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29 Oct, 2023 by Maryanne
During the most horrible time of my life, Erin Kopelman was there for me every step of the way, from the beginning consultation, to the final court proceedings and paperwork. She was always accessible by phone and email, even on weekends. She calmly explained things to me, presented many options, solutions, and she listened to all of my worries and concerns. I’ll never forget, during a particularly difficult, scary moment, even though Erin was out of town with her family, she contacted me immediately to address my situation. I always felt she was extremely knowledgeable about the most current laws, and contract composition. Although she was respectful of opposing counsel, she didn’t accept any nonsense from them, and wasn’t afraid to put them in their place. I felt confident and thankful to have Erin in my corner.
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27 Jul, 2023 by Aviva
Erin has had my back the entire time through my divorce. She gets back to me, usually, with hours. I felt very strongly that we had a mutually trustful relationship. She trusted that I realistically knew my situation and I trusted her knowledge of the law and opposing counsel. As birds of a feather flock together, I would trust anyone at her firm and all her recommendations.
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09 Jan, 2022 by Scott
Erin was my divorce attorney through an extremely messy and contentious situation. During the entire process she was unfailingly patient with me, taking the time to explain some of the more arcane or complex parts of the process to me so that I could better understand (and be responsive to) the many requests by the Court for documents. In addition, Erin was able to rise above the acrimony of the situation and was a constant advocate for fair, negotiated approaches to closing the gap between the parties. In court, she respectfully, but forcefully pushed our positions in a way that was clear, but not antagonizing to the Judge. She is, in short, someone you would be lucky to have on your side. I wholeheartedly recommend her.
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18 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
It was a pleasure meeting Mr Lastra. During my consultation, it was obvious that his knowledge was extensive and he helped me determine the best course of action in my upcoming separation and custody case. Not only did he provide ample time to describe what my ideal outcome could be, he allowed me time to ask any questions I had and provided a strategic course of action. He was very honest with me and helped me to put my wants and possible outcome into perspective. I’m glad I chose to work with him and look forward to working with Mr. Lastra in the future.
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04 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
I consulted with Mr Lastra to understand the legal landscape of my situation. He made me feel very comfortable talking with him. I was totally at ease. Equally important as his attorney/client manner, he showed a lot of experience as a lawyer. He clearly has a thorough understanding of the laws and realities affecting his area of practice. At the same time, he was able to frame things to me in clear, easy to understand guidance. I’m very happy to have consulted with him.
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29 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
I had a two hour consultation with Mr. Lastra concerning my pending divorce and custody matter. I have multiple children with my spouse, including a stepchild from their previous marriage whose life I've been a part of since they were very little. Shortly into our meeting, Mr. Lastra asked me about my children and whether our relationship was biological, and then explained very compassionately that - unfortunately - if it were contested by either or both of their biological parents, he would not be able to guarantee me custody of or access to my stepchild as a de facto parent. He assured me that if he were representing me and I truly did want to pursue it against all odds that he would do everything in his power to help, but cautioned that it would likely be a long and costly uphill battle with an uncertain outcome. As heartbreaking as that was to hear, Mr. Lastra was the first lawyer to really prioritize and ask about my concerns for the children rather than choose to focus on my spouse and our finances and marital property. His honesty about that - the one outcome I care most about - gave me peace of mind that he wasn't just telling me what I want to hear to get me to sign his retainer. Additionally, while his consultation was not free, without my even having to ask, Mr. Lastra was extremely considerate of my budget. At the very beginning of the meeting, he verified the hourly rate that I had been quoted previously and told me how long his consultations with other people typically lasted. Then, every twenty minutes or so, he was kind enough to let me know how much billable time had elapsed and allowed me to set the pace of our discussion accordingly. Throughout the rest of our meeting, Mr. Lastra was both extremely inquisitive and educational. Rather than simply listen to my account of events, he engaged frequently, asking regular questions and taking notes. He also shared a wealth of his own knowledge, pulling from both general law and process as well as experiences gained from similar cases he'd handled in the past. During our consultation, I felt both well listened to and that I was speaking with an obvious expert. Prior to our meeting, I had discussed this matter with a few other lawyers, and while they were all quite professional and empathetic, none of them felt like they were being as realistic with me about the possible timelines, outcomes, costs, and the availability of themselves and their associates to adequately represent me and my family's interests as Mr. Lastra did. Though his rates are above average, my first impression from my consultation is that there is very good justification for it. He has absolutely earned my endorsement.
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09 May, 2017 by Isabelle
Mr Cohn has an exceptional knowledge of the law. Impeccable ethics and an unparalleled work ethics made him an outstanding attorney who is capable and meticulous. Douglas Cohn is a sharp straight forward attorney, very persistent in all aspects and embody his genuine character and passion for success. In one word I have hired the perfect attorney, I highly recommend him and feel fortunate.
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24 Apr, 2017 by Kristina
Child custody is never easy, especially when involving complicating circumstances. When I approached Mr.Cohn I was scared and a rattled mess. Mr.Cohn had an overwhelming wealth of knowledge and drive to help my case while being sympathetic to our circumstances. He worked diligently with me side by side every step of the way and was able to put me and my family at ease. He was able to break down all of the possible outcomes and explain them in a way I could understand while helping me find the best solution for our family! My experience, though traumatic for me, has been so wonderful thank you to Mr.Cohn and his diligence! I have and will continue to recommend Mr.Cohn to anyone looking for a lawyer with exponential knowledge and drive to bring a reasonable realistic outcome!!
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18 Apr, 2017 by Jordan
Doug helped guide me through a very complicated custody battle against one of the big family law firms (Delaney McKinney) with both honesty and knowledge, and did it with the utmost efficiency and organization. My custody fight was much longer than I had anticipated but Doug explained each step of the process to me and allowed me to present the type of case that both fit my personality, my parenting style and my income. I wanted to both thoughtfully and firmly defend my rights as a parent, while making sure that during our year long trial, we always respected my spouse, and most importantly didn't do anything which could ever adversely effect my children. After a lot of trial preparation as well as a long trial, I felt good about the representation that was provided and about Dougs emotional support throughout the process. It's clear that his vast experience in, and knowledge of, the Family Court System, is one of the factors that makes him such an effective advocate and helped him win my case. I could not have gotten through it without him. While I know these factors would have been true even if we had lost our case, thankfully my custody case was yet another one which he won!
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24 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
I put my family and career at risk when I got arrested for a DUI. Based on a word of mouth referral, I contacted Mr. Grace. He really put my mind at ease. He explained the process in an easy way to understand and knew exactly what to do to put myself in position for the best outcome possible. Mr. Grace also knows a lot of police officers when he worked as a Fraternal Order of Police attorney. In the end, everything worked out and I still have my job and life. Mr. Grace was terrific!
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24 Jun, 2013 by Chistopher
I have used this attorney for my divorce and for a job misconduct issue. Always knew his job and related issues in court. Very smart and has a very quick sence of changing the tides on opposing counsel. Well worth the money. I usually dont recommend lawyers to anyone because as a police officer, they are the enemy. Now as for Chris Grace, he is top notch and you should fell lucky to have him.
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24 Jun, 2013 by Mark
I met Chris Grace during a difficult time. My marriage was ending and I didn't know where to turn. Initially I interviewed two lawyers and was ready to choose one to represent me in my divorce, then I met Chris Grace. Immediately I knew that Chris had not only my best interest at heart but also my young children interest at heart. Chris Grace walked me though all the legal obstacles and gave me sound advice throughout the entire process. I highly recommend Chris Grace mostly because he cares, and in his caring he is thorough and will fight for your best interest. Chris Grace never once hesitated to answer any of my questions and helped me keep my home, my children and my pension.
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12 Sep, 2021 by Luana
When I felt hopeless about what to do with my divorce and how I could deal with my divorce's nightmare, I found Bob Eustice. He was prompt, efficient, careful, professional, and the best lawyer I could ever ask for to help me with the most uneventful in the best of words kind of divorce. When I thought my life was falling apart, Bob gave me a perfect sense of “ things will be ok.” He gave me the confidence that I could go through that because he is exceptional in everything he does! I will be forever grateful for having him as my lawyer in one of the most painful chapters of my life! Thank you, Bob!
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22 Jul, 2019 by Vince
Bob came recommended to me by a trusted friend, and he did not disappoint. Going through a divorce is hard enough without worrying about your legal representation. With Bob, there was never a worry. He listened to my problems, and worked with me to make sure I was happy with the end result. In fact, he advocated for me more strongly than I was willing to do for myself.
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18 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
Bob Eustice was a superb divorce attorney. Though I had significant concerns about going through this process with anyone, Bob was knowledgeable, honest, and his primary goal was to make this process go as smoothly as possible. He was also efficient and did not make any attempts to inflate the expenses.
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15 Jun, 2015 by Jacqueline
Ron Ogens is an eloquent legal warrior who navigated my divorce with great intelligence, expertise, grace and fearlessness. I always felt reassured by him, knowing that he would be my strongest advocate, giving me the best advice and ensuring my needs were met and rights protected at all times. He worked tirelessly to execute a fair and excellent settlement on my behalf.
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03 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
When I met Ron Ogens in January 2014, I will never forget what he told me for the rest of my life. I was distraught, depressed and downright miserable. I thought my miserable marriage would never end. Ron put his arm around me and said "I promise, everything will be OK". The process of my bitter divorce was horrible. At some points in the process, I thought I was going to lose my mind. I would sometimes call Ron with temper flaring from the "drama of the day" caused by my wife. Ron was always able to calm me down. Sometimes I didn't believe him when he said there would be an end. Well the end has finally come and I picked the BEST divorce attorney there is. Ron is not just my attorney, I now consider him a trusted friend. Ron Ogens is Amazing!
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07 Sep, 2024 by E a
I fully trust Mr. Malech and endorse him! Trusting someone with your life is what happens when you retain a lawyer. Mr. Malech thinks like a philosopher, explains clearly like a great teacher, uses warm humor, and gives an even-keeled and honest assessment of the possible scenarios. Moreover, he knows the court system inside and out. Mr. Malech's mastery of the law, solid preparation and keen attention to detail led to a great outcome. Mr. Malech and his team are responsive, respectful, and empathetic. He also moves at a fast pace to outmaneuver the other side. Take a look at his Youtube series, "Ask Lloyd." You will see Mr. Malech's sharp communication skills in action!
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01 Apr, 2024 by Susan shorters
Anacostia Law Group, and Attorney Tesfaye Mohamed in particular, have provided outstanding legal services and support for my business over the past several years. Attorney Mohamed has been responsive, informative, professional, and a pleasure to work with. I especially like his calm yet resolute demeanor, and the way he outlines as well as explains potential strategies and options to address legal issues. Based on my experience, I highly recommend Anacostia Law Group, PLLC.
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06 Dec, 2023 by Nick komljenovic
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26 Aug, 2024 by Doug
I was served a deposition subpoena to testify in a family dispute in which I had avoided becoming involved two weeks before trial. Another lawyer referred me to Rick to advise and represent me at the deposition. Although the trial attorney wouldn’t cancel the deposition, Rick bargained to limit the deposition to only two hours and defended me capably during the deposition. I hope never to need an attorney again for this reason, but would be glad to hire Rick again or recommend him to friends.
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11 Jul, 2017 by M o
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30 Jan, 2024 by Elena vediakova
I was very pleased to work with professionals of the Capitol Immigration Law Group. They were extremely supportive and helpful throughout the entire H1B and EB2 visa process. All documents were checked, all instructions were clear, all deadlines were met on time.
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13 Jul, 2023 by Courtney whiteside
Capitol Immigration made the incredible stressful visa process amazingly easy. They were incredibly organized, helpful, and responsive. All of my emails and questions were answered within 24 hours (and usually less) and they were always willing to answer all of my questions. Dimo and team helped me with my OPT, H1B (which I got in the first try), multiple H1B transfers, and eventually my green card. All with great success. I would recommend them to anyone – and do so all the time!
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10 Jul, 2023 by Shailesh dharavane
I highly recommend Capitol Immigration Law Group PLLC for your immigration needs based on my repeated highly positive personal experience. Dimo and his team has impressed me from day one of our interaction on the immigration topic. They understood my case history, provided a solution to an urgent issue and simultaneously worked on a long-term solution to keep me and my family happy. They never rushed for information or documents but made sure things are done on time. Their approach is proactive, and documentation is comprehensive. I have received straight approvals every time they have filed paperwork for me. I have worked with other immigration attorneys before and they were good, but Dimo is the best.
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21 Apr, 2018 by Lisa
Rebecca Lippman helped me through a divorce and custody dispute when I was going through a period of emotional and financial distress. Her knowledge of the law made it possible for me to achieve an excellent outcome, both for me and equally important for my then four-year-old child. Her ability to interact effectively with my ex's lawyer saved me time, money and much aggravation. Besides her highly professional lawyering skills, she is a truly motivating force who helped me get on with my life at a time when I was in need of advice in a number of areas. She is experienced, encouraging and focused. I recommend her 100% to everyone seeking to move forward after divorce on a strong and confident footing.
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06 Apr, 2018 by Robin
I was dreading the divorce process for a long time after speaking to several contentious attorney's. Although I had a difficult marriage, I had no interest in punishing my ex or engaging in a protracted battle. Rebecca's approach to the process was an absolute revelation to me. She spent a considerable amount of time validating my concerns and walking me through the particulars of this complicated process. I felt understood, well supported and hopeful, due to Rebecca's expertise and optimism. She was knowledgeable, clear and accessible throughout the process and ultimately crafted a reasonable settlement that was fair to both parties. I cannot recommend Rebecca highly enough.
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21 Mar, 2018 by Ellen
Rebecca Lippman was my lawyer for my recent divorce and I am extremely happy with the services she provided. She approached every problem with intelligence, resourcefulness, and compassion. Rebecca was willing to fight for what was right. She provided support at every step of the way. I recommend her highly.
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11 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
Lynette is an excellent attorney. She's pragmatic and knowledgeable, but perhaps her best characteristic, is that she's an excellent judge of character. It shocked me how often she would predict the other party's next move. I credit Lynette with making sense of the complex situation I was in, keeping me calm, and also giving me the insights and clarity I needed to frame what success would look like. This was important, because my case ultimately settled outside of court, during the tense days leading up to the court date. During the process, Lynette accompanied me to hearings and waited outside during mediation. She read emails and text messages, and also helped me craft responses. I have taken these lessons on communicating with the other party forward into my future, to ensure that my communications are clear and emotionless. If you're going to hire a lawyer to get things done and counsel you through the process, hire Lynette.
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13 Mar, 2018 by Kevin
As a military member, I had to juggle everything that comes with deploying around the world in addition to a stressful divorce. Lynette proved to be extremely helpful and quickly became someone I relied on to help me through this difficult time. Her expertise, advice, support, and sincere interest in my well-being put me at ease. She was always available and responsive to every question or concern I had. I was afraid of being taken advantage of by my ex-wife and her lawyer, but Lynette fought for me and I am pleased with the resulting settlement. I feel like I gained a friend during a moment in my life marked so heavily by loss. I highly recommend Lynette for anyone requiring any legal service or anyone going thru a difficult time and in need of a knowledgeable friend.
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13 Oct, 2017 by Aaron
Working with Lynette was a seamless, professional, and pleasant experience. After having put off addressing the preparation of a prenuptial agreement longer than my (now) husband and I should have, Lynette was able to work efficiently to help us through the negotiation and execution of an agreement with which we were both happy, which is no easy feat. She was incredibly responsive and pleasant to work with, and she found creative solutions whenever it seemed like my husband and I had reached an impasse or run out of ideas. Her work was excellent, and she made a difficult process as painless as possible. I would work with her again without hesitation on any family law issue.
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29 Dec, 2022 by Ralph alswang
Best Divorce/Family lawyers in the Washington DC area
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07 Oct, 2021 by Maria aurora obias
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18 Jun, 2021 by Nina smith
I highly recommend Sheila Kadagathur of Hostetter Strent, who handled my divorce/custody case. The entire Hostetter team was extremely helpful and compassionate during a hectic period of my life. I always felt like I was their priority and could count on them at any time of day or even night. All of the staff I encountered at the firm were honest, reliable, and professional. Ms. Kadagathur's expertise and vast knowledge enabled them to handle various situations and whatever was thrown at us throughout my case. Even post divorce, Sheila is always a phone call or email away when needed, and has given me great advice along the way.
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14 Jul, 2024 by Jonathan rayner
This firm represented my former partner in a custody case. They repeatedly made basic errors - miscalculating support numbers and simply not understanding the application of law. Their errors significantly added to the conflict between myself and my former partner. I wished she would have had better representation - it would have saved everyone a great deal of heartache.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jeff flowers
I am writing to express my gratitude and to commend Mike Goecke and Hunter Daley. They were both professional, compassionate, generous and more than competent. Mr. Goecke did an excellent job presenting our case in court; he was clear, confident and on point. He thought both deeply and creatively about the issues in our case. The depth of Mr. Daley’s knowledge and research was impressive. They worked very well as a team, and brought complementary skills to the problem. They both inspired confidence and gave us thoughtful advice for our legal decisions. I would highly recommend them to anyone needing legal assistance.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Timothy hoffman
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20 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Hides court orders and files case indicating non-receipt of court orders, lies to judge about making filings and says oops later. Gets away with weak opposing parties. She was represented by opposing party.
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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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