Lawyers map
>9
experienced lawyers
Filter by
28 Sep, 2021 by Desiree betancourt
Arie was so helpful and gave me so much advice I highly recommend them I appreciate all the advice and help I got
Read more
20 Jul, 2020 by Juan rodriguez
Attorney Are answered my question and gave me a Juge relief ..... Other lawyers were charging me 4,500 just for a question I'm so proud I found him 🙏🏻🙏🏻
Read more
14 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
There arent enough words to express how much of an AMAZING Attorney Michael is. He sets the bar on the level of communication he has with his clients. He takes so much pride in his ability to fight for his client, that he studies each and every word in your case. There were details he remembered that I had informed him of, and as I thought I was notifying him for the first time, he finished my update all on his own, remembering every little detail, as if it happened directly to him. I forgot I had already relayed the update, but I cant even begin to describe the overwhelming feeling of comfort to know Michael was not just my attorney, he was someone who genuinely cared about me and my kids. We went to our hearing, Michael all prepared and excited to represent me, evidence and notes in one hand and confidence in the other. Michael is not a very tall man by any means, but the fight he had inside of him, the fight he used defending and representing me, was one of an army from Sparta!! As a mom, going through court against my kids father, who instigated constant chaos, is that last and the hardest situation you ever want to face in general, however, just to know that Michael was in my corner fighting with and for me and my kids, made this situation a bit easier to handle. Thank you Michael, from the bottom of my heart. You will surely be missed at Westover!!
Read more
28 Sep, 2021 by Desiree betancourt
Arie was so helpful and gave me so much advice I highly recommend them I appreciate all the advice and help I got
Read more
20 Jul, 2020 by Juan rodriguez
Attorney Are answered my question and gave me a Juge relief ..... Other lawyers were charging me 4,500 just for a question I'm so proud I found him 🙏🏻🙏🏻
Read more
14 Jan, 2025 by Juan e. rose iii
I cannot recommend Andrei Lapine highly enough. If you're looking for a trusted, responsive, and truly passionate attorney who goes above and beyond, Andrei is your go-to lawyer. I've had the privilege of working with him on two separate cases over the years, and in both instances, he has proven time and time again to be an expert in his field.
What sets Andrei apart is his unwavering commitment to doing the right thing and his deep understanding of the law. He is incredibly proficient, always prepared, and fully invested in his clients' well-being. His expertise in the Military Diversion Program in Riverside County, CA, is unmatched, and it's clear that he's become one of the most respected professionals, if not the most respected, in the eyes of the Veterans Court.
If you need legal assistance, particularly with matters related to the Military Diversion Program, I would highly recommend Andrei Lapine without hesitation. He is not only a brilliant attorney but also someone who genuinely cares about the people he represents. His passion for justice and his dedication to his clients make him a standout in the legal community. I will always trust Andrei to handle any legal matters, and while I hope to not need his services again, I will continue to recommend him well into the future.
Read more
17 Dec, 2024 by Destiny ariel
My experience With Iapine law has been a great experience it was fair and lawful he sticks behind what’s right is right and what’s wrong is wrong this was a long journey, but we got everything done and he makes sure his clients are on point so that he can better assist when it’s time to go to court shows love care & concern I would definitely use him in the future and you should too !!!!!!!
Read more
17 Dec, 2024 by Joshua brunson
Andrei is an incredible attorney and will help you to the ends of the earth for your case. He does a great job in simplifying the situation and has a good footing in the Riverside court system to fight for your case. I recommend Andrei and his team to anyone who needs help. He is also a veteran as a plus.
Read more
22 Jan, 2025 by Nick m
Waste of time! They got all my info and said I will have appointment with a attorney but that never happened! They set up appointment with a assistant that wasn't a lawyer!
Read more
22 Jan, 2025 by Marco salinas jr
I hired this law firm to assist me on a very important family custody regarding my ex taking my daughter out of state. As a first responder and a military veteran, I am very well aware on how attorneys function. Such as opposing counsel trying to have my case continued for several months. I informed this law firm of not only my situation but also the play by play that opposing counsel was going to do. I hired this firm in October 2024 and my hearing was held in December 2024. Within those 2 months they charged me just under $9000 and no work was done. This law firm failed to complete my case in December, as they did not work on my case and made mistakes of not serving opposing counsel. The lack and negligence of their concern to my case allowed opposing counsel to have my case continued until February 2025.
After they had the case continued, I told them about my concerns and all they cared was about more money. I told them that I was not going to provide them any more money and if they would like to drop my case to let me know and I would hire another law firm. This firm did not notify me of the standings and only notified opposing counsel that they were no longer representing me. When they notified opposing counsel, this firm had not filed a substitution of attorney. When opposing counsel told about this matter, I was lost and confused at first. I then searched for a better law firm. At this time they have done way more work than this law firm, such as ex partes and visitations (too early to rate them). However, when my new firm started the substitution of attorney, this law firm provided my new attorney false information and filed their own substitution of attorney. The immature act of this law firm delayed my new attorney to take over in a timely manner and it also caused me to lose Winter break visitation days with my daughter.
I called this law firm out on their actions and once again they did not care. All they wanted was more money. I am currently in the process of getting them for legal malpractice. I just want to warn those that are truly fighting for their child(ren) to look for another attorney and not waste your money. If this law firm is capable of stealing from a first responder and military veteran after being provided a play by play, I can only imagine for the hardworking single parents that do not know about the court and custody system.
My case was a simple custody battle with no domestic violence, CPS and/or police contact. All I needed this law firm to do was to complete court documents properly and have them serve those that needed to be serve properly. Especially since my ex alone had violated state laws by taking our daughter out of state without my consent.
Feel free to reach out to me if any questions arise and other documents you would like to see from this horrible law firm.
Read more
04 Jan, 2025 by Lou ross
Horrible with communication and representing clients. The Bar will be contacted against a specific attorney in this firm. $$$ and no legal representation in a timely matter.
Read more
07 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
I hired Michelle during one of the most vulnerable and traumatic times of mine and my children’s lives. She made big promises, didn’t deliver, and drug things out for billable hours, while she knew my kids were going through hell when with their dad. I was never in the courtroom with her, always made to wait outside of it. I remember one court date, where I became very frustrated as the court was once AGAIN postponed, and she turned around, away from me, and said to her associate, “She’s so I unappreciative”, referring to me. Very unprofessional at times. I finally had to fire her and retained another lawyer who had my children’s best interest at heart and got results and resolution, and always had me in the courtroom with him. If you can, try to work things out in your marriage. If you can’t, try to keep it out of the courts, and work out an agreement that’s good for the kids.
Read more
10 May, 2021 by Ryan
Being a business owner, I typically only leave reviews for one of two reasons; Either what I experienced was above average, exceeded expectations, & the business deserves the shout out. Secondary, as a forewarning to others the business was such a letdown & did so horribly, avoid wasting your money. Unfortunately, my experience with Michelle & her firm was the latter.
Custody is never easy and conflict was high with my case as I was barely able to see my kids for almost 2 months. I reached out to Penna Coker Law & spoke with Michelle, once & only once with an initial free consultation. After listening to my case, she provided pieces of an aggressive game plan & some guidance that gave me hope. I retained Michelle's firm & she assured me along with her team, she would be there to continue providing legal guidance. She couldn't have been more wrong.
I spent the next 3 weeks with unanswered questions, confused, afraid, & completely left in the dark without a single word from Michelle until I terminated her firm. Things started off rocky with over 20 misspellings on the initial filing, including several of my son's name which would be correct on one line, incorrect on another, correct, then incorrect. Other misspellings included commonly used words or incorrect grammar. If you're going to charge $350/hr for a paralegal's work, at least have them run spell-check. Even Windows 98 had spell check... After that, they filed a document I never saw until after they filed with court & misspelled CALLIFORNIA. The state they're practicing law in. I emailed my attorney directly 6 times & called 6 times requesting to speak with Michelle over a 3 week period. I always got the same excuses of why she wasn't available & after taking my money, Michelle didn't see my case fit enough to take even one more second of her time on me.
Michelle was so uninvolved & out of the loop, in one of her final emails to me she made several references to my "child". I have two children Michelle. After being fired, Michelle was so kind as to take the liberty of filling in my new attorney, then bill me for her time. Neither my new attorney nor I requested Michelle to inform my new counsel how to do their job. $4,500 initial retainer, then Michelle informed me "there was so much work done on my case" & then I got another $3k bill a month later. I just hit the same total amount with my current attorney after 7 weeks, who also got me custody orders & overnight alternate weekends with my kids after 11 days.
Michelle advised me to file an aggressive restraining order, then admitted to me in an email (after termination) that evidence wasn't concrete enough. Had I pursued what Michelle advised with fantastic odds of losing, I was potentially liable to pay the opposing side's legal fees if I hadn't decided to drop the case.
If you're looking for help with your family law case, I would recommend any firm but this one.
Read more
19 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Michelle Penna and her staff all worked very hard to help resolve my issues. When looking for an attorney, you want to find one that will be fair and is capable of providing you with accurate information. Michelle and her staff will go above and beyond to help you find a fair resolution. If you want an attorney that has no heart and will just crush the other party then don't go to her. If you want someone that will help you through a tough situation and do everything possible to provide a very fair result, then Michelle Penna is who you want to hire. As angry as we can be with our former partners, at one point we loved them. It can be difficult to remember that, especially in the heat of battle. For me, the most important thing was getting though my custody situation with a fair outcome. Michelle made that possible for me! Now me and my ex both feel good about the situation and are able to communicate well again and work together on matters regarding our daughter. Everyone's situation is different, and it wasn't an easy road getting to this point. It took us over a year to get to where we are today. On the other hand, I have recommended people to Michelle that were able to resolve their issues in a matter of weeks. I would recommend Michelle and her staff to absolutely anyone I know. Thank you very much Michelle, for everything you did for us!
Read more
22 Jan, 2025 by Nick m
Waste of time! They got all my info and said I will have appointment with a attorney but that never happened! They set up appointment with a assistant that wasn't a lawyer!
Read more
22 Jan, 2025 by Marco salinas jr
I hired this law firm to assist me on a very important family custody regarding my ex taking my daughter out of state. As a first responder and a military veteran, I am very well aware on how attorneys function. Such as opposing counsel trying to have my case continued for several months. I informed this law firm of not only my situation but also the play by play that opposing counsel was going to do. I hired this firm in October 2024 and my hearing was held in December 2024. Within those 2 months they charged me just under $9000 and no work was done. This law firm failed to complete my case in December, as they did not work on my case and made mistakes of not serving opposing counsel. The lack and negligence of their concern to my case allowed opposing counsel to have my case continued until February 2025.
After they had the case continued, I told them about my concerns and all they cared was about more money. I told them that I was not going to provide them any more money and if they would like to drop my case to let me know and I would hire another law firm. This firm did not notify me of the standings and only notified opposing counsel that they were no longer representing me. When they notified opposing counsel, this firm had not filed a substitution of attorney. When opposing counsel told about this matter, I was lost and confused at first. I then searched for a better law firm. At this time they have done way more work than this law firm, such as ex partes and visitations (too early to rate them). However, when my new firm started the substitution of attorney, this law firm provided my new attorney false information and filed their own substitution of attorney. The immature act of this law firm delayed my new attorney to take over in a timely manner and it also caused me to lose Winter break visitation days with my daughter.
I called this law firm out on their actions and once again they did not care. All they wanted was more money. I am currently in the process of getting them for legal malpractice. I just want to warn those that are truly fighting for their child(ren) to look for another attorney and not waste your money. If this law firm is capable of stealing from a first responder and military veteran after being provided a play by play, I can only imagine for the hardworking single parents that do not know about the court and custody system.
My case was a simple custody battle with no domestic violence, CPS and/or police contact. All I needed this law firm to do was to complete court documents properly and have them serve those that needed to be serve properly. Especially since my ex alone had violated state laws by taking our daughter out of state without my consent.
Feel free to reach out to me if any questions arise and other documents you would like to see from this horrible law firm.
Read more
04 Jan, 2025 by Lou ross
Horrible with communication and representing clients. The Bar will be contacted against a specific attorney in this firm. $$$ and no legal representation in a timely matter.
Read more
22 Jan, 2025 by Angela dube
22 Jan, 2025 by Nathan perry
Best Family Law Attorney in the area.
Mr Westover is truly a life saver who knows the family law. The cost was reasonable and he delivered everything that I wanted in my divorce case. He was unbelievable and know his way around the courtroom which is very reassuring. Highly recommend Mr. Westover.
Read more
29 Nov, 2024 by Tierra trembley
Avoid at all cost unless you want to waste your money. I retained Taryn to help in the custody battle that I’m been going through with my ex husband. The court date finally came and I never seen the judge. We sat in a room outside of court where she proceeded to hand write what my ex should pay in child support and health insurance. She came late, spent 45 minutes with me (talking about her kids) explained nothing, the billed me for over 2 hours of time that she was not there for. She didn’t address the back child support, the attorneys fees, or the scheduling adjustment that I was wanting. She had me show up in court to complete something that could have been done in her office months earlier. I had to call her pissed off for her to explain why nothing got addressed that day, just for her to bill be for the conversation that should have happened when we were in court
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Child Support Lawyer Can Do for You
A child support lawyer specializes in legal issues related to the financial support that one parent provides to another for the upbringing of their children. These lawyers assist with establishing, enforcing, and modifying child support orders, ensuring that the financial needs of the child are met, including housing, food, healthcare, education, and other essentials. A child support lawyer can also represent parents in disputes over the amount of support, ensure fair calculations based on income, and handle legal proceedings if one parent fails to meet their obligations.
Whether you're seeking to establish child support, modify an existing order, or enforce payments, a child support lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights and the well-being of your child.
When Should I Hire a Child Support Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a child support lawyer when you need assistance with any of the following child support matters:
- Establishing child support: If you are going through a divorce or separation and need to establish a child support order, a lawyer can help ensure that the support amount is fair and accurately calculated.
- Modifying child support orders: If there has been a significant change in circumstances, such as a job loss, income change, or a child's financial needs, a lawyer can help you request a modification to the existing child support order.
- Enforcing child support payments: If the other parent has failed to make court-ordered child support payments, a lawyer can help enforce the order through legal means such as wage garnishment, property liens, or even legal action.
- Disputing child support calculations: If you believe the child support amount has been incorrectly calculated based on your income or expenses, a lawyer can help you challenge the calculation and seek a fair adjustment.
- Paternity disputes: If paternity needs to be established before child support can be ordered, a lawyer can assist with DNA testing and legal proceedings.
- Interstate child support cases: If the parents live in different states, navigating child support laws can be complex. A lawyer can help ensure the proper jurisdiction is established and that child support is enforced across state lines.
- Child support during custody disputes: If child custody and child support are being determined simultaneously, a lawyer can help ensure that both issues are resolved fairly and in the best interest of the child.
Hiring a lawyer early can help ensure that your child support case is handled effectively and that your child's financial needs are met.
What Does a Child Support Lawyer Do?
A child support lawyer provides a variety of legal services to help parents secure, modify, and enforce child support arrangements. Their responsibilities often include:
- Filing for child support: A lawyer can help you initiate the legal process to obtain a child support order, ensuring that all necessary documentation is submitted and deadlines are met.
- Calculating child support: A lawyer can help ensure that child support is calculated fairly based on both parents' incomes, the needs of the child, and other factors such as healthcare and education costs.
- Negotiating child support agreements: If both parents are willing to negotiate, a lawyer can help facilitate an agreement on child support outside of court, which can then be approved by a judge.
- Representing you in court: If negotiations fail or the other parent contests the child support amount, a lawyer will represent you in family court, presenting evidence and making legal arguments to support your case.
- Modifying support orders: A lawyer can help you file a request for modification if circumstances change, such as a loss of income or an increase in the child’s financial needs.
- Enforcing child support: If the other parent is not making court-ordered payments, a lawyer can take legal steps to enforce the order through wage garnishment, property liens, or other measures.
- Handling complex cases: In cases involving high incomes, self-employment, or complicated financial situations, a lawyer can help ensure that all relevant factors are considered in determining child support.
How Are Child Support Lawyers Paid?
Child support lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the type of legal work required. Common payment methods include:
- Hourly rate: Most child support lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location. The total cost will depend on how much time the lawyer spends on your case, including preparation, negotiations, and court appearances.
- Flat fee: For more straightforward cases, such as uncontested child support agreements or basic modifications, some lawyers may offer a flat fee that covers all services related to the case.
- Retainer: Many lawyers require a retainer, which is an upfront payment that is billed against as the lawyer works on your case. The amount of the retainer depends on the expected complexity of the case.
- Sliding scale or pro bono services: Some lawyers offer sliding scale fees based on income or provide pro bono (free) services in cases where clients cannot afford to pay full legal fees, especially when children’s needs are at stake.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer during the initial consultation to understand how much you will be charged and what services are covered.
How Much Does a Child Support Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a child support lawyer varies depending on the complexity of the case, whether it's contested or uncontested, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost estimates include:
- Uncontested child support cases: Legal fees may range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the complexity of the paperwork and the lawyer’s fees.
- Contested child support cases: Legal fees can range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more, especially if the case involves significant court time.
- Hourly rates: Lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour for child support cases, with higher rates for more experienced attorneys or cases that involve complex financial issues.
- Modification or enforcement: Fees for modifying or enforcing a child support order may range from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the complexity and the need for court intervention.
Always ask for a detailed cost estimate during your consultation so you can plan your budget accordingly.
Top Questions to Ask a Child Support Lawyer
Before hiring a child support lawyer, it’s important to ask questions to ensure they are the right fit for your case. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with child support cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it’s establishing, modifying, or enforcing child support orders. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, offers flat fees, or requires a retainer, and ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case and any potential challenges you may face. -
How long will the process take?
Child support cases can take time, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last and what factors may cause delays. -
Will you personally handle my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of the case. Make sure you know who will be managing your case and representing you in court. -
What documents should I prepare?
Ask the lawyer what financial documents and other information you should bring to help them calculate child support and build your case.
How to Check the Credibility of a Child Support Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable child support lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for family law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in family law and have successfully handled child support cases similar to yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate.
- Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on child support matters.
- Check for certifications: Some lawyers may have certifications in family law or membership in organizations like the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), which can indicate their expertise in child support and family law issues.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most out of your first consultation with a child support lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Income documents: Bring pay stubs, tax returns, W-2s, or any other documentation of your income and the other parent’s income, as this will be used to calculate child support.
- Existing child support orders: If there are any existing child support or custody orders, bring copies for the lawyer to review.
- Child-related expenses: Provide documentation of your child’s medical bills, education expenses, daycare costs, and any other expenses that should be factored into the child support calculation.
- Communication with the other parent: Bring any communication between you and the other parent regarding child support, whether through emails, text messages, or written agreements.
- List of questions: Prepare a list of questions about your case, the legal process, and the lawyer’s fees.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your case more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice on how to proceed.
