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26 Dec, 2024 by Jp
I cannot thank Heidi and Amy enough for the exceptional support and representation they have provided for my family. Their dedication, professionalism, and compassion have been unmatched throughout this challenging time. Heidi’s expertise in custody and support matters along with her strategic approach gave me confidence at every step, while Amy’s attention to detail ensured that nothing was overlooked. Together, they make an incredible team, always available to answer questions, explain options, and provide guidance in a way that’s easy to understand during uncertain times. What sets them apart is their empathy and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome. I always feel they truly care about my family’s well-being, not just the legal process. With their collaboration I’ve been able to navigate an elongated emotional situation with confidence and poise. If you’re looking for attorneys who are not only skilled but also deeply invested in their clients’ success, Heidi and Amy are the best choice in the Lehigh Valley. I’m incredibly grateful for their support and wholeheartedly recommend their legal services for custody, child support, or any family matter that requires elite representation.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Arielle
Attorney Noll is fierce and knowledgeable. She is well prepared for court proceedings and has always had my best interest in mind. She responds to calls and emails in a very timely manner, including after hours and on weekends, as does Attorney Koren. Attorney Noll has represented me in PFA matters,custody, and divorce. It’s been helpful that she knows the ins and outs of my case from all aspects and can navigate how they affect each other. She is calm and confident, qualities I need in an attorney, especially when I am feeling intimidated by the process or by the defendant. She and Attorney Koren work well together as a cohesive team. They are like a well oiled machine and clearly have things down to a science to achieve best outcomes. I’m very grateful to them both.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Christine
During the first consultation she spoke at length, in detail, and in a way that I could understand what all of my options were. Attorney Noll from minute one was giving strategies and different approaches and had a plan B C and D for everything while other attorneys I consulted simply brushed it offas a simple divorce and custody. She was able to give me the confidence I needed to stand up and fight for what was legally mine. Throughout the entire process, she has been forthcoming diligent and has a real take no bull approach. I mean this as a compliment to say she is a shark. After every hearing I walk away feeling empowered and knowing I had the best possible representation. She is prompt in responding when I have a question or need advice on how to handle something with my coparent. 10 out of 10 would absolutely hire again and would recommend to anyone.
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12 Jun, 2017 by Amy
In a time when stress is at an all time high, you need people like the staff of Lightner Law Office to be there! From the initial phone call all the way through the process, I never felt alone. I could call or email with "dumb" questions or frantic thoughts of panic and EVERY time after, my mind and heart were at ease. Andrea is simply the best and Thom, Sue & Amanda are top notch!!! I never felt like I was being a bother with my many questions and no matter what "weird" situation I THOUGHT I had, they assured me that it was a normal question and provided me with a reassuring answer. If you are left with bankruptcy as your only viable option, do not hesitate to retain this firm. If will be the best decision you've made in a long time and you will literally feel the weight lift from your shoulders!!!
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03 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Dealing with Lightner Law Office has been a pure delight. They have been so supportive and helpful during this very difficult time in my life. I would highly recommend this firm to anyone that is in need of the services they offer. Wonderful caring staff that are always available to answer any and all questions.
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28 Dec, 2015 by Bob, connie
Attorneys and staff are very knowledgeable and efficient. We are extremely pleased with how our case was handled and the professionalism extended to us. You must do what they ask of you in order for the process to run smoothly and in a timely manner. Remember they are there to request documents and put it all together and file the necessary paperwork. It is a team effort but without their knowledge and expertise nothing gets accomplished! We are very pleased we contacted them! Thank you all for the great work!!
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11 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
In my opinion, Allen Tullar is one of the best Family law Attorneys in the Lehigh Valley. I came to Attorney Tullar with a very difficult Child Custody case and he took the time to listen to me, give me advice on the proper course of action to take and even allowed me to bend his ear when things seemed like they were going wrong but we're really going the way they were supposed to go. Allen and his firm are professional, compassionate and a pleasure to work with. They care about you as a client and not just about the billable hours. If you need compassionate yet aggressive family law representation, call Attorney Tullar before your spouse does.
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22 Oct, 2024 by Khalil tomlinson
I’m not sure about any of the other lawyers but do not go to Crystal A Yautz. She literally charged me 2,000$ and didn’t do the one thing I asked her to do which was to get text messages that says that I threatened somebody. She literally took the easiest way out possible! She has zero litigation skills at all!!! I will now hire a new lawyer and keep you guys posted on the out come. This lady once again is a terrible lawyer!!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Zachary hartzell
A wonderful, knowledgeable team who treats their clients with respect. 10/10
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08 Jul, 2024 by Adrian canela
Terrible communication
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22 Aug, 2024 by Janet brown
Lance Gordon and Jordan Augustus are an exceptional team, providing outstanding representation with a blend of experience and authenticity. I am deeply grateful for everything you have done for me. Lance, your honesty and transparency from the beginning were invaluable. You guided me through the process with clear advice, managing my expectations about relocation while encouraging trust in the journey. Your commitment and integrity were evident every step of the way. Jordan, your sharpness, organization, attention to detail, tenacity, and compassion have been remarkable. I cannot thank you enough for your pivotal role in keeping my family together. Child custody cases involving relocation are among the most challenging, and I am eternally grateful to have had your expertise and support throughout. We navigated this journey together, and words cannot fully express how much this outcome means to me. I highly recommend this law firm. Lance, Jordan, and the entire team ensured I felt heard and supported at every stage. Achieving primary physical custody is a significant privilege, and I am honored to have worked with such a dedicated and professional group.
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26 Jun, 2024 by Lindsay hardenberg
Lance Gordon and staff are very good at what they do in the sense that they maintain a supportive and cohesive attitude in the office amongst the staff and with clients. They are supportive in nature and very competent in custody and divorce matters. They prioritize matters, however are respecful of your money in comparison to other law offices. Law offices can feel uncomfortable and stressful, however the environment here feels more friendly and compassionate than many others in comparison. If you are searching for a supportive, fair and focused experience, this is it. Much appreciation to you.
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25 Jun, 2024 by Q
I just want to say thank you to both Attorney Gordon and Attorney Augustus. Best in the area!
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What a Child Support Lawyer Can Do for You

A child support lawyer specializes in legal issues related to the financial support that one parent provides to another for the upbringing of their children. These lawyers assist with establishing, enforcing, and modifying child support orders, ensuring that the financial needs of the child are met, including housing, food, healthcare, education, and other essentials. A child support lawyer can also represent parents in disputes over the amount of support, ensure fair calculations based on income, and handle legal proceedings if one parent fails to meet their obligations.

Whether you're seeking to establish child support, modify an existing order, or enforce payments, a child support lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights and the well-being of your child.

When Should I Hire a Child Support Lawyer?

You should consider hiring a child support lawyer when you need assistance with any of the following child support matters:

  • Establishing child support: If you are going through a divorce or separation and need to establish a child support order, a lawyer can help ensure that the support amount is fair and accurately calculated.
  • Modifying child support orders: If there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as a job loss, income change, or a child's financial needs, a lawyer can help you request a modification to the existing child support order.
  • Enforcing child support payments: If the other parent has failed to make court-ordered child support payments, a lawyer can help enforce the order through legal means such as wage garnishment, property liens, or even legal action.
  • Disputing child support calculations: If you believe the child support amount has been incorrectly calculated based on your income or expenses, a lawyer can help you challenge the calculation and seek a fair adjustment.
  • Paternity disputes: If paternity needs to be established before child support can be ordered, a lawyer can assist with DNA testing and legal proceedings.
  • Interstate child support cases: If the parents live in different states, navigating child support laws can be complex. A lawyer can help ensure the proper jurisdiction is established and that child support is enforced across state lines.
  • Child support during custody disputes: If child custody and child support are being determined simultaneously, a lawyer can help ensure that both issues are resolved fairly and in the best interest of the child.

Hiring a lawyer early can help ensure that your child support case is handled effectively and that your child's financial needs are met.

What Does a Child Support Lawyer Do?

A child support lawyer provides a variety of legal services to help parents secure, modify, and enforce child support arrangements. Their responsibilities often include:

  • Filing for child support: A lawyer can help you initiate the legal process to obtain a child support order, ensuring that all necessary documentation is submitted and deadlines are met.
  • Calculating child support: A lawyer can help ensure that child support is calculated fairly based on both parents' incomes, the needs of the child, and other factors such as healthcare and education costs.
  • Negotiating child support agreements: If both parents are willing to negotiate, a lawyer can help facilitate an agreement on child support outside of court, which can then be approved by a judge.
  • Representing you in court: If negotiations fail or the other parent contests the child support amount, a lawyer will represent you in family court, presenting evidence and making legal arguments to support your case.
  • Modifying support orders: A lawyer can help you file a request for modification if circumstances change, such as a loss of income or an increase in the child’s financial needs.
  • Enforcing child support: If the other parent is not making court-ordered payments, a lawyer can take legal steps to enforce the order through wage garnishment, property liens, or other measures.
  • Handling complex cases: In cases involving high incomes, self-employment, or complicated financial situations, a lawyer can help ensure that all relevant factors are considered in determining child support.

How Are Child Support Lawyers Paid?

Child support lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the type of legal work required. Common payment methods include:

  • Hourly rate: Most child support 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 will depend on how much time the lawyer spends on your case, including preparation, negotiations, and court appearances.
  • Flat fee: For more straightforward cases, such as uncontested child support agreements or basic modifications, some lawyers may offer a flat fee that covers all services related to the case.
  • Retainer: Many lawyers require a retainer, which is an upfront payment that is billed against as the lawyer works on your case. The amount of the retainer depends on the expected complexity of the case.
  • Sliding scale or pro bono services: Some lawyers offer sliding scale fees based on income or provide pro bono (free) services in cases where clients cannot afford to pay full legal fees, especially when children’s needs are at stake.

It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand how much you will be charged and what services are covered.

How Much Does a Child Support Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a child support lawyer varies depending on the complexity of the case, whether it's contested or uncontested, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost estimates include:

  • Uncontested child support cases: Legal fees may range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the complexity of the paperwork and the lawyer’s fees.
  • Contested child support cases: Legal fees can range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, especially if the case involves significant court time.
  • Hourly rates: Lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour for child support cases, with higher rates for more experienced attorneys or cases that involve complex financial issues.
  • Modification or enforcement: Fees for modifying or enforcing a child support order may range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the complexity and the need for court intervention.

Always ask for a detailed cost estimate during your consultation so you can plan your budget accordingly.

Top Questions to Ask a Child Support Lawyer

Before hiring a child support lawyer, it’s important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for your case. Key questions to ask include:

  1. What experience do you have with child support cases?
    Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it’s establishing, modifying, or enforcing child support orders.
  2. How do you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, offers flat fees, or requires a retainer, and ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost.
  3. What is the likelihood of success in my case?
    Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case and any potential challenges you may face.
  4. How long will the process take?
    Child support cases can take time, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last and what factors may cause delays.
  5. Will you personally handle my case?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of the case. Make sure you know who will be managing your case and representing you in court.
  6. What documents should I prepare?
    Ask the lawyer what financial documents and other information you should bring to help them calculate child support and build your case.

How to Check the Credibility of a Child Support Lawyer

To ensure you are hiring a reputable child support lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:

  • 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 have successfully handled child support cases similar to yours.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on child support matters.
  • Check for certifications: Some lawyers may have certifications in family law or membership in organizations like the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), which can indicate their expertise in child support and family law issues.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most out of your first consultation with a child support lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Income documents: Bring pay stubs, tax returns, W-2s, or any other documentation of your income and the other parent’s income, as this will be used to calculate child support.
  • Existing child support orders: If there are any existing child support or custody orders, bring copies for the lawyer to review.
  • Child-related expenses: Provide documentation of your child’s medical bills, education expenses, daycare costs, and any other expenses that should be factored into the child support calculation.
  • Communication with the other parent: Bring any communication between you and the other parent regarding child support, whether through emails, text messages, or written agreements.
  • List of questions: Prepare a list of questions about your case, the legal process, and the lawyer’s fees.

By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your case more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice on how to proceed.

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