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14 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Listened to me and fought for my side even though my ex tried to get out of support. She cared what happened and if I'd be happy with the end result.
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11 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
I retained Jill’s services in 2016 after my ex forced my son and I out of the house. Jill has been fighting for my son and I ever since. During the divorce Jill was able to find pin holes in the documents from opposing counsel that could have been detrimental to my future and finances. Her articulation is supreme in and out of the courtroom. When it came to custody court, Jill was diligent in ensuring we had all the documentation we needed, and walked me through the process with such patience. During the actual hearing, I was blown away with her performance! Kind and compassionate where need be, but also tenacious and dare I say tactfully ruthless when fighting for me. I continued to retain Jill’s services for all my current custody matters and future custody potentials. I highly recommend Jill for those looking for a shark of a lawyer to represent them in family law.
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05 Sep, 2021 by Debra
Since hiring Jill as my attorney, she has displayed attention to the numerous intricacies within my high conflict custody case. She quickly became familiar with all the moving parts and players that have been introduced over a lengthy period of time. She acclimated herself at a fast pace enabling her the ability to manage multiple tasks relating to further discovery. She was responsive, acting with firm resolve within a timely fashion, as when she accepted my case, it was heading in a certain direction. Jill utilized her knowledge and wealth of experience in family law to better prepare me than any other attorney I have hired since separating and divorcing over 8 years ago. Jill prepared and enabled me to act in a manner resulting in gaining ground within the court, shedding light on what was being overshadowed by the use of manipulation and abuse on behalf of my ex. She listened to my concerns and further validated their existence. She looked at all angles, while remaining focused on the big picture. Jill kept my fears in check. She prioritized what info/material will best serve our purpose and was firm in regards to when the best time was to utilize them. Jill helped discard info that was clouding my vision and educated me on where to apply my energies, creating the opportunity for making the greatest impact for the results we were seeking. She assisted in helping me to discard what was weighing me down from being exposed to the family court system for almost a decade without resolve. She offered advisement when needed. Her expertise within the realm of family law is unparalleled to ALL others I have been in contact with over the past 8 years! She became my guide and offered direction and hope when the family court system has done nothing but disappoint, while failing both myself and my children. Jill strategically advised what I should concentrate on and what I should let go. She has always made herself both available by phone, as well as by person, whenever needed. She has proven over time that she is committed to going the distance and I honestly feel she cares for the well being of my children. For this, I am and will be forever grateful. If you are currently seeking an attorney who will best represent you and/or your children's best interest...and have been a victim within the family court system...feeling discouraged and defeated...I highly recommend Jill for the job! She will NOT disappoint!
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23 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
I am beyond happy with Jill. She truly listened to what was happening & dug into the details of my custody situation. She cared, she took the time, she responded to me in a timely fashion, and was very organized. It was a complex situation & she handled it well & with professionalism! I would recommend her for anyone’s custody needs!
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24 May, 2017 by Herb
I had a full blown custody trial with Ashley. I have a lot of experience in the courtroom. In fact I fired my previous attorney I had and hired her to take over the case. In my case Ashley was the last line of defense for my children. I say my case but this wasn’t my case. This case was my children’s case. Ashley has impacted me in a way I can’t explain. She did exactly what I hoped for and went above and beyond for my children. I don’t know where her career will lead her but she will have me as a client to whatever law firm she may be with for the rest of her career. She is an amazing trial attorney which is truly the highest of compliment I can give to any attorney. Any attorney can settle cases as it doesn't require a tenth of the effort and work that a trial would take. A trial attorney is where the elite stand and that is where Ashley is in my book. She put countless of hours of work into my case and all of that showed on display during my custody trial. Yes we won the trial but more importantly it was her presentation, compassion, and hard work that impressed me the most. She is a quick thinker on her feet which is another ingredient to be a great trial attorney. I would recommend her to anyone and everyone.
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19 Apr, 2017 by Chris f.
Ashley was very knowledgeable about the laws and what we could and could not do. She listened to everything I had to say and had the answer for my questions. Ashley always returned my phone calls the same day. All in all Ashley got me what I wanted when the day came for court.
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16 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Never once did this woman even try to "get to know" me, my children, and our needs and wants. As such, I lost primary custody. She never fought very diligently for our side in mediation, giving in to all of the other side's demands. Then, on top of EVERYTHING else, she left the Myers Law Group to become employed by "the ex's" law firm, Cordell & Cordell with no notice!!! They *say* that my info, little as it is, will be confidential, but we ALL have heard of "water cooler chat," now, haven't we?? I do NOT recommend her.
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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:
-
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.
