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09 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Erik assisted one of my parents in a case that we didn’t think had the capability of ending in a positive outcome. However, through his tenacity and drive to help his clients, he ended up obtaining a result that was better than we could have imagined. He’s a very excellent and caring Attorney. I couldn’t imagine hiring anyone else. Thank you again, Erik!
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08 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
As a father committed to my daughters, I was disheartened with attorneys who seem to lack interest in fighting for me. After almost giving up, I gave Real Fathers Rights a try, and boy, o boy, I did not regret it. Erik, fought for me. Thanks to Erik, I was able to be part of my daughters life! Fight for your kids, and this guy has your back!!!
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01 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Erik is a great advocate for men going through divorce. He is knowledgeable and empathetic. He is also an extremely skilled litigator. I would highly recommend any man in family court speak with Erik
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25 Apr, 2024 by Sin c
The firm was great at answering all my questions. They were extremely polite and considerate of my situation, I highly recommend them!
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22 Apr, 2024 by Xavier m
I WOULD HONESTLY GIVE 0 STARTS IF I COULD!!! REEL FATHERS RIGHTS IS HERE FOR YOUR MONEY AND NOT YOUR RIGHTS! I would run like your hair is on fire there is nothing good to say about this corrupt practice. I spent over $15,000 in 2 months with Reel Fathers Rights not doing ANYTHING for me. When I said they did NOTHING they really did NOTHING the only thing I got out of it was a scheduled FaceTime call with my son. We were supposed to go in for a custody battle (with LOADS) of evidence that would have made it an easy case yet NONE of the evidence was provided and nothing was even talked about. Heath was the one to suggest we push back the hearing for my case back (so they could keep stealing my money for the next 2 months). THEN after the case I was not and still have not be contacted AT ALL about what was actually done during court (this was in January). It has been over 3 months and I was not been reach out to by anyone except the billing lady even after I reloaded my “trust” ($3500) TWICE (paid them $7,000) when the firm wasn’t even doing anything and I had 2 months until we present all the evidence that I had already been billed for and paid. I have called them multiple times to try and get that paperwork and everything that they have “filed” and spent with my $15,000 I have paid in the last 2 months and I have yet to be sent anything except for a bill. During my time having these guys as my attorney the best part was firing them and finding a new attorney. BUT (not to my surprise) when I fired them my “trust” went from $700 all the way down to $200 so it essentially costed me $500 to fire them and of course there was no explanation and there were charges added that didn’t occur and I can prove. I have never felt like a company left me worse off than I started with but this firm is TERRIBLE. Heath would tell me “we should file this” then when I would give them the go ahead to do it then he would turn around THE NEXT DAY and tell me “ah nah let’s not file that anymore not worth it” EVEN THOUGH I HAD ALREADY PAID AND BEEN BILLED OVER A $1,000 FOR THEM TO DO IT!!!! I really don’t want YOU to have this experience as I know MANY MANY MANY others have had the exact same experience as me so please DO NOT let this firm steal your money switch to an attorney who is cheaper won’t add and make up fake charges to bill you for and actually does there job. (Such as saying that you had an hr phone call with the attorney when you didn’t and have phone records to prove it). I know there is many people who have filed a complaint with the California bar against these guys which goes to show how bad and corrupt of a business they are running. Heath baker is the laziest attorney I have ever met, will not represent you in person, wastes time on your call (that is $600 an hr) talking about things that are not relevant to your case whatsoever, and will not follow up after court or even send an email. There is a lot more that I could say and share from my experience but I think that you get the point by now. TAKE YOUR BUSINESS ELSEWHERE!!!!!
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12 Apr, 2024 by Jonathan stout
Reel fathers rights is not a place that is in it too help fathers. They are in it to rip you off and steal your money during my time with the firm. They were extremely poor with any communication and wait until the last second in the middle of the night to review or do any of my documents along with charging 600+ dollars per hour Attorney fees, and they charge on top of that to file every single little thing, including any communication between anybody ever and after my account was closed when I fired them, they had proceeded to With another 800+ dollar bill you’ll find a photo attached of the billing document after they have been fired and before they have returned my remaining trust. And during my time with them, they claimed my attorney went on vacation, but during the time they actually had to let her go, and they had to move one of my court dates saying that they had to be another court case And resulted in me having to pay all of those fees for them to change my date I do not recommend this firm. They are not accommodating with anything. They have no tolerance policy the second you get upset that they’re charging so much money they threatened to leave you. I fired this firm on April 5, 2024, and this billing statement is April 11, 2024
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25 Apr, 2024 by Sin c
The firm was great at answering all my questions. They were extremely polite and considerate of my situation, I highly recommend them!
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22 Apr, 2024 by Xavier m
I WOULD HONESTLY GIVE 0 STARTS IF I COULD!!! REEL FATHERS RIGHTS IS HERE FOR YOUR MONEY AND NOT YOUR RIGHTS! I would run like your hair is on fire there is nothing good to say about this corrupt practice. I spent over $15,000 in 2 months with Reel Fathers Rights not doing ANYTHING for me. When I said they did NOTHING they really did NOTHING the only thing I got out of it was a scheduled FaceTime call with my son. We were supposed to go in for a custody battle (with LOADS) of evidence that would have made it an easy case yet NONE of the evidence was provided and nothing was even talked about. Heath was the one to suggest we push back the hearing for my case back (so they could keep stealing my money for the next 2 months). THEN after the case I was not and still have not be contacted AT ALL about what was actually done during court (this was in January). It has been over 3 months and I was not been reach out to by anyone except the billing lady even after I reloaded my “trust” ($3500) TWICE (paid them $7,000) when the firm wasn’t even doing anything and I had 2 months until we present all the evidence that I had already been billed for and paid. I have called them multiple times to try and get that paperwork and everything that they have “filed” and spent with my $15,000 I have paid in the last 2 months and I have yet to be sent anything except for a bill. During my time having these guys as my attorney the best part was firing them and finding a new attorney. BUT (not to my surprise) when I fired them my “trust” went from $700 all the way down to $200 so it essentially costed me $500 to fire them and of course there was no explanation and there were charges added that didn’t occur and I can prove. I have never felt like a company left me worse off than I started with but this firm is TERRIBLE. Heath would tell me “we should file this” then when I would give them the go ahead to do it then he would turn around THE NEXT DAY and tell me “ah nah let’s not file that anymore not worth it” EVEN THOUGH I HAD ALREADY PAID AND BEEN BILLED OVER A $1,000 FOR THEM TO DO IT!!!! I really don’t want YOU to have this experience as I know MANY MANY MANY others have had the exact same experience as me so please DO NOT let this firm steal your money switch to an attorney who is cheaper won’t add and make up fake charges to bill you for and actually does there job. (Such as saying that you had an hr phone call with the attorney when you didn’t and have phone records to prove it). I know there is many people who have filed a complaint with the California bar against these guys which goes to show how bad and corrupt of a business they are running. Heath baker is the laziest attorney I have ever met, will not represent you in person, wastes time on your call (that is $600 an hr) talking about things that are not relevant to your case whatsoever, and will not follow up after court or even send an email. There is a lot more that I could say and share from my experience but I think that you get the point by now. TAKE YOUR BUSINESS ELSEWHERE!!!!!
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12 Apr, 2024 by Jonathan stout
Reel fathers rights is not a place that is in it too help fathers. They are in it to rip you off and steal your money during my time with the firm. They were extremely poor with any communication and wait until the last second in the middle of the night to review or do any of my documents along with charging 600+ dollars per hour Attorney fees, and they charge on top of that to file every single little thing, including any communication between anybody ever and after my account was closed when I fired them, they had proceeded to With another 800+ dollar bill you’ll find a photo attached of the billing document after they have been fired and before they have returned my remaining trust. And during my time with them, they claimed my attorney went on vacation, but during the time they actually had to let her go, and they had to move one of my court dates saying that they had to be another court case And resulted in me having to pay all of those fees for them to change my date I do not recommend this firm. They are not accommodating with anything. They have no tolerance policy the second you get upset that they’re charging so much money they threatened to leave you. I fired this firm on April 5, 2024, and this billing statement is April 11, 2024
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07 Oct, 2024 by Vijay dasari
Wonderful experience!! I needed assistance with a Revocable Trust which was completed in a speedy manner. It was excellent to work with Taylor. Very detail oriented and patiently answered all our questions and Doubts. Will definitely come back. Highly Recommend!!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Anne bertolino
We would recommend Taylor and his staff over and over again. He is very detailed, patience. and listens to what the client wants and needs. We never felt rushed and was very happy with the end result. It took us a while to get back to him and he made us feel that it was okay. We were very satisfied with his work. We even learned a thing or two.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Patti klein
Preston Law Group has assisted me with more than one matter and I would highly recommend their services. They are professional and efficient and I have peace of mind because of their attention to detail.
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21 Sep, 2024 by Dave
From the initial interview with lacilento it seemed a little shady. First he said how much did I quote you? He hadn’t quoted me so I yet airballed 2k? He charged me 5500. Before he was involved I had some contact with my little girl. 6k later I have zero contact with my daughter , I was shocked when he asked for more money. I was shocked he charged 2k for 30 min we were in court . I was shocked when he charged me 450 for a 4 minute phone call . Thank you Iacilento for strongly upholding the vile reputation of most lawyers
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15 Aug, 2024 by Johanna rocha
I was rear ended on the freeway and didn’t know what were my next steps. I called Karlin & Karlin, and they helped me thru everything. They set up my doctor appointments and handled everything with the insurance company. I can’t thank Marc and his team enough for all of their help.
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13 May, 2024 by Marlene
I highly recommend Michael J Lacilento. He is very knowledgeable and will fight for you. He goes above and beyond to get the results you need. I had a public defender before him and they did nothing compared to Michael. With Michael as your attorney you will feel confident and get the results you want. Thank you Michael!
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15 Aug, 2024 by Johanna rocha
I was rear ended on the freeway and didn’t know what were my next steps. I called Karlin & Karlin, and they helped me thru everything. They set up my doctor appointments and handled everything with the insurance company. I can’t thank Marc and his team enough for all of their help.
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12 Apr, 2024 by Flor granados
Mi esposo y yo quedamos muy contentos sobre todo con la atención que nos brindaron, siempre estuvieron, al pendiente y nos mantuvieron informados,fue un proceso, muy pronto, y una experiencia muy bonita su personal super amable,me hicieron sentir con mucha confiansa,gracias karlin & karlin y sra susana
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10 Apr, 2024 by Marlene lule
MIchael is a great attorney I would highly recommend him. He helped me with my legal matter and got great results. He is very knowledgeable, helpful, and he fights for you.
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18 Jul, 2024 by Sarai boe
Xenia was an amazing lawyer, I totally recommend This law firm.
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02 Jul, 2024 by Jenc2279
From the day that I walked into meet with Jeff and Dayn it has been a pleasurable experience. I was forced to hire an attorney when my ex filed a motion for full custody of our daughter even though I had been the custodial parent since birth . After making a few calls to law offices I made an appointment to meet with Dayn Holstrom.. I have worked with Dayn, Jeff and Mariana throughout my case and I have never been disappointed. I was very comfortable with each of them. I never felt nervous at any time throughout my case. Before I hired them, I was representing myself and it has been very scary. They did a great job in representing me and won my custody case for me. I have an upcoming support hearing and I am comforted by the fact that I know I have great representation. Dayn agreed to work with me financially. Had he not done this I would have been fighting this battle alone. Dayn’s firm is the first and only attorney I have used. I will never use another firm in the future either. Comfort is very important to me and every person in that office makes me feel comfortable. This is a great feeling.
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07 Sep, 2023 by Serena chen
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18 Jul, 2024 by Sarai boe
Xenia was an amazing lawyer, I totally recommend This law firm.
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07 Sep, 2023 by Serena chen
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27 May, 2022 by Joe byers
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18 Jul, 2024 by Sarai boe
Xenia was an amazing lawyer, I totally recommend This law firm.
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07 Sep, 2023 by Serena chen
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27 May, 2022 by Joe byers
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25 Apr, 2024 by Sin c
The firm was great at answering all my questions. They were extremely polite and considerate of my situation, I highly recommend them!
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25 Apr, 2024 by Chantelle
Mark was hired by my fiance My fiance had to pay double than what he was expected to. My fiance also added up all the numbers all of his income for mark and my fiance continuously called Mark to make sure he had all the numbers correct. Mark assured him and my fiancé ended up paying more than what he makes. Mark lacks communication, empathy, experience. There have been other poor reviews but they seem to get erased he took his last site down with all the poor reviews he received. Mark promised reimbursement since it was his wrong doing and never received a dime. DO NOT go to Mark unless you want to get screwed over!
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22 Apr, 2024 by Xavier m
I WOULD HONESTLY GIVE 0 STARTS IF I COULD!!! REEL FATHERS RIGHTS IS HERE FOR YOUR MONEY AND NOT YOUR RIGHTS! I would run like your hair is on fire there is nothing good to say about this corrupt practice. I spent over $15,000 in 2 months with Reel Fathers Rights not doing ANYTHING for me. When I said they did NOTHING they really did NOTHING the only thing I got out of it was a scheduled FaceTime call with my son. We were supposed to go in for a custody battle (with LOADS) of evidence that would have made it an easy case yet NONE of the evidence was provided and nothing was even talked about. Heath was the one to suggest we push back the hearing for my case back (so they could keep stealing my money for the next 2 months). THEN after the case I was not and still have not be contacted AT ALL about what was actually done during court (this was in January). It has been over 3 months and I was not been reach out to by anyone except the billing lady even after I reloaded my “trust” ($3500) TWICE (paid them $7,000) when the firm wasn’t even doing anything and I had 2 months until we present all the evidence that I had already been billed for and paid. I have called them multiple times to try and get that paperwork and everything that they have “filed” and spent with my $15,000 I have paid in the last 2 months and I have yet to be sent anything except for a bill. During my time having these guys as my attorney the best part was firing them and finding a new attorney. BUT (not to my surprise) when I fired them my “trust” went from $700 all the way down to $200 so it essentially costed me $500 to fire them and of course there was no explanation and there were charges added that didn’t occur and I can prove. I have never felt like a company left me worse off than I started with but this firm is TERRIBLE. Heath would tell me “we should file this” then when I would give them the go ahead to do it then he would turn around THE NEXT DAY and tell me “ah nah let’s not file that anymore not worth it” EVEN THOUGH I HAD ALREADY PAID AND BEEN BILLED OVER A $1,000 FOR THEM TO DO IT!!!! I really don’t want YOU to have this experience as I know MANY MANY MANY others have had the exact same experience as me so please DO NOT let this firm steal your money switch to an attorney who is cheaper won’t add and make up fake charges to bill you for and actually does there job. (Such as saying that you had an hr phone call with the attorney when you didn’t and have phone records to prove it). I know there is many people who have filed a complaint with the California bar against these guys which goes to show how bad and corrupt of a business they are running. Heath baker is the laziest attorney I have ever met, will not represent you in person, wastes time on your call (that is $600 an hr) talking about things that are not relevant to your case whatsoever, and will not follow up after court or even send an email. There is a lot more that I could say and share from my experience but I think that you get the point by now. TAKE YOUR BUSINESS ELSEWHERE!!!!!
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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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