Lawyers map
>81
experienced lawyers
Filter by
5.0
10 Reviews
4.7
39 Reviews
09 Jun, 2024 by Nadege ngopang
Good customer service
Read more
22 May, 2024 by Fadi jahshan
07 Mar, 2024 by Maria ashoori
This law firm is about lie fraud and
promoting the fight and ruining whatever left in humanity between divorce couples.he knew how much my ex loved me ,but all he did was to make sure our settlement become a war and if there was a way to save the marriage it became impossible, I don't know how a firm can be greedy that they can ruin people love and marriage just for them to make money ‚this is a shame!!
Read more
31 Aug, 2024 by Robert lyons
Ari was incredibly helpful in his consultation. He logically walked me through my situation and provided sound recommendations.
Read more
21 Jun, 2024 by Adrianna rivera
The Leichter Law Firm was very quick to respond to my inquiry. While they aren't able to address my exact situation they went above and beyond and gave me multiple firms who are interested. Thank you so much for being so timely and professional!
Read more
25 Apr, 2024 by Ari friedman
I've consulted with Mr. Leichter on many occasions regarding employment law. He is an expert in the field and I trust him entirely. I highly recommend him.
Read more
10 Oct, 2024 by Doug atkinson
07 Oct, 2024 by Carlos medina
All I can say is WOW! Chris is AMAZING! Right from the start, I knew I was in good hands. After being charged with a felony and facing jail time, Chris was able to reduce the charge to a misdemeanor with some community service. During what seemed to be the darkest time in my life, Chris was always there to guide and support me. I feel blessed to have found Chris and would recommend him to anyone in need of legal representation. Thank you Chris!
Read more
07 Oct, 2024 by Saray garcia
I had an excellent experience working with Chris as my lawyer. We successfully got the cases dismissed, and throughout the process, Chris was incredibly real and straightforward. It was a stressful situation, but he and his team took a lot of that stress off my shoulders, which made a huge difference for me. I couldn't have asked for better support, and I'm so grateful for the outcome and the professionalism Chris provided.
Read more
06 Aug, 2024 by Doronofy abcd
18 May, 2024 by Carla bianca v. ravanes higham
Kevin Gres is an exceptional legal professional who embodies integrity and compassion. When hope seemed lost in our search for representation, Kevin's empathy and dedication shone through from our first conversation. He not only took us on as clients but also eased our anxiety with his expertise and guidance. Throughout the process, Kevin's kindness and excellent communication skills remained unwavering, and his commitment to fighting for justice was evident. He is a true advocate for those unfairly accused, going above and beyond to explore all avenues for the best outcomes. Incredibly grateful for Kevin's brilliance and integrity, words cannot fully express our appreciation for his outstanding service.
Thank you again Kevin, your kindness is one we will remember forever.
Read more
03 May, 2024 by Keino delacruz
Just wanted to say thanks to the whole Esfandi Law Group team. I came to them needing an expungement, and I got an expungement.
Mr. Esfandi was even gracious enough to work with me on a payment plan which is really what pushed me to pursue this course of action, and I am so grateful to have what feels like a new lease on life.
Read more
4.8
140 Reviews
06 Aug, 2024 by Doronofy abcd
18 May, 2024 by Carla bianca v. ravanes higham
Kevin Gres is an exceptional legal professional who embodies integrity and compassion. When hope seemed lost in our search for representation, Kevin's empathy and dedication shone through from our first conversation. He not only took us on as clients but also eased our anxiety with his expertise and guidance. Throughout the process, Kevin's kindness and excellent communication skills remained unwavering, and his commitment to fighting for justice was evident. He is a true advocate for those unfairly accused, going above and beyond to explore all avenues for the best outcomes. Incredibly grateful for Kevin's brilliance and integrity, words cannot fully express our appreciation for his outstanding service.
Thank you again Kevin, your kindness is one we will remember forever.
Read more
03 May, 2024 by Keino delacruz
Just wanted to say thanks to the whole Esfandi Law Group team. I came to them needing an expungement, and I got an expungement.
Mr. Esfandi was even gracious enough to work with me on a payment plan which is really what pushed me to pursue this course of action, and I am so grateful to have what feels like a new lease on life.
Read more
04 Aug, 2024 by Bridgette rote
Attorney Hossein Berenji helped me a lot in my divorce case. He guided me through the documents in detail about child custody and the divorce itself. He is an expert divorce lawyer and always thinks as a family man himself of what is the best for the child.
Read more
05 Jul, 2024 by Jackie thornton
Finding Joni was a God send! Literally!! I heard her commercial on the radio and wrote her phone number down. A year later, when I decided I needed a lawyer, I couldn’t find her number so I prayed about it. The next day I got in my car driving home from work and her commercial came on the radio! I pulled over in my car and immediately called her and was able to speak with her. I made my appointment and met this wonderful, intelligent, compassionate woman who understood what I was going through, and what I needed to do. Joni not only helped me through the most desperate time in my life, but also became my friend. She was always there for me answering any of my questions, sometimes in the wee hours of the morning. I would describe Joni as a wolf in sheep’s clothing. She looks so sweet but she is fierce and gets the job done!! She knows how to handle opposing lawyers, her knowledge of judges and the court system is remarkable. She lead me away from a certain court that was convenient and close to me to make sure I got the best judge. She was ALWAYS PREPARED! She fought for me and the result was beyond what I had ever imagined. Because of Joni, I am financially secure and have a new career, home and peace of mind. I would recommend Joni to anyone who is going through a painful situation, not only for her knowledge of the law but…. She is compassionate and understanding ♥️
Read more
22 May, 2024 by Fadi jahshan
5.0
1 Reviews
4.7
53 Reviews
27 Jun, 2024 by Monazila sawaf
very disappointed. They just took my money and refused to serve. They said that there was no one there without actually showing a proof.
Read more
23 Mar, 2024 by María mora martín
05 Dec, 2023 by Chelsea liu d.d.s.
Levi helped me throughout my practice sale. The process of a sale can be extremely stressful and complicated and I couldn't have done it without Levi's guidance. He is very experienced, efficient, and has the client's best interest in mind during negotiations. I would recommend him to any dentists who need legal advice on lease negotiation and practice transition/acquisition.
Read more
27 Jun, 2024 by Monazila sawaf
very disappointed. They just took my money and refused to serve. They said that there was no one there without actually showing a proof.
Read more
23 Mar, 2024 by María mora martín
05 Dec, 2023 by Chelsea liu d.d.s.
Levi helped me throughout my practice sale. The process of a sale can be extremely stressful and complicated and I couldn't have done it without Levi's guidance. He is very experienced, efficient, and has the client's best interest in mind during negotiations. I would recommend him to any dentists who need legal advice on lease negotiation and practice transition/acquisition.
Read more
19 Mar, 2024 by Jeff townsend
I was represented by the attorneys of Lari-Joni & Bassell for a recent personal injury case that I had after a severe motorcycle accident and I have to say that I am very impressed with this team and their employees.
I was fortunate enough to have them recommended to me for my case and I found that they just don’t view you as a “client.” They see you as a person and will go above and beyond to do what they believe is most beneficial for you. They truly care about the people that they set out to help.
In addition, I found their candor and their professionalism above reproach. Now, personally, I have never had to work with attorneys before but I found that there was no need for me to constantly call for updates on my case. I trusted that they didn’t need me to bombard them with questions about this or that. They showed that they were more than competent in acting on my behalf. They truly look out and fight for what they believe is best for their client and their future.
Though I hope I never need to be in a situation that requires personal injury attorneys again, but in the event that I ever do, the attorneys of Lari-Joni & Bassell would be who I would choose to go with again. Without question. Their professionalism, candor, humility, and work ethic sets the bar for any other team of attorneys to follow. They are indeed a benefit to the people they work for.
Read more
19 Mar, 2024 by Nicole dixon
Resolved my issue to secure an outcome that was better than I could have ever hoped. Torsten kept me apprised of all developments and really made me feel heard. He worked devotedly on my behalf. I’ve already recommended his representation to others in my network and will continue to!
Read more
02 Jun, 2022 by Joe kavanagh
I hold Torsten and his team in the highest regard. They answered all my questions, sent timely updates, made clear requests when information was needed, and made a difficult situation easy to understand. I have no hesitation in recommending his team.
Read more
01 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Joanne was a great resource for me. She gave me a lot of clear, important information very concisely. She met me where I was at and discussed my concerns but never tried to inflate the situation. I highly recommend her.
Read more
19 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
I worked with Joanne on a prenuptial agreement. This was my first time dealing with a lawyer so I had no idea what to expect. Joanne was extremely professional, responsive, and easy to work with. She explained the process to me very thoroughly and I truly feel like she had my best interests at heart. If it weren't for the the opposing counsel's side, the process would have wrapped up within a few weeks due to the quick speed at which Joanne is able to work. I would definitely work with Joanne again on any legal matter related to marriage/divorce, although I certainly hope I won't have to :)
Read more
21 Dec, 2020 by Paula
Thank you greatly for the time you spent talking with me on the phone, I truly appreciate it. My spouse and I have made progress figuring out spousal support and splitting our estate since you and I talked. The threat of quitting collaboration and starting litigation opened his eyes. You deserve this review because you were very generosity with your time discussing my situation. Even though we didn't work together, I know you are an awesome attorney. Thanks again.
Read more
16 Aug, 2024 by Glenda carrillo
26 Jul, 2024 by Ines gonzalez
Yo Inés g me sentí muy segura cuando escuché la voz que me atendió en esta compañía de smaily muchas gracias
Read more
01 Jul, 2024 by Veronica carrasco
Amazing experience and really care about your situation & keep you updated on your case
Read more
02 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
Consulted with quite a few different offices before deciding to go with Donna, and I clearly made the right decision!
Donna was able to navigate through what was candidly a rather complex eviction situation.
She fought hard through the entire process, and ultimately we were able to reach a settlement before trial that would be seen as a winning verdict.
Incredibly personable, and leaves no page unturned. Would highly recommend to anyone who may be dealing with a similar circumstance.
Read more
01 Jun, 2023 by Rahsaan gandy
Mrs. Donna Pettway I found on yelp. I read 2 reviews and called the number. Mrs. Pettway answered the phone it was 9:01am. She was extremely informative and her level of expertise was fantastic.
Mrs. Pettway took me on as a client, I had less than 15 days for trial. Mrs. Pettway prepared me legally and mentally.
Mrs. Pettway was able to negotiate before trial in the hallway of the courtroom with the plantiff multiple attorneys. In the end!I won, a settlement.
Read more
08 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Donna is one of the worst lawyers I've ever dealt with, she is extremely unprofessional and out right ghetto. She missed several timely emails with the oppositions lawyer that caused us to lose the opportunity to mediate. She then hits us with a 20k+ in legal fees and said you should just settle and pay them 35k. I would never recommend her or her firm to anyone, unless your looking for an unprofessional and incompetent lawyer. Worst experience in my life and I honestly felt cheated and taken advantage of by someone we paid to fight for us and trusted to represent our best interest.
Read more
09 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
I consulted Alex re a family matter, and he was unprofessional, in a rush, and disrespectful. Family matters are sensitive topics, and to have some lawyer -- whom you'd like to hire! -- rudely downplaying your concerns is far from the type of lawyer you should retain. Don't waste your time. I've since hired another lawyer and my concerns have been addressed.
Read more
03 Apr, 2023 by Calvin
Alex and his team are the best attorneys I have ever worked with. Alex is straight forward, no nonsense, and realistic. He and his team explain everything and leave no stone unturned.
I got referred to Alex after spending a year and a half with a fraudulent attorney, who got nothing done and was milking me for money. Alex and his team came in fixed the mess my former attorney left. They even got better result than we we going after.
Alex was available and invested in my outcome throughout the whole process. Any time I would email him he responded swiftly.
My ex works for the most powerful attorneys in Los Angeles so having someone I could trust was very important.
I could not have gone through this process without Alex. I am very grateful to have met him!
Read more
30 Sep, 2022 by Lisa
Very grateful to have Alex and his team represent my divorce case. He was direct, efficient and made this very difficult time as easy as possible for me.
Read more
02 Aug, 2023 by Dongkyu kim
26 May, 2023 by R k
The phone call service is horrible, treating you like a scammer for no reason
Read more
10 Oct, 2021 by Peter park
16 Apr, 2023 by Furat mumin
05 Jan, 2022 by Manal haroon
05 Jan, 2022 by Jack
19 Jan, 2016 by Suzanne
My Jessner was incredibly professional, asstute and effective as an attorney for my ex-husband. I saw the review my ex wrote and think it's only fair that I respond also. My ex trashes people whom he does not want to pay, he's a bully and please do not judge Mr. Jessner on the 2 star review; at the time he was representing my ex, I'd wished Mr. Jessner were MY attorney. I hope this site takes down the review by my ex, Mr Jessner in no way deserves anything but praise, I know what's it's like to be trashed for no reason, there was NO reason for that review.
Read more
11 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous
Incredibly smart, patient, and hard working. Helped me immensely through a very difficult time. Very good in court and in pleadings.
A strong advocate but doesn't fight just for the sake of fighting.
Read more
03 Nov, 2011 by Anonymous
Greg is a good person who was used as a mop by opposing counsel. He had a hard time handing my lying ex's lying attorney and froze in court and in communication with opposing counsel. He does not have the ability to negotiate a settlement with difficult, high conflict divorce. He also missed court deadlines and wanted us to go easy on the ex because she was female - even though she and her attorney pulled every dirty trick possible. He was in over his head, had no idea what to do and did not take the legal recourse needed to get important information. I found another attorney who led well and was able to handle the ex and her counsel well.
Read more
03 Mar, 2013 by Jamie
My husband used Nancy during his divorce with his ex. Nancy did a great job keeping costs as minimal as possible (still high but she tried to be reasonable). She communicated to his satisfaction and gave him very logical advice. She explained his options with detail and explained the differences in cost per option. Although his ex got quite a bit, Nancy made sure that the ex didn't "rip him a new one" like she was trying.
Read more
16 Jan, 2024 by Ari
This man is awful and his practice is unethical. He got a free 1000 from scamming my family. Didn’t even bother to look up my father’s case we literally paid him 1000 for him to see my father in person and demand more money. He did not look up his case or offer any type of consultation on how we can help my father. BEWARE of this awful unethical attorney that’s ok with scamming families out of their hard earned money.
Read more
06 May, 2023 by Robert hill
27 Apr, 2023 by Monique
Joel assisted me with my divorce and my violent ex trying to get his rights back. When Joel decided to take on my case it was based of an extensive consultation. This man is not looking to represent anybody just for the compensation. He is selective and genuinely invested once he decides to represent you. He made this painstaking process easier and I felt supported legally and as a mother protecting her children. Time went by (about a year) and he checked in on me and my kids. Passing the bar is one thing but having a heart and a passion for what you do is another.
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Kofi
My partner and I were looking for a lawyer to help us create a prenuptial agreement (PMA). As a professional athlete, I’m very particular about who represents me in legal matters. After contacting several lawyers and doing some research, I was eventually recommended to Christine Twining.
When I spoke with her, Christine emphasized her extensive experience, education, and reputation in family law, highlighting her over 20 years of practice, including PMAs and divorces. In hindsight, I should have been cautious when she asked me to write her a review after our very first consultation.
Christine’s retainer fees were pretty high, but she justified them by claiming to be highly detail-oriented and experienced in this field. I made it very clear that my partner and I needed our PMA completed before our wedding court date. Christine assured me that she could meet this deadline given that our PMA was straight forward and my partner and I had agreed on everything beforehand.
After retaining Christine, she provided a timeline for when tasks would be completed to ensure the PMA was done on time. However, she consistently missed these deadlines, which forced my partner and I to reschedule our wedding, causing significant stress and financial losses as family members from around the world had to cancel and rebook their flights.
Throughout the drafting process, my wife’s attorney identified numerous basic mistakes, including mixing up our names with those of other clients, and including other clients' clauses in our PMA, which indicated that she had just copy/pasted from another client's prenup.
The errors and lack of professionalism were unacceptable, especially from a lawyer charging such high fees. I was extremely disappointed with her lack of communication, honesty, and attention to detail. Despite paying a high retainer fee, I ended up being charged even more in an additional invoice, with no refunds for the poor service received or money lost on our end.
While I’m not here to tell others who to choose for their PMA process as everyone's experience is different, I'd personally advise caution if considering Christine Twining. The service provided does not justify the cost, and I believe there are more competent lawyers out there for a better price.
Read more
24 Oct, 2012 by Anna
Christine was the 4th attorney I had talked to about my divorce and I felt the most comfortable with her. She was down-to-earth and very easy to talk to. In my case, I was looking for the quickest, cheapest, easiest divorce possible. She heard my requests and gave me several options. I had not wanted my divorce, but every time I met with her, I felt empowered.
If you need an attorney that you feel you can trust and is really on your side, I highly recommend Christine Twining.
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
the worst, unprofessional and lacks basic legal procedures. he' s cheap for a reason and works from a wework desk
Read more
16 Jan, 2024 by Ari
This man is awful and his practice is unethical. He got a free 1000 from scamming my family. Didn’t even bother to look up my father’s case we literally paid him 1000 for him to see my father in person and demand more money. He did not look up his case or offer any type of consultation on how we can help my father. BEWARE of this awful unethical attorney that’s ok with scamming families out of their hard earned money.
Read more
06 May, 2023 by Robert hill
27 Jul, 2024 by Profiles and reviews
28 May, 2018 by Mark greydanus
12 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
No expert knowledge and Rip Client off Illegally
Totally agree with the other reviewer, Leonard Garber has no clue what to do with my case as well. Typically when attorneys try to sell their services, they will propose their approach for the case. Leonard Garber says he has no idea what to do with the case, but would expect to get paid for his time even when he is doing nothing.
He illegally conned the client into retaining him only then to intentionally get on the phone with the client doing nothing other than saying he doesn’t think he can handle the case. Then he charged the client for that time. He is not even supposed to get in retainment when he doesn’t want to take the case. The only way he did so is so as to charge the client illegally.
It is hard to believe an attorney who has practiced for 40 years would have no clues of some basic case scenarios!
Read more
29 Feb, 2020 by Heather
I hired Mr. Garber for my divorce case and I am glad I switched attorneys as soon as I could otherwise, my case would have been a disaster! Mr. Garber is not a family law specialist and besides that, he took days to get back at emails/calls. He didn't have a clue of what to do in my case.
Read more
23 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
He did nothing for me. Eric had my hearing postponed until he found that my children's father did not have to pay him. after that he took all of the money I had and dismissed himself. Thank God I was able to reach an agreement with the kids father before I lost everything including my kids. Not a good lawyer cut and dry.
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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:
-
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.
