Lawyers map
>336
experienced lawyers
Filter by
13 Jun, 2024 by Michael
I represent a homeless shelter in New Hampshire and called Lance out of the blue seeking guidance for a client facing eviction. Lance was extremely pleasant, kind, and informative. If I could give him six stars, I would.
Read more
30 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
So so grateful my best friend recommended Attorney Chavin to me. Haven’t needed to hire at this point, because we aren’t there yet. But definitely will if we have to. We’ve only consulted thus far, but his Bio is 100% true.
His number one concern is my well-being which not only makes him a great attorney in general but a special one as he cares about how you feel.
It’s especially helpful for someone dealing with a lot of trauma from the situation. (landlord tenant dispute).
I feel extremely safe being advised by him, a lot of lawyers do not care about you as a human, when every client needs that! Because nobody is talking to a lawyer without something bad happening to them and they’re hurting. He is refreshing, witty, knowledgeable & validating while still being realistic with your best interests.
Thank you so much for your continued support on the matter Lance, and for making me feel safe in your hands.
Read more
26 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Aggressive, compassionate, savvy and excellent knowledge of the law. Lance will take your case and win.
Read more
5.0
11 Reviews
5.0
8 Reviews
30 Jul, 2024 by Kristen reed
Jolee is one of the most amazing women I've ever met with, a heart of gold on a mission to serve women in the highest way, in some of their most vulnerable times during divorce and after. Jolee is warm, empathetic, heart-centered and highly skilled and I cannot recommend turning to FFL if you are in need!
Read more
01 Mar, 2024 by Danielle plante
Prompt, caring, courteous service. Very understanding and NO PRESSURE, I highly recommend Atty Vacchi and her team at Foundations Family Law!
Read more
01 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Prompt, caring, courteous service. Answered all my questions with compassion, very understanding and NO PRESSURE. I highly recommend Atty Vacchi and her team at Foundations Family Law!
Read more
04 Aug, 2024 by Joni
Cheryl helped navigate me through one of the toughest times of my life. She was knowledgeable and very responsive to all my questions. I cannot reccomend her enough.
Read more
03 Aug, 2024 by Heather
Attorney Mccormick was extremely helpful in guiding me on the right path with a family issue. She was very easy to talk to and very understanding making a very difficult and emotional time in my life so much easier.
Read more
27 Jul, 2024 by Robert
Attorney McCormick was extremely effective. She did not leave a stone unturned. She was very easy to deal with. Highly recommended.
Read more
14 Oct, 2023 by C. b.
Anton Reinert represented me in a long divorce process. He invariably responded to me in a timely manner with exactly the amount of information I needed to feel less worried and clear-minded. This ability to trust him and his guidance improved my quality of life during a difficult time. I appreciated his integrity in guiding me toward a solution that best matched my means and my interests. He is not a lawyer who wants to keep things going to make more money. I interviewed a number of attorneys before hiring him and believe he has a refreshing, efficient, approach in an aggressive arena. Anton has an air-tight understanding of the law and ethics that go along with the law. He also offers availability for communication at any inquiry and has a kind manner that isn't required, but that helps; especially at a difficult point in anyone's life. Working with Anton is easy. Anton's approach makes you want to rise to meet the situation, handle it well, and come out as a better person.
Read more
17 Aug, 2021 by Kyle parker
For the first time in 3 attorneys Anton and his team understood the complexity of my case and got me exactly where I've been trying to be for years, in a few short months. I'm relieved, I'm confident and I'm very grateful for Anton and his team's expertise and wisdom. Thank you all.
Read more
03 Jun, 2021 by Amir gholami
Anton is an excellent lawyer. He is very professional, compassionate and responsive. After my first divorce lawyer, he was a breath of fresh air. He achieved excellent results for me during my court case. I recommend him highly and without reservation to anyone who is looking for very strong representation during divorce proceedings.
Read more
04 Jul, 2024 by Mrivera2516
attorney Estella Matta is very knowledgeable and dedicated to family law. She was very flexible with my needs and accommodated my schedule. She looked at every possible option to help my case and she let me know on just the first consultation all the possible outcomes for my case. I will truly recommend her to anyone .
Read more
04 Dec, 2018 by Brian
Attorney Matta helped me draft a pretrial memorandum and has always provided me with excellent legal advice.
Attorney Matta is undoubtedly great at what she does. She is incredibly intelligent and will work hard to fight for her clients but the best part of working with her is she is extremely personable and understanding. She has an expansive resume and many years of experience as a family attorney so she’s seen it all. A lot of times she was able to finish my sentences when explaining my legal troubles.
Attorney Matta is also extremely fair when it comes to payment, and she worked with me which was nice. She also doesn’t forget about her clients, and her concern for the outcome of their case is genuine.
I will definitely continue to consult and potentially hire Attorney Matta in the future and would recommend her to anyone in need of legal representation.
Read more
12 May, 2018 by Anonymous
After a long and difficult custody battle I reached out to Atty. Matta. I feel so blessed because I finally found an attorney who can guide me through my case while acting as an advocate. After speaking to numerous attorneys and hitting dead ends, I finally feel like I can make progress in my case because I am not just working with an attorney, I’m working with an expert.
I would highly recommend this amazing attorney to anyone who asks.
I was so close to losing hope until I met with and consulted with Atty. Matta. My hope is restored and I feel confident that I made the right decision working with this brilliant woman.
Read more
12 Apr, 2022 by E reilly
Mindy is a great lawyer who has helped our family through a difficult time. Mindy is professional and compassionate and it was a pleasure to work with her. I would wholeheartedly recommend Mindy's services!
Read more
09 Sep, 2020 by Doug munn
I have been working with Mindy for 20 years. She has worked on our wills, health care proxies, power of attorneys, house closings and other issues. She's dedicated to getting you the right answer, easy to work with and trustworthy. I would absolutely recommend Mindy to anyone and will definitely use her again for any legal work she's willing to take.
Read more
31 Aug, 2020 by Mark barry
Empathetic and understanding are two words that first come to mind when describing Mindy. Mindy has worked on my estate planning, house closing, court issues, medical issues, family issues … the list goes on. I know she genuinely cares about me and the task at hand. Consistent, experienced, and trustworthy - you can’t go wrong with Mindy.
Read more
28 Jul, 2020 by Samantha
I hired attorney Carima to handle my case. She was great. Christine is very knowledgeable was always professional and prepared. I know nothing about divorce and was scared and upset. She id very easy to talk to and calmed me down; answered all my questions. She got me the best outcome that I could have asked for. I have children and she explained that throughout life, as the needs of the kids and myself change, there may come a time to modify my divorce. I will be calling her again to handle that. I will be hiring her to take care of a civil matter as well. She also handles civil matters.
Read more
15 Jan, 2019 by Kim
I contacted Ms. Carima in regards to an custody ruling from another state. She was extremely helpful in explaining what needed to be done to enforce the ruling in Massachusetts. She worked diligently and efficiently to provide us with the correct information, keeping in daily contact with us. She was knowledgeable and professional, while also bringing a personal feel to the situation. From my first contact with her to our successful retrieval of the child, she was there with us, every step of the way. I highly recommend her for any child custody issue you may need.
Read more
15 Aug, 2018 by Rory
I've just left Attorney Christine Carima's office, and I couldn't be more thrilled with the consultation I received. Her compassionate, insightful and direct approach provided me with the answers I needed to address my problem. I feel reassured to have her card in my pocket in the event of any future legal troubles, and will certainly be referring her to any others who may need legal support. Highly recommended!
Read more
15 Feb, 2024 by Anuradha
I live with my children in India, and my Ex-husband filed for divorce in the US in 2020. I was searching for legal assistance in the USA for my divorce and family law case. I had the wonderful fortune to find a very remarkable lawyer who went above and beyond to assist me. Despite being far away, Ms. Erica Foster gave my case her undivided attention, exhibiting unparalleled skill and compassion throughout.
The extent of Ms. Erica's knowledge of family law and divorce proceedings was astounding. She carefully looked into every facet of my case to ensure that justice was done. Ms. Erica Foster's remarkable presenting abilities were what really made her stand out. She confidently articulated to the court the intricacies of my case, leaving no doubt in their minds. Her ability to clearly state important aspects and foresee objections ensured that my case was as strong as feasible.
Despite residing in two separate countries and time zones, Ms. Erica Foster was available and attentive throughout the process, answering any questions or concerns I had immediately. Whether you are a US citizen or not, I heartily suggest her services to anybody needing a committed and skilled family and divorce attorney.
Read more
12 Apr, 2022 by Robert
Attorney Foster is a highly competent and experienced attorney that "gets it" from the client's perspective. She's direct and results driven, not interested in wasting your time and money. (The antithesis of lawyers who run out the clock speaking to issues of high emotion but little impart.)
In my divorce we faced a lot of nonsense from the other side and having an attorney that won't entertain that and brings none of their own helped me keep costs down and ultimately hold the line right where it should be.
Read more
18 Mar, 2021 by Holly
I have been fortunate to have Erica "on my side" on two occasions. She is extremely responsive, has precise communication and does not attempt to "ad-lib" as many attorneys do. Not once did Erica loose sight of my goals as a single parent and she fought bravely for my twins and myself. She completely understood both the legal and emotional side of my high conflict divorce and I can report with confidence you will be happy with her abilities!
Read more
19 Sep, 2024 by Christopher burke
Michael's thoughtful approach and dedication made me feel confident throughout the process. He gave me the kind of attention and expertise you would expect from a big firm, but with the personal touch and care of a local lawyer. Even after the case was done, he followed up to make sure I was taken care of. A relentless advocate with a heart—highly recommend!
Read more
14 Nov, 2023 by William haggarty
Mr. Reinhart could not have saved me any way better than he did. -Absolute 100% great legal service in and out of the courtroom.
Read more
13 Nov, 2023 by Michael wilson
Michael Reinhardt is a fantastic attorney to whom I will be forever grateful. He is friendly, caring, capable and experienced. I messed up badly several year’s ago and was caught red-handed, in the act. I was arrested, jailed, and charged with a felony criminal offense that carried a mandatory minimum sentence of eighteen months imprisonment. The outcome - guilty - seemed inevitable, and I dreaded the consequences. Michael Reinhardt represented me during the many court appearances I had to make. He explained the various stages of the judicial proceedings, and contacted me regularly to discuss progress and the strategy he was following to best defend me.
Remarkably, after much consultation and discussions, Michael managed to have the charges against me dropped altogether - to my immense relief of not just me, but my entire family, all of whom had been living under a cloud of anxiety. I cannot thank Michael enough for literally giving me back my life. I’ve changed a lot since then and intend to stay far away from trouble in the future. Although I hope not to need Michael’s help in the same way again, I know who to call if ever I do!
Read more
04 Mar, 2024 by Paul murphy
Great Divorce Attorney
Read more
22 Dec, 2021 by Uniconstableservice constable service
25 Feb, 2021 by Judy valek
Very caring and knowledgeable attorneys. They get the job done with competence and empathy. I highly recommend them.
Read more
16 Apr, 2024 by Dya vald
I'm was going through a very difficult divorce and Maura's initial consultation showed me she was an excellent lawyer. After multiples lawyers and thousands of dollars spent before Maura, I was fortunate to have Maura Melcher Family Law representing me in my divorce and child custody case. Maura and her team helped me determine what was in the best interest for my son and consistently directed me in the right direction for the best possible outcome. Maura was a dedicated knowledgeable professional with a practical yet creative approach to family law negotiations. She made progress in all our challenging situations while protecting and caring for us. Maura and her team helped me stick to our plan, which in return allowed us to obtain custody of my son, I will always be grateful for the way she professionally managed to obtain the end result we were all hoping for. I’ll always refer the Melcher Family Law team to anyone who is looking for an educated, straightforward and honest family law group. Maura, I can’t thank you enough for helping me through this challenging situation. You are a Champion!! I would highly recommend Maura with any of your family law needs.
Read more
24 Feb, 2024 by Vivian fang
Maura Melcher is a fantastic attorney. I would
recommend her without hesitation! Maura is very knowledgeable, creative and professional. She is also very compassionate and friendly. She really listened to me and worked to reach the outcome that I desired in my divorce case. Maura worked hard on my behalf and was very responsible and fair with her fees. She is the best lawyer!
Read more
04 Oct, 2021 by Samuel shepherd
Maura helped me get out of a really stressful situation in which I felt so vulnerable. I was so fearful of what could happen to me if I took action and Maura was very reassuring and straight forward with me. I am very grateful for the representation and can’t recommend Maura Melcher enough!
Read more
08 Mar, 2022 by Jhon arias
Excelente
Read more
10 Jun, 2018 by Gabriela
Very professional, expert in his field, and such a wonderful person. I felt extremly lucky to have Gary representing me. Highly respected attorney that has profound knogledge and experience. He guided me and was there for me in every step of my divorce. Highly recommended
Read more
29 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
Compassionate. Easy to talk to. Direct. Extremely well informed and connected. This is not the guy lawyer jokes are written about. This is an honest, calm, reasonable person who advocates tirelessly for the truth. A valuable member of our MA legal system.
Read more
24 Feb, 2024 by Lorraine
I usually don't write reviews buy I felt compelled to share my experience with Steve. Now here's the thing I called at 5:30 pm on a Saturday and he answered! It was on a whim and im so happy that I found him and reached out. I explained my what I feel might be a "messy" situation trying to get divorced. He listened with no judgement and told me that I already seem to know what to do but let me help you if i can. He offered for me to fill out all my paperwork (because the court house lost my divorce paperwork SMH) and when I have it all in order to email him and he said he will not charge me for him to look it over. I have called a couple lawyers and no one ever offered me anything like this. I feel he really heard me and I am just so grateful that he answered my call. Going forward if I need to retain he is who I will be retaining. This man is very kind, humble and just a good guy. Thank you Steve you gave me my hope back that I lost for some time. I wish I could give more then 5 stars!
Read more
10 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
I rarely write online reviews, but i think it is critical in this instance, firstly, because I used Avvo in assisting with my legal selection and consumers need this data. So, I will be as honest as I can.
Attorney Zlochiver is principled. I found his service to be based upon fairness and seeking the best outcome within the limits of the law, and done with an un-excitable, stable spirit. This sometimes was a sticking point for us. My opponent was aggressive and angry, and I wanted more energy; wisely, Attorney Zlochiver did not return all of the flaming brands I requested of him. In the end, for better or worse, he tempered my anger and frustration with my case.
Attorney Zlochiver is responsive. He was always reachable by email and phone. Reasonable response times were always met.
In summary, if you are seeking retribution and revenge, I don't think you'll find satisfaction here. I occasionally felt as though we could have been more aggressive--going on the offensive vs. a defensive posture, but Steve knew it would have been a futile, mis-use of my fee and he was careful about fee utilization.
Read more
21 Jan, 2014 by Edmond
In searching for a family lawyer, I had three criteria:
1) A competent lawyer who is familiar with the presiding judge. It is important that the lawyer knows what the judge looks for in a case both in the court room and the filed documentation. He was able to advise of the proper strategy to get the best case scenario without having the situation spiral into a more contentious case.
2) An objective lawyer who has enough court-room experience to be realistic in assessing possible outcomes. Rather than simply being hopeful, he suggested contingencies for the most plausible decisions that the judge may make during the hearing.
3) An understanding lawyer who would work with my limited budget & time. Mr. Zlochiver took on my case knowing of my financial situation and worked into the late evening on new documentation in order to bolster my case the following morning.
Steven Zlochiver certainly does not comes to mind when you think of the typical ambulance-chasing lawyer. Not a shark. Not a clock watcher. Rather, someone you definitely want in your corner who is willing to relate to your circumstances.
Read more
27 Oct, 2009 by Meghan porter
I thought Oona was wonderful. She kept me posted and up to date on my case. She always took the time to hear my thoughts and counted in my opinion. I would reccommend her to anyone.
Read more
27 Sep, 2009 by Anonymous
In my first interview with Oona Kingston she provided a clear and accurate assessment of the potential options for divorce settlement and the likely outcome of the settlement. In an arena in which many lawyers seem to thrive on creating confusion and anxiety, Oona was a calm voice of reason and worked diligently to get a fair settlement as efficiently as possible. Oona was more than a match for the big-city, high-priced lawyers on the other side and my legal costs were a fraction of those of my ex-spouse. I highly recommend her services.
Read more
29 Aug, 2009 by Anonymous
During the duration of my divorce I struggled with the sadness of it as well as feelings of being so alone. While my ex had already moved on...I was still trying to process it all...how do I go from here...how do I make ends meet....my only identity was wrapped around my husband...how do I start over? I felt so completely alone with two kids and a house to worry about. Needless to say I felt overwhelmed by the divorce process and the decisions that needed to be made. Oona has the ability to take the entire picture and break it out into what is important and not important. She can simplify the decisions based on what needed to be addressed at that time and what could wait or what didn't need to be addressed at all. Although she is sympathatic to your situation, she has the ability to keep emotions out of the decision making process. I felt this allowed me the confidence to make good, fair, clear decisions based on her advise even while I was an absolute mess. She was honest with me about what was worth fighting for and what was a waist of time. She understands the process and is confident in her abilities and this shows. I had such low self esteem at this point and really felt as though I would never recover and yet, Oona had a away of making me have just enough confidence to at least stand up for myself and my kids. Although my divorce was at the time heartbreaking to me, somehow with Oona's help I stood up for myself. I feel to this day that this was the best thing I have ever done!
Read more
23 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Rachel Hodgman is a dedicated, intelligent, and professional attorney who guided me through the divorce process. I would recommend her services to anyone going through the difficult and emotional experience of divorce and in my case, shared child custody. Rachel was personally invested into mine and my children’s well being. She was always available when and if I needed to talk. She looked out for me, but not in an overbearing way, when I became disillusioned with anything to do with the divorce. She represented my interests perfectly when it came down to negotiating an agreement with my ex wife and her attorney. I have a good outlook on life post divorce and Rachel greatly assisted me in achieving this.
Read more
20 Nov, 2018 by Nolan
Rachel has represented both my wife and I (in different cases.). She is truly amazing. She is very understanding and will put in the work to represent her client to the best of her ability! Hopefully neither one of us need to go back to court, however if we do we would not hesitate to call Rachel!!
Read more
24 Nov, 2017 by Gretchen
I highly recommend Rachael’s legal services. She offered knowledgeable and compassionate guidance throughout what was a personally difficult time.I found her to be kind, professional,readily accessible and especially considerate of my financial situation. In addition to the fact that she is an extremely competent attorney, she is a lovely person.
Read more
13 Jan, 2020 by Britt
I've had the pleasure to work with Jim over the past year in a custody dispute, that felt like it would never end. Jim is an amazing lawyer and fought for everything I asked for. Dad is no longer involved and we only had to appear in family court once. Jim would make sure his cell phone was on and near during some of the most difficult exchanges of the children, he gave me some great advice and helped me through some difficult times.
I am forever grateful to have had him in my corner and highly recommend him to anyone that wants to win. Thank You Jim!!
Read more
20 Jun, 2019 by Sharita
Where do I begin... I was so ready to give up on everything and just hand my son over to my ex-which I know/knew was the stupidest thing I could have ever done in my life. I was so exhausted by the lies, the taunting, the horrible comments etc. constantly being spewed at me by my ex. It was as if, I was fighting this unbeatable monster in and outside of court, I was ready to give up, even with me being a fighter-and never giving up easily anything!!! But, at that time, I was mentally drained. My family and friends kept saying, "hire a lawyer!" initially- I didn't want to, but I knew if I didn't- I could lose my son to my ex with all the lies he constantly told. So, I went on Google, and googled-child support lawyer....and James Lukowiak aka Jim "popped up"- like neon green lights. I decided to reach out to him for a consultation. While at the consultation it was nothing, but good vibes. Jim listened to every single detail during the consultation, and I finally felt like someone understood my dilemma...someone understood the monster I was facing and was willing to stick it out with me and help me through the most difficult situation in my life. Jim was by my side EVERY STEP OF THE WAY for the last 2 years, and I am so, so, so grateful for him and Meg ;-). Two years ago- I sat in the consultation with Jim and said, "I want full custody of my son and I want my ex to be exposed for the person he really is". Two weeks ago, my ex finally decided to sign his rights over to me giving me full custody and physical custody of our son. Jim is a great listener and he knows THIS game. I am immensely grateful for running into this guy, and watching how he works,the dedication he has for his clients is fantastic. I must say, I learned a smidge of the game while working with him. Jim helped me see the light at the end of the tunnel, and for that-I am thankful. THANK YOU JIM!!!!!!
Read more
06 Jan, 2019 by James
James is a very nice lawyer. He spent hours with me during the initial free consultation. I met with many lawyers in this area and none of them would spend much time with you during the initial free consultation. Actually, one lawyer tried to charge me for an extra 10 minutes after the first half hour free consultation. He knows the many details of your case because he is a very good listener. He has much experience in family law and thinks outside of the box. He pointed out several good arguments and strategies for my case that I did not think of, although I spent hours thinking every day. Most lawyers will ask me what I want them to say in court, but James is not one of them. He finds valid and strong arguments for my case. Without his expertise, I could have ended up signing an unfair agreement with my unreasonable ex and opposing counsel. If unfortunately, I have to go to court again, although I hope I don’t have to, I definitely want to keep this fighter on my side.
Read more
14 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Today in court I watched Mastery , Tanis is a skilled, brilliant, & powerful attorney. After I was falsely accused of domestic abuse in 2014 , and issued a restraining order and re issued again in 2015 , my prior lawyers basically told me to stay quiet and I did , I listened and listened to 100% false accusations my my ex , I hired attorney Yannetti in 2015 , she was confident right away she could have this restraining order terminated immediately , yet she she still made a wise decision to wait until today April 14, 2016 to finally " have my day in court " Tanis made this decision so she could get to work , pulling transcripts, having them transcribed , finding all inconsistent statements made by my ex Tanis found things that Nobody else saw , from big things like Purgery , to dates that just didn't or couldn't even be possible, all overlooked by my former council , she took on 4 lawers today , and stayed so cool , the plaintiff my ex , could not control herself and her lawyers and the judge had to constantly tell the plaintiff to stop , Tanis read every transcript and her knowledge on my case was outstanding, picking up immediate on any inaccuracies the opposing lawyers made and some were small that most attorneys would miss, her objections were timely and perfect and her asking of the relevance of certain items brought in or up kept the hearing in order not allowing anybody to divert the subject of why we were there and that was Justice , I was losing faith in our Justice system Tanis restored it! If anybody needs help with false accusations, and women being guided by V.A.W.A . Tanis is your best shot in a positive outcome . Her closing arguments, were powerful and strong , stating facts . Today Justice prevailed and it happened because Tanis Yannettis attention to detail! God Bless America
Read more
14 Oct, 2015 by Jon
Attorney Tanis Yannetti was absolutely phenomenal. Tanis recently represented me in my restraining order case. I could not be happier. I was thinking of going in alone. That would have been the worst mistake. For what should have been an easy case soon proved to be an uphill battle. There were things that I would not have been prepared for without the help of Tanis. She is extremely knowledgeable on the laws. She was passionate about my case and fought tooth and nail to have my restraining order overturned. The judge was so ready to rule against me many times but Tanis never gave up. She won my case. On top of her talent in the courtroom she is a kind hearted person and a great listener .....not missing a single detail of my case. Thank You Tanis !
Read more
08 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Attorney Tanis Yannetti is a professional and understanding counselor. She has a commanding presence in the courtroom, thorough mastery of the law, and knows how to apply the most effective methods and precedents to achieve a favorable outcome. If your rights needs defending, then you want attorney Tanis in your corner. Thank you for your help, for listening, explaining, and patience. JA
Read more
06 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Brian is an exceptional attorney. He is thoughtful, considerate and is eager to find common ground. While many attorney's are eager to pick a fight, he works hard to help settle issues by highlighting what's important. That said he is both firm and forceful when necessary.
My divorce was particularly difficult and drawn out. It had a high degree of complexity involving a GAL and other child related issues. Brian was able to lay out a plan of attack and get to core issues quickly. He kept me well informed throughout the process and understood nuances of the legal system that other attorney's were not only unaware of but had no idea of how to use to their advantage.
On a personal note, he was phenomenal to work with. In the end we won and my children are thankful for it. I regularly recommend him to friends of mine that are in need of a good attorney and are going through divorce and especially those with complex child custody related issues.
Read more
19 Jan, 2017 by Nick
Brian was/is my divorce attorney. I hired him on the advice of a friend who went through a messy divorce (mine was too), and it was the best thing I did during my divorce. He's helped with a couple of follow up issues in the years since.
The main thing I liked about Brian is that he was calm and measured. My ex would do something horrible, or make some outrageous legal claim, and I would start to respond with some of the same, and Brian would calmly explain why my I should not do so, and why her approach was probably going to be counter productive to her. This measured approach dialed down the intensity of the fight even though her attorney was a barracuda, which led to a fair divorce settlement out of court with less stress for everyone, and the kids in particular.
The other thing Brian did was write an incredibly thorough legal separation document - so long that the judge remarked on its length, but it has been a god send. My ex is constantly trying to come up with some new interpretation of our agreement, some new way in which she does less, or pays less, and has more, but she cannot because all the terms are in the separation agreement.
If you are looking for a lawyer out of a court-room drama, Brian is not for you. He's not going to come up with convoluted legal arguments and claim that you will get everything you want (which is not going to happen anyway). If you are looking for an adult, a serious lawyer who is going to gently but firmly guide you to a more successful outcome for you (and your kids), then I think you'll be happy if you hire him.
Read more
19 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
Brian has been an excellent partner in helping me work through some very difficult issues. Brian has represented me in a case involving custody, removal, valuation of private business assets, and support. He is responsive and he is diligent and thoughtful in his approach. His experience negotiating and litigating in both Probate and the Appeals Courts has been very helpful to my case.
Read more
26 Jan, 2021 by Michael
I have had the pleasure of having cases on opposite sides of Paula. While she is a formidable opponent, she is always collegial, courteous, and pleasant. A joy to have a case against her!
Read more
30 Dec, 2020 by Jay
I contacted Paula based purely on the empathetic prose on her website - it was clear (and became even clearer later) that she understood the emotional dimensions of divorce as well as the hard legal and financial aspects. She is a lovely person as a human being, and as a lawyer is a no-nonsense, hard-hitting professional with the skills to bring together Massachusetts marital law with the psychological aspects of divorce.
Due to the previous circumstances of my marriage, I was facing a twelve-year alimony liability that would have been financially disastrous for me, and would have prevented me from making a new start. Paula weaved together an astonishingly favorable settlement agreement that saved me tens of thousands of dollars, through courteous and efficient negotiations with the other side, even factoring in overseas jurisdictions, due to some of my assets being in Europe. She drafted depositions and related court documents that helped my case enormously, and represented my interests in the courtroom with aplomb; the courts were at the time Zoom-only due to COVID. Paula is always focused on outcomes, and can move between the big picture and the minutiae effortlessly and quickly. She will tell you the truth even if it’s bad news; I learned very quickly to trust her advice, because every time I did it resulted in another step towards a favorable outcome. Paula’s fees paid for themselves many times over, because of the remarkable settlement terms she brokered. I offer you my highest possible recommendation.
Read more
02 Dec, 2020 by John
I found myself in need of a divorce lawyer. A friend recommended me their attorney. My divorce was not going to be typical. I had two boys that were 6 and 3 and their mom was not in a grounded place. I needed to have custody. I had to hold things together. It was not promising. Dads did not fair well in 1999 regarding custody.
After a number of meetings it was clear that there was going to be trial. My attorney had a vacation planned and she had to bring in a partner. Enter Paula Berg.
In under an hour Paula told me a few basic things that I could rely on when testifying at trial. She was honest, and that does not always mean what I want to hear. She told me that I had the right lawyer and that I had to do exactly what I was told, because we were a team. She explained that dads do not typically get custody, and she followed that up with "so what, I do not have a problem going against the odds". She is a kind, warm person, but that is not how I would describe her professionally. Paula is very no nonsense, direct, and she knows the law. She knows what judges need to do their job. That is worth reading twice. I have referred Paula to a few friends, which also resulted in success. Again, pick the right lawyer and do exactly what she says. She is the right lawyer.
Read more
18 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
I met Attorney Fox for a consult regarding my divorce. Her extraordinary knowledge of family law and her professionalism were immediately apparent to me. My case had some unconventional aspects to it and Attorney Fox was able to quickly provide me with recommendations and guidance in a very compassionate manner. I highly recommend Attorney Fox to anyone needing intelligent and supportive advice when going through a difficult divorce.
Read more
07 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
When faced with a major sudden life change, I needed not only a legal expert but an understanding, supportive lawyer who listened. I was referred to Paula by my real estate attorney who said, "Paula's the one you need." He was right.
I highly recommend Paula as an astute, respectful, experienced legal expert who stewarded and guided me during a very tough time. I remain very grateful for her legal help and ever-presence during my personal crisis.
Read more
01 Jul, 2016 by Chris
Attourney Paula Fox represented my daughter in a custody case, which lasted about 3 years, as her "ARC" Attourney. Fox's tireless sound advice was always in the best interest of my daughter, even if at times it was challenging for all of us adults to deal with. Overall, her advice and guidance was priceless but it is worth saying that although she did not receive a cent for her services we felt she worked as if we were her most important case. Attourney Fox is caring, honest, hardworking. We would recommend her to anyone who needs someone with years of experience with difficult cases.
Read more
16 May, 2019 by Charlotte
Karen Duffy was my lawyer several years ago. She worked for another attorney who gave the case over to her. I was nervous about having a such a young new comer taking ever, but was she dynamite! My ex was an extremely difficult person to deal with, but she was always calm and always professional. I had an unexpectedly good outcome in my case, and I feel I owe it to her. You absolutely could do no better when going through a divorce or custody case. She was the 4th lawyer I had, and I was so thankful I came upon her.
Read more
11 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
Attorney Duffy was very professional in and out of the court room. She was very sensitive to my situation and went above and beyond what any other regular attorney would do. I felt as though she was personally invested in me as her client. On top of everything Mrs. Duffy was extremely responsive with my requests as well as keeping me well informed on any updates, options or anything else that came in from the other side. She is always thinking two steps ahead. You will be very satisfied with Attorney Duffy on your legal side.
Read more
14 Oct, 2009 by Anonymous
When an amicable separation became a bitter divorce, Karen was always ready with great advice. We started miles apart on issues of child visitation, holidays, alimony and child support and I was certain we'd end up at an expensive trial. Karen saved me thousands by avoiding a court fight while still making sure I would have time with my kids. Thank you, Karen!
Read more
10 Nov, 2020 by P.
Rachel is an outstanding attorney; I am quite pleased with her practice, the timeliness of the deliverable, prompt follow-up e-mails, and clear, concise, easy to understand answers to all of my questions.
Before retaining Rachel, I had several initial conversations, reviewed my circumstances, and briefly discussed her 31 years of experience. Rachel's retainer was highly competitive, and the cost/benefit return was terrific!
Immediately after retaining Rachel, I received the initial paperwork to file for my divorce. Two weeks later, I spoke with Rachel to review our options and agreed on a separation agreement. We did not know much about my ex-wife situation concerning the retention of council and a few other issues. As such, Rachel mailed our separation agreement to my ex-wife with a firm but gentle letter requesting her to sign and return the proposed agreement within 14 days.
Rachel received a counter proposal from my ex-wife a short time later. Rachel reviewed the counter proposal and called me with her assessment and a few suggested changes. I agreed with her suggestions, and we returned the amended separation agreement almost immediately after our call. I am now waiting for my ex-wife to sign Rachel's amended separation agreement. I am confident that upcoming amendments will continue to be addressed in the prompt, professional, and client-friendly manner I have come to expect from Rachel.
I am delighted with Rachel; I would recommend her without hesitation.
Read more
09 Nov, 2020 by Kendra
Rachel clearly has many years of experience. She has been delightful to work with. She listens very well, cites case law, responds quickly and is entirely professional. I would recommend her hands down. Five stars!
Read more
28 Sep, 2015 by Debra
Hired Rachel for a family dispute. She settled the case within three months for full amount. If I ever needed an attorney again I would hire her.
Read more
29 May, 2021 by Natalian
It is such a pleasure to have Debbie as our league guardianship attorney! Her communication is always clear and in time in the whole process. She totally understand our concern of enrolling the minor to school ASAP and prepared all the documents even before the minor arrives, which sped up the court process. She also went extra mile and worked with the school registration to help the minor enrolled. I would recommend Debbie without any hesitation!
Read more
06 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
Debbie was so easy to work with and was able to really think through my divorce and help me obtain a fair and kind solution.
Read more
14 Mar, 2019 by Brian
Deb made the painful process of divorce much easier. She used a collaborative process with my case and was very patient with me. I'd definitely recommend that you speak with her if you're looking for a family attorney who uses a collaborative resolution approach.
Read more
25 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
Jeff called me almost immediately. He took a lot of time trying to break down a complicated matter. I couldn't believe it! He was super thourough and very knowledgeable. He didn't press me for an appt or monies. He followed up with MORE information. I would absolutely recommend him! Thanks Jeff!
Read more
10 Jul, 2012 by Samantha & michael
Mr. Jeffrey Varszegi is one of the most professional, outspoken, terrific lawyer that I had the pleasure of dealing with. He took my case when he didn't have to and amazed me with his knowledge. I would definitely recommend him to ANYONE that would need a lawyer, Hes just Great!
Read more
03 Mar, 2012 by Nathan
I was let go from a previous job in a rather messy fashion. So messy, that many lawyers weren't even interested in the case. When the mess extended and overturned my unemployment benefits, the lawyer I had previously hired stopped representing me. With the deadline to appeal looming within only a week, I was at the end of my rope. Then, I was put in touch with Jeffrey Varszegi.
Jeffrey worked tirelessly, before even deciding whether he should take my case. He didn't have much experience in unemployment law, had to review the load of technicalities and documentation I provided, and had little time to decide whether or not he could defend me to the utmost. Within a day, he knew that I had a case-- a case he would be confident in defending.
In the months before a judgement was offered, I knew that Jeff had worked his utmost on my case and was already satisfied with his dedication. The months were tiring, and the case had its twists and surprises. Lo and behold, Jeff's expert review of legal decisions, incisive reasoning, expert writing, and persusasive explanations led to my case being decided in my favor, after years of faltering.
I'm honored and proud to have had Jeffrey represent me, would consider him first in the future, and I would recommend him to anyone who is willing to value his talent as an attorney.
Read more
12 Apr, 2015 by Teri
Meredith was a delight to work with during my mediation. Very professional and personable. Meredith took the time to make sure I understood everything clearly.
Read more
23 Mar, 2015 by Diane
Meredith provided limited assistance representation for our guardianship case. She reviewed our documents thoroughly before providing thoughtful and knowledgeable guidance. We had spoken to several attorneys before deciding on Meredith's expertise. We found that her extensive understanding of the family court system helped us to be prepared for an uncertain outcome for our grandchildren.
We have recommended Meredith since we used her services. We would also use Meredith again if need be.
Read more
14 Mar, 2015 by Brandie
Attorney Makin is a wonderful family/divorce attorney.
She always kept me informed, was easy too talk with and was always available
when I called. I always felt comfortable and informed about my case. I would
recommend her to any of my family or friends looking for a family attorney.
Read more
12 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
Attorney Ignazi handled an estate for my family. I don't believe that I could have handled the whole long drawn out process without her steadfast and constant guidance.
Read more
24 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
I had met with another attorney who was less experienced and told me she couldn't see a solution to my problem. After meeting with Nancy, she helped me breathe a sigh of relief. She is extremely knowledgable with case law and similar case references, and is superb at strategy. I would highly recommend her services
Read more
31 Mar, 2015 by Rich
Nancy Ignazi was recommended to me by another friend who had been in a similar situation. She is a well-respected, knowledgeable attorney who vigorously advocates for her clients. Her expereince with DOR and how the law is written and how it should be applied is top notch. I tried to go at it alone once before and it was not a good or fair outcome. I know this time I did the right thing by taking the advice of others and hiring Nancy. In issues of child support and alimony she not only advocates for her clients but also the children who may be involved. I recommend her without hesitation.
Read more
04 Sep, 2015 by Kara
I have found that Rachel is always able to provide the service I need at the time I need it. Over the years she has helped with the following activities all at a very reasonable rate.
- Development of wills, power of attorney, medical proxy forms, etc. for a same sex couple
- Consultation around the dissolution of a same sex relationship
- Reviewing and restructuring of documents referenced above
Through it all, Rachel has been a pleasure to work with and extremely helpful in a variety of emotional situations.
Read more
27 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Rachel was very kind, professional and took the time to explain and negotiate my pre nup which went back and forth for a couple of weeks. Outside of the stress of the pre nup not getting signed till the morning of the wedding Rachel was amazing to work with. I'd highly recommend her.
Read more
27 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Rachel was very helpful with all my questions and always kept me informed. Super professional. Easy to communicate with. Would recommend 100 percent.
Read more
23 May, 2024 by Melissa
Hands down the best lawyer!! She showed a deep understanding for the situation at hand and demonstrated empathy throughout. She not only was available to answer my questions and concerns but I appreciated how informed she kept me every step of the way. She handled my case with professionalism and achieved an outstanding result in a short period of time. I will always highly recommend her. Michelle truly is the best out there.
Read more
23 Dec, 2019 by Amy f.
Michelle was caring and involved from the very start. Her attention to detail and knowledge of the law was a huge asset in my case. I can’t thank her enough for all of her help. She helped me navigate the law in my private adoption as well as in my husband’s alimony case.
Read more
19 Dec, 2019 by Wayne
Was able to push through the juvenile court system without hesitation was able to get me visitation on a weekly basis and got my daughter back home before schedule court dates very straight forward and is not afraid to take on DCF and the broken juvenile court system always returns phone calls she does not leave you hanging in the dark very dedicated to her cases
Read more
17 Jan, 2020 by Tom
Megan helped me with my child support modification and with a parenting time modification when my sons mother moved. She did an incredible job, she broke everything down for me and made everything easy to understand for myself. She answered all my questions throughly and gave me reassurance the whole way. Megan really stood by me for my son and made me feel like I was her only client with the attention to detail of my case. I felt extremely confident with Megan in my corner and would absolutely recommend her to anyone.
Read more
12 Dec, 2018 by Natalie
There are certain people who deserve to be recognized for their outstanding service and Megan Butz is one of them. As a client I had the pleasure of working with Megan. I found her to have a strong organizational skill and attention to details relating to my case. I found her to be an invaluable asset to my case. I appreciate the abundance of knowledge she possesses. She has a sharp attention to detail. I found her to be highly professional and easy to talk with. Her ability to communicate well with me about my case put me at ease. I would recommend her to my closest friends and family.
Read more
04 Feb, 2018 by Laura
I feel so fortunate to have had Megan Butz in my corner. It was a very long process waiting for the trial but Megan was committed and with me every step of the way; from responding to my emails in a timely manner, to being quite organized and thorough in her evidence gathered and presented. Megan was compassionate to my situation and dedicated to helping me, even providing reassurance when I needed it. I was impressed by her knowledge and comprehensive understanding of the law. In court, she was efficient, confident, quick on her feet, and highly skilled in presenting the facts well as she questioned, defended, and laid out our case. Without hesitation I would recommend Megan and so thankful she was on my team.
Read more
26 Aug, 2020 by Sheila
Marielizabeth helped me with a situation that every other attorney I contacted wouldn’t help me resolve. She was successful in rectifying the situation. And this problem was with the government!!! Highly recommend MariElizabeth
Read more
26 Aug, 2020 by Dawna
Attorney Mari Elizabeth Mckeon is absolutely relentless in her ability to pursue her clients best interest. Attorney McKeon represented and consulted me during a very scary time in court.
She is very empathetic, caring , held my hand and guided me throughout a very stressful case .
I highly recommend her if you are looking for a professional who is intelligent, compassionate, empathetic and non bias and will not back down.
I couldn't dream of better person to have on my side. She is very responsive and easy to work with.. I am very thankful for everything she has done to help me and my family with a positive outcome.
Read more
26 Feb, 2020 by Katelyn
Mari is fantastic! She's the iron fist in the velvet glove. She is so helpful and kind and understanding but firmly defends my personal and my company's best interests! I highly recommend to anyone as she has my most absolute trust!
Read more
Browse lawyers
Cities in Massachusetts - Find a Lawyer Near Me
-
Boston
-
Cambridge
-
Worcester
-
Springfield
-
Quincy
-
Waltham
-
Newton
-
Framingham
-
Salem
-
Wellesley
-
Woburn
-
Braintree
-
Andover
-
New Bedford
-
Fall River
-
Lowell
-
Brookline
-
North Andover
-
Brockton
-
Needham
-
Burlington
-
Hingham
-
Beverly
-
Natick
-
Northampton
-
Lexington
-
Milton
-
Concord
-
Pittsfield
-
Westborough
-
Dedham
-
Plymouth
-
Marlborough
-
Wakefield
-
Haverhill
-
Canton
-
Hyannis
-
Chelmsford
-
Lynn
-
Taunton
-
Norwood
-
Peabody
-
DANVERS
-
Somerville
-
Wellesley Hills
-
Arlington
-
Westwood
-
Winchester
-
Lynnfield
-
Medford
-
Watertown
-
Charlestown
-
Leominster
-
Lawrence
-
Malden
-
Newburyport
-
Acton
-
Attleboro
-
Southborough
-
Stoneham
-
Norwell
-
Franklin
-
Methuen
-
Sudbury
-
Holyoke
-
Gloucester
-
Melrose
-
Amherst
-
Belmont
-
Stoughton
-
Hanover
-
Marblehead
-
Bridgewater
-
Jamaica Plain
-
Walpole
-
Saugus
-
Chestnut Hill
-
Falmouth
-
Mansfield
-
Reading
-
Scituate
-
West Roxbury
-
Mashpee
-
NEWTON CENTER
-
Westford
-
Sharon
-
South Easton
-
Bedford
Browse lawyers
Practice Areas in Massachusetts
-
Business
-
Real Estate
-
Litigation
-
Personal Injury
-
Family Law
-
Criminal Defense
-
Estate Planning
-
Intellectual Property
-
Probate
-
Government
-
Insurance
-
Consumer Protection
-
Appeals
-
Tax
-
Civil Rights
-
Immigration
-
Elder Law
-
Medical Malpractice
-
Workers Compensation
-
Mediation
-
Trusts
-
Child Custody
-
Car Accident
-
Lawsuit / Dispute
-
Bankruptcy
-
Child Support
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Discrimination
-
Class Action
-
Domestic Violence
-
Wrongful Death
-
Debt Collection
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
Juvenile Law
-
Divorce
-
Entertainment
-
Employment / Labor
-
Foreclosure
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Wrongful Termination
-
Adoption
-
Sex Crime
-
Copyright Application
-
DUI / DWI
-
Federal Crime
-
Debt Settlement
-
Landlord & Tenant
-
Construction
-
Drug Crime
-
Cannabis Law
-
Credit Repair
-
Education Law
-
Admiralty / Maritime
-
Life Insurance
-
Corporate
-
Environmental Law
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.
