Best Child Support lawyers in Massachusetts

336 Child Support Lawyers in Massachusetts

>336

experienced lawyers

Carol Ann Phinney

480 Route 6A, East Sandwich, MA

Child Custody Child Support Family Law +2 +5

+1 (508) 403-7156

5.0/5

5.0

4 Reviews

23 Nov, 2020 by D gaffey

Great experience overall having Carol Phinney as my attorney. Carol gave my case all the time and attention that was needed to be successful in court. Carol had looked out for my best interests and had my back the entire time. Thank you Phinney Law Offices for absolutely everything you did for me. I would definitely recommend this firm!

06 Jun, 2019 by Jp smith

19 May, 2019 by Cristina robinson

As the aforementioned ex wife, I highly recommend Carol. She was extremely professional while my ex was being his typical narcissistic, cocky, know it all. She found a way for him to actually pay for his son instead of tacking it on to his ridiculously large child support arrears from other children. It's unfortunate and sad that I had to get a lawyer in order for him to pay half of day care, which he brings him to everyday he has him and half of my son's health insurance. These are things any Dad should agree to pay for while having 50/50 custody. For anyone dealing with a manipulative narcissist as an ex, Carol will go to bat for you. I'd gladly spend the money again in order to get my son taken care of and moving along the divorce that lasted way longer than it should have while my ex leeched off of my health insurance and delayed the divorce for months. If I could give her ten stars, I would. Thank you, Carol, for giving me peace of mind and putting my son's well being first and foremost.

Patrice Marie Brymner

5 B Spruce St, Acton, MA

Child Custody Child Support Family Law +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

4 Reviews

07 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous

My divorce was not contentious, but I needed someone to look out for MY interests, after my now-Ex retained a lawyer and tried to pass him off as a mediator. I don't think there was any mal-intent going on, but I needed to make sure MY interests were being preserved. She listened to my desired goals, where I thought there could be some negotiations, and she handled it from there. It's a stressful time, and was glad she was there to help me through it all. The outcome was as expected.

17 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous

My divorce process became more contentious than I originally anticipated and Patrice provided excellent guidance throughout while efficiently managing my legal costs. She was professional and well prepared for our temporary support court hearing and was also very effective in final negotiations with my ex-husband's lawyer which led to a quick pre-trial hearing in front of the judge. She shows compassion without prying into personal matters and takes the time to evaluate the case fully to determine the best outcome for her client. I feel fortunate to have had Patrice by my side during this challenging time to represent me and protect my interests.

26 Aug, 2015 by Jason

Patrice was with me every step of the way when I was going through my divorce. She was receptive to my needs, but also was very pragmatic when it came to actual litigation. She never allowed me to have unrealistic expectations. Going through a divorce is a very emotional time and Patrice let me have those emotional responses, but also let me know what was and was not realistic.

Karen Berman Cohen

9 Damonmill Square, Concord, MA

Child Custody Child Support Family Law +3

5.0/5

5.0

4 Reviews

05 Jul, 2019 by Chandler

I had such a great experience working with Karen on my recent divorce. She is incredibly knowledgeable, responsive, and a very pleasant person to work with. She helped me draft all of my paperwork, prepared me for all possibilities, and advised me on every step of the divorce process. Everything went incredibly smoothly in the end, and this was all thanks to Karen.

10 Oct, 2018 by Peter

I hired Karen to handle my divorce. A divorce, in and of itself, can be a very trying experience. It is a lengthy, time consuming process, with several emotional highs and lows. It requires a good line of communication, which Karen provides, to allow for the appropriate strategic approach to each of the the significant number issues that arise. I found her to also have a balanced awareness to the cost benefit of those approaches. I never felt rushed, however, I never felt there was any time being wasted. I am very satisfied that I hired Karen and would highly recommend her.

06 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous

Karen helped me manage and stay on track with my divorce. She is knowledgeable with various aspects of asset division that involves stock options, buyout of marital property, health insurance, IRA, etc. Without Karen, I could have easily lost out in this process. She is caring and sensible with the emotional ups and downs of a divorce--probably due to her background in clinical psychology--which helped me stay cool and focus on the tasks at hand, which was to get the divorce finalized as quickly and as fairly as possible. There were times that Karen would work after hours and over the weekend when there were urgent documents to review and edit, not because I gave her the pressure, but because she recognized that we had momentum and cooperation from the other side and should just get it done and over with. She paid great attention to details with documents, with careful edits that helped protect my interests in all aspects. I would highly recommend Karen for her excellent experience, knowledge and professionalism!

Angela M. LeBlanc Murdock

85 Eastern Avenue, Suite 301, Gloucester, MA

Adoption Child Support Family Law +3

5.0/5

5.0

1 Reviews

5.0

3 Reviews

13 Mar, 2024 by John benchoff

Highly recommend Nancy. She's not only a great attorney, but a great person a well.

11 Aug, 2023 by Paul f coughlin

Excellent experience, thoughtful and pleasant. Good and fair outcome.

27 Apr, 2016 by Dylan caldwell

Great lawyer !

Philip H. Whitehead

161 Harvard Avenue #4, Allston, MA

Car Accident Child Custody Child Support +3 +6

5.0/5

5.0

3 Reviews

5.0

1 Reviews

19 Dec, 2020 by Jhan karimov - timidus

Loved working with him!

08 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous

The layer Philips Whitehead, was very clear and he oriented me in my divorce. The time was exactly that he told me. All the processes was move like smooth bote in the ocean. No price at all. Thank you Layer Whitehead.

19 Jan, 2016 by Armando s pinheiro

I am a general contractor and a client sued me for breaking our contract and not doing good work on his house and i did not agree.Mr. Whitehead represented me in a jury trial and at the end we not only proved that i did the work but the jury also gave me money due to the homeowner's breach of contract. he did a very good job and i was very happy with the results . Sincerely, Armando Pinheiro

Carla Alonah Halpern

34 North Main Street, Orange, MA

Child Custody Child Support Debt Collection +3 +6

5.0/5

5.0

3 Reviews

15 Jan, 2024 by Eileen

Attorney Halpern is my lawyer for Child Custody and Divorce. Attorney Halpern is amazing, and affordable. She is extremely knowledgeable and skilled. Best lawyer possible. I highly recommend her for divorce, child custody, family law. Her office number is: 978-413-9275.

12 Jan, 2024 by Kate

Carla is kind, professional, and smart. She helped me get out of my bad marriage during the height of covid with grace and intelligence. She was absolutely a rock when they tried to pull some shady things, like stealing all my stimulus checks and trying to make me share my husbands extremely high credit card debt. The opposing lawyer started screaming during one of our Zoom meetings and Carla was absolutely cool as a cucumber. I got my stimulus money back and I did not have to take on paying back his CC debt. Carla was recommended to me by a friend and I definitely have recommended her to others! Thank you Carla!

16 Oct, 2021 by Kym

I hired Carla Halpern to assist me with a no contest divorce. She was clear about what to expect, made the process much less petrifying than I'd thought possible, and I felt confident with her on my side. We experienced a complication when my ex moved to Asia and failed on a part of his divorce obligations. Without leverage to work with in terms of international law, Ms. Halpern deftly managed to help me get him to make good on those obligations. A lawyer who can hold somebody to account from 8,000 miles away is impressive. Never underestimate the skills required for that. Needing a lawyer is seldom fun, but if/when you do need one, you can count on Carla Halpern as an invested team member on your behalf. She's compassionate, fair, and authentic. You will feel like you've got a solid partner on your side. And you'll be right.

Assunta DiBiase Perez

279 Cambridge St, Burlington, MA

Adoption Child Custody Child Support +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

3 Reviews

25 Jan, 2022 by Nelia

Attorney Assunta Petez was my divorce lawyer. She is terrific. Very caring and experienced!! In Addition she is down to earth and her fees are reasonable. I am very happy with her hard work!! If you need an honest , awesome Attorney...give Assunta Perez a call!!!!!!

13 Aug, 2020 by Dean

Assunta Perez is a very hard-working attorney that will always fight for you. She excepts all challenges from every direction and manages all types of interference very well. She is poised with professionalism and good character. She is the attorney that you want to work for you. I highly recommend Assunta. It was enjoyable working with her over the past 13 months of my divorce.

13 Aug, 2020 by Martha

Assunta set up our house so our daughter was executive of the house as my husband has dementia. This was we save the house from a nursing home taking it. She did an awesome job.

1629 Central St Ste 7, Stoughton, MA

Child Custody Child Support Estate Planning +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

2 Reviews

17 Sep, 2013 by Amanda

I have had Christopher Coen as a laywer and legal consultant for a year. He is professional, knowledgable and committed. He makes sure you are receiving the information you need in a timely and efficient manor. I have had nothing but positive outcomes to my legal needs. His professional demeanor and caring outlook is hard to find in this business.

17 Sep, 2013 by Jonathan

Chris met with me and prepared my will and medical proxy on short notice when I had to go in for surgery. He is very IT friendly he scanned many of my documents and put others on a CD for safe keeping. He returns calls and emails promptly Chris is very well organized.

Zoe Martin

One Boston Place, 37th Floor, Boston, MA

Child Custody Child Support Family Law +3

5.0/5

5.0

2 Reviews

19 Nov, 2021 by Savitha

I worked with Zoe when she was still a law clerk in Barbra Black's firm. She helped me understand the financials, something i had a lot of trouble getting my head around. Zoe has great attention to detail and follows up on tasks. She became a lawyer while still working on my case! I was very comfortable working with her. Zoe brought calm to my chaotic situation and that helped me during my contentious divorce! I strongly recommend Zoe! She is awesome.

15 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous

I was so lucky that Zoe joined the Black Law Group just as my case began. Zoe is smart, empathic, diligent, and a great communicator. Zoe's and Barbara's outstanding legal expertise and kindness made the stress of going through this with a crazy ex-spouse bearable. I will be forever grateful for their help and would want them as friends if we had met under other circumstances!

Margaret Austin Rubino

54 Junction Square Drive, Concord, MA

Child Custody Child Support Family Law +3

5.0/5

5.0

2 Reviews

21 Mar, 2019 by Tess

Attorney Rubino is a highly skilled and experienced attorney with a great deal of insight, compasssion and intelligence. Every interaction is positive, encouraging, realistic and thorough. Attorney Rubino is an exceptional listener and will find ways to express your needs and opinions to the court with power and conviction. In my case she left no stone unturned, supported me throughout the entire process, was respectful and vigilant of cost and argued in the most impressive manner. This is most likely the highest recommendation I have ever written and I stand by it, an exceptional attourney.

17 Sep, 2018 by Annemarie

Ms. Rubino is exceptionally knowable, dedicated and honorable attorney. She is self motivated and a tireless advocate for her clients. She is compassionate as she is intelligent. She cultivates and deserves her clients trust. Highly, highly recommended. Her services were irreplaceable for me and my family on our case.

Christina Lynn

1100 Washington St, Hanover, MA

Business Child Custody Child Support +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

2 Reviews

10 Jan, 2017 by Lauren

My husband and I have worked with Christina on several occasions when we needed sound legal advice for our businesses and for our family. Christina is an excellent lawyer; very thorough, responsive, thoughtful, respectful and knowledgeable. I feel confident and comforted knowing that Christina will always be there for me when I need legal counsel!

28 Oct, 2016 by Gail

My husband and I hired Christina to put together our wills after the birth of our daughter. She took the time to understand all of our needs and answer any question we had. She made what can be a complicated process simple.

Diane Marie Shields

21 Mayor Thomas J Mcgrath Hwy., Quincy, MA

Child Support Family Law +2

5.0/5

5.0

2 Reviews

20 Oct, 2014 by Lisa

I met Diane while helping a friend find legal representation in an emergency situation. While I was not the client, I was closely involved throughout and was impressed with her abilities. She is smart, knowledgeable, realistic, efficient, and caring. She is highly qualified, and was thoughtful in her approach, resulting in an efficient use of resources. She quickly responded to calls and emails and was straightforward in discussing the chances of the case. I highly recommend Diane.

20 Oct, 2014 by Evelyn and martha

I have retained Diane Shields for two very difficult cases. One about 13 years ago for my daughter. Atty. Shields worked very hard on her case, and most importantly she won the case. I seeked her help again recently for myself, remembering her outstanding knowledge of the law and finding solutions for complex real estate tenant/landlord case. Diane Shields, is prompt, she listens to her clients attentively, she processes oral information in a correct matter. She speaks the truth, and charges accordingly. She is worth her rates and then some. She took a case that many lawyers refused to take. She has many qualities that make her a great attorney. She takes her time, and gives it her all. I presented my case to many attorneys before going to Ms. Shields and will highly recommend her if you are looking for an attorney that is honest, caring, and takes her job very seriously. She will answer your questions, she writes very well, and is not afraid to fight for your rights. Sincerely,

James J. Richards

222 Berkeley St, Boston, MA

Child Custody Child Support Family Law +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

2 Reviews

21 Mar, 2017 by John

After paying another attorney from Worcester over $10,000.00 over a period of 8 months to amend my divorce decree and getting nowhere, I hired Jim to handle my case . He was easy to work with , quick on his feet, and expertly negotiated a fair agreement in no time at all . He was just plain fantastic. I would give 10 stars if it were allowed. Cant say enough good things. Wish I had met him the first time!

21 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous

Jim was willing and capable of negotiating a settlement between myself, my now ex- wife, and her attorney. Jim steered me away from personal actions and communications that may have hurt the chances for a negotiated settlement. My particular situation could have been lucrative for him to litigate as it was complex and there was much discovery that would have accompanied a court battle. However he kept my best interest in mind , avoided litigation, protected my interest as well as possible, and treated my ex - wife with respect. He was bright and really understood the issues which really helped my case. We were able to settle in an very short time compared to stories I have heard from others. I also believe that negotiation saved both my ex-wife and myself considerable costs. Most importantly it was easier emotionally for the entire family, including our adult children.

Christina Theresa Vassallo

10 Gatehouse Road, Amherst, MA

Child Custody Child Support Estate Planning +2 +5

5.0/5

5.0

2 Reviews

07 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous

Atty. Vassallo went above and beyond to help me get paperwork done at the last minute for a closing.I was literally stressed to the max. She also, earlier in the year did a will and transfer on my home for me. Atty. Vassallo is very thorough and well organized which is extremely important. I had complete confidence in her as an attorney. She was just amazing.

16 Jul, 2018 by Michelle

Atty Vassallo was very prompt and thorough when I needed information about my case...settled out of court. I would definitely use her services again.

Robin F. Wallace

Po Box 881, Newburyport, MA

Child Custody Child Support Criminal Defense +2 +5

5.0/5

5.0

2 Reviews

02 Mar, 2017 by James

Saved me financially and kept the drama low. Highly recommended!

24 Jun, 2014 by Rock

Robin's unflinching dedication and heart are only matched by her attention to detail and her phenomenally contemporized skill set. She is a fearless advocate for her clients and doesn't flinch at a legal challenge, no matter how daunting. She fights (in my case) for the under dog and is selfless in her dedication. She expertly personalized my case, researched and welcomed any information I would offer and was tirelessly available, accomodating and respectful. She is a principled, ethical attorney who maintained her integrity and decorum amidst a bastion of ruthless fabricators. I would highly reccomend this lawyer!!!!!!!!

Justin G. Maiona

57 River St Ste 204, Wellesley Hills, MA

Child Custody Child Support Family Law +3

5.0/5

5.0

1 Reviews

5.0

1 Reviews

31 Aug, 2018 by David

Justin was great my greedy wife was seeking an increase in support when our youngest graduated college, he counter sued for less and judge agreed with him! Great lawyer and knew everyone at the court. Use him he is awesome. Happy Client unhappy Ex

07 Feb, 2017 by Jason chan

Attorney Heinle is a constant professional and someone that fights for your rights every step of the way. I would highly recommend him.

David W. Carr

4 Newman Way, Arlington, MA

Business Child Custody Child Support +7 +10

5.0/5

5.0

1 Reviews

05 Aug, 2017 by Judy

Mr. David Carr is a very caring and patient attorney. He gives you his undivided attention. He always has an open ear for your questions and concerns. I have truly never met a professional with his very caring attitude. I would highly recommend him. He is also super knowledgeable.

Julia Wilkins Kay

96 King Richard Dr, Becket, MA

Child Support Family Law Mediation +3

5.0/5

5.0

1 Reviews

06 Nov, 2022 by Dj skratchmo

Pamela Anne Lucey

33 Waldo St, Worcester, MA

Child Support Elder Law Estate Planning +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

1 Reviews

29 Mar, 2022 by Scott

For my legal situation, she provided me with knowledge, understanding, and compassion! She always kept me informed and let me know where I stood in the process! In the near future, I am looking forward to working with Pamela on my estate planning!

Erin M. Hoefler

25D Washington Sq., Haverhill, MA

Business Child Support Family Law +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

1 Reviews

09 May, 2016 by Ryan

I was hit by a drunk driver resulting in my brand new car that I hadn't even made my first payment on being totaled and myself being injured. I hired Attorney Hoefler for my case and there is absolutely no doubt in my mind that I made the right decision. Attorney Hoefler was pleasant, I'd go so far as to say enjoyable, to interact with. She was the perfect mix of friendly/casual and professional at all times. Her attitude, and her excellent communication skills, made the entire process much less painful than it otherwise could have been. She was always reachable. It never, throughout the entire process, took more than 24 hours for her to get back to me via phone call or via email to address any question or concern I had. Often times it was significantly faster than that. Her explanations were always thorough and she is clearly highly intelligent and knowledgeable. I felt very confident in all the decisions I was making with her in my corner but at the same time she never for a second made me feel pressured or obligated to make any decision. My options were always clearly explained but the decisions were always completely up to me. Regarding the case itself, it felt very apparent to me that Attorney Hoefler was working hard for me and she was also working quickly. She made many phone calls on my behalf, filled out paperwork for me and dealt with the insurance companies so I didn't have to. The entire process- from the day I was hit til the day I got my check in the mail from the insurance company- took under 8 months. From all the looking into that I've done and all the stories I've seen and heard from those around me who have experienced similar incidents, I'm very much under the impression that this kind of thing often takes significantly longer to resolve. I definitely felt Attorney Hoefler got things done on my behalf at a very reasonable pace. Her pricing was clearly explained and extremely reasonable and I'm EXCEEDINGLY happy with the settlement she got me. I absolutely feel I ended up with every penny I deserve and Attorney Hoefler got me as much as anyone possibly could have. I could not within reason be any more satisfied than I am with the results. Summing it up, Attorney Hoefler is a hard working, pleasant, highly intelligent and qualified lawyer and I would work with her again in a heartbeat if the need were to ever arise and I'd recommend her to anyone and everyone. Absolutely choose to have Attorney Hoefler in your corner and, like me, you will not for one moment regret it! 10/10 A+ attorney.

Meagan Kathleen Kerr

323 Boston Post Road., Sudbury, MA

Child Custody Child Support Family Law +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

1 Reviews

21 Mar, 2012 by Db

Dear Marcia, I am writing you this letter to thank you and in particular Katie Kerr for her outstanding job with my divorce. Katie followed up every detail and ensured the settlement of my divorce was fair and equitable, I initially feared being taken advantage of by now former wife through the legal process, but to my surprise it did not happen Katie did an excellent job, protecting my rights and what remained of my assets. I am a professional making well into the six figures, and I can sleep at night, now that it is over and justice was served, and it only happened, because of her gift of fact finding and care to details. Marcia, I will always recommend your team and of course your star Katie to all of my colleagues when the need arises. Thank you for everything. DB

Christopher C Ware

91 Montvale Avenue, Stoneham, MA

Child Custody Child Support Family Law +3

5.0/5

5.0

1 Reviews

16 Sep, 2014 by John

Chris was recommended to me by a friend and I'm glad I hired him. He took the time to understand my difficult situation and handled every aspect of my case with care and patience. I have recommended him to many friends and they have also been pleased with his performance.

Chelsea Strauss

53 State St Fl 15, Boston, MA

Child Custody Child Support Domestic Violence +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

1 Reviews

27 Mar, 2023 by Seth

Chelsea was fair and worked very hard to affect a fair outcome. She is compassionate and helps to guide her client to gain reasonable and fair outcomes. She thoroughly explains laws, procedures and the impacts of both so that decisions are well thought out. She effects great outcomes for her client and her firm. Being part of a very successful firm, she is the touchstone for that firm. I am extremely happy to give her this glowing review

Lauren Jones

53 Main St, Concord, MA

Child Custody Child Support Estate Planning +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

1 Reviews

20 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous

Lauren has been a superb combination of an excellent lawyer and advocate for my best interests, and a caring human being. I had very specific and personal ways in which I wished to handle my divorce. Lauren was scrupulous about identifying the pros and cons of my preferences, as well as in implementing my decisions. She was a great communicator too, making sure she completely understood me before every action. She kept the process moving despite an often-unresponsive opposing counsel. I am delighted with the settlement we worked out, and will continue to retain her for other matters.

Cheryl L Garrity

111 South Bedford Street, Burlington, MA

Adoption Appeals Child Custody +6 +9

5.0/5

5.0

1 Reviews

31 Jul, 2022 by Jeanne

Without hesitation Cheryl Garrity’s work on my divorce needs to be rated 4 stars. She allayed many of concerns during my divorce and custody case. She consistently( and staff) responded to me in a timely manner. Cheryl also handled my estate planning just as efficiently. In addition her sense of ethics elevates her work She is my go to attorney

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FAQs

Questions? We have answers

What a Child Support Lawyer Can Do for You

A child support lawyer specializes in legal issues related to the financial support that one parent provides to another for the upbringing of their children. These lawyers assist with establishing, enforcing, and modifying child support orders, ensuring that the financial needs of the child are met, including housing, food, healthcare, education, and other essentials. A child support lawyer can also represent parents in disputes over the amount of support, ensure fair calculations based on income, and handle legal proceedings if one parent fails to meet their obligations.

Whether you're seeking to establish child support, modify an existing order, or enforce payments, a child support lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights and the well-being of your child.

When Should I Hire a Child Support Lawyer?

You should consider hiring a child support lawyer when you need assistance with any of the following child support matters:

Establishing child support: If you are going through a divorce or separation and need to establish a child support order, a lawyer can help ensure that the support amount is fair and accurately calculated.
Modifying child support orders: If there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as a job loss, income change, or a child's financial needs, a lawyer can help you request a modification to the existing child support order.
Enforcing child support payments: If the other parent has failed to make court-ordered child support payments, a lawyer can help enforce the order through legal means such as wage garnishment, property liens, or even legal action.
Disputing child support calculations: If you believe the child support amount has been incorrectly calculated based on your income or expenses, a lawyer can help you challenge the calculation and seek a fair adjustment.
Paternity disputes: If paternity needs to be established before child support can be ordered, a lawyer can assist with DNA testing and legal proceedings.
Interstate child support cases: If the parents live in different states, navigating child support laws can be complex. A lawyer can help ensure the proper jurisdiction is established and that child support is enforced across state lines.
Child support during custody disputes: If child custody and child support are being determined simultaneously, a lawyer can help ensure that both issues are resolved fairly and in the best interest of the child.

Hiring a lawyer early can help ensure that your child support case is handled effectively and that your child's financial needs are met.

What Does a Child Support Lawyer Do?

A child support lawyer provides a variety of legal services to help parents secure, modify, and enforce child support arrangements. Their responsibilities often include:

Filing for child support: A lawyer can help you initiate the legal process to obtain a child support order, ensuring that all necessary documentation is submitted and deadlines are met.
Calculating child support: A lawyer can help ensure that child support is calculated fairly based on both parents' incomes, the needs of the child, and other factors such as healthcare and education costs.
Negotiating child support agreements: If both parents are willing to negotiate, a lawyer can help facilitate an agreement on child support outside of court, which can then be approved by a judge.
Representing you in court: If negotiations fail or the other parent contests the child support amount, a lawyer will represent you in family court, presenting evidence and making legal arguments to support your case.
Modifying support orders: A lawyer can help you file a request for modification if circumstances change, such as a loss of income or an increase in the child’s financial needs.
Enforcing child support: If the other parent is not making court-ordered payments, a lawyer can take legal steps to enforce the order through wage garnishment, property liens, or other measures.
Handling complex cases: In cases involving high incomes, self-employment, or complicated financial situations, a lawyer can help ensure that all relevant factors are considered in determining child support.

How Are Child Support Lawyers Paid?

Child support lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the type of legal work required. Common payment methods include:

Hourly rate: Most child support lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location. The total cost will depend on how much time the lawyer spends on your case, including preparation, negotiations, and court appearances.
Flat fee: For more straightforward cases, such as uncontested child support agreements or basic modifications, some lawyers may offer a flat fee that covers all services related to the case.
Retainer: Many lawyers require a retainer, which is an upfront payment that is billed against as the lawyer works on your case. The amount of the retainer depends on the expected complexity of the case.
Sliding scale or pro bono services: Some lawyers offer sliding scale fees based on income or provide pro bono (free) services in cases where clients cannot afford to pay full legal fees, especially when children’s needs are at stake.

It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand how much you will be charged and what services are covered.

How Much Does a Child Support Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a child support lawyer varies depending on the complexity of the case, whether it's contested or uncontested, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost estimates include:

Uncontested child support cases: Legal fees may range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the complexity of the paperwork and the lawyer’s fees.
Contested child support cases: Legal fees can range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, especially if the case involves significant court time.
Hourly rates: Lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour for child support cases, with higher rates for more experienced attorneys or cases that involve complex financial issues.
Modification or enforcement: Fees for modifying or enforcing a child support order may range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the complexity and the need for court intervention.

Always ask for a detailed cost estimate during your consultation so you can plan your budget accordingly.

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.

Best Child Support lawyers in Massachusetts

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