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01 Jun, 2022 by Lee ramirez
29 Aug, 2020 by Tara saldivar
30 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Michell took care of everything and anything my case needed and guided me through it with excellent advice! The hearing was a breeze with Michell by my side and I am so happy with the outcome. Thankful to have been recommended to her.
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28 Oct, 2020 by Jonathan
I cannot recommend Michell highly enough! After hiring two lawyers before hiring Michell, I soon realized that finding legal aptitude is not easy. Having the wrong lawyer on your team can be frustrating and costly. From the very first phone call, Michell listened intently to my legal plight, which had become an extraordinarily complex and elaborate situation inside the court. Michell always listened to understand, and she communicated clearly in a way that I always felt well taken care of. Ultimately, Michell was able to argue my case during a motion for reconsideration, and it was successfully overturned. Vacating previous orders in Family Court is not an easy thing to accomplish! I will continue to work with Michell and highly recommend her services. Thank you, Michell, for the peace of mind you have afforded me since starting to work with you. I am grateful to have found you!
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01 Jun, 2022 by Lee ramirez
29 Aug, 2020 by Tara saldivar
26 May, 2021 by Ro
Let’s face it, divorce and separation is never easy, yet Rachael did an incredible job helping us find a middle ground on issues and provided guidance for making things amicable.
In the end we both got what we wanted and through Rachael’s legal advice, we were able to move forward with our lives.
I could not be happier with her services.
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25 May, 2021 by Allison
We used Rachael for years against my husbands exwife. From child support, to the custody schedule, to ongoing disputes (ie educational and residential concerns) Rachael got us what we wanted every single time. I refer her to everyone I know in need of family law support.
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02 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Tracie handled my divorce and custody issues. She is very knowledgeable and professional in the courtroom, being very prepared for any direction the situation might go. She was readily available to me for questions and never made me feel like they were insignificant. Tracie made me feel like my case really mattered to her and that it wasn't just her doing her job. She was empathetic and understanding, and also encouraging when I was feeling low. She would thoroughly explain to me all my options in every situation and then would respect whatever decision I chose to make, helping answer countless questions along the way. I always felt like she was trying to be fair and that she really cared about me and getting my case done. I would absolutely recommend her.
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16 Jun, 2014 by Paula
Tracie helped me through a really tough time in my life. Although she was professional and knowledgeable she also cared about what I was going through. She made sure I understood everything that was going on (paperwork, etc...) and she was always happy to answer my questions. Sometimes I asked the same question more than once. She was very patient! When I sent her an email, she was always very responsive. Thank you, Tracie!
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10 Feb, 2023 by Lisa
Terry and his team walked me through a particularly stressful situation from beginning to successful end. You won't be confused or afraid because Terry and his team will be there to assist in professional, caring way.
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28 Jan, 2020 by Linda
I was beaten down and backed in a corner when I retained council. Instantly, Terry assured me he could help. And boy did he do just that in court. He was prepared, a great negotiator and I left with more than expected.
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03 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Robert to help me with my divorce. I was extremely nervous about the whole process. Robert put me at ease and was down-to-earth and knowledgeable. I really appreciate his hard work.
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31 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
My experience with Mr. Calleros and his staff was all around positive. Attorney Calleros was professional, and knowledgeable regarding my case while at the same compassionate when needed due to the sensitive nature of my restraining order case. I highly recommend his services for your legal needs!
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22 Aug, 2016 by Tracie w.
Carla is the best Attorney. She is calm and caring. She listens to your concerns. She is very organized and stays on topic. If it wasn't for Carla our case would have never been settled. She is well worth the money. I would recommend Carla to anyone needing an attorney. We appreciate all of her hard work and her attention to detail. We can't say enough good things about Carla, we will never forget what she's done for us.
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08 Jun, 2016 by Chin
Carla was able to meet with me right away and get started on my case. She answered all my questions thoroughly, and gave me the confidence I needed to ensure that I get the best results;
I knew she was the right lawyer for me.
She was very honest and informative and handled everything in a timely manner
I was very satisfied with the outcome, she is the best!! I will definitely recommend Carla to any and every one that ever needs legal assistance!!! I highly recommend Carla.
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02 Dec, 2016 by Lori
Janet is the best attorney ever. Choose her! She took care of me, answered all of my questions, and had my back through the whole thing. She knew my case so well and was amazing in court. The office is terrific to work with and Janet is amazing. Highly, highly recommend her!
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02 Mar, 2015 by Amy
Janet was referred to me by a good attorney friend. I was devastated and she made me feel like a human being again, and has been such an amazing advocate ever since. She worked out a payment plan for me, and has held my hand every step of the way. Thank You for being you
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11 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
Susanna helped my partner and I with our green card and was very thorough and knowledgeable. With her help, we submitted such a strong application and were so prepared for the interview that we got our green card issued only a few days after our first interview. We are very happy!
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18 Aug, 2014 by Daniel
Susanna tuan is an amazing lawyer. While she is young she is very knowledgable and helped me with my martial lawyering. I was amazed at how responsive she is despite having a very busy schedule. Also her rates were very competitive. Great work!
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23 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
JP was the first (after MANY) attorneys I spoke with that would have an honest, straight-forward, conversation with me about my case. After our first conversation, he presented me with in-depth opinion on my legal standing, as well as a well thought out legal strategy for action. Working under a tight deadline he was able to turn a bad situation into a victory.
He was responsive: (Always same-day, usually within 1-2 hours)
He was knowledgeable: Well prepared to discuss case specifics, even finding angles other attorneys had missed.
He was prepared: On court-day we were ready-to-go, yet opposing council (whom had filed the RFO) had to ask for more time.
In the end I got what I wanted, with little sacrifice. I believe it has everything to do with my representation by JP Miller.
To put it another way, even if the court had ruled against us, I would have written a positive review because of the work he performed and how he performed it I felt confident that we were: Prepared for court and armed with the best strategy circumstances allowed.
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04 Dec, 2012 by Anonymous
Jim Miller helped me out when I was needed it most. I was facing a short notice eviction related to a pending foreclosure proceeding, when Jim provided me the necessary assistance to leave my home with dignity and without thousands of dollars in default Lender's Attorney fees. Jim's effective approach to an already devastating situation was invaluable. If you have a problem to get worked out, Jim's your man!
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24 Aug, 2019 by Leah
We really enjoyed working with Jenny. She was a calming presence in the middle of our chaos. She always came prepared, provided prompt responses and gave us reliable advice. She is smart, kind (to her clients), and stands her ground in the courtroom and in the presence of aggressive attorneys. She knows the systems and has a plethora of experience.
My daughter was refusing to go to school on days she went to her dad’s house. We were able to file an emergency order and she was able to help us get a schedule with more consistency for my daughter.
We went through 3 attorneys at that firm, and by far, Jenny was our favorite.
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15 Jul, 2019 by Cassi
Jennifer Cone was a savior to me while I was going through an extremely high conflict divorce. When I first hired Jennifer, I was up against a restraining order, child custody battle, and an unfair split of assets. Not only was she able to defend me from unjust accusations, her calm and empathetic demeanor helped me see a light at the end of the tunnel. Jennifer looked at both sides of the case and provided thoughtful guidance. She had integrity. Perhaps this is why a case that should have taken a couple years was resolved within a few months. At the end of the day I received much more than I thought I would. I will be forever be grateful to Jennifer Cone and would highly recommend her to anyone.
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21 Nov, 2014 by Sheila
I would happily recommend Ms. Arthur to anyone looking for expert legal advice and representation. I worked with Ms. Arthur on 2 occasions and found her to be open, honest and straight forward in her opinion and her execution of my specific cases. Her research was impressive and I know she was fully confident in making our arguments. I had absolute trust she knew what the best route to take was.
She represented me in civil actions and I couldn't have been more secure in knowing I had the right person to handle my affairs.
I have referred her and the firm with confidence.
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17 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Deanne Arthur is a great lawyer and I highly recommend her. Not only did she fight my DUI case but she answered all my questions and even helped me after my case was over. I could call her anytime and she was always available.
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19 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Tiffany was highly recommended to me from an acquaintance. In a time when everything is new and uncertain she and Amalia have both been very helpful.
Tiffany really looks out for you and your best interests, even when you yourself might want to rush through something or give in too quickly just to get to the end result faster. I cannot say enough how happy I am that I had her representation.
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07 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Tiffany as my lawyer and have not lost a case with her, she is an amazing lawyer both in and out of court. She cares and is very compassionate. She keeps me informed and lays down facts regarding my case. She is very experienced with mediation and her advise is spot on. my cases are haldled so well I never have to worry about court even after false allegations, I won Custody for my son thanks to Tiffany. I also got spouse and child support that My son and I really needed. She stands up and defends her clients. I can never thank her and her staff enough for what they have done for me . I would recommend her to anyone I need of legal assistance. She gets the job done, she knows how to handle difficult situations.
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16 Sep, 2017 by Elizabeth
As a client of Mr. Prazma, I feel confident to recommend him to any person looking for a thoughtful, thorough, but aggressive and competent attorney. Mr. Prazma understands his clients' needs and fights hard for their rights.
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25 Jul, 2017 by Richard robersson
Alex was wonderful to work with and he did an outstanding job in handling my case. He was always very friendly and responsive, taking extra time to help me understand exactly what was happening and what would the next steps be in the process. He was responsive to all communications via email, texting or phone calls. I definitely recommend Alex to others.
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21 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Glavin is good divorce lawyer, helped my friend, I was introduced to him, unfortunately he couldn’t help me as I was living in different state where his practice is. But he kindly guided me where to start and provide me sound advice.
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07 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
I had very bad and crazy divorce experience and it took almost 4 years, because my ex was totally brain washed by new boyfriend and this boyfriend is connected to crafty and greedy attorney in manhattan beach RR. this attorney RR is even famous in court room as bad and insistent lawyer. so i was recommended one of top lawyer FS in Bevery Hills at beginning but my attorney FS was so expensive and he didn't care about my case because compare to his other clients I am poor and my marriage was only 2 years.. not big deal case.
but since we were fighting with RR he drug everything unbelievably slow and judge was keep rolling eyes.., after year and half we had nothing done but attorneys fee was already $150,000. then i couldn't keep this Bevery Hills attorney FS who doesn't care about my case and enjoying spending unnecessary time with my ex's attorney RR.
after i let FS go i hire other attorney CC, she was nice about she offered me payment option but she said she came from criminal fields and i guess she didn't have much experience in family law and she was not strong enough to stop RR. so ends up it took another 2years with this attorney CC and i got few bad judgements and even payment option i spent crazy amount of money..
but finally i met William Glavin thru my friend in manhattan beach and william stopped crazy and greedy RR's attack and very honest charge. i went thru divorce and used 3-4 attorneys and interviewed many attorneys. but i have to say 90% of family attorneys are money hungry and don't care about me. but finally I found this this guy William and his associate Adam!
they are strong but honest get into the point and save your money and i can trust 100%!!
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10 Aug, 2017 by Sheryl
Catherine was such an amazingly supportive counsel when I was at the worst point in my life...divorcing with 1 and 3 year olds. She gave great advise and has helped me through the years in dealing with a deadbead dad ex. She gave the appropriate supportive counseling for me and my sons. I can't say enough about her giving me a shoulder to rely upon as well as counseling my sons. She is a tremendous person and professional!
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19 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Catherine represented me in a very difficult case around a move away situation with my child. She spent so many evenings and weekends making sure she had everything prepared for our day in court. Family law is an incredibly tough industry to be in, and Catherine understands that these decisions impact lives. She truly cares and gives 120% in all that she does on your behalf. My case did not have the outcome I had hoped for, but it certainly wasn't for her lack of effort or preparation (sometimes you get a judge on a bad day). Most importantly, she taught me what good co-parenting was about. Almost 3 years later and I can honestly say that because of Catherine our lives are different in a good way. Our daughter has both parents in her lives, two step parents who love her just as much, and everyone working together to make sure she's loved and taken care of.
If you are looking for someone to be honest with you and fight for the best interest of your child, then Catherine is who you need.
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06 Jan, 2021 by Mircea voskerician
I was recommended to Matt by a friend of mine for my divorce. From day one, Matt helped strategize on the best and most efficient options and at the end, I was super satisfied with his results. Matt is Brilliant and you can Trust him, he will fight for you 100% in Most Efficient Way. Highly Reliable&Responsive. A+++++
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06 Jan, 2021 by Stephanie
I can’t say enough about Matt Erickson’s skill and grace as an attorney. He took on my custody case during the lowest point in my life, and under his counsel and guidance, we turned everything around—I with my life and he with my custody of my son. I now have full physical custody and a fair support order. It was a complete 180, and it wouldn’t have been possibly without Matt’s skill, expertise, patience, and kindness. I’ve recommended him countless times to friends. Look no further.
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28 Jul, 2019 by Crystal
Mr. Shedwill came through for me and helped me get the back alimony my ex husband owed. I felt very comfortable with him and he explained everything to me in terms I could understand. I’m very grateful that Mr. Shedwill agreed to be my attorney. And I can’t thank him enough for fighting for my rights. Crystal M.
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09 May, 2017 by Cari
I couldn't have asked for a better attorney. Attorney Shedwill was very kind and understanding as well as his office staff. He listened and answered all my questions and didn't disregard or overlook anything I said or asked. I was very nervous about my situation until I met with and hired Atty Shedwill. Hes very affordable and fair. I will use him again in an instant if I need family law help again. Thank you for all your help and making a scary situation easier to handle!!!
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20 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
Linda assisted us with a landlord/tenant lawsuit. Linda was very trustworthy, knowledgeable and responsive. Assertive, professional. We feel we definitely got our moneys worth and would definitely recommend her.
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03 Apr, 2009 by Anonymous
Linda Frieder was extremely supportive of my interests from the first day until the case was settled. She is very knowledgable of the law. There never were situations or developments that she wasn't prepared for. She handled every matter with the utmost professionalism. Her response time was very impressive, always returning my phone calls in a timely manner. I would recommend her to anyone looking for legal representation. Her fees are reasonable and her results are impressive. Overall I would say that I am 100% happy with her as my attorney!!
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30 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Rodney is a powerhouse of kindness and intelligence, he has been a positive mentor and has guided me through the confusing court system. He has helped me with complicated family law and business matters and his advice is priceless.
Rodney es una fuente inagotable de bondad e inteligencia, ha sido un mentor positivo y me ha guiado a través del confuso sistema judicial. Me ha ayudado con asuntos complicados de derecho de familia y negocios, y sus consejos no tienen precio.
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20 Mar, 2014 by Kristine
I have ben working with Rodney since just about April 2012, on multiple issue's with my family law case. He has led me in all circumstances that I have needed his advice or when in court. I have recommended Rodney multiple times and still would to this day.
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30 Nov, 2021 by Father
Merissa V. Grayson is an excellent attorney.
She is a step-mom and has a blended family of her own.
Therefore Merissa personally knows the struggles in and out of the courtroom and can relate to her clients on a level that most family law attorneys can not comprehend.
She is fantastic and willing to go the extra mile needed to see her client succeed in and out of court.
For her, this is not just a job. It is her life because she has been in your shoes before and understands what you are going through.
Merissa is professional and helps take a lot of stress off her clients with her organized approach and calming personality.
If you have a family law case and need help, she will even train you to handle the case yourself if you can not afford counsel; she is someone who cares.
I would recommend anyone struggling through a high-conflict contested custody situation to hire her. The best decision I ever made was hiring her, worth investing in your future and a peaceful life moving forward beyond the court.
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15 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
If you're in need of LITIGATION hire GRAYSON. SHE IS THE BEST. She puts her clients best interest first. And will work overtime to ensure Victory. Which is exactly what the V in Marissa V Grayson is for.
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07 Feb, 2023 by Estefania
I have to say that my experience with Dahan was GREAT from start to finish, she was very informative, walked me through all of the steps in my divorce case, made recommendations on what would and would not be the best moves to make in my particular situation. Definitely is passionate about what she does and makes sure her clients are well taken care of. I couldn’t have asked for a better lawyer to help me through such a hard time. Everything went so smoothly and she was 100% honest with me every step of the way! Love love love! 10/10!
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19 Apr, 2013 by John
We have had the pleasure of having Elizabeth Ritter represent us in a guardianship case in the Barstow courts. We are grandparents who were not knowlegeable about the laws around 'guardianship' and found Ms. Ritter advice and professionalism (both to us and in the court) better than we could have anticipated. Ms. Ritter was very approachable and answered all our inquiries honestly. We found Ms. Ritter to be very forthright with information and guidance during a difficult and long process. Ms. Ritter brings a wealth of knowledge, compassion, and understanding. We are sorry that we had to switch attorneys, but circumstances changed and we had to change courts. Should we ever have to be heard in this region again, we would never hesitate to ask Ms. Ritter to represent us. We cannot thank her enough for her guidance over the years. Ms. Ritter comes with the highest recommendation from us, in areas of professionalism, knowledge, honesty, compassion, and integrity.
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21 May, 2021 by Garrett riegg
22 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
Helen is a sound attorney with a deep knowledge of the law and the procedures and applications in the practie of lawyering. She is a client advocate and attentive counsel to her clients in the community, but also in the coourt room. Additionally, Helen is a professor of law at the Southern California Institute of Law where she teached Family Law, Civil Procedure, and Evidence. Needless to say she is intelligent. I would highly recommend Helen as a lawyer.
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22 Mar, 2017 by Tasha
Sandra Myers has been my attorney for several years now and has helped me and my son tremendously. She has always gone above and beyond, and shown a high level of commitment to helping us. In addition, she conducts herself with such a high degree of integrity and class...I am so happy I found her years ago.
Recently Alexandra Myers took over my case and represented me throughout the course of a trial. She was very organized, focused and diligent, and showed enthusiasm that inspired me to stay optimistic throughout the entire process. She was also extremely resourceful in gathering information and prepping for the trial. In the courtroom she too conducted herself with professionalism and grace, and to say that I am grateful to have her as my attorney is an understatement.
I would absolutely recommend both Sandra and Alexandra. They are smart, knowledgeable, dedicated attorneys who provide their clients with the best advice and service!
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26 Jun, 2024 by Christine
I had a chance to work opposite Sara a few years ago. I have worked with many lawyers in the past, but Sara stands out as the one of most professional, ethical, knowledgeable, and intelligent lawyers out there. She is sharp, quick on her feet, and she puts her client best interest above anything else. She is a fierce advocate and at the same time a fair and reasonable negotiator. It was my pleasure to work with her and I highly recommend her. She's not only a top-notch lawyer but also a great human being.
She is the one who gives lawyers a good name. You can't go wrong with Sara.
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07 May, 2013 by Kitty
Mr. McNicol is an awesome attorney.
Mr. McNicol handled my divorce from my ex and he did an excellent job!
I would recommend him to any one and I have recommended him to my grand daughter!
Great job, Randy!!!
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02 Dec, 2016 by Michael
Attorney Rogelio Lopez has been my lawyer of choice since about 2006. I have retained his firm and his representation on various family law matter. When other lawyers failed me, Mr. Lopez was there to clean the mess up and prevail on the issues and properly represent the facts. Superb, outstanding, ethical, and friendly! I can go on and on as to how much I trust Mr. Lopez to fully represent my and my children's interests. I most strongly recommend his legal expertise and representation should you are shopping around for an excellent family law attorney!
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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:
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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.
