Lawyers map
>194
experienced lawyers
Filter by
19 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
He could care less about the case or do I g what is right. He accepted a payment from me and then withdrew as my attorney weeks prior to court, do to my inability to give him an additional $5,000 retainer. He had already charged me $8000+ and had accomplished nothing.
Read more
26 Feb, 2019 by Don
Glenn worked with me to help get custody of my children. He discussed all aspects of the case and made sure I knew everything that could and couldn’t happen. Was his rate higher than some other lawyers? Sure-but he fought for me twice as hard as my other lawyers had in the past. I promise, his value far exceeds his rate. Hire him. You won’t regret it. And I am saying that after my case did not go the way I wish it had.
Read more
31 Aug, 2017 by Chris
I have used Glenn for a few years ... yes, years.
I am a single father to an only child and my ex and I have equal custody; but as these things go, as she has aged and life has become more about power and control (and gasp, money), I found myself increasingly defending myself against frivolous claims ... not wanting to lawyer-up for simple paperwork, I'd prepare all of my own documents and then use the one-hour consulting offer from Glenn to make sure I wasn't going to make a bad mistake.
After a couple of years, and dealing with an onslaught of legal filings, I bit the bullet and decided to go the "retainer" route with Glenn and his practice ... figured it was worth the cost to make all of the aggravation and emotions someone else's problem.
It was well worth it as I was able to relax knowing I had someone very professional, experienced and competent taking care of everything for me ... I can't say I "won" but I certainly didn't lose and my life (and my child's) are so much better with all of this behind us ... and all of this is because I trusted Glenn and his firm.
We have two more years until my child turns 18, and while I hope I never have to see Glenn again, I won't hesitate retaining him again if ever I find the need!
Read more
08 Nov, 2024 by Lou
To whom it may concern,
If you are looking to hire a lawyer, I'd watch out before hiring Elizabeth langford. I hired her for over 10 years, as we though that starting over with another lawyer would be way more costly to which i know now was a big mistake. Elizabeth was our lawyer for at least 3 previous cases, she charged $20k+ for at least 2 of them and although we won the cases, it was not due to her due diligence, but my long hours working through documents to bullet point evey actions. We found that she does follow the law for the most part, but she will not build a case for you or really defend her client in court. When we had meets with her, she turns them into a gosip hour and provided no actual plan to defend her client. Her last case as my lawyer, she charged at least $27,000 a case, and I had to build the case for her walking through every little detail (often multiple times). She failed to either remember what was told to her or she just didnt really care to remember, not sure. She then will feel entitled to bill hours on reviewing case information that she doesnt actually know and showed up to court dazed and confused. She waited until the day of court to ask, should we present first or second? I said, they filed the cases first, we are the defendant, they were the plantiff, they should go first. She agreed, but then mins later, in court, when the judge asked who should go first, she said ok, we will go first. No fight, no objection. This put us in a bad position as it's always better to go last since you hear everything the other person is claiming and can defend your client better, but no.
She completely forgot to tell the judge about the unpaid medical / covid claims and when asked for documents to support medical premiums were paid, she froze like a deer in headlight. Her representation in court was pathetic and the other lawyer was far more prepared. Making Elizabeth look like a complete fool scrambling around, not to mention her client (my wife) who she provided no support. She was discombobulated shifting through papers frantically, leaving my wife to try and figure out what to do. When my wife was on the stand, she didnt asking any relevant follow up questions that could defend my wife. They were trying to charge for an extra curricular sport expenses to which our previous court document stated all extra sports must be agreed to in writing. We had extra sports that the plantiff agreed to but never paid, and yet she couldn't remember to say that in court. I made sure in previous cases to outline this keep each side from just trying to force the other parent to pay costs they may not be able to afford. Well, Elizabeth must have been sleeping bc she was dead silent. No defense just let them walk all over my wife.
She completely forgot to tell the judge about the unpaid medical / covid claims and when asked for documents to support medical preimuims were paid, she froze like a deer in headlight, then was discombobulated/bewildered shifting through papers frantically. My poor wife was left defenseless, up the creek without a paddle, yet Elizabeth just sat there mostly silent. In this case, I can say I did stand back and watched after i know she had all the docs to defend my wife as I wanted to see if she would fail so i had the proof I needed to fire her. I was 100% correct. She provided no real fight in court and this justified me firing her. Ive debated if i should write a review and i said i want to make sure others are warned about her bc her profile doesnt lead you to see, in my opinion, the truth of how she presents herself in court. Overall, my opinion of Elizabeth Langford is she is disorganized and really not a true fighter for her clients. Although our cases ended fine for us bc the ex was behind in child support, etc. her representation of a client is to say less-than-stellar.
Read more
24 Oct, 2019 by Dustin
I highly recommend The Sampair Group and Elizabeth Langford! The entire staff are professional, kind and courteous. Liz really fought for me and my children. Stefanie Savage has superior organizational skills and kept me on the right track through out my divorce. Rick is a straight up 'tell it like it is' kind of guy. From the time we started the case to it's end nearly 14 months later they were all by my side. I as a single father, ended up getting 'final legal decision making authority' as well as child support and back support.
Read more
16 May, 2016 by Michelle
Liz worked on my child support and parenting time modification and helped me pursue back child support. This case took almost a year and was very complex. Liz worked every angle in order to argue the case for back support which usually is not given. She is amazingly smart and energetic. She really thinks of everything and her team was able to put together a case which not only changed my parenting time to my advantage but I was awarded child support and $42000 in back child support and legal fees. I highly recommend her, she is fair and tenacious.
Read more
14 Sep, 2017 by Lori
I don't have enough words to explain how wonderful she is. Naturally when you hire a lawyer for family court there's almost always hard feelings, contention and stress. Ms. Seidl was not only my lawyer but she was often my therapist. She's understanding, caring, she listens, and sometimes when you need it, tough love. She will be honest with you, sympathize with you, and will ALWAYS fight for you. Her understanding of family court is unmatched. I owe her my sanity!
Read more
29 Mar, 2017 by Christine
My husband and I retained Carissa to represent us in the case against his ex-wife and while the retainer was on the expensive side, we do not regret it. Carissa is a fabulous attorney and she is amazing at what she does. You can tell she loves her job and really cares about her clients and their families. She was honest with us and told us the "not so ugly truth" sometimes but that is what makes a great attorney. She kept us in the loop and returned our calls and emails (but also did not waste attorney time on unnecessary phone time). Some may say that she (or her law office) is expensive but you get what you pay for. And it was money WELL spent. I would recommend her and Jaburg Wilk to everyone and I have recommended her to friends, just as she was recommended to us by a friend.
Read more
23 Jan, 2017 by Ed
Carissa was recommended to me by a friend. I had never been in court before and the opposing Attorney was pretty vicious. Carissa told me not to get upset, that everything would work out ok for me and that I had a good case. Well she was right all along. Carissa was very fair and straightforward with me regarding all the issues and was very professional and courteous. I couldn't have picked a better attorney.
Read more
18 Feb, 2025 by Xylia
Attorney Jon Schneider and paralegal Max Rowles were essential in helping my father with a personal injury lawsuit. They were genuinely kind and pleasant to work with (unlike other law firms I called first) — their positive attitude made a huge difference to our mental wellbeing in the many months it took to settle the case. They worked hard to get justice for my father and ultimately succeeded.
Read more
27 Aug, 2024 by Meliza jackson
Wonderful experience having them work on my case.
Read more
10 Aug, 2024 by Maria brazil
Attorney Chuck Onofry was accessible and communicated the process every step of the way. He said he would fight a good fight and he WON. He is your go to lawyer. His assistant Max was extremely helpful and listened at length to our frustrations. The opposing party was just out for money but the legal team of Schneider &Onofry shut them down. Thank you.
Your go to lawyers.
Read more
14 Mar, 2020 by Jamie robertson
I have known Stephen for many years. He is extremely ethical and knowledgeable. More than that he cares! I have seen him help so many of my clients. When I needed him, he was there for me... I would highly recommend Stephen as he will be there for you. More than that he is highly skilled in Estate, Trust and Probate.
Read more
25 Apr, 2019 by Daniela titus
Emily made it super easy to set up our living trust and wills. Thank you!
Read more
22 Mar, 2019 by Terrence luebbert
They do not know basic math, and do not do what they are asked.
Read more
03 Jun, 2024 by Ronald schreier
I have used the services of Rich Peters and his colleagues for approximately 18 years. He has (1) secured my legal separation and 18 years later the dissolution of the marriage; (2) successfully defended my stepdaughter in a child custody dispute; and (3) set up a legal guardianship for our granddaughter. In all of these cases, he delivered the results that I expected with professionalism and care. He is a good communicator who gave sound legal advice and explanations of what to expect in the execution of these cases. I hope I do not need any future family-related legal services, but if I do, I know who to contact.
Read more
14 Nov, 2023 by Erica luhrs
you still have yet to return my emails - i guess that means you are guilty of being awful lawyers
Read more
07 Nov, 2023 by Erica luhrs
rich peters and his team never fought for me or my family - in fact they were supposed to register a family court order in arizona and never did but still kept collecting my money while arizona NEVER had jurisdiction- a couple of attorneys failed to keep my family safe but the last one Sophia realllllly messed up by not adequately protecting my address from my abuser and stalker - an address that was never meant to be handed over to him - she allowed the judge to mistreat me and did not represent me at all. i even told her things were not being handled properly and she assured me she could do better - she did not. Rich peters has ignored my emails for MONTHS now but still has no problem demanding payment - a payment i will never send - i believe i am owed my money back in FULL - now that you are back in the country mr peters i do expect a reply
Read more
05 Jul, 2024 by Donald lewis
My wife and I have been utilizing the services of Kathryn for more than a decade. She is smart well-educated and very versed in the law. She and her staff pay attention to the details. Besides that she's a pleasure to work with. What more could you want !
Read more
14 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
I wish i could put zero star for her. She failed to complete the job we paid her for. Karen never answered phone calls and didn't return messages in a timely matter . Do to her lack of knowledge, our divorce cost us so much more. She is just there for money. I absolutely not recommend her to anybody.
Read more
17 Aug, 2023 by Matt
Attorney Karen Schoenau at Guymon Law has done a great job in my family case. Her knowledge, relationships, and abilities were all on display in my hotly contested matter. She has been responsive to email, phone and when needed, in-person meetings. I especially enjoy her hearing and trial abilities. Most attorneys are good at writing pleadings and negotiating issues but it takes a special lawyer who can win at hearings. Her support staff is helpful and friendly. I highly recommend her and her firm.
Read more
07 Mar, 2024 by Dan
Over a protracted and difficult period of time, Danette proved to provide rock solid advice, advance legal strategy, and valuable and fair feedback. After researching the majority of lawyers available that practiced family law in Tucson, I selected Danette based on numerous factors. She had case specific experience in areas involving behaviors of questionable legal standing by opposing counsel and their client, as well as complex support through a religious organization geared solely towards extracting monies for the benefit of their group. Essentially, Danette had odds stacked against her. She successfully maneuvered the case through the system, with patience and care, all while managing expectations in a clear and concise manner. The outcome was favorable. I’m grateful for her help, and very satisfied with her capabilities and professionalism.
Read more
18 May, 2023 by Mollie
Ms. Pahl was my opposing attorney. I initially consulted her on my ex husbands behalf. Eventually I hired my own attorney. She frequently came to court unprepared and requested numerous continuances causing the divorce to run nearly five years. What was most disconcerting is that she lied three times to the Judge while the evidence countering her claims were part of the exhibits. She has a knack for changing course which led to more new pleas, continuances and then later she would remove said requests. Her peers describe her tactics as "throwing everything against the wall, right or wrong, then seeing what sticks". Her services will cost a lot of money with very little results.
Read more
27 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
I have worked with Danette for many years (sadly), first for my divorce, and then for ongoing child custody issues with a difficult Ex. Danette has been extraordinarily professional and has guided me through the maze of family law. My case was complicated and it was clear from the beginning that Danette had the best interests of my children in mind. I felt confident working with Danette, despite the emotional trauma of divorce.
I have recommended her to several friends and would not hesitate to recommend her services again. If you are involved in a divorce situation, with kids and don't know where to go, call Danette.
Read more
11 Dec, 2024 by Anonymous
Kyle made quick assumptions about my case without fully understanding the details, which I felt was unfair given the strength of my position. He did not offer any substantive solutions or strategies, and seemed unreceptive when I tried to provide more context. Following his advice would have jeopardized my position. I ultimately hired someone else and resolved the matter successfully.
Read more
21 Nov, 2014 by David
I first started with a document preperation company but talks broke down and the delays started. Kyle got me on track with a direction to get the divorce finished. I felt comfortable and always felt he and Lyndsey had my best interest in mind. He was always availible for me and Lyndsey was on top of all the document preperation and communication with me. I will use Kyle for any family law issues from here on.
Read more
12 Oct, 2014 by Paul
I want to thank Kyle and his staff for a great job helping me obtain a successful settlement in my divorce case. His persistence and skill allowed me to receive the best possible result. Kyle provided me with excellent representation!
Read more
10 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
At first Michael Miller seemed to be caring, a good listener, and very reassuring about what needed to be done for what should have been a simple divorce. Unfortunately that didn't last long and after that it was very hard to find out what was going on with my divorce. I would ask questions and receive very short texts with legalized terms that I didn't understand...so of course following up with more questions cost more money. The final straw was when I found out from my ex husband that the divorce was finalized 5 days prior. When I contacted the office about this the response was almost like "oops." So if you're looking for someone who doesn't communicate and not proactive about keeping you informed about your divorce, Michael Miller is your guy.
Read more
20 May, 2021 by Daniel
In my honest opinion there couldn’t be a better attorney for high risk custody cases. I needed an aggressive and articulate litigator and Mr. Miller provided me with the legal protection I needed in order to feel fully protected. I have advocated for pro se representation for a long time, but I will certainly use attorney in the future for any of my family law needs.
Read more
14 May, 2018 by Tony
Absolutely amazing results. Does exactly what he says he’s gonna do! I did exactly what he instructed me to do it all worked out perfect. My divorce and clean and I want for custody. And I’m am the male, but my intentions were sincerely In the best interest of my children. Michael Miller made sure everybody knew it. To superior courts in two different states, appeals, FBI, sheriff department, local police department, governors, just for starters. My divorce and custody case was so extraordinary the lead detective here in Arizona is actually writing a book. With mr. Michael Miller, Esquire you get what you pay for. He’s worth every penny.
Read more
18 Feb, 2016 by Justin
Do not know what else to say. Went through an approximately 3 year adoption/custody battle. Amy was not the only lawyer I met with prior to hiring her. Once I met her I knew she was the one to hire. At all times during this case, she was professional, expedient, and supportive. The opposing counsel tried everything possible with tons of motions. With each new motion a new plan devised and executed. My family and I could not be happier or more satisfied. I highly recommend her and would use her again. Thank you Amy Olthouse-Duenas.
Read more
03 Aug, 2015 by Margaret
I hired Amy after my now ex-husband filed for divorce, based on a reference from a friend of mine who is also an attorney. My ex-husband was extremely difficult throughout the entire process, causing me great anxiety, but Amy exhibited a great deal of professionalism throughout the entire process. While many attorneys would get frustrated and prefer to tell you what to do, Amy was great at listening to my concerns & questions and even had feedback when I had suggestions in my case. She has been handling these types of cases for quite some time and her ability to understand idiosyncrasies in the other party was key in the settlement of my case, which was in my favor.
I highly recommend Terry Fong Law Group, but more specifically, Amy Olthouse Duenas. Her prices are fair and the quality of work was exceptional. Not only is she a great lawyer but she is truly a wonderful person.
Read more
25 Jul, 2015 by Ladele
i typically refrain from writing reviews; however, my experience with the folks at Terry Fong's Law Group has been so positive I decided to sit down and write a review.
Since Amy is a mother herself I feel she understands my frustrations regarding co-parenting challenges. Even when she doesn't have personal experience with the challenges I face, she still continues to provide excellent customer service and exemplary legal advice. Thankfully, we haven't appeared in court often but when we do go to court she remains composed and professional while continuing to legally advocate on my behalf.
Her paralegal, Andrea, provides exemplary customer service as well! This legal team has been patient and flexible with me regarding payment arrangements and as a single mom that is really important for my budget.
I highly recommend the legal team at Terry Fong's Law Group, specifically Amy, for all your family law needs. Not only is her family law experience extensive but she treats her clients like people, not just cases. It has been my experience that she goes above and beyond what is required by her job description as a lawyer to ensure I am well represented.
Read more
26 Sep, 2019 by Sami shelly
Maria Lawrence handled a heartbreaking case concerning our son Tim Shelley. She was very through...professional and at the same time compassionate and competent.
Read more
07 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Only cares about making money. Doesn’t care about Justice. Dropped my case when I needed her the most.
Read more
16 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
It was clear almost immediately that money was her primary focus. I do not feel she acted as my advocate at an incredibly vulnerable time in my life. She seemed to mediate during mediation rather than advocate for my best interests.
I was confused and vulnerable and found her compassion to be lacking. I was not adequately prepared by her for the very important mediation, and was required to correct many gross errors myself on mediation documents at the last minute under rushed circumstances.
Bonnie did not request a much-needed appraisal that cost me a lot of money.
The language in the final agreement was not clearly defined and resulted in additional arbitration or attorney effort and fees to clarify the provisions. I was ultimately required to hire another lawyer at much expense to try to fix some of the problems created. Essentially I felt "thrown under the bus" by this attorney.
Read more
30 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
I consulted with Bonnie about a child support case when I had lost my job and was trying to get an adjustment. She suggested I not pay until the court date that had been set for the adjustment. Following that advice cost me tens of thousands of dollars mostly due to a thrashing of my credit report, but also due to fees and interest the DES began charging. Do not trust Bonnie with anything related to child support.
She also brought up the fact that she wanted to be paid before I left the office more than three times throughout the one hour consultation. Once would have sufficed. If that's the sort of experience you want, definitely call Bonnie.
Read more
25 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
When you first enter into divorce proceedings the whole process can be intimidating and trust me YOU DO NOT KNOW THE LAWS (even if you think that you do)! We all think about money. I can tell you don't shop for a lawyer based on the cheapest as it will cost you more in the long run if you are not represented well. Bonnie is not the cheapest, but she is the BEST! I had been married over 30 years and my children are all adults. Bonnie worked with me for almost a year (yes mine was MESSY!) and in the end we were able to get a binding agreement with my Ex. You may say "So what?" It kept me from a judge deciding my fate which could have been much worse because they look at your last 5 years of annual income (they were very good years).
In divorce there are NO winners, however I can say that I wasn't a loser either and I am enjoying my life now! After you get through your divorce Bonnie will tell you one more thing..."Do not get married again without a PRENUPTIAL AGREEMENT"! Words of wisdom! I HIGHLY recommend Bonnie Booden!
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
He always looked out for the best Interestfor my child and I . Always get truthful and honest . Being in a mother leaning state he fought that as a father have equal and fair rights. Always looking for the truth . To the point I asked once if I’m doing wrong please tell me . He helped me grow as a man and how to handle situations better with my child mother. I would always recommend but come as prepared as possible . He is very detailed and honest . The more info the better I felt things went . He always went above and beyond . Worth every dollar invested.
Read more
04 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Unfortunately this lawyer was extremely disorganized and inadequate. Mr Lowen Jones neglected to bring in reports during court and did not represent and fight my case. Due to his lack of efficiency as a lawyer to represent me, my life for the past several years has been changed for the worst. He did not fight for my rights as a mother. It’s a very sad disheartening experience that I don’t wish upon any mother. I would not recommend this lawyer.
Read more
Browse lawyers
Cities in Arizona - Find a Lawyer Near Me
-
Phoenix
-
Scottsdale
-
Tucson
-
Mesa
-
Tempe
-
Chandler
-
Flagstaff
-
Gilbert
-
Prescott
-
Glendale
-
Yuma
-
Peoria
-
Kingman
-
Surprise
-
Florence
-
Goodyear
-
Sedona
-
Sun City
-
Sierra Vista
-
Paradise Valley
-
Casa Grande
-
Oro Valley
-
Avondale
-
Cave Creek
-
Green Valley
-
Bullhead City
-
Cottonwood
-
Lake Havasu City
-
Nogales
-
Queen Creek
-
Sun City West
-
Bisbee
-
Fountain Hills
-
Window Rock
-
Anthem
-
Buckeye
-
Carefree
-
Holbrook
-
Globe
-
Paradise Vly
-
Prescott Valley
-
Marana
-
Maricopa
-
Sacaton
-
Safford
-
Show Low
-
Higley
-
Parker
-
Payson
-
Apache Junction
-
Laveen
-
Saint Johns
-
Litchfield Park
-
Sells
-
Camp Verde
-
Lakeside
-
Snowflake
-
Pinetop
-
Sahuarita
-
VAIL
-
Chino Valley
-
Eloy
-
Fort Huachuca
-
Benson
-
Coolidge
-
Davis-Monthan AFB
-
Fort Mohave
-
Tumacacori
-
Cortaro
-
Fort Defiance
-
Lk Havasu Cty
-
Tuba City
-
Wickenburg
-
Dewey
-
Luke Afb
-
Page
-
Patagonia
-
Sonoita
-
Thatcher
-
Tolleson
-
Tubac
-
Cornville
-
Eagar
-
Fountain Hls
-
Guadalupe
-
Oracle
-
Phoeniz
-
Rio Rico
Browse lawyers
Practice Areas in Arizona
-
Business
-
Real Estate
-
Litigation
-
Criminal Defense
-
Personal Injury
-
Family Law
-
Estate Planning
-
Government
-
Civil Rights
-
Intellectual Property
-
Appeals
-
Probate
-
Insurance
-
Juvenile Law
-
Medical Malpractice
-
Immigration
-
Tax
-
Lawsuit / Dispute
-
Consumer Protection
-
Wrongful Death
-
Child Custody
-
Car Accident
-
Elder Law
-
Trusts
-
Debt Collection
-
Bankruptcy
-
Child Support
-
Workers Compensation
-
Domestic Violence
-
Mediation
-
Entertainment
-
Divorce
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Adoption
-
Class Action
-
Sex Crime
-
DUI / DWI
-
Employment / Labor
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
Debt Settlement
-
Cannabis Law
-
Federal Crime
-
Foreclosure
-
Discrimination
-
Wrongful Termination
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Drug Crime
-
Copyright Application
-
Construction
-
Landlord & Tenant
-
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 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:
-
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. -
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. -
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. -
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. -
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. -
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.
