Lawyers map
>254
experienced lawyers
Filter by
05 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Do not get her she's horrible she portrays herself as something that she's not
Read more
06 Dec, 2019 by Betsy
My case was unique in Ohio. As a WA state grandma I was seeking visitation for my granddaughter. I chose Virginia through the internet. Always Virginia was very professional and very thorough. She mostly answered the phone herself and kept me on track; she was always available and sometimes with the three hour difference in time it was difficult for both of us. If she couldn't reach me then she would email promptly. I ended up stepping down from the case; knowing that we would most likely win; however the situation itself became a no-win situation. As in the beginning so was the ending, an honest, forthright attorney. I was never sorry that I chose Virginia to guide me through this journey. Thank you.
Read more
29 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Worst experience I have ever had with an attorney. I wish others had warned me. Was just trying to get child support and settled because I couldn't deal with her anymore.
Read more
20 Dec, 2023 by Ryan rocksalot
10 Oct, 2023 by Acetheavenue 2619
Very friendly and helpful
Read more
13 Dec, 2022 by Shara
Zach did an amazing job handling a very difficult case with confidence, knowledge, and professionalism as well as genuine care and concern. He isn’t your typical lawyer! He went out of his way to provide timely and caring assistance and brought a calming reassurance to every situation we dealt with. He has been such a blessing to our family and we thank God for all he did to help us. We highly recommend him.
Read more
29 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
This woman told two bold-faced lies in court this morning: that I had a criminal conviction for stalking that I do not have, and that I drop the children off every day after school at my ex-husband's at completely random times. They ***take the bus*** like every other kid in America. I can't figure out if she has her clients mixed up, likes to make problems that require oodles of time and legal fees to defend against, is going senile, or just believes every dumb thing her client tells her. I had a consultation with her for something to do with my business, and she turned around and represented my ex-husband in our divorce where both our business profits and income were issues, not sure how that was ethical based on her prior knowledge of me. If you want to identify the most important problems, devise a strategy to actually get on with your life and be satisfied with 80% of what you wanted because life's too short instead of being locked in years of conflict she adds to your situation, go with someone else. If you're looking to have a full trial on every issue, real and manufactured, and don't mind stressing out your children with a two-year divorce, or pouring money that could best go to your children's needs because you won't compromise on anything, ever, until they turn 18, she's your best choice.
Read more
18 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
I had a really bad experience working with Ellen. She gave me a horrible legal advice, and put me in a dire legal position. Not only she failed to even give me any legal advice, it literally felt like she’s working for my adversary and opposing counsel. She is very incompetent when it comes to technical aspects, like if you send her digital evidence via email, she asks you over and over again to print it, and send it to her.
She also has issues with interpersonal communications, she comes off as rude (there is a difference between being professional and to the point and being rude, she crosses that line to the rude side of behavior).
The judge kept threatening me illegally and call my constitutional right of due service as “gamesmanship”. When i wanted to hire a civil rights attorney, she literally threatened to terminate her representation of me at a very critical time of the case being handled. All in all, after working with her, she demonstrated rudeness, incompetence, and failure to provide legal advice as she should have.
Read more
17 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
I have been going through a very traumatizing situation for the past year involving my daughter. I called for a consultation and when speaking, I felt rushed on the phone, she would interrupt me, and eventually she was just yelling over me. This is the first time I’ve had to deal with a lawyer outside of my own and it was very unprofessional I felt like she made her mind up before she heard anything I am going through that she did not want to help me .
Read more
25 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
I went through an unwanted divorce. Chris and his entire staff were nothing short of wonderful to me, throughout the entire process. Everyone was kind, professional, and worked hard to see that I was treated fairly, which I ultimately was. I will forever be grateful to him, Cheryl, and the rest of the staff.
Read more
03 Jul, 2017 by Sean jones
Too Cool Chris Represented me in an open and shut , sure win custody battle for my daughter. Chris was bullied by an attorney named bogut.
Eventually we came to an agreement and recieved custody.
Chris left us vulnerable in so many ways in the agreement that we thought we were covered.
Not like he answers his calls but never would respond afterwards.
Read more
05 Jul, 2016 by Shawna
Chris helped me with my sons visitation case for paternal grandparents. Our case was extremely emotional due to the biological father being uninvolved and the two parties not getting along.
Read more
02 Dec, 2024 by Ashley karr
Used Deborah several years ago and she done a great job! She is worth the money! If you want the best, you have to pay for the best! She has many years of experience, and she likes to win cases!
Read more
16 Nov, 2024 by Dolores
Deborah saved my butt from going to jail for 6 months on an assault charge
Read more
29 Oct, 2024 by Scott dailey
great staff..good pricing for services
Read more
29 Apr, 2023 by Danielle riddle
This “judge” is completely incompetent, corrupt and backwards. He signed off on an official Judgement Entry document with false material information and when confronted didn’t even acknowledge such. Luckily things like this the Supreme Court will take care of
Read more
02 Feb, 2020 by Therapy range
Highly recommend......
Read more
23 Oct, 2019 by Joe manfredi
Very helpful
Read more
24 Jan, 2024 by Grant
Michael handled my divorce-which was unfortunately contentious.
He is brilliant with all matters concerning finances, income, support, custody etc. I prevailed in all motions my ex filed of which there were several. I had a very vindictive pyschologically unbalanced ex with an equally vindictive lawyer.
His fees are very reasonable and the results are outstanding.
Beyond the above, he is a very friendly, patient, compassionate person who takes the time to explain the law and the glacial pace at which Hamilton County Domestic Relations court moves.
Read more
04 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
Michael gave excellent legal advice regarding a vexing problem I had, leading to a good solution. He really took the time to work with me, which I didn't find with two other lawyers I consulted. Highly recommend him.
Read more
01 Nov, 2007 by Anonymous
Mike is a nice guy in person. His work is not professional. Spelling and grammar errors in documents that went uncorrected after months. Unresponsive to email and written changes. He did not do all the work promised: still waiting for quit claim deed to be drawn up and filed. Never sent me a copy of the final court decree.
Read more
01 Feb, 2023 by Alex
I have been working with Atty. Saull for going on 9 years. I never go in to court doubting her knowledge or abilities. Phone and office visits happen for updates, communication is fairly easy, and if you aren’t sure what something means, she gladly informs. Each time working with her, the problem is solved with the most positive outcome. I would, and do, 100% recommend Kelle.
Read more
03 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
She didn't listen, didn't care and just wanted to finish it up. Worst experience ever. She didn't communicate and just swooped in to finish up the case after 2 years of work. She didn't care about my child or the situation. She probably doesn't even know my kids name. She doesn't know how to talk to someone unless its condescending.
Read more
13 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
Had an appointment set up to speak with this attorney only to be called two hours prior to appointment, with appointment set up for days before Appointment time, telling him that there was a conflict of interest. I don’t feel this was very professional nor did they do their due diligence if there was a conflict and the days prior before the appointment time!
Read more
18 Jan, 2021 by Amanda
does not look for the best interest, their office failed to pick up their phone multiple times. shared very little information about my case with me.
Read more
07 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
Patrice Denman handled my complicated divorce and child support case. A contested divorce can be very complicated and confusing when both sides disagree on multiple levels and children are involved. Patrice Denman wisely guided me through the legal divorce process step by step and provided a well-executed plan with clarity and direction. Throughout the case and afterwards, she kept me abreast of case activities and status. Her legal, communication and problem solving skills gave me confidence that I was well represented and she was the right attorney for my case.
In court, Patrice Denman’s sharp, strong legal arguments were backed with well supported facts. Her passion to pursue a just and equitable resolution laid the foundation for well-defined objectives that were reasonable and unwavering. She productively used information and time to manage volumes of legal and case related documents. She accurately calculated and clearly explained the child support.
The separation agreement Patrice Denman wrote for me clearly defined many details regarding children’s activities and visitation that will transcend time. Her compassion and attentiveness to details, my children and my needs was encouraging and supportive and more than I expected. She understands family life and exercised flexibility in scheduling to accommodate my work and children’s schedules.
I saw that Patrice Denman is well respected in the Lake County court system and amongst her legal peers. Based on my recommendation, my friends have engaged her for legal services and were extremely pleased her with legal services.
Patrice Denman is a smart, supportive and fully-engaged attorney that uses time, information and money wisely. She will continue to be my attorney. If you need a family law attorney, call Patrice Denman and ask for a free consultation.
Read more
02 Aug, 2021 by Holly
Watch everything! Especially falsified and reused copies of certified mail.
Read more
26 Jul, 2016 by Frank
I hired Mr. Karcher after meeting him for 30 minutes. He knew what I wanted. It was a strange case that went of the records over 30 years ago. He was always there for me took my call returned them in a timely matter. Mr. Karcher worked very hard on my case had all of the back up information that was needed to win. Mr. Karcher won my case hands down. I couldn't of asked for a better lawyer then Mr. Karcher.
Read more
20 Oct, 2024 by Melissa
Holly handled my case with exceptional care and detail. As a professional woman myself, I was looking for someone with a strong backbone, directness, and extensive knowledge and skill in the courtroom. Holly exceeded my expectations! She made sure everything was handled thoroughly, and I am very happy with the outcome. Holly is one of the few attorneys I have met that displays great integrity. I will continue to highly recommend her for anyone that needs an excellent and highly knowledgeable attorney.
Read more
16 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
I have a ex neighbor voted in office works at newspaper now that husband went to court whom narc abused him relentlessly. Pregnant deliberately for cash. This atty got to court with him knowing another atty friends with soon to be ex wife. The day of court she looked at him said you wanna see your child you better pay me $10,000 more? She done a similar thing to another friend since they were abused unable to pay they never saw their kids due to favoring the abuser and outright perjured herself for helping winning that case. That court will even use therapists they have illegal bond with to help fix the problem.
Read more
14 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Had Holly for my parent’s case a few years ago. I was 14 at the time and completely able to choose on my own. Her tone was anything but compassionate and would threaten me with choosing a parent on her own if I didn’t speak with her. While I understand this, I was an emotional teenager going through something traumatic and she did not try to comfort me once in this process. Did not listen to my brother and I in the slightest when it came to what we want, and ultimately gave custody to the parent that we did not want chosen. She purely cares about getting paid and does not care about the children she deals with. Awful. Please do not choose this woman for any case you may have.
Read more
08 Oct, 2024 by Shawn
Will promise you the world and deliver nothing. We hired Jennifer for our mother and she was the worst mistake we ever made. Save your money. You can represent yourself and do better.
Read more
14 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
Very unprofessional. She doesn't respond to emails or phone calls. All she cares about is the money you put in her pocket. Laughs at you when you are explaining your situation. I would recommend going to anyone but Ms. Delaplane.
Read more
23 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
I finally got to see my kid and shared parenting plan that specialized my needs. Can’t thank Jen, and her staff Sandra, and Demelza for being so dilegent. Friendly and professional
Read more
30 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
I was desperately in need of an attorney so I decided to call of Slater and Zurz. I wish I had never called because Jeffery Hawkins lost my case which should have been easy to win. He never defended me and gave into easily to other attorneys. He never fought my case and I had to continuously send thesame email over and over again and got charged because he wasnt listening to what I was saying. He was more concerned about getting paid than help me and my family. My kids were in harms way and he did nothing but try to get me out the door. Always too busy to talk. Don’t do the same mistake I did. Don't let someone like him defend you and your family because you will lose the case even though I as the mother had all the evidence and we still lost because he wasn’t defending. He was rushing out the court house so he could go on vacation. He would rather talk about Taco Bell and his family than my case and my family that he is getting paid for to defend. I am writing this review to hopefully help others before it is too late.
Read more
11 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
If you are looking for someone to F*ck your case up literally look no further. Jeff here is THAT man.
Poor communication at it's finest. My initial phone interview went well with Jeff. So well I scheduled a 2nd and by the end of the 2nd I hired him. He blew so much smoke up my rear about what he could do it was unreal.
When it came time to actually put those words into action he failed at an epic level. He is too interested in his own custody shannanigans with his grand child to be worried about YOUR issues.
Need an appeal filed? My as well file your own... I had to file my initial appeal myself. My subsequent appeal that needed filed by Jeff was filed late which in turn got my case dismissed.
After case was dismissed Jeff slapped me with a bill requesting an additional $567.00. I do not feel comfortable paying for services not properly rendered.
Read more
06 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
Hawkins decided that 8 minutes before my first divorce hearing via Skype would be a good time to learn how to set up a Skype account. He failed miserably . Being 25 minutes late didn't make the magistrate very happy and he let Hawkins know it throughout the whole hearing and it showed in his ruling. He was under prepared and over matched by opposing counsel. He basically went down in a ball of flames after being smoked by my ex's attorney. His handling of paper work was pitiful rendering it usless. Needless to say he did me more harm than good and was promptly fired. Avoid Hawkins at all costs.
Read more
27 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
He literally sabotage my case! He wasn't prepared, didn't file paperwork, just took money and did nothing! Abusive, when you question him about why he hasn't represented you properly. It was like he was being paid by the other side! He will be report to the Bar association.
Read more
28 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
Well, His strength seems to lean towards bankruptcy and criminal cases. I hired him for a child custody case in 2014, upon referral from a former bankruptcy client of his. Sam Thomas advised me to agree to some ridiculous shared parenting plan instead of going to trial to clear my name of bogus allegations from the other party because the other party didn't want to go to trial. Needless to say, I lost my status as custodial parent with a proven track record of being a law abiding citizen and a good parent, to a recovering drug addict/ alcoholic with a mile long criminal history whom owed and still owes thousands to date in back child support. I was willing to settle for the other party receiving visitation in all fairness to the other party and our child, but custody was modified to shared parenting. Of which, Ohio seems to advocate, what's in the best interest of the child, which is fine but under certain cirumstances, in my opinion. Sam Thomas did not thoroughly explain Ohio Laws pertaining to Child Custody/ Child Support, and/ or possible outcomes. Not to mention, he's had disciplinary actions taken against him via The Bar Association which I should've proceeded with caution upon finding out that information. When I had concerns that I wanted to address he seemed annoyed at times even using profanity when it came to addressing important concerns to me. On a scheduled hearing date, He showed up about a half hour before the court hearing to introduce me to his assistant whom would be going into court with me because he had to leave out of town. I had never seen or spoken to that individual prior to that meet. I couldn't believe it! His retainer fee was no where near the $2000 retainer and hourly rate that many of the "Star Attorneys" charge for these cases; However, The saying goes, "You get what you pay for", and what I got out of hiring Sam Thomas was a waste of money, change of custody, headches, and the other party being happy as a lark, so much so that after court was adjourned he went over to shake my attorney, Sam Thomas's hand, and thanked him for a job well done! Oh, By the way, The other party didn't even have an attorney. I was in total disbelief, embarassed by what a lousy job he did, and very disappointed. So, If you want an attorney that's going to put in the work, and really fight for you in custody cases, I advise you to look elsewhere, Beware!
Read more
17 May, 2013 by Sabrina
This Attorney helped me when no other Attorney would. I was being garnished, how was I going to pay to file bankruptcy so that I can stop the garnishment. I spoke with 3 lawyers before contacting Attorney Thomas who all wanted their money up front. The first thing that Attorney Thomas said to me when I explained my situation was "I will help you". And he did. He stopped my Garnishment, I was able to pay him. HE IS THE BEST!!!!!
Read more
17 May, 2024 by In lord jesus' name: a strong city
The results of discriminatory refusal to prosecute which allowed multiple attempted murders to go unpunished and the attacker to remain at large.
Read more
13 May, 2024 by In lord jesus' name: rev. dr. andrew d. wenmoth
Prosecuting Attorney G. Gary Tyack is allowing his staff to deliberately disregard clear risks to public safety, playing a "pass the buck" game to ignore indisputable evidence of major violent felonies, discriminating in cases involving the LGBTQ+ community.
Read more
07 Apr, 2024 by Franco castro
Back on 2022, my car was vandalized. As a victim, I've never hear back from anyone, even though I called , left messages, and sent emails. The prosecutor went to a different area, and from the contacts provided that were handling the case, a request for status and restraining order was never acknowledge. As victim on case 22-ju-06267 and 22-ju-06254, I can attest that the Constitutional rights for Victims of Crime, was never followed.
Read more
04 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
I paid Robert Todd $1200 to draft a privacy policy and client contract. The money was paid up front and I was told that my documents would be completed within the week. A week later, I never heard anything from Robert. I then started calling and emailing, only to reach his assistant, who said he will have him give me a call (which he never did, nor did he respond to my emails) When Robert finally called back, he told me that he had been sick and that is why the documents had not been completed. Giving him the benefit of the doubt, I stayed patient, and he said they would be done in 3 more days. 3 days went by and again, nothing from Robert. When I spoke with him he said it's taking longer than he thought it would but I would be extremely happy with the finished product and he would have a rough draft to me on Monday (this was on Friday). Once Tuesday came, with nothing from Robert, I called again and left an email saying that if he does not have it finished then I would like my money back. The next day, he emailed me a copy of the client contract which wasn't even close to matching our needs and what we discussed!!!! I emailed Robert with questions about the document and never heard from him again. Please, if you are looking for an attorney, explore all other options before hiring Robert D. Todd!
Read more
19 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
After 5 years, 2other attorneys and 2private investigators, Ray was finally able to help me break free from an incarcerated drug addicted husband.
Read more
30 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired Ray, to support Gahanna, where his office is located. He was the worse mistake I ever made. He was the joke of the courthouse, We were in court over a year, maybe 10 or 11 times, in court. He wore the same suit every time. The other lawyers on at least 4 other occasions, were laughing at him. The judge was disgusted. She told him 3 times he was not professional. He never filed the paperwork on time. He was not professional. I don't know how he has a license. I paid him between $7 and $8,000 total. And he lost the easy case, because he filed the wrong paperwork. So, I had to get another lawyer and start over. Buyer Beware!!!
Read more
29 Apr, 2016 by Leslie
Mr. King left me in the worst possible position. He kept demanding money so he could "file" motions in my case. It turns out after paying him a few thousand dollars he filed nothing and left me and my son in a dangerous position. He was late to court and seemed to forget things, a lot. I attempted to get my files but no calls were returned by his staff and when I stopped by the office was cleared out. I believe that he should have to pay back the funds he took from his clients to fund his lifestyle.
Read more
30 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Doesn't give two caps about your case will do everything opposite of what you want used him a few months ago and super disappointed definitely not getting my 500 back
Read more
25 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
I wish I had done more research, felt like he was working for everyone but me. Gave no guidance, was rude at every meeting, talked down to me, did not fight for anything I wanted, only advice he gave was to end my divorce case and return to the relationship. Over charged for what he did and under delivered.
Read more
13 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Absolutely no help at all and very rude when trying to speak with him regarding your case. This man does not care about helping you! I'd give 0 stars if I could
Read more
24 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous
Not having much money, my wife and I trusted this Lawyer to help us. He told us everything we wanted to hear, but as our court day approched he became distant and didnt call us to keep us up to date or informed of anything.
The day before court we reached him and he assured us he would be right there with us and everything would be just fine. Day of court my wife and I were so lost as to what to do, our names were called and we walked in the court room alone, not knowing exactly what to say or how to speak to the judge....and our lawyer ( that we paid for with the money we didnt have much of.) was a no call no show.!
when all was said and done in the court room, we walked out. and was finally approached by theis Lawyer asking us what happened!! then hadd the nerve to tell the partie we were going to court against our plans of action for a later court date!So basicly we gave money to a so called lawyer to not tell us anything, not file any papers and not represent us, and in my heart we should have recieved our fee back..this man was not there for us at all, he took the money with a smile and walked away without a fight!
Read more
12 Sep, 2020 by Dena
Went I went to court there was a man screaming and fired Attny Harper in the hallway. Harper was laughing. Red flag #1. He told me if I wanted to talk about my case, come to his office. I went, he said..what are you doing here? Red flag #2. #3 was in court. He told the judge lies. I tried to speak up,he put his hand up in front of my face. I lost that day in court. I could have done better, telling the truth myself...for free. Please don't hire or vote for this man!!!
Read more
08 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
Dumbest person ever encountered. Doesn't do anything besides state same line over and over. Doesn't even know how to operate a phone
Read more
16 Jun, 2011 by Dana
If you are unfortunate enough to have this atty represent you its almost guaranteed you will serve time. Was once held in Franklin County jail @ Jackson Pike and for more than 3 months, I never received one visit. When we finally talked it was 10 minutes before I was supposed to see the judge. Was told she needed more information so i was sent back to Jackson pike for two weeks and once again no visit. She did gather some information in two weeks but other information was missing. When we finally approached the judge the first words out of her mouth were. "Your honor I'm sure you know the defendant (insert name here) by now, he or shes been here more than once". The judge who will remain nameless looked as surprised as I was. That's no way to present your client to a judge. My sentencing lasted for about 5-10 minutes and she spoke of nothing that might of helped me. Spoke to another inmate and was told Ms Wachsman isn't the best atty and you get what you pay for. I may have paid nothing but I deserved better than that. My advice to anyone using this atty. Stay out of trouble, do as much as possible to assist the public defenders with your case, you are not the only client they are representing. Most of all, if you can request another public defender i would seriously recommend it. . Good people work in that office and most really care but unfortunately a few don't. Let me know what you think. Ill be glad to talk to anyone. Will respond to all request.
Read more
24 Sep, 2010 by Anonymous
Just don't...... I won't get into details but I feel that I owe it to anyone looking for an attorney to keep them out of harms way and we were very much harmed by her actions...
Read more
Browse lawyers
Cities in Ohio - Find a Lawyer Near Me
-
Columbus
-
Cleveland
-
Cincinnati
-
Akron
-
Toledo
-
Dayton
-
Canton
-
Dublin
-
Beachwood
-
Youngstown
-
Westerville
-
Westlake
-
Independence
-
Medina
-
Warren
-
Shaker Heights
-
Hamilton
-
Mason
-
Delaware
-
Chagrin Falls
-
Miamisburg
-
Rocky River
-
Findlay
-
Mentor
-
Lakewood
-
Painesville
-
Elyria
-
Springfield
-
Sandusky
-
Mansfield
-
Fairlawn
-
New Albany
-
Lancaster
-
Lima
-
Lebanon
-
Newark
-
Hudson
-
Worthington
-
Hilliard
-
West Chester
-
Powell
-
Solon
-
Sylvania
-
Perrysburg
-
Wooster
-
Ravenna
-
Batavia
-
Canfield
-
Blue Ash
-
Bowling Green
-
Strongsville
-
Cleveland Heights
-
New Philadelphia
-
Zanesville
-
North Canton
-
Cuyahoga Falls
-
Maumee
-
Marion
-
Willoughby
-
Troy
-
Athens
-
Chillicothe
-
Beavercreek
-
Marysville
-
Reynoldsburg
-
Mayfield Heights
-
Chardon
-
Gahanna
-
Marietta
-
Portsmouth
-
Xenia
-
Middletown
-
Loveland
-
Brecksville
-
Centerville
-
Parma
-
Avon
-
Avon Lake
-
Steubenville
-
Fairfield
-
Port Clinton
-
Lorain
-
Broadview Heights
-
Fairview Park
-
Kent
-
Pepper Pike
-
Stow
-
Pickerington
Browse lawyers
Practice Areas in Ohio
-
Business
-
Litigation
-
Real Estate
-
Personal Injury
-
Estate Planning
-
Criminal Defense
-
Family Law
-
Government
-
Tax
-
Juvenile Law
-
Intellectual Property
-
Workers Compensation
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Probate
-
Civil Rights
-
Appeals
-
Consumer Protection
-
Medical Malpractice
-
Insurance
-
Elder Law
-
Immigration
-
Child Custody
-
Bankruptcy
-
Debt Collection
-
Divorce
-
Car Accident
-
Wrongful Death
-
Lawsuit / Dispute
-
Entertainment
-
Employment / Labor
-
Trusts
-
Child Support
-
Mediation
-
Domestic Violence
-
DUI / DWI
-
Class Action
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
Adoption
-
Foreclosure
-
Discrimination
-
Copyright Application
-
Wrongful Termination
-
Federal Crime
-
Environmental Law
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Construction
-
Sex Crime
-
Landlord & Tenant
-
Debt Settlement
-
Education Law
-
Credit Repair
-
Drug Crime
-
Cannabis Law
-
Life Insurance
-
Admiralty / Maritime
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.
