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04 Oct, 2023 by Nancy roth
My family and I have worked with this office on numerous occasions and will again in the future if needed; personable, knowledgeable, down-to-earth, great service - 10 stars if I could. Highly recommend!
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29 May, 2021 by Dustin jones
Great team, been going to them for over 7 years. Reliable. Seems like they have a lot of longstanding clients.
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16 Feb, 2020 by Nancy roth
Best attorney visit ever! Friendly, knowledgeable, and professional. Down to earth and very easy to talk with, very glad I contacted him.
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29 Apr, 2022 by Ajit
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Mike Gjesdahl and his team for the care he and his firm gave me during one of the most difficult times in my life. I was blessed to have Mike represent me in my divorce. He was my rock at a time when I needed it most. His extraordinary strength kept me from falling and inspired me to find my own strength to rise above my circumstances. He stood unwavering for me in ways I couldn’t stand for myself. Mike’s innate wisdom and top level of expertise, along with his sincere compassion and high standards of integrity, set him far above others in his field. Mike is a gem. He cares about families and goes over and beyond to advocate for the people he represents. He did that for me, and I am forever grateful. Kari A. Losee is an attorney at Gjesdahl law who was an integral part of my team. Her knowledge, highly effective skills, and steadiness in all situations achieved positive results. She was consistently available when I needed to reach her, and I was very thankful to have her on my team. In summary, Mike Gjesdahl is not only an exceptional and gifted attorney, he is a life changing person. You would be incredibly fortunate to have Mike Gjesdahl and his firm represent you.
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18 Mar, 2022 by Andrea
I’m not one to hop online and write a review about someone, but when your best friend has been represented by the BEST in the business, you let others know. Mike Gjesdahl is that attorney.
Approximately one year ago, my friend needed to find someone to represent her as she went through a challenging divorce. We were looking for someone who is whip smart when it comes to family law and divorce proceedings. Other attorneys pointed us toward Gjesdahl Law so we knew she would get a top-knotch lawyer. What we didn’t expect were all the “extras” that made her experience exceptional.
Mike Gjesdahl goes above and beyond for his clients. He is strong in all situations and his clients draw from that strength. He is compassionate toward his clients and their families; he understands what they are going through. Mike has the wisdom and experience people need when they are going through a life-changing circumstance like divorce.
To sum it up, Mike was the blessing my friend needed at a crucial time in her life. Mike Gjesdahl and his team will always have my highest recommendation.
Andrea Larson
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07 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
I have had a great experience with Michael Gjesdahl and team while obtaining my surrogacy contract and paperwork for my babies. He is extremely professional and everything was handled in a timely manner and his team is very effective. Highly recommend him and his team.
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17 May, 2019 by Beth
If you're looking for knowledgeable representation who will go to bat for you every time, Jason McLean is the one to call. Jason's keen intellect, legal expertise and overall passion for what he does every day makes him not only a tremendous attorney, but an all-around phenomenal person. He works hard for every client, every time, and interacts with his clients in a professional, but caring, manner. The empathy he showed me during my case demonstrates that being an attorney isn't just a job for him; he truly strives to make a positive impact in his clients' lives. He's dedicated, kind, thorough in explaining the legal process, and extremely dedicated to finding the best solution for everyone. Jason understands that family law can be an extremely emotional and stressful process. His calm demeanor, trustworthiness, and can-do attitude put him in a category all his own. You cannot go wrong with consulting or hiring Jason or anyone on his team. I appreciate all of the support he's given me over the years.
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13 Aug, 2018 by Brandon
From beginning to end, Mr. McLean was an outstanding lawyer to have in my corner during my divorce. He's well educated, well spoken, and a great teacher of the legal process. I learned a lot along the way: precedent, what I can reasonably expect to occur for my situation, etc. Mr. McLean's attentiveness and attention to detail are exceptional! Quick responsiveness! And a class act all the way through!
Simply put: I made the right move by having him as my representation. I couldn't be happier with my choice in him & PLM (and my outcome).
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19 Jun, 2018 by Holly
Parvey, Larson, and McLean has exceeded my expectations through their knowledge and expertise in law. Throughout my child custody case, Mr. McLean has shown tremendous determination, professionalism, and passion for his work. His work ethic and timely responses are among the many positive qualities noted throughout my case. He is highly skilled and takes the time to make sure you’re understanding every single step in the process. I would highly recommend PLM to anyone in the FM community. Thanks to PLM for the outstanding outcome with my situation.
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24 Jul, 2022 by Justin
Emily was amazing! She went above and beyond the other attorneys I had. Most importantly she cared about my case and was reassuring the entire time with her. Wish I would've had her from the beginning! I would highly recommend Emily! I'm truly thankful for her.
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24 May, 2022 by Sarah
I’ve had the pleasure of working with Emily M. Ramage for the past 2 years on a number topics; ranging from personal matters, small business collections, and business legality topics.
She listens to her clients to understand what their challenge is and comes up with the best resolution for the challenge in a quick and efficient manner. She puts her clients needs above anything else.
Thank you, Emily!
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23 May, 2022 by Brandi
I was a client of Emilys! And it was all around wonderful! I couldn't of asked for a better lawyer to walk me through what i needed done! 10/10 recommend!
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20 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
She helped me make the divorce go as quickly and her team was very helpful her rate was very reasonable.
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31 May, 2018 by Chad
With my legal case she has been absolutely amazing. Communicative and thorough she has been an outstanding lawyer and going forward in the future she will be the only lawyer I trust and use for any legal obligations. Thank you again Jacey!!!
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30 May, 2018 by Kassandra
Jacey is a wonderful attorney, she is a realist that maintains personability. She is a force to be reckoned with in the court room, she won't sugar coat the reality of your situation. She secured my divorce and primary custody of my daughter. I have much more confidence since retaining Jacey in December of 2016. She does not back down, a person would never regret having her in the chair sitting next to them in the court room. Five stars just doesn't cut it but it's the best rating I could give. She goes above and beyond.
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30 Aug, 2022 by Ajit berg
Kari A. Losee is an attorney at Gjesdahl law who was an integral part of my team. Her knowledge, highly effective skills, and steadiness in all situations achieved positive results. She was consistently available when I needed to reach her, and I was very thankful to have her on my team.
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20 Jun, 2019 by Lori
Kari is an experienced attorney who worked endlessly on my complicated divorce and child custody case, and most importantly, got a fair and necessary outcome. Kari is very approachable and professional. I will certainly go back to her if I have future family law needs.
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15 Feb, 2019 by Matthew
We used this law firm for my stepdaughter adoption. We had Kari A. Losee as our attorney. Very professional and made this transition very painless. While we was around 5 months to completion it was done 98% over the phone and email. Which was very good seeing we live 6 hours away. When we decided this was something we needed to do for our family we had a hard time finding someone we could trust and thanks to the reviews before us, this is where we ended up at and was not disappointed. They communicate everything 100% and handled this with great confidence. Very professional and on the ball with getting things done. Will definitely be our go to place if legal advice or action in needed in the future. You can't go wrong here! call or message them and get started today because you wont regret it.
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21 Nov, 2017 by Janet
Lesley was a great lawyer, she helped me win my child support case, and my divorce case against my ex husband. She stood by me through it all,even when I wanted to quite, she encouraged me not to worry, that everything will be fine.Lesley helped me physically, mentally,and emotionally and I’m really great full for all she did.
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12 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Upon the first meeting with Lesley, I knew she was the attorney that will help. She was very patient in walking me through the process. She thought about things that I would have never thought of.
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15 Jun, 2015 by Cami
Lesley has experience in the child support area prior to practicing family law. She is honest and will tell you what to expect. She is very responsive in her replies. You will never feel like you don't matter or you are "just a number" when you have Lesley. She was very well prepared and came through for me on short notice with flying colors. I would highly recommend her.
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23 May, 2022 by Anonymous
Right from the beginning, Alexis put me and my family at ease doing my Child Custody case. With her knowledge and experience she walked me through all the steps and options that best worked for me and my family. She is truly phenomenal family lawyer and I would highly recommend her.
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26 Sep, 2018 by Tina
Mr. Hill was very helpful and explained in great detail what was going on. He took time to make sure my questions were answered and that I understood everything. He was compassionate and caring.
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30 Mar, 2022 by James d. sandsmark
I have known and worked closely with Richard my entire career. He is willing to fight for his clients, their rights, and the best outcome for his client and all involved. Richard will not back down for anything he believes in. His passion in his clients and representing them is admirable.
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08 May, 2018 by Michelle
Lisa represented me in my divorce. I couldn't have asked for a better lawyer! Her compassion and attention to detail was unsurpassed. I can't thank her enough for everything she did for me and my kids. I highly recommend her!
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09 Dec, 2016 by Kristen
Vanessa Berge helped me through the most stressful time in my life, when my 8-year-old's bio-dad (who was willingly absent for my child's entire life) suddenly appeared to prevent my husband from adopting my child. Vanessa went above and beyond, answering my worried emails and phone calls with patience and compassion. She genuinely cared for my whole family, and she was incredibly thorough in her work. She is also a very ethical person who will give you straight answers. She even wrote my son a nice letter when we won our adoption case :)
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10 Oct, 2024 by Steve
Very smart, personable, and kept focus on my goals. Highly recommended her!
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04 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Diane L. Schull made my experience far intimidating. I had never been to court for anything before and she made it easy. She explained thing very well and the prep work on my side of thing was minimal. Overall, I do plan to reach out to her again if I need assistance in any other legal endeavors.
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18 Dec, 2023 by Liz
Diane and Jill were very helpful in the divorce process and answered all of my questions. She did a great job advocating on my behalf and getting us to a reasonable settlement in a timely manner.
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24 Jun, 2024 by Gina adams
Cassie Tostenson is a true Gem! She was wonderful to work with. She helped my family tremendously. She was extremely professional, She gave great advice and was able to answer all our questions. She prepared us with all the necessary documentation needed for the situation my family is going through. I highly recommend Cassie Tostenson for any legal services you may need.
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11 Jan, 2024 by Megan dickerson
Neilson Brand Law was so wonderful to work with. Nikki, Cassie and team were able to help me change my name on my deed in a hassle free and efficient manner. Thank you!
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11 Jan, 2024 by Marylou gourde
Thank you for all your help and assistance, Everyone was so easy to work with and always available when needed. I would definitely recommend this law firm.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Tom severson
Great people to help you in your time in need thank you for everything you do for me
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04 Oct, 2024 by Kyra baker
Very nice to me
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01 Oct, 2024 by Quiasjah dean
13 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
I was so grateful to have Shannon representing me. She kept me informed and always explained my options to me.
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03 Jun, 2022 by Heather
Shannon and her legal team were referred to me by a friend when I was going through my divorce. I feel incredibly lucky to have found such amazing representation. Shannon is empathetic and communicates honestly and in a timely fashion. She was an amazing advocate for me and also helped me feel confident in my decisions. If you’re looking for a wonderful attorney, hire Shannon Parvey.
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07 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Filing for divorce was the most difficult decision I've ever made. I was completely overwhelmed when I made an appointment for a consultation with Shannon. I felt so alone - like I was on an island. She was understanding and sympathetic while making the process more manageable for me. She was exactly the person I needed to walk me through everything. Shannon is very competent in her profession, she is compassionate, an excellent communicator, and just has a personality that balances the roller coaster of emotions that divorce can bring out in a person. I cannot say enough positive things about her and HIGHLY recommend Shannon to anyone seeking family law assistance!
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21 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Darcie was a terrible parenting time expeditor. She lied, manipulated the process, abused the system and court orders as well as law, and has attempted to charge me money for services she claims were done.
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15 Apr, 2021 by Kathy
Ms. Einarson made a difficult time manageable and expedient. She advocated for me at every turn and was thoughtful in her delivery of advice. The desire to be finished with a divorce is so very strong, but Ms. Einarson was able to work efficiently and still made sure all implications were clear to me before proceeding. I plan on using her services for my will preparation.
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31 Jan, 2020 by Jordan
Darcie and her staff did an excellent job of helping me, as a father, gain custody of my child. They were always professional and understanding. They were very attentive to detail and I felt great confidence in Darcie’s ability and energy in what she does.
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11 Oct, 2024 by M
23 Jun, 2024 by Andrew altringer
Mark has helped me and my friends throughout the years. He is the best criminal defense attorney in the region.
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23 Apr, 2023 by Jawob ble
I was curious to see if I had any charges on my record as drinking and parties were the essence of my college years.
It's still on my record, a misdemeanor, for a charge that was initially given to me by the police. However, as a 20 yr old, I was worried about my future. However, 13 yrs later, Im still uneasy of with this predatory lawyer. I thought that I was getting value as he was apart of a highly reviewed legal practice at the time.
I could not have been more wrong. He used scare tatic of him stating of the seriousness of my case and that retaining him would produce the best possible outcome.
He was very knowledgeable of the proceedings police take, however in the end, I know without a shadow of a doubt it was an easy money grab for him.
I still remember to this day. First, I need to retain him for $7500, then pay for a couple of motions to where he told me to plead guilty for the misdemeanor charges that was initially charged.
This would be fine if there were any new damaging evidence. However, there wasn't. I was just scared to retain a predatory lawyer for 7500, and paid an additional 2500 for a preliminary hearing and one motion.
Please, I implore that you consult multiple attorneys before picking one that could be as predatory as this one.
Attorneys name, Mark A. Friese..
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15 Aug, 2021 by Laurie
This lawyer called me 5 days after having a double mastectomy surgery for breast cancer to tell me my husband was serving me with divorce papers and I could pick them up or have them mailed!! Who in their right mind would do this to someone??
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15 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
Kim did our unconventional adoption and carried us through an incredibly stressful yet exciting time in our lives. Her understanding and compassion was top-notch even when I’d call or email 10 times a day with my questions and concerns. She was professional and calm throughout the entire ordeal at times when I knew I couldn’t be. I have since referred her to family and friends who agree she is the best of the best. I’d trust her with my life.
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15 Jul, 2021 by Kali
When we decided to divorce Kimberlie was fantastic to work with. She listen gave what was the best to do and if I decided to go a different direction she supported it. She is beyond amazing and I recommend her to anyone who needs the services she does. She is an amazing lawyer and an expect up all person. Highly recommend her!!
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30 Aug, 2024 by John
During my consult with Josh, we discussed what my goals were for the divorce and I hired him immediately. He was amazing during the process and did a great job keeping me focused on my end goals, and how things would affect my children and tried to keep that as positive as possible during a divorce. The divorce was difficult due to the two parties being on not only different pages, but possibly different books. After our journey together, when we got to the end of the process, Josh got me everything that I wanted at the beginning of the divorce. I would recommend Josh over any other lawyer in the Fargo Morehead area.
Not only do you get attorney Nyberg when you hire him, you get his office staff who are courteous, professional, and very knowledgeable as well. The three of them are truly a winning team on so many levels I can’t even truly explain it with words.
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19 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Attorney Nyberg did pretty good work. He helped me with custody of my children and worked hard on my case. Lawyers are spendy, but you get what you pay for. I would use him again if I ever found myself needing another attorney. He was professional and friendly throughout!
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29 Jul, 2023 by Rahel
I definitely recommend nuyberg .
if you’re dealing with a narcissist he knows what he’s doing excellent professional thanks
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30 Aug, 2023 by Sirrosquilla999
Matthew Zimney is a poor excuse for an Attorney. He didn't submit any evidence for my sisters in term order and didn't fight for her at all.
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08 Dec, 2022 by Shelby houle
Brinster Law was extremely helpful when going through my divorce. Kara was always prompt with responses and providing useful information. The empathy she displayed during hard times made the experience bearable and she always put my needs first, asking when and if I needed breaks and if I was doing okay. I appreciate all she has done for me and my family!!
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07 Dec, 2022 by Jennifer koller
Kara Brinster is a top notch attorney. I would recommend her to anyone.
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05 Oct, 2022 by Raymond smith
Dean is remarkably unique and is well grounded.
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20 Aug, 2021 by Doug dennis
Avoid this piece of garbage. I tried to sue his law firm for their incompetence. No one would help, then the law firm sued the attorney that was appointed to me by them. They won the case against him at the supreme court. Nobody at this law firm will make it right. What Travis did to me(not filing my documents, never handle an eviction before, and so much more.... No one at his law firm will provide you with a standard of care.
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07 Nov, 2020 by Loni bienek
Overcharged big time by Huettl. Would never recommend !
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08 Jul, 2024 by Dala miller
08 Jul, 2024 by Billy roesch
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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.
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.
