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19 Sep, 2024 by Jenny
After consulting with Ashley for only an hour, I knew she was the one that I needed to represent me. Ashley was very professional and responsive with all my questions and guidance. Ashley and her assistant, Ruby, were very prompt and thorough through this difficult time of my life. Ashley ensured my best interests were a priority. I highly recommend Ashley and her assistant, Ruby to represent you.
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22 May, 2024 by Todd
My experience with Ashley was great. In a difficult time in my life I felt like as though i truly had someone fighting for my best interests. My case was very complicated but Ashley remained patient the entire time. We were in regular contact and she was always easy to get a hold of. She was very professional and easy to talk with. I would recommend her and have to anyone seaking council in family law
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09 Apr, 2024 by Terrie
I consulted with a couple of attorney's prior to contacting Ashley Marelius. After speaking with Ashley, I knew she was the one for me and I'm so grateful she was able to take my case. Ashley provided alternatives to resolve my case that the other two attorneys I consulted with didn't bother to explore. I would highly recommend this firm, Ashley specific, to handle any family law issues that you may have. Ashely is professional, courtesy and above all else listens to your specific challenge and will work with you to resolve your issues in an expedited manner.
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20 May, 2024 by Tiffanie perkins
Matt was amazing. I am a nurse and am not familiar with legal proceedings at all. Matt was so patient and kind while explaining things but also did not waste time. He was professional and caring. I’m so glad I had Matt in my corner. He knew exactly what to do and if I ever need representation again I wouldn’t even consider calling anyone else.
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20 May, 2024 by Tiffanie
Matt was amazing. I am a nurse and am not familiar with legal proceedings at all. Matt was so patient and kind while explaining things but also did not waste time. He was professional and caring. I’m so glad I had Matt in my corner. He knew exactly what to do and if I ever need representation again I wouldn’t even consider calling anyone else.
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23 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Matt was able to help me identify and resolve many issues with my divorce modification. He helped me turn around my parenting plan to where I was able to get back my kids and set up a life for me and my kids. He is a very caring person and made me feel like my issues were important.
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14 Jun, 2024 by Jeff
We hired Regan to help us with an adoption. Her professionalism and experience combined to make this very important endeavor seamless. Her interest in our family and the guidance she gave us as we navigated the legal system was truly beyond our expectations. 100% recommended!!
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22 Nov, 2023 by Christopher
I wanted to express my most sincere thanks for the professional representation. She always had my best interest in mind. I highly recommend Ms. Charlton!
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06 Jul, 2023 by Kathlene
Regan is an excellent Lawyer! She helped me with custody and child support for my daughter! She is very professional and sweet! I will definitely be using her again if needed!
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01 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Bradley made the process of divorce as smooth and seamless as possible. Everything was explained in a way that didn't feel intimidating, and the interactions always felt relaxed and informative. I would highly recommend his services to anyone.
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04 Feb, 2019 by Shirley
We have used Brad for business contract issues, and other advise. We felt very good about the direction and options to resolve the issue, and the information he provided to guide us. He’s a very honest with his dealings, and will work hard for resolution! I highly recommend his services to represent you.
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03 Feb, 2019 by Cori
Brad is an excellent attorney that was incredibly helpful when I had a property line dispute at my residence. Brad took his time and explained the legal aspects very thoroughly. He gave me his full attention and was very considerate of my time. I would highly recommend Brad for others and I would absolutely hire him again for future legal issues.
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30 Jul, 2022 by Daisy
Attorney Jack Wagner communicated with the other parties Attorney's the court and my self to help me wrap up my Case at a reasonable time if it wasn't for Attorney Jack Wagner my case would have lasted much Longer since the other parties Attorney's were very slow processing Documents for signatures or review.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Kristina d
Craig Swapp & Associates go above and beyond for the Spokane area. We are so thankful for their continued support.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Mike phillps
Tj Phillips
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23 Sep, 2024 by Kim haney
Cassandra is extremely helpful answered any and all of my questions! I highly recommend Craig Swapp
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25 Sep, 2024 by Kristina d
Craig Swapp & Associates go above and beyond for the Spokane area. We are so thankful for their continued support.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Mike phillps
Tj Phillips
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23 Sep, 2024 by Kim haney
Cassandra is extremely helpful answered any and all of my questions! I highly recommend Craig Swapp
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03 Jun, 2024 by Michele
The Team at Hardee, Piñol & Kracke, PLLC has been fantastic during the past few months. This is especially true of Rich Pinol. He’s provided excellent, realistic feedback and transparent legal counsel. Rich knows the mechanics of the courts and bases his rationale on facts and logic. I greatly appreciate all he has done.
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08 May, 2024 by Diane tolley
If you are looking to hire a family law Attorney that is professional, detailed, personal & a great communicator with excellent knowledge of family law Jake Hardee will definitely fulfill your needs. Thank you Jake & his team (Jennifer) for a job well done. We greatly appreciate you both & are very happy with the successful outcome of our case.
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08 May, 2024 by Shanna tolley
Jake and Jennifer are great to work with!
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19 Aug, 2024 by Laurel traynowicz
Edwina Elcox is THE defense attorney I use and recommend. Ms. Elcox knows the legal and judicial systems thoroughly. Her experiences both a prosecutor and a defense attorney mean that you have the wisdom and backing of a seasoned attorney who will guide you through the process with YOUR legal rights and YOUR best interests at the forefront. She won’t BS you. Her honest assessment of the facts is invaluable. Trust her. And relax. She’s got this so you don’t have to be a Google wannabe lawyer.
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11 Mar, 2024 by Anita
Ana was amazing! She was awesome at returning messages promptly and keeping me informed as to what was happening in my case. I recommend her to anyone that has any legal issues that they need help with.
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07 Mar, 2024 by Art waldon
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24 Jan, 2024 by Mel
I hired Chuck and went from every other weekend visitations to sole legal and physical custody. It didn't happen over night, and it took diligence and perseverance from both of us and I couldn't have done it without his representation. I have had many lawyers in the past and it's truly hard to get a lawyer who has in-court experience, and my custody battle.was ferocious. My ex never would agree to mediation and this is when a top of the line lawyer is truly necessary. If you ever have a biased home study evaluation done, go directly to Chuck.
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18 Jun, 2020 by Kevin
In the nearly 2 years we have worked with Chuck we learned what a caring and honest man he is. He didn't tell us what we wanted to hear nor did he ever try to over inflate our expectations. When we talked with Chuck he always listened and asked questions. He also took notes of anything we had concerns about. He talked us back to reality when we had a hard day in court, and always made sure we knew what the next step was or what to expect. He always pushed to show our side of what was going on and made sure our concerns were voiced. Whenever we reached out to him he was always available even during covid, on the weekends or even after we finished. He would check in on our kids and how visitations went. His invoices are straight forward so you always know what you are paying for. His staff is always as caring and friendly as he is. He was highly recommended to us and he lived up to that recommendation and so much more i would not hesitate to recommend him. Kevin M and Xana C
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11 Dec, 2019 by Randy
Chuck has conducted my divorce and custody case with expertise, concern, and spontaneous requests to include successful representation through the Supreme Court. I would highly recommend him for any matter concerning family court. He is the best!
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08 May, 2024 by Diane tolley
If you are looking to hire a family law Attorney that is professional, detailed, personal & a great communicator with excellent knowledge of family law Jake Hardee will definitely fulfill your needs. Thank you Jake & his team (Jennifer) for a job well done. We greatly appreciate you both & are very happy with the successful outcome of our case.
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08 May, 2024 by Shanna tolley
Jake and Jennifer are great to work with!
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06 May, 2024 by David cram
Assisted me with a civil family law case, toward a successful completion! Good to work with and kept me informed at every step in the process. Very much appreciated and job well done!
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19 Aug, 2024 by Laurel traynowicz
Edwina Elcox is THE defense attorney I use and recommend. Ms. Elcox knows the legal and judicial systems thoroughly. Her experiences both a prosecutor and a defense attorney mean that you have the wisdom and backing of a seasoned attorney who will guide you through the process with YOUR legal rights and YOUR best interests at the forefront. She won’t BS you. Her honest assessment of the facts is invaluable. Trust her. And relax. She’s got this so you don’t have to be a Google wannabe lawyer.
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07 Mar, 2024 by Art waldon
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16 Feb, 2024 by Bo fisher
Just the nicest attorney to deal with. Edwina handled everything for me and made sure I was in the know. She will really fight for you and I will always appreciate her for that. Thank you!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Sven lohse
I really appreciated the high level overview of the entire ROBS funding process at the start of my interactions with Guidant. They offer clear information by recorded video and in pamphlets. Once I was in the weeds, they were also very responsive answering my questions.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
I just wanted to help the people in very tough situation and in uncertain condition of their life. I know the pain and uncertainty in identifying a right attorney which is the most important step during this period. My case is an unique of it's kind and a complex one. I can’t express my painful situation when I initially contacted and met Shelley, honestly there are no words. I was in completely uncertain condition and pro se and nearing the due date to respond to the court for a petition from my ex. That was when I met Shelly. She was very kind, patient and discussed all the case background in detail. Immediately after that she started working and clearly defined the path to an amazing outcome of the case in detail. I can’t imagine where I am today and for sure it would not have happened without Shelley. She is very talented, patient, well organized and extremely dedicative. I could just forget about my case as it was in her hands. She was always used to be very proactive, responsive and taken care of all of my case beyond an attorney and helped me to bring me to the situation where I am today. She is very unique attorney for such a reasonable fee. For sure she deserves multiple times higher fee than what she actually charges for her work and that too with no compromise on the work that she does. I am sure her intention is to do the service to the community for a nominal fee and so she is helping the community like that, otherwise it’s impossible to get such a great attorney with that much of high quality work. One can just pick Shelley as one’s attorney when in need without doing any research. Lastly one most important point: Due to some personal constraints, she had to take break from her work, but my case was seriously in progress. The day when I heard about her withdrawal news, I was almost like collapsed with that news. But she transitioned very very smoothly and carefully, and made me feel like I am completely safe and after that only, she withdrew from the case. During this process, I could not think of her dedication and sincerity in making sure that she referred and transferred my case to the best attorney, transferred all my case documents, expressed her interest to provide all case details as and when needed to later attorney and made sure that the transfer happened very carefully and smoothly and after that only, she exited from my case. Just because of her and my later attorney, I am living my life peacefully today, otherwise I can’t even imagine my situation. I appreciate all your help, Shelley and I don’t have any words to convey my sincere thanks to you. You literally saved me completely. Anybody in need, please don’t waste time and money in searching multiple attorneys. Contact Shelly right away and if she is available and accepts your case, then I am sure you are the luckiest person and will be placed at the safe place finally.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Nevin phull
I worked with Malcolm M through the entire process, and he was both quick to respond, but very pleasant to work with. Guidant as a whole was able to help me get my funding and business set up done in less than 3 weeks from start to finish. I can't thank them enough, and I couldn't be happier.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Logan ercanbrack
Went in for a consultation and was cut short simply because I said the defendant has a history of actions and the attorney stated he won’t get in the middle of it even if I pay. What a joke
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08 Aug, 2024 by Shelby clark
Attorney Fulcher Koontz was a pleasure to work with through a tense probate issue. Her guidance and confidence was comforting throughout the process.
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27 Jun, 2024 by Vern lattin
Always friendly and professional, as well as prompt and thorough. Will not hesitate to use Johnson May again.
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07 Aug, 2023 by Gigi
John was with a different law office then, but was the best attorney for my divorce and custody case. Highly recommend.
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22 Mar, 2022 by Cory
John got it done. It was a messy custody case but he got it done. I had my doubts about his advice but listened anyway and I’m very happy with the results. Hire this guy and listen to him. He’s definitely dialed in to what the judges are looking for. I’m 10000% appreciative of his efforts. Thank you John!!!!
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08 Jul, 2021 by Kim
This guy will fight for you. He really will. He took my concerns serious, provided valuable counsel, and really fought to get me the outcome I wanted. So relieved a friend referred me to him.
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FAQs
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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.