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09 Aug, 2024 by Carlos paredes
Everyone on my legal team was great and easy to talk to. They made the process smooth. This made talking to everyone much easier than expected. Hope to not need their services again but would definitely recommend.
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13 Jul, 2024 by Matty higgins
Patrick turned a worse case scenario in not the best possible outcome. Very grateful for his service, knowledge, and experience. Thank you. I also worked a lot with Martha, who was extremely thorough and took care of all my questions.
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04 Jul, 2024 by Susan baaj
I appreciate all his efforts in helping me with my cases
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02 May, 2022 by Ash
I find lawyers quite intimidating and mostly wanting to rush through a potential clients' initial consultation. But Simon was very approachable, friendly and professional. He patiently and effectively guided our conversation to establish and organize the events and facts of my case along with the next steps. If you need legal consultation for a family law case, definitely reach out to Simon.
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09 Jul, 2021 by Shannon
Simon helped propose a well planned out strategy for my custody case and was open and honest regarding what to expect. He and his team are personable and legitimately care about your case.
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01 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
He's fantastic. Gives you the time you deserve and makes sure he has it all together. No detail gets by him. Definitely recommend.
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02 Oct, 2017 by Pichamon
I worked with a divorce attorney before. I didn't know I could have been more protected until I found Arelis. I wish my previous attorney could have protected me more. Actually, I wish I found Arelis sooner and hired her as my attorney back then. This is the second time I had to go back to court because my ex wanted to stop paying child support. Going through a divorce is very stressful and emotional beyond words can describe. Arelis helped calming me down as I was so lost, nervous and stressed. I didn't even know how to protect myself and my kids because emotions were too overwhelming. Anything to do with court process could be intimidating. Going through all the emotions, I lost my thoughts, didn't know where to begin, what to do and didn't even know what questions to ask. Arelis presented all my options out in a way that I could easily understand. She got me covered in the areas that I did not even think of. Most importantly, she showed me that she cared about my case and wanted to help!! If you feel emotionally exhausted while going through a divorce & want someone who you can TRUST to fight for you, your rights and protect you, I HIGHLY recommend Arelis Hughes. I'll forever appreciate her, her heart & knowledge to help people!!
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29 Sep, 2017 by Jane
She is very specialized and has a lot of experience in the family law. She helped me get through the most difficult time and always gave me very good and particle advise. I like her passion about the work and her care about the client. I would strongly recommend her. She is the best attorney!
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25 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
Arelis was fantastic. She is very knowledable, efficient and empathetic. My divorce was tricky; it lasted 15 months and involved thousands of piles of paperwork. Arelis made the process as least painful as possible. She is easy to talk to, she gives great advice and she knows her stuff. I would absolutely recommend Arelis.
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02 Sep, 2019 by James
After trying to handle filing for my divorce all by myself (and making and absolute mess of things) Dan came in and saved the day. Caring, knowledgeable, and always quickly accessible, Dan Kern is a trustworthy professional that will work hard for you. Do yourself a favor and retain his services. I can't recommend him enough.
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21 Apr, 2015 by Tim
I received a call from Dan directly after checking in with a referral service. He did not hard sell me, gave me a few instructions to gather evidence and said he would be pleased to help if I needed it. I did exactly as he told me and met with him, then hired him. I am sure that I would not have done as well if I tried to represent myself, the opposing attorney would have chewed me up. His performance was great and I would return to him again for a similar matter. I can recommend him highly. Tim D Temecula, CA
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18 Sep, 2010 by Fal
I would recommend Dan Kern to anyone, who wants an honest, respectable and knowlegable attorney. I have been a client of his for one year, and he always does his best under any circumstance. He shows extreme confidendence in front of the judge , and the judge has told him "good job Mr Kern". Even when I look like a crazy person, going through divorce procedures that drive me nuts, he keeps his cool.
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10 Aug, 2017 by Sheryl
Catherine was such an amazingly supportive counsel when I was at the worst point in my life...divorcing with 1 and 3 year olds. She gave great advise and has helped me through the years in dealing with a deadbead dad ex. She gave the appropriate supportive counseling for me and my sons. I can't say enough about her giving me a shoulder to rely upon as well as counseling my sons. She is a tremendous person and professional!
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19 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Catherine represented me in a very difficult case around a move away situation with my child. She spent so many evenings and weekends making sure she had everything prepared for our day in court. Family law is an incredibly tough industry to be in, and Catherine understands that these decisions impact lives. She truly cares and gives 120% in all that she does on your behalf. My case did not have the outcome I had hoped for, but it certainly wasn't for her lack of effort or preparation (sometimes you get a judge on a bad day). Most importantly, she taught me what good co-parenting was about. Almost 3 years later and I can honestly say that because of Catherine our lives are different in a good way. Our daughter has both parents in her lives, two step parents who love her just as much, and everyone working together to make sure she's loved and taken care of. If you are looking for someone to be honest with you and fight for the best interest of your child, then Catherine is who you need.
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10 Feb, 2023 by Lisa
Terry and his team walked me through a particularly stressful situation from beginning to successful end. You won't be confused or afraid because Terry and his team will be there to assist in professional, caring way.
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28 Jan, 2020 by Linda
I was beaten down and backed in a corner when I retained council. Instantly, Terry assured me he could help. And boy did he do just that in court. He was prepared, a great negotiator and I left with more than expected.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Jose ramirez
I’m very glad to have found CA Ticket Lawyer. Nnaemeka handled my case and got it DISMISSED. They are an amazing group of very talented individuals. Best part is they kept me up to date with my case throughout the entire process. They are so great at what they do, that all we have to do as clients is just stay out of the way and let them do their thing and bring the fight on your behalf. Thank you again Nnaemeka for all the help!!
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10 Sep, 2024 by Victor hernandez
Just won my case with representation from The Domiguez Law Firm. Aracely Lopez our case manager was always available via text or call and I had a ton of questions as this was my first time filing a lawsuit. Overall great team, communication, & prompt payment. Will use them again in the future and recommend them to friends and family
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10 Sep, 2024 by Instructor classes
Andy and Tracey are amazing. The process was easy and painless. Appreciate Nguyen Law Group!! 10 Stars Review
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06 Jan, 2021 by John
Kevin was referred to me by my Employee Assistance Program. Kevin was very easy to talk with and was available immediately. I ended up not using Kevin due to the fact that I work for the federal government so he referred me to a lawyer that deals with government 401k's regularly. I called Kevin for a follow up question and once again he was immediately available and was able to answer all my questions. If I need a lawyer in the future I will be using Kevin and I will be recommending him as well.
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17 Mar, 2020 by Bill
Kevin has been my attorney in my child custody case. I was a single Father and He is always Kind and professional. He genuinely cares about your family and keeping matters calm and focused. Kevin and his staff are always available to answer questions in a quick and informative manner.This is very important because things can be a bit overwhelming in these matters, because your Kids matter so much. If you want a person to represent you who is Wise, Compassionate and exceptionally Kind about your family child custody matters and will walk with you step by step,This is the Guy!
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02 Mar, 2020 by Diane
Kevin is so great! He didn’t waste my time or money. He and Cindy are organized and thorough, and they know the law. It was such a great comfort to have Kevin in my corner throughout this process and I HIGHLY recommend him!!!
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04 Apr, 2016 by Kevin
Mr. Levy was recommend to me by a friend back in 2011. Since then we have been in and out of court prevailing every time. He is very knowledgeable, fair and has a good rapport with the court staff. I highly recommend Mr. Levy for your divorce and or custody battles.
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10 Nov, 2015 by Adena
I was going through an intense custody battle and Mr. Marshall resolved all our matters. He really cares about people and their issues. He was fast and sincere. He went to bat for me and my daughter in court and won. For me, he's the only attorney I trust to handle my family needs.
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25 Jun, 2015 by Sophia
Some months ago my daughter's father took me to court for a child custody contempt case. A good friend of mines recommended Mr. Levy to me and spoke highly of him. My friend said he was an excellent lawyer that had helped her with previous cases. I'm so glad I listened to my friend. After meeting Mr. Levy I left his office feeling confident about winning the case. Mr Levy is funny, intelligent, honest and dependable. His rates are also reasonable. Mr. Levy had the entire contempt case thrown out and helped me and my daughter's father modify our case with a visitation arrangement that worked for both of us. Don't go anywhere else if you need a good lawyer. Mr. Levy knows exactly what he is doing and will help you with your case. I highly recommend him.
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24 Jan, 2022 by Michelle
Tracy was a pleasure to work with. Cases involving children are difficult and emotional; she remained professional and honest and didn't over promise results. She listened and asked the right questions and was successful in concluding with a fair outcome. Both Tracy and support staff were very responsive and communicated clear required actions and due dates. Tracy spend the time before each hearing to go over the information submitted to the court, and to prepare me for what to expect. I couldn't be more pleased with the outcome.
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09 Oct, 2017 by Angela
Tracy was a Godsend during my divorce that lasted a year and a half. The amount of stress that's involved in going through a divorce alone is so draining and mine, involved my daughter which was even more stressful. My ex was extremely unreasonable and would not cooperate with any decision which delayed the process even longer. Tracy remained professional and stuck it out with me the whole way through and we were finally able to finalize a judgement! I can't imagine doing it over again without her. She's truly a life saver!
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01 Aug, 2017 by Madeline
Tracy Willis took on our termination of parental rights and step parent adoption case. She was so knowledgeable, devoted, and did what ever she could to see that our case was resolved. Unfortunately our case had gone very south and the outcome wasn't what anyone expected, but Tracy didn't stop there. She contacted multiple appellant attorneys and had a plan of action in just a few days. We ended up winning the appeal case and they granted our petition, but Tracy never lost contact through the process and was always invested. I can't thank her enough. She is truly an amazing attorney.
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01 May, 2024 by Anonymous
I had what was supposed to be a straightforward divorce, but complications came up along the way. Annie and her team were so helpful and supportive. She was attentive, responsive, and kept to the facts of the case. She was not daunted by my ex's counsel and I walked away paying for less than I thought I would. She is a solid force to rely upon during all the uncertainty, confusion, and anxiety of a divorce. I am so grateful for her.
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25 Apr, 2024 by Mark benardo
Knowledgeable professional attorney who cares about her clients. Great attention to detail and knowledge of the law. Ann is very experienced and familiar the OC Courts and Judges. Highly recommend Ann.
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25 Apr, 2024 by Jon
Recommended to Annie by a friend who was represented by her and was very satisfied. Appreciated her attention to detail, and her complete and accurate communication to the judge. After one very brief court session the judge set my alimony payments to zero. Touchdown!
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01 Oct, 2022 by Maggie menzel
If you need help in any kind of law, you would be crazy to go to anyone else than Kevin Qualls. He is the best. Straightforward, honest.. yes that is possible.. call Kevin. He really is the best.
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16 Sep, 2022 by Ted
The Law Office of Kevin L Qualls is outstanding. Their service, concern for their client's best interest, as well a careful management of "billable hours" sets them above all the other Lawyers in Southern CA.
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06 Sep, 2022 by Kevin burgess
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01 Oct, 2022 by Maggie menzel
If you need help in any kind of law, you would be crazy to go to anyone else than Kevin Qualls. He is the best. Straightforward, honest.. yes that is possible.. call Kevin. He really is the best.
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16 Sep, 2022 by Ted
The Law Office of Kevin L Qualls is outstanding. Their service, concern for their client's best interest, as well a careful management of "billable hours" sets them above all the other Lawyers in Southern CA.
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06 Sep, 2022 by Kevin burgess
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24 Oct, 2023 by Pam
Having utilized 3 lawyers during my 7 year divorce, I can assure you Patrick McCall is the BEST! Took charge of the ridiculousness brought on by the other party and confidently implored the judge to see the reality. His expertise and confidence allowed me to finally be heard. And he made everything way more stress free than the others had. Never found his billing to be an issue. Worth every cent and more!
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20 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
This lawyer is here to just rip you off. He drags out your case for years and years just to collect money from you and never gets the job done. Don’t waste your money with this lawyer he’s not a good representative and is just here to rip you off. Terrible lawyer, very disappointed in his work.
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20 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Do not even think about it !! You will regret hiring this guy. If you hire him get ready to have your case draggggged out until you go broke. Get ready to be manipulated .. he makes deals with other party and pretends to settle - it will not happen.
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.