ball, too many to list in this review. Long story shorter he ended up paying them over $30k and had a balance of $4k with an agreement he was paying. They decided to drop him as a client with less than a month to go before the final trial leaving him without an attorney knowing it would cost no less than $10k to get another. I’ve never been around a bigger group of blood sucking vultures in my life.
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Brad canard
I hired attorney Kathleen Hessel to help me with a contempt hearing. From the start, Ms. Hessel was not looking out for my best interests. She did not offer concrete steps I could take. I had to require her to take my offers to the other side. I was able to do that myself. It was a complete waste of money for me to hire this law firm.
Read more
06 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
I retained Attorney Wojan for a divorce lawyer. He did fine in the beginning but after my future ex started causing problems, Attorney Wojan allowed his lawyer to walk all over me and get everything they wanted. Even after I told Attorney Wojan I did not want it settled that way, he proceeded to do it his way and let them get what they wanted.
I was court ordered to do mediation and send in payment, and he did not inform me of that resulting in a delay and a bigger mess for my new lawyer had to clean up. He would not supply me with a detailed list of how much time he spent on each event causing me to believe that he just made stuff up because he couldn't prove it. So now I am stuck with a ridiculous bill that I don't have the money for because I had to hire a new lawyer.
Read more
29 Nov, 2019 by Sarah
Mr. Nathaniel Wojan provided me with the most respect. He takes you and your case seriously. Great with communication I've had Mr. Wojan over the past few years and he always went above and beyond! I was never disappointed cause he fight for you and your rights. I highly recommend Mr.Wojan and the firm he works for. Thanks you so much for all you help,time,and respect Nathaniel.!
Read more
21 Aug, 2019 by Chris
Attorney Nathan Wojan was sharp, respectful, and honest through this whole proceeding. With his expert knowledge I was able to win my case. Not only knowledgeable, but compassionate and serios about his work. 5 star A 1 rating. Thank you Nathan.
Read more
09 Mar, 2024 by Ralph fleege
There for his client helpful understanding and listens. Thank you sir
Read more
Browse lawyers
Cities in Wisconsin - Find a Lawyer Near Me
-
Milwaukee
-
Madison
-
Waukesha
-
Brookfield
-
Green Bay
-
Appleton
-
Wauwatosa
-
Wausau
-
Eau Claire
-
Racine
-
La Crosse
-
Middleton
-
Kenosha
-
Janesville
-
Oshkosh
-
Mequon
-
Neenah
-
Hudson
-
Sheboygan
-
West Bend
-
Stevens Point
-
Manitowoc
-
New Berlin
-
Baraboo
-
Fond Du Lac
-
Menomonee Falls
-
Elkhorn
-
Elm Grove
-
Fitchburg
-
Oconomowoc
-
Monona
-
Pewaukee
-
Sun Prairie
-
Superior
-
Verona
-
Wisconsin Rapids
-
Glendale
-
River Falls
-
De Pere
-
Chippewa Falls
-
Sturgeon Bay
-
Monroe
-
WEST ALLIS
-
Rhinelander
-
Cedarburg
-
Grafton
-
Hartland
-
Portage
-
Shorewood
-
Whitefish Bay
-
Beloit
-
Lake Geneva
-
Menasha
-
Sparta
-
Greenfield
-
Waunakee
-
New Richmond
-
Jefferson
-
Thiensville
-
Delafield
-
Merrill
-
Port Washington
-
Waupaca
-
Oak Creek
-
Black River Falls
-
Marinette
-
Franklin
-
Juneau
-
Menomonie
-
Onalaska
-
Hartford
-
Beaver Dam
-
Marshfield
-
Shawano
-
Burlington
-
Germantown
-
Hayward
-
Dodgeville
-
Eagle River
-
Lancaster
-
Watertown
-
Mount Pleasant
-
Ashland
-
Cudahy
-
Muskego
-
Platteville
-
Greendale
-
Medford
Browse lawyers
Practice Areas in Wisconsin
-
Business
-
Real Estate
-
Litigation
-
Family Law
-
Estate Planning
-
Criminal Defense
-
Personal Injury
-
Probate
-
Government
-
Insurance
-
Appeals
-
Intellectual Property
-
Tax
-
Civil Rights
-
Workers Compensation
-
Consumer Protection
-
Elder Law
-
Car Accident
-
Mediation
-
Child Custody
-
Bankruptcy
-
Trusts
-
Immigration
-
Child Support
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Juvenile Law
-
Medical Malpractice
-
Debt Collection
-
Lawsuit / Dispute
-
Wrongful Death
-
Discrimination
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
Domestic Violence
-
Class Action
-
Adoption
-
Foreclosure
-
Divorce
-
Federal Crime
-
DUI / DWI
-
Sex Crime
-
Employment / Labor
-
Entertainment
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Copyright Application
-
Wrongful Termination
-
Debt Settlement
-
Landlord & Tenant
-
Drug Crime
-
Construction
-
Cannabis Law
-
Credit Repair
-
Environmental Law
-
Life Insurance
-
Contracts
-
Education Law
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Child Custody Lawyer Can Do for You
A child custody lawyer specializes in helping parents navigate legal matters related to the custody and care of their children, particularly in the context of divorce, separation, or other family disputes. These lawyers assist with determining custody arrangements, drafting parenting plans, and advocating for your rights in court. They also help resolve disputes over physical custody (where the child lives), legal custody (who makes decisions for the child), visitation rights, and modifications to existing custody orders.
Whether you're going through a divorce or need to change an existing custody arrangement, a child custody lawyer can help you understand your rights and protect your child's best interests throughout the legal process.
When Should I Hire a Child Custody Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a child custody lawyer in several situations, especially when disputes arise or complex legal issues affect your parental rights. Some common reasons to hire a child custody lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: If you're going through a divorce or separation and need to establish custody and visitation arrangements, a lawyer can help ensure the custody order reflects your child's best interests.
- Disputed custody cases: If you and the other parent cannot agree on custody or visitation terms, a lawyer can advocate for your rights in court and help you develop a strong case.
- Modification of custody orders: If you need to change an existing custody arrangement due to changes in circumstances (e.g., relocation, changes in the child’s needs), a lawyer can help file a modification request.
- Parental alienation: If the other parent is interfering with your relationship with your child, a lawyer can help address these issues through legal action.
- Domestic violence or abuse: If there is a history of domestic violence or abuse, a lawyer can help protect you and your child by requesting restraining orders and advocating for appropriate custody arrangements.
- Grandparent or third-party custody: If you are a grandparent or another relative seeking custody or visitation rights, a lawyer can guide you through the legal process.
- Paternity disputes: In cases where paternity is in question, a lawyer can assist with establishing or challenging paternity, which may affect custody and visitation rights.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process can help protect your parental rights and ensure that the custody arrangement is in your child's best interests.
What Does a Child Custody Lawyer Do?
A child custody lawyer provides a variety of legal services to help parents resolve custody disputes and secure favorable custody arrangements for their children. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing custody petitions: Helping you file the necessary paperwork to request custody or visitation rights and ensuring all legal procedures are followed.
- Negotiating custody agreements: Assisting in negotiating custody and visitation arrangements, often working toward a mutually beneficial parenting plan without going to court.
- Representing you in court: If you and the other parent cannot agree on custody terms, representing you in court by presenting evidence and making legal arguments to support your case.
- Drafting parenting plans: Helping you draft a comprehensive parenting plan that outlines the schedule for physical custody, decision-making responsibilities, and visitation.
- Handling child support issues: Assisting with related issues such as child support, ensuring that financial obligations are properly calculated and enforced.
- Modifying custody orders: Helping you request a modification from the court if you need to change an existing custody arrangement due to significant life changes.
- Mediating custody disputes: Acting as a mediator to help both parents reach an agreement on custody and visitation without the need for litigation.
How Are Child Custody Lawyers Paid?
Child custody lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case, the time involved, and the nature of the legal work. Common payment methods include:
- Hourly rate: Most child custody lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer's experience and location. The total cost depends on the time spent preparing documents, negotiating, and representing you in court.
- Flat fee: For simple custody matters or uncontested custody agreements, some lawyers may offer a flat fee for specific services, such as drafting a parenting plan or filing a custody petition.
- Retainer: Many lawyers require an upfront retainer fee, which is billed against as the lawyer works on your case. The amount varies based on the expected complexity and duration of the case.
- Sliding scale or pro bono services: Some lawyers may offer reduced fees or pro bono (free) services for clients with limited financial means, particularly in cases involving domestic violence or other serious issues.
It’s important to discuss fees and payment arrangements with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand how much you will be charged and what services are included.
How Much Does a Child Custody Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a child custody lawyer depends on various factors, including the complexity of the case, whether it’s contested or uncontested, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost estimates include:
- Uncontested custody cases: Legal fees may range from $1,500 to $5,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the paperwork and any negotiations.
- Contested custody cases: Legal fees can range from $5,000 to $40,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the issues, the need for expert testimony, and the time spent in litigation.
- Hourly rates: Lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, with higher rates for more experienced attorneys or complex custody disputes.
- Mediation services: If both parents agree to work through mediation, costs typically range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more for the mediation process.
Always ask for a clear cost estimate during your consultation to ensure that you understand the total legal fees and payment structure.
Top Questions to Ask a Child Custody Lawyer
Before hiring a child custody lawyer, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure they are the best fit for your case. Some key questions to ask include:
-
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.
