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16 Reviews
01 Jan, 2025 by Patrick
Melanie was able to walk with me during a difficult time in my life. She cares about both her clients and an ethical job well done. She helped steady my life during a turbulent time.
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31 Dec, 2024 by William
Melanie is very professional and capable. She fits the role of attorney perfectly. She is fair and friendly, a fast thinker with an excellent brain, she knows her business inside and out, she can be aggressive when necessary and she is available and responsive to questions concerns and emails. My previous attorney treated me like a second rate client, like she was squeezing me in to an already heavy case load, treated me like an afterthought. But not Melanie, she made me feel like my case and my concerns were her priority and they were. She is the attorney you want on your side to fight for what's fair and right for you. Also, my previous attorney did not have the experience and knowledge necessary for my complicated case. Melanie jumped right in and was able to lead and direct my case properly. I can't say enough good about her she's did everything exactly right. I couldn't imagine being in my very terrible situation without someone capable and strong like Melanie to stand in front of me and fight for me.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Mark
Melanie will have your best interest in mind when she takes your case. Melanie was considerate of my time. She was very transparent throughout the divorce process. She is strategic and methodical in her approach. I would highly recommend her for anyone that is seeking a true professional. The divorce process is very rough, but thanks to Melanie my kids and I can heal and move forward as a family.
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4.9
17 Reviews
4.6
38 Reviews
30 Oct, 2024 by Rachel harsch
Mr. Henry was so kind and patient when I had a consultation with him. I am going through an ugly divorce and I went to him for guidance. Since I live in a rural county an hour outside the metro area he was not able to represent me but he took the time to contact an attorney in my area that he knew and trusted to help me find someone.
If I lived closer I would definitely hire Mr. Henry to represent me.
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30 Apr, 2024 by Alexxis pike
The Henry Law Firm was absolutely amazing to work with! I couldn’t have asked for a better team! Steve himself was so attentive to everything in my very complicated case. He was always there to explain what was going on and answer all of my questions I had. He was a key factor in the reason we were able to win our case. I would recommend him to all of my family and friends!
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11 Jan, 2024 by Jeff myers
Steve did an awesome job in the mediation of my divorce. He moved mountains and made some miracles happen along the way as well. I would highly recommend his services to all my friends and family. The Henry Law Firm provides excellence in their family law practice.!
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22 May, 2021 by Mya clark
22 Jul, 2017 by Genece wheeler beadle
Richard Becker handled a family matter case for me. I found him to be a brilliant, skilled, efficient, concise lawyer. He did exactly what I had asked him to do, more efficiently and painlessly than I could have imagined, and thus saving me money, time, and stress. I have recommended him to friends and family.
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31 Oct, 2014 by Scott
Rich handled my divorce and always went the extra mile under very difficult circumstances. He represented me for about 18 months regarding my child custody/visitation and against very long odds won the case for me. I would HIGHLY recomend Rich for whatever your legal needs might be.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Erica berry
Mr.Wellman is absolutely wonderful ! He helped me with my bankruptcy and was very patient and supportive of me and everything I was going through . He always responded to me and communicated well . He never treated me like he was too busy like some attorneys do . One of the biggest things I’m grateful for was his ability to communicate and clarify things in a way where I could understand . I will always recommend him and use him for all future legal matters . Best attorney in KC !!!
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05 Sep, 2024 by Trevon green
After paying Mark Jeffers nearly 10k for my child custody case and having the case go almost a year with him as my attorney, he decided to withdraw as my attorney at the most crucial point in my case because it was not going perfectly. He made my image in front of the judge worse by withdrawing and left me to spend several thousand more to retain a new attorney. Both my child and myself have suffered additionally because of him and i would highly suggest that anyone that values their time, money and custody of their child never consider hiring Mark Jeffers as their counsel.
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03 Sep, 2023 by Susan gray meyer
Keith Wellman is a very professional knowledgeable and dedicated attorney in the bankruptcy field. The consultation went very quickly, and the whole process from start to finish, was explained very thoroughly and his advice was greatly appreciated! Thank you Keith for all you did for me and for helping me to get my financial life back in order.
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20 May, 2021 by Sarah
Ashlyn is five stars!!! A dear friend recommended Ashlyn to help navigate a dispute between my ex husband and myself. I was blown away by Ashlyn’s attention to detail and familiarity with the court system. When it came time for the trial I wasn’t sure what to expect and was pretty nervous. Once our trial began all those feelings quickly faded as I watched Ashlyn move into action. I completely trusted her and knew she was on top of everything. The professionalism and confidence was beaming. Ashlyn definitely knows her way around the court room and she isn’t afraid to show it. She was truly AHHMAZING! Needless to say we won. And we won BIG. I highly recommend Ashlyn and if I ever need anything in the future, I will be contacting her again.
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30 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
They say getting divorced is never easy. Add to that getting divorced after 10 plus years to a very mentally ill spouse during a pandemic. I could not have done it with out Ashlyn. During the consultation with Ashlyn she did something that she may not have even realized. She gave me hope, with her understanding of the mental illnesses that my ex spouse has. Ashlyn gave me hope by her experience being a guardian ad litem (an attorney representing the child and what the best interest is for the child.)
After she took my case, Ashlyn used her skills and ability to calm down the bull dog attorney that my spouse hired. In court Ashlyn represented me and my interests exactly, and was able to speed up the divorce process. (At that point my ex was stalling wanting to move forward.)
I pray that no one ever has to divorce their spouse. If they do, I hope that they are lucky enough to have Ashlyn or an attorney of her caliber represent them.
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18 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
I was very pleased with my experience working with this firm. Ashlyn represented me, and listened carefully to everything I told her about my family's situation. She and her paralegal worked diligently to make sure everything was resolved in a timely manner. All parties are satisfied, and we are now moving forward. I appreciate so much the time and attention taken to resolve the matter. Every step of the way, methods were offered to diffuse conflict. Knowing how traumatic separations can be, great care was taken to make this as painless as possible.
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27 Oct, 2017 by Steve
Penny was outstanding to work with during my divorce. She listened to what was really important to me and guided me through the process with facts. I really liked that Penny was always available to answer my questions. It did not matter if it was after hours during the week or the weekends, Penny was always there to help. She always made me feel that I was the most important client she was working with. Due to the size of our assets, I would ask Penny to run through different scenarios and advise me what was best. This was extremely helpful to me as I made decisions on how to handle asset division. As I child of divorce myself, it was extremely important to me that I did not become a “every other weekend Dad”. Penny understood how important that was to me so she fought for it and was able to get a 50/50 custody arrangement for me.
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14 Oct, 2017 by Sandy
Penny was wonderful during a difficult and complicated child custody case. She was readily available by phone for any questions I had and prepared for our many hearings through the process. She stuck by my side throughout my finally getting my son out of a bad environment and gaining sole custody.
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13 Oct, 2017 by Denny
I have worked with Penny on several occasions regarding various family legal issues over the past 10 years and have always found her to be top notch. She is very logical and methodical and takes the time to fully understand each situation so they can be approached in the best possible way. Penny is extremely knowledgeable and willing to work though all obstacles. I have referred her to a couple of friends that have all had the same positive experience. Penny has become my go-to person for all legal matters.
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07 Aug, 2017 by Aaron
I was a nervous wreck when I called Sarah Carmody's office. I had just been served divorce papers and other than a speeding ticket I had no experience with working with a lawyer. Attorney Carmody and her staff helped me feel at ease and explained the divorce process and fee schedule very well. I appreciated that Ms. Carmody helped to keep the proceedings on the "high road" and also that she helped me to laugh when the situation called for it. Ms. Carmody and her staff were very efficient and were able to help reach a settlement quickly. I appreciated her honesty and humor throughout the proceedings. I would definitely recommend Sarah Carmody Law, LLC when you need a divorce attorney.
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24 Oct, 2016 by Emma
I would highly recommend Sarah to anyone going through a divorce or custody case. I used her services a few years ago for my divorce and again more recently for my custody modification. She is highly knowledgeable about the process, deals in facts, and was able to help us find a resolution that was the best course of action for my son. Sarah did a spectacular job of offering feedback and keeping the lines of communication open. I trust her 100% and would recommend her to anyone, without reservation.
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07 Dec, 2015 by Reed
Sarah helped me through a very difficult and complex custody case. She spent the time to help me understand all of the procedures that we were going though. I would highly recommend her to anyone seeking legal council. Thank you again for all you did!
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04 Jan, 2023 by William “vasilyzaitsev” warren
01 Mar, 2020 by Haley maas
Questions answered quickly and in a way I could understand
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27 Nov, 2018 by Chris rowe
Jennifer Hagg has been an absolute pleasure to work with. If you want an attorney that's going to tell you the truth, whether good or bad, as well as fight for you and what is important to you and your child, I highly recommend her. She helped me get my child support modified as well as adjustments made to our parenting plan. She has gone over and above for me and I'll never forget it!
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3.4
5 Reviews
5.0
12 Reviews
03 Jan, 2024 by Mary zion
Very professional and helpful with their knowledge of information you need to know about trusts over wills.
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03 Jan, 2024 by Jo ann clement
03 Jan, 2024 by Ed dale
Paths Law Firm, without question, is the wisest choice for help with my Family's Elder Law Legal needs.
From the initial informational meeting, I knew paths Law Firm was going to be an asset in developing a "Path" that my Family could follow to meet our Trust, and Power of Attorney needs.
Russell's understanding and care about our Family's situation and his unprecedented knowledge of the correct legal requirements were only the beginning. He was so kind that he even made a house call.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Jason carley
Really enjoyed working with Alan as our mediator. He remained unbias on all counts and made sure we knew exactly what was going on through every step. Quick to respond and stayed on top of open actions throughout the course of the mediation.
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25 Jul, 2023 by Ty holler
Myndee and Chuck,
Thank you so much for helping us with our case. You were both professional, courteous and honest. You did the job you said you would do in a timely fashion. You truly cared about our famiy and what we were going through. We would not hesitate to recommend Lee Schwalb to anyone needing legal counsel.
Thanks again,
Ty and Paula Holler
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08 Aug, 2022 by Jasmine holloway
Myndee was no less than AMAZING. She helped me with my case quickly and made sure everything was accurate. Myndee was always available for any questions that I had, and I greatly appreciate her professionalism. I would definitely use her again!
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28 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
I hired Dana and had trouble getting ahold of her just to even set up a consultation. When we did meet she seemed competent and was friendly so I hired her. My ex wife hired an attorney to, who turned out to be far more aggressive than Dana was for me. She rarely returned phone calls or emails in a timely manner, which was very frustrating. Essentially I had to build my own case - when I had questions Dana seemed unsure of the right answers and seemed to more or less just roll over to the demands of the opposing counsel. She’s not very assertive as most lawyers tend to be. She couldn’t give me an accurate assessment of what my child support was going to look like and she said she would support my request to have spousal maintenance removed. She didn’t. I ended up working things out as best as I could with my ex and we signed our own agreement because the lawyers were taking way too long and we were headed for an expensive trial. She did help me keep my house and my pension, those were good things. I would have liked a more agressive attorney and Dana is not that person.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Nathan kovac
Kramer knows what he is doing.
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07 Sep, 2023 by Liberty belle
22 Nov, 2024 by Phanon gilbert
13 Sep, 2024 by Jacquie mccunn
This law firm I would not recommend to anyone !!!!! I was in the hospital for months after having abdominal surgery ,
In which I was referred to Parmele for consultation and possible representation . I agreed to allow them access to my medical files for review to determine further action . In the interim and prior to surgery was working with disability help
Group to establish a case for benefits . Adam neidenberg was my attorney with disability help group . Parmele law firm attached themselves to my disability case and have asked for a percentage , after doing nothing ! They reviewed my case for medical negligence and declined to represent , but are holding to a percentage of establishing my disability case and it’s criminal at best ! Do NOT use them for anything ! The service from the very start was awful. I literally talked with the paralegal Ashley. So many times indicating you DONT represent me ,
But my signature to release my records was used to indicate some connection to receive payment to the point it is holding up my disability payout ! My true attorney felt so bad the with drew their request for payment ! Awful business
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16 Aug, 2024 by Matt varnadore
Tina and the rest of the staff are amazing! I finally feel like I have someone on my side. I have dealt with several attorneys that talk a big game and then just bill you for a ton of random things with no results. Tina and staff go above and beyond to make you feel comfortable and taken care of. My divorce felt hopeless before Tina came on board, I can finally start to breathe again.
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22 Nov, 2024 by Phanon gilbert
13 Sep, 2024 by Jacquie mccunn
This law firm I would not recommend to anyone !!!!! I was in the hospital for months after having abdominal surgery ,
In which I was referred to Parmele for consultation and possible representation . I agreed to allow them access to my medical files for review to determine further action . In the interim and prior to surgery was working with disability help
Group to establish a case for benefits . Adam neidenberg was my attorney with disability help group . Parmele law firm attached themselves to my disability case and have asked for a percentage , after doing nothing ! They reviewed my case for medical negligence and declined to represent , but are holding to a percentage of establishing my disability case and it’s criminal at best ! Do NOT use them for anything ! The service from the very start was awful. I literally talked with the paralegal Ashley. So many times indicating you DONT represent me ,
But my signature to release my records was used to indicate some connection to receive payment to the point it is holding up my disability payout ! My true attorney felt so bad the with drew their request for payment ! Awful business
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16 Aug, 2024 by Matt varnadore
Tina and the rest of the staff are amazing! I finally feel like I have someone on my side. I have dealt with several attorneys that talk a big game and then just bill you for a ton of random things with no results. Tina and staff go above and beyond to make you feel comfortable and taken care of. My divorce felt hopeless before Tina came on board, I can finally start to breathe again.
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03 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Kay will drag your case along until you’re broke. She does not have interest in resolution only personal finance gains.
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18 Mar, 2021 by J per
Called three time was put on hold and then disconnected
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10 Jan, 2018 by Tanya
I hired Kay to as my divorce attorney. She was always prompt and professional. She supported and assisted me in doing much of the legal work myself to save money, which I appreciated. I did not feel like she was stretching things out to make a buck. I'd definitely hire Kay if I have needs in the future.
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11 Jun, 2019 by Judy
My husband and I hired Ron when we were going through a custody issue with my step son.
As I read the other comment reviews I was so shocked that I experienced the same thing and I am in 100% agreement with them. Ron comes with a great story, however, he is arrogant and prideful which unfortunately shows through his billing. He tried to bill us 10 yrs ago $350 for a 15 minute consultation. Reading his other reviews it looks like that his arrogance and pride has gone up to $500.
Overall, he's not worth the money or the belittlement. Yes, he makes you feel stupid.
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07 Jul, 2018 by John
After paying the consult fee I hired Ron and went forward. After two months he had charged me outrageous fees for simply responding to the minimal emails of my case. I hired him for a focused, specific hearing but yet he charged me fees for being copied on emails relative to their parts of my case that were not relevant. I expressed concern multiple times to no avail, and then when I stood firm that I needed to cut him out of the irrelevant legal emails he told me he was withdrawing for "ethical" grounds. His story is good, but there's no merit or truth to it. Further, he tried to withdraw without a hearing and my approval, basically trying to skate out of appearing before the judge who eventually called him out for it. Lastly, he withdrew shortly before the hearing I hired him for and after I had spent enormous fees for him to prep for the hearing, leaving me without an attorney and starting over. He ran before the hearing because again, Ron sells an impression of knowledge but went yellow and ran before the hearing. He also directed me not to be on a call with the judge when I found out later i should have been, plus his advice was exactly the opposite of the judge's decision when I finally had the custody hearing. However, Ron walks away with $6,000 o fly money, mostly in "logistical fees", and left me with horrendously bad legal advice.
If he responds to this it will simply be more spin. However, I am a very honest and fairly intelligent person that is stating the exact truth. You have been warned.
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29 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Ronald to provide a consultation. $500 for one hour of his time. His paralegal required that I submit extensive background information in advance of our telephone consultation. My family law case involves an ex-spouse who abducted our child. When I asked Ronald about a strategic tact for handling the abduction he said that would be illegal and he said that by the tone of my question that I intended to carry forth the plan. This of course was not true.
When I tried to ask him other questions about the case he was reluctant to answer any of the questions. Essentially, he shut down our consultation interview. I was not prepared to pay $500 for 20 minutes of Ronald's time and receive so little information.
I had additional questions I wanted to ask later based on the information he provided in our brief consultation and I had at least 35 minutes of time left. When I tried to contact Ronald's law firm they ignored my requests but they certainly kept my money which they required to be paid in advance by credit card.
I review Ronald with low marks and I question whether he should have taken $500 for approximately 20 minutes worth of questions. Ronald comes across as a judgemental, elitist, arrogant and unresponsive attorney based on my consultation with him. Ronald may, or may not, be a skilled attorney but by no means is he easy to work with and I found he is indulgent in how he assesses his fees based on my experience with him.
In sum, I would not hire him to work for me.
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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.
