Lawyers map
>511
experienced lawyers
Filter by
30 Oct, 2014 by Jamie
Stephanie helped me with my divorce and really made the process as easy as it could be. She was extremely informative and honest. She was completely on top of the process the entire time. I would not have gotten through this awful event without her by my side!
Read more
24 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
Anyone can learn the law but Stephanie Winegrad helped me and my kids through very hard times. Stephanie practices law with me and my family at heart. In addition to being an expert in family law she has the highest morals and has compassion. I wouldn't be where I am today without Stephanie. She is one of a kind.
Read more
25 Jun, 2024 by Jada
Marissa did a great job with handling my case! Dealing with the courts is stressful as it is, but Marissa was clear in her communication and she kept me informed throughout the process. She advocated for my cause and I’m happy with the results! Please see Marissa for legal counsel she’s approachable, will answer all your questions and get you in the right direction!
Read more
21 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Marissa did an excellent job handling my case. She clearly communicated the paperwork I needed to gather and complete, kept me updated on the case, and explained some of the intricacies of navigating the court systems that made me feel a lot better about the entire process. I highly recommend working with her!
Read more
29 Dec, 2017 by Pamela
Denise (Luz) Negron-Bennett made all the difference to me in the way she handled my divorce case. She answered every question I had along the way, and took the initiative to research relevant case law to put my mind at ease more times than I like to remember. I hired Denise for what should have been a much simpler divorce process, since my husband and I had no children together and the asset division seemed pretty straightforward. Yet when my husband made things difficult, Denise did everything to both counter his -- and his lawyer's -- games, and to protect me proactively re: assets, property access and distribution, anticipating court actions, and strategizing for my case. A warm and caring person by nature, Denise showed great compassion to me during what turned out to be a much more complex legal process than I had expected. She asked the right questions and knew when to stand her ground — even with me when I could not, at times, accept the reality of my own case or the ambiguity of some aspects of PA divorce law. Denise was beyond fair with her hourly pricing, and her office's physical location directly across from the courthouse in Norristown made filing and court appearances a much less costly process for me. As an advocate, Denise was there for me and I can honestly say that I would not have been able to go through the unexpected complications of my case without her.
Read more
27 Jan, 2017 by Vicky
I have nothing but good things to say about Luz. She was incredibly knowledgeable about child custody and was able to help guide me through the court process. She defended me extremely against a slanderous lawyer. She fought until the end to get me the best outcome possible in my situation. I would highly recommend her services. I will be using her in the future should something arise.
Read more
30 Aug, 2016 by Dan
Hiring Tiffany was one of the best decisions I made during my custody battle. She is very knowledgeable in her field and had plenty of great suggestions for me along the way. Any question I had I would just send her an email and she responded very quickly with an answer. She is very organized and on task and an extremely nice person. She always told me when she thought what I wanted was plausible and when she thought that I might not have much of a leg to stand on. This was all new to me so I went with what she thought and I do not regret it. Everything I originally wanted in my custody agreement I was granted and I could not be happier. As bad as things were I always knew I had someone with the know-how that I could trust in my corner.
Read more
17 Aug, 2016 by Tammy
I had Tiffany for my Support Hearing. She was EXTREMELY organized and very knowledgeable with the rules. I would HIGHLY recommend her as your lawyer. She is very down to earth and honest. I had a great experience with her as my lawyer. I was very nervous with going to Court. She was very calm and confident. Having her represent me in Court was a blessing. I would recommend her to anyone. She made my time in Court much easier. Thank you Tiffany !!!!!
Read more
15 Nov, 2017 by Jeff
Pat is an excellent attorney to work with as a client. She is very realistic about what the "end game" is going to look like from the start and communicates that to the client. She builds a strategy for getting to that end game with the client from the initial consult, encourages proactive disclosure and negotiations to facilitate that legal strategy and refuses to let emotional responses or motions from opposing counsel get in the way of getting to that goal with her client. She is a worthy litigator who knows the court and works hard in her client's interest, again focused on the pathway to the end game discussed in those initial consults. She also was able to make adjustments on the fly as required to keep the case moving efficiently. Most importantly, Pat was able to explain the process both overall and at each step along the way in a way that helped me understand how the puzzle would come together, the variances introduced by each judge involved, and helped me remain confident that we were progressing to a workable conclusion. Finally, she never used her position as my counsel to increase my anxiety about the divorce and the actions of my ex spouse or her attorney, rather she always dampened those emotions and kept me focused on constuctively ending the failed marriage in the best interests of me and my children. I would highly recommend Pat and her firm, which also was extremely supportive throughout the process.
Read more
27 Jan, 2016 by Michael
I originally consulted with Patricia and then engaged her once I had made the determination that I would move forward with a divorce. I found Patricia to be very responsive, professional and she consistently assured that I understood the process and what the implications were when alternative paths and/or positions needed to be decided upon. She would also provide her thoughts as to what direction to take which I appreciated immensely. Most importantly, she always gave me the sense that she truly cared about me and my situation and that she was always looking out for my best interests. I found her to be a strong but fair negotiator and very capable in assuring that initial agreements made, between the parties, were translated appropriately into the formal documents. I am extremely happy with the way Patricia and her staff have handled my divorce. I would highly recommend her to anyone in need of family matter legal counsel.
Read more
04 Nov, 2019 by Kathleen
Mr. Houghton is a compassionate lawyer who cares not only about the case but also his clients. He explained the law in a way that we were able to understand and we were comfortable with the process and knew what to expect. Our family was pleased with the outcome of our case and if needed, I would not hesitate to call him again.
Read more
28 Apr, 2018 by Jesse
I will just simply say I’m very impressed by Mr. Houghton. I have been with other law firms and will never go to any other.. He is a good listener and a very nice guy... very knowledgeable on a variety of legal topics.. he’s caring, honest, always in constant contact... always thinks of the best options for my family and I... I would more than highly recommend him and this firm. There is no reason to go to anyone else!!
Read more
02 Apr, 2014 by Tom
John was extremely helpful during a stressful transition in my life and I'd highly recommend him as a very trustworthy and honest attorney. The quick, professional manner in which he conducted his practice helped reassure me I was in the right hands from day one. If you need trusted legal help with family law issues, I'd definitely recommend Mr. Bee.
Read more
23 Aug, 2013 by Todd
My review of Mr. John Bee is that he provided excellent legal service. He is knowledgable in his field and very professional. His work was thorough and he was able to communicate his ideas effectively. He does quality work and responds to questions in a timely matter. I was very happy with his legal service.
Read more
08 Nov, 2017 by Stephen p.
I would recommend and refer potiential clients for family law to Shah Law Firm .The staff is excellent they're always prompt and on top of everything . Kristen A. Bojarski is a top notched family law Esquire that really helped me resolve my family legal matters with favorable results .
Read more
21 Jun, 2017 by Ashley
I would highly recommend Kristen as an attorney! She is very knowledgeable, experienced, and professional. She fought hard in court for me during my divorce trial. Shah Law Group's staff is also very helpful and organized. They are there to support you on daily basis! Thank you!
Read more
16 Jun, 2015 by Michele
I have never need a lawyer before and i was very nervous about my situation but ms tummala was there every step of the way she answered all my many questions and handled everything for me i couldnt be happier with her services
Read more
02 Jun, 2015 by Lindsay
I am only half way through my bankruptcy but thus far she has been fantastic! I ask a lot of questions and can be a pain in the butt but she had never made me feel like I was bothering her or like I was being a pain. She has answered all of my questions within a day and always gets right back to me.
Read more
10 Jun, 2020 by Susan
I was referred to Paula by a friend who spoke highly of her professionalism. Paula was amazing every step of the way. The lawyer I had previously was not ferocious enough and lacked tenacity. I wanted someone who would fight to get me a clean divorce and full legal custody of my children, I knew it would be a battle. I needed someone who was strong, willing and experienced. Paula went above and beyond to ensure I got sole custody, she was phenomenal! Her experience showed in court, and her presence in the court room was exceptional. I am so grateful that I choose Paula B Katchmer, and I would do so again in a heart beat!
Read more
06 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
I used this lawyer for my divorce. She is very experienced and understanding of all the emotions of divorce. She was up front about the pricing of everything. My divorce went as smoothly as could be expected with a divorce. I have recommended her to friends.
Read more
02 Nov, 2024 by Gabriella chisholm
The experience with this firm was excellent from start to finish. I had a dream team (Rebecca and Emily) and they were responsive, kind, supportive and truly made me feel as if I made the right decision in choosing a firm and the decisions made regarding my case. I hope I never have to use them again but if I do, I will not hesitate to return.
Read more
19 Jul, 2024 by Tom liskey
Adam Crosier and his paralegal Rebecca were THE BEST. They made my WC case go so smoothly and were there to answer any question or concern I had throughout the entire process. They made a horrible situation much more manageable for myself and my family. Thank you so much!
Read more
18 Jun, 2024 by Deshawn lewis
The attorney and staff were very thorough to understand the details of my case. They were extremely patient and thorough.
Read more
14 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Listened to me and fought for my side even though my ex tried to get out of support. She cared what happened and if I'd be happy with the end result.
Read more
06 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
Rob did pro bono work for me for just one hearing and he sure didn't have to do what he did for me and my family. Oh but how he helped us in that one day. I found Rob to be compassionate, brilliant, clever, and really experienced and knowledgeable in a court room. We will never forget how he helped us. We are forever grateful. Most attorneys would not have bothered to give us their best in our situation the way Rob did.
Read more
12 Mar, 2018 by Philip
Kelsey handled my case professionally and competently and got me a fair and equitable result. She handled my case in the most efficient, cost effective way possible and was always available for any questions or concerns I had. I would highly recommend.
Read more
21 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
I would highly recommend this attorney for any complex family court issue you may have. He worked diligently for myself and my children for the best possible outcome the entire time.
Read more
11 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
In my opinion, Allen Tullar is one of the best Family law Attorneys in the Lehigh Valley. I came to Attorney Tullar with a very difficult Child Custody case and he took the time to listen to me, give me advice on the proper course of action to take and even allowed me to bend his ear when things seemed like they were going wrong but we're really going the way they were supposed to go. Allen and his firm are professional, compassionate and a pleasure to work with. They care about you as a client and not just about the billable hours. If you need compassionate yet aggressive family law representation, call Attorney Tullar before your spouse does.
Read more
12 Oct, 2013 by Ralph
I've been a client of Mike's for years and he has helped me with a lot of different issues. He is a very smart lawyer who I can easily recommend.
Read more
27 May, 2011 by Amanda
I highly recommend Mary Ann Grossman. She cares about her clients and their cases, and goes out of her way for her clients. I am pleased to have Mary Ann as my attorney for child support! Her along with her office staff are prompt, diligent, and incredible. Attorneys like Mary Ann are hard to find!
Read more
31 May, 2018 by Ann
I fired my first attorney for his lack of communication. I hired Mr. Voelker and got a a real attorney and partner in my case. I was completely satisfied by his attention and candor regarding my situation. His realistic approach and his advocacy for my position resulted in a civilized and positive result. I highly recommend Mr. Voelker.
Read more
29 Jan, 2020 by Arya
I had a great experience working with the Gubinsky Law Firm. Mark Gubinsky is a very knowledgeable attorney when it comes to family law. He took care of me and put my concerns and worries first. He always made time to answer every question I had and always got back to me. I called the Gubinsky Law Firm for advice on a family law matter that I was going through. I had a lawyer, but he was not providing the level of service that I expected. The difference of this firm was evident from the beginning. When I initially called, I was surprised that I got to speak with Mark right away. He was very pleasant. I had just called, and he spent at least 20 minutes with me explaining my case and what could be done to fix the issues that I was experiencing.
I was not his client yet, and he devoted a lot of time with me, that impressed me. I decided to schedule a consultation, and I was very impressed with his grasp on family law. I fired my prior attorney and hired Mark to handle my case. I cannot thank him enough. He was patient and provided guidance on how to handle certain situations. I would recommend Mark Gubinsky to anyone in need of an amazing Attorney.
Read more
30 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
I have nothing but positive things to say about Erin. She really helped us navigate the legal system (forms, requirements, deadlines, preparation, court, etc.). She was critical in our win. Erin is smart and knows well (1) the law, (2) what and how to prepare, (3) case planning and progression, and maybe most importantly, (4) how to handle a nervous grandpa. I highly recommend Erin to anyone needing an attorney in her practice specialties.
Read more
01 Jul, 2012 by Evan
I have contracted Mrs. Thomas-Smith on numerous occassions spanning over 10 years and no matter what her current endevour is, she always accepted on my various cases with successful outcomes and a smile.
Thanks, Tiffany!
Read more
23 Dec, 2010 by Anonymous
Ms Elgart handled a family matter for me. Throughout the process I always felt that she was truly concerned with my well being. She approached my case with an objective mind, yet always was supportive. She certainly made the process easier for me. I would also add that she was very efficient, getting everything done in very good time. She was always available for questions and I felt well informed throughout the entire proceeding. I would recommend her highly for Family law.
Read more
29 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Tyler is a well educated and well spoken attorney. He always took the time to answer all of my questions and was very knowledgeable. He was quick to take care of any issue I was having. If you choose Tyler as your attorney you will be in good hands.
Read more
27 Sep, 2016 by Kellie
During one of the worst times in my life, I turned to Megan to guide me through the process of obtaining and enforcing a PFA and ultimately negotiating a consent agreement to keep me and my children safe. I never thought I'd find myself in such a terrible situation, but I couldn't have asked for a better confidant and advocate as I went through the process of removing myself from an abusive marriage. Megan is the perfect combination of warm and caring, while being a fierce defender of her clients' best interests. I felt comfortable confiding in her almost immediately which is a testament to her professionalism and class. She made herself available for my every question and concern and when representing me in court, did so with both tenacity and poise . The case resulted in a very fair agreement with my spouse that kept me and my children safe and provided for, while laying out a clear road for moving forward. I felt heard and cared for, which is so crucial when you have been in an abusive situation. As my case moves forward, I will do so confidently knowing that someone so capable is looking out for me and my children.
Read more
05 Apr, 2011 by Anonymous
I've been using Carla Schiff for years through my very contentious divorce. She has always been very responsive and is up to date with all of the child support guidelines. I would recommend her for any type of family matter.
Read more
22 Feb, 2024 by Silvia
I used Joseph for my very difficult and extensive child custody case. I would highly recommend Joesph to anyone, especially in the area of family law. Joseph was a professional, easy to talk to and kind. He made himself available to answer any questions or concerns, to explain things in a thorough manner and always discussed all possible outcomes. He came into my already existing and challenging case and was able to learn it remarkably quick and sift through all the chaos.
Overall, Joseph is a professional who is good at what he does, cares about his clients a pleasure to work with and one who will go the extra mile for the right results.
Read more
26 Aug, 2020 by Jessi
My case was extremely complex with a lot of history that needed thoroughly understood. Effie was patient, listened to all of the details, was kind and compassionate. She was dedicated to getting the result that I wanted and needed and came up with creative ways to solve my issue.
Effie respectfully helped me understand the court process that was ahead of us and gave me peace of mind during a very stressful time. In court she was prepared, quick-thinking and extremely professional.
Because of her hard work, I received the outcome I wanted and that allowed me to be able to move forward with my life.
Without hesitation, I highly recommend Effie Alexander.
Read more
26 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
You will know when Josh is on your case, that you are in good hands. He is just, fair and works hard for his clients.
Read more
30 Jul, 2013 by Lisa
Melissa represented me in a divorce and custody dispute. Her relentless work in the courtroom awarded me full custody and a sizeable alimony to help support my two sons. Every phone call to her office was promptly returned and she was always available to answer questions. Melissa is an excellent attorney and was an emotional rock during the worst time of my life. I will be forever thankful and would recommend her to anyone.
Read more
Browse lawyers
Cities in Pennsylvania - Find a Lawyer Near Me
-
Philadelphia
-
Pittsburgh
-
Harrisburg
-
West Chester
-
Media
-
Lancaster
-
Allentown
-
Scranton
-
Erie
-
York
-
Blue Bell
-
Doylestown
-
Wayne
-
King of Prussia
-
Norristown
-
Reading
-
Malvern
-
Bethlehem
-
Greensburg
-
Bala Cynwyd
-
Conshohocken
-
Canonsburg
-
Camp Hill
-
Plymouth Meeting
-
Wilkes Barre
-
Berwyn
-
Mechanicsburg
-
Carlisle
-
Exton
-
Radnor
-
State College
-
Jenkintown
-
Easton
-
Fort Washington
-
Washington
-
Wexford
-
Williamsport
-
Bryn Mawr
-
Yardley
-
Kingston
-
Newtown
-
Lansdale
-
Newtown Square
-
Sewickley
-
Stroudsburg
-
Wyomissing
-
Butler
-
Paoli
-
Cranberry Township
-
Devon
-
Johnstown
-
Bensalem
-
Huntingdon Valley
-
Wynnewood
-
Ardmore
-
Havertown
-
New Castle
-
Lebanon
-
Chambersburg
-
Pottstown
-
Indiana
-
North Wales
-
Uniontown
-
Beaver
-
Langhorne
-
Ambler
-
Kennett Square
-
Villanova
-
Pottsville
-
Lemoyne
-
Trevose
-
Altoona
-
Collegeville
-
Moon Township
-
Warrington
-
Gibsonia
-
Phila
-
Hershey
-
Meadville
-
Allison Park
-
W Cnshohocken
-
Chadds Ford
-
Horsham
-
Downingtown
-
Gettysburg
-
Elkins Park
-
Haverford
-
Carnegie
Browse lawyers
Practice Areas in Pennsylvania
-
Business
-
Litigation
-
Real Estate
-
Personal Injury
-
Estate Planning
-
Family Law
-
Criminal Defense
-
Insurance
-
Government
-
Medical Malpractice
-
Intellectual Property
-
Workers Compensation
-
Probate
-
Consumer Protection
-
Appeals
-
Tax
-
Car Accident
-
Civil Rights
-
Child Custody
-
Elder Law
-
Trusts
-
Class Action
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Child Support
-
Immigration
-
Lawsuit / Dispute
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
Bankruptcy
-
Mediation
-
Wrongful Death
-
Debt Collection
-
Adoption
-
Discrimination
-
Juvenile Law
-
Domestic Violence
-
Divorce
-
Foreclosure
-
Employment / Labor
-
Entertainment
-
Federal Crime
-
DUI / DWI
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Sex Crime
-
Wrongful Termination
-
Copyright Application
-
Debt Settlement
-
Construction
-
Drug Crime
-
Environmental Law
-
Landlord & Tenant
-
Credit Repair
-
Cannabis Law
-
Life Insurance
-
Education Law
-
Admiralty / Maritime
-
Constitutional Law
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.
