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12 Feb, 2024 by Michele
I hired Ms. Keane for a child support enforcement/custody issue. She was so helpful, making sure I understood what was happening, what various things meant, and what "could" potentially happen. She never made promises that couldn't keep, just laid out possible scenarios. Her transparent approach was extremely comforting, especially when it involved my child. She gave me such peace of mind, on top of great legal advice/service. She listened to me, and just made me feel very comfortable from the start. I hope I never have to hire a lawyer again, but if I DO, I will not hesitate to hire Ms. Keane again
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03 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Dana is very personable, knowledgable, ethical, and responsive. She explained everything throughout the divorce process, and addressed all of my questions and concerns, resulting in resolution. I highly recommend her for your case.
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09 Apr, 2021 by Susan
Ms Keane was referred to me by my Estate Planning Attorney. She was able to assess the issue and resolve it quickly. Ms Keane was professional, efficient and timely in response to all questions and concerns. Would highly recommend her services.
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12 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
Absolutely the BEST family law attorney. She did what 3 other attorneys couldn't or wouldn't do in a very time efficient manner. Her dedication and preparation at each hearing helped make the difference. Since then, I have recommended her to several of my friends with equal results and satisfaction. THANK YOU STEPHANIE..you helped change the life of one innocent child for the better!
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16 Mar, 2013 by Stacie
Stephanie and her staff were very helpful during our step-parent adoption case. She gave us all of the information we needed so that we were comfortable with the process. She was very sensitive to my son, who was old enough that he was required to consent to the adoption. She helped to make the final hearing a celebration with our extended family. We are very grateful for everything she did for our family.
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22 Aug, 2011 by Kathy
Stephanie is young and eager to help you win your case. God bless Stephanie from Ryan Meredith and his parents.
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17 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Mr Crary as my lawyer regarding my divorce and child custody case. He was extremely professional. Mr. crary explained every detail of every situation so that I felt at ease. I was extremely pleased with the outcome. He is an aggressive attorney that I will highly recommend to friends and family.
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04 Feb, 2011 by Gregg
I have had the pleasure of working with Mr. Brown as needed for the last 5 years on my Divorce as well as my Alimony Modification. Throughout this time, I have realized how fortunate I was to have him as my advocate.
Despite the unprofessional and often shocking actions of the representatives of others, he and I continued to take the "high road" at all times.
From the accuracy and perfection of all documents and correspondence, to his meticulously prepared, and articulately presented arguments in the Courtroom, he truly commands the respect and appreciation of all involved.
There was never a time that I felt I was not involved in all the decisions regarding my case as I have heard from others regarding their counsels.
Mr. Brown is an outstanding Attorney with expertise and understanding that comes from his significant experience as well as his own personal character qualities.
We need more individuals like he to restore the legal system in this country to it's proper place.
Respectfully,
Gregg
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30 Apr, 2024 by Brad siegel
Absolutely the best!!!!
I would highly recommend to everyone.
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19 Sep, 2023 by Wendy
If you're looking for an attorney who will fight for you and always has your best interest at heart, then hire Lisa Kleinberg! From day one I felt like Lisa respected me, listened to me and was always looking out for me. When researching attorneys, I wanted someone who was strong, a fighter but also kind and compassionate. She did not disappoint. She's hard working and goes above and beyond for her clients. Her office staff was also very responsive and professional as well. I don't hesitate to recommend the Family Law Office of Lisa J. Kleinberg!
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12 Jul, 2023 by Sally
Lisa Kleinberg and her colleagues, Chris, Tami and Marian, handled my recent divorce with professionalism, empathy and a thorough knowlege of the law. It was an emotional and stressful time in my life and the compassion that I reveived from Lisa and the entire team was more than I dared to believe. When it was time for my divorce mediation, held via zoom, Lisa was on top of every aspect and knew my case by heart. Lisa was quick to cite specific laws as they pertained to my divorce with accuracy and without hesitation. I highly endorse Lisa Kleinberg as the most competent and efficient and intelligentfamily law attorney in Sarasota County. She was unhesitantly able to zero in on what my rights were during the 4-hour mediation and allowed NO objection from keeping her off course as she defended me. Thank you, Lisa, Chris, Tami and Marian. You all, in my book, are the A-Team. I highly recommend Lisa Kleinberg! FIVE STARS!
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03 Oct, 2024 by Mace keenum
Robert was very helpful and efficient. I would recommend him to anyone !
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20 Jul, 2024 by Tony anderson
Brian is the man, I reached out to many lawyers before him.
It was either they didn’t bother to look into my case or they immediately wanted to charge an arm and a leg. Brian not only figured out what he could provide and help me with, within our first conversation, but he was the most realistic w/ expectations and most tedious with his findings.
I recommend Mr. Lail to anyone in the area and anyone nearby.
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08 May, 2024 by Trish justice
Highly recommend. So much respect for this man.
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28 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
I hired Allan for 2 cases and was very pleased with the results. The only thing I wish that I had more of is prep time before the hearing as I did not feel very prepared, or as prepared as I would have liked. In the end I achieved my goal and that was the whole point.
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04 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Allan Baily represnted me for a criminal case, my sister on her dependency case, and my father with a divorce he is outstanding! Easy to talk with, very straight fowards, fast response, and great outcomes for all cases !! couldnt be more grateful.
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19 Oct, 2021 by David
Allan won a divorce case for me and did so because he was more thorough in his sighting of the law much more & better than his opposing attorney. He and his staff were a pleasure with whom to work.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Jim tsiogas
This is the first time in 35 years which I have been involved in multiple civil litigation that I have ever received money back from a retainer, and Melissa called it on point with hearing. She is very talented and knows her family law.
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17 Jul, 2024 by Nicole bennett
Jenny and Attorney Melissa C. were amazing to work this. Very efficient and listened whole heartedly to our story while we adopted our nephew.
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24 May, 2024 by Erin
Melissa Casciola and Jennie Owen are an amazing team. They have worked through every obstacle that came our way, not only during the divorce but my child support. Melissa is a very honest and up front and lets you know exactly what will happen. Sometimes it may feel like it’s not fair but she goes in prepared and ready. Jennie walks through any document you have to fill out answers you questions she can when you call and they are a fabulous team. I’m so thankful I found them.
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01 Apr, 2024 by Kate miller
Do not hire Adam Bragg as your divorce attorney!!! I paid him around $7,000 in total. I provided videos of my now deceased husband nodding out at our son's soccer practices that were only WEEKS before I wanted to take it to court to get full custody of our son (since his father was using fentanyl). He refused to go to court for my son & me even with all of the current evidence I had. My husband died of an overdose a day before he was scheduled to see our son for the weekend. Adam only cares about HIS daughter, not any of OUR children!! I am contacting the BBB about this.
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01 Feb, 2024 by Robyn erhardt
I worked with Adam over an extended period of time to resolve multiple issues pertaining to my divorce. Adam always remained calm and steadfast in handling my case and always guided me correctly, offering me the best options and explaining all the steps along the way. He was crucial to my success when all was said and done. Adam is one of the best, most honest attorneys in Sarasota. You should not hesitate to contact him if you find yourself needing legal help with a divorce. Highly recommend!!
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17 Jan, 2024 by Mike smith
28 Oct, 2024 by Thomas e. mcclung
It was a pleasure working with MCT Law. They kept me informed through the entire process and hey were always available to take my calls if I had questions. I would highly recommend them.
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27 Oct, 2024 by Mj menein
All of the staff at MCT Law with whom I was in contact, were very efficient, helpful and managed my expectations. Any time I had a question or concern, they were addressed immediately. I felt very safe and assured in my involvement with MCT Law. I feel that I had the best possible outcome and I would not hesitate to recommend MCT Law. They were kind and professional and very respectful. At no time did I ever feel as though I was being processed, or that my concerns were trivial or unimportant. Thank you to Leslie and Michelle and all of the behind the scenes staff at MCT Law.
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26 Oct, 2024 by Susan rightmyer
They were the very best to work with. Leslie and Michelle were fantastic. I have come to think of Leslie as a friend even though we have never actually met.
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11 May, 2024 by Shirley schwartz
A big "Shout out" to Michael Fayard my grandson's attorney. My grandson was facing 20 years in prison for an accident he was partially responsible for down to one year. Michael is a man of few word but he sure got what appeared to be the impossible accomplished.
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02 Apr, 2024 by John smith
This attorney gave me bad advice cost me $13,000 as of right now due to his bad advice on top of it. He did absolutely nothing but get me deeper in debt. This man is as dishonest as the day is long. Do not hire this attorney at any cost elsewhere. He never returned text messages. I would Go for extended periods of time never hearing from him and when you did try to give him information, he complain worst Attorney I’ve ever used and I have to have to file a complaint with the Florida bar because of him he’s done nothing but caused me financial difficulty. He’s destroyed my credit DO NOT HIRE HIM ! I now have to hire another attorney to do what he could not do! I now have to file a complaint with the Florida bar because of the situation that this attorney got me into and he is completely responsible for this situation. I’m bad advice from him and here he is billing me for the problem he caused it’s insanity.
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15 Jan, 2024 by Colleen merrick
Beware of this attorney he has been reported many times to the Bar. He’s nothing but a thief and a liar.
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29 May, 2024 by Cat arnaez
If I could give less than one star, I would. Jamie is all too happy to take money, but not happy to be held accountable for the job for which you hire her. She and another lawyer screwed me and my kids, and when I begged and pleaded for her to fix it, make it right. She told me it wasn’t going to affect me and she didn’t know why I was worried about it (see attached email response). To this day, it does affect me, and my children, and she simply didn’t care to make it right after happily accepting thousands of dollars. I am still dealing with a case that she didn’t fix and reached out again to try to have her resolve but she doesn’t even bother to answer. I had to file a bar complaint for her to respond only for her to tell me she feels she did her job. If that were the case why doesn’t the state recognize the order she filed and why won’t she fix it? This lawyer has no integrity, so if you want someone who will take your money and offer no help, this is the lawyer you want. She is overpriced and doesn’t even do her job. It’s a wonder she hasn’t be disbarred.
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29 Jun, 2023 by Anikakat anikakat
28 Jun, 2023 by Desta ariyo
I had a horrible experience with Icard Merrill, I retained Lindsey Meshberger for a divorce case. There was a constant lack of communication but the 3 biggest problems were #1) changed her hourly billing, one month after retaining her and then when I asked about it, I received no reply. #2) Told the judge in court that the reason she lacked information on my case is because she just received the case when she had the case for 4 months prior. #3) I was not even informed of a case management hearing that I had until it was over and couldn’t participate. At this point, I don’t know whether to consider this maltreatment racist or negligent. Her paralegal, Kathie Summa was god awful and argumentative whenever approached with any concerns. This is an honest review from my very REAL experience with ICard Merrill. I understand that everything can not go my way in a case but there is a level of professionalism and transparency that should be handled with any business, that was not done with ICard Merrill.
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29 May, 2024 by Cat arnaez
If I could give less than one star, I would. Jamie is all too happy to take money, but not happy to be held accountable for the job for which you hire her. She and another lawyer screwed me and my kids, and when I begged and pleaded for her to fix it, make it right. She told me it wasn’t going to affect me and she didn’t know why I was worried about it (see attached email response). To this day, it does affect me, and my children, and she simply didn’t care to make it right after happily accepting thousands of dollars. I am still dealing with a case that she didn’t fix and reached out again to try to have her resolve but she doesn’t even bother to answer. I had to file a bar complaint for her to respond only for her to tell me she feels she did her job. If that were the case why doesn’t the state recognize the order she filed and why won’t she fix it? This lawyer has no integrity, so if you want someone who will take your money and offer no help, this is the lawyer you want. She is overpriced and doesn’t even do her job. It’s a wonder she hasn’t be disbarred.
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29 Jun, 2023 by Anikakat anikakat
28 Jun, 2023 by Desta ariyo
I had a horrible experience with Icard Merrill, I retained Lindsey Meshberger for a divorce case. There was a constant lack of communication but the 3 biggest problems were #1) changed her hourly billing, one month after retaining her and then when I asked about it, I received no reply. #2) Told the judge in court that the reason she lacked information on my case is because she just received the case when she had the case for 4 months prior. #3) I was not even informed of a case management hearing that I had until it was over and couldn’t participate. At this point, I don’t know whether to consider this maltreatment racist or negligent. Her paralegal, Kathie Summa was god awful and argumentative whenever approached with any concerns. This is an honest review from my very REAL experience with ICard Merrill. I understand that everything can not go my way in a case but there is a level of professionalism and transparency that should be handled with any business, that was not done with ICard Merrill.
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28 Oct, 2019 by Gregg
I retained Kenneth M. Poole, Jr. as my attorney in June 2011. Ken was steadfast in his representation of me in long-drawn-out, post-divorce litigation that concluded in June 2019. Ken never once let me down in his knowledge of my case and its myriad of details. He was quick to produce documents when they were necessary, and I was often in awe at how he made the complex simple. Ken was a steady ship and wise counsel. I highly recommend.
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09 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Poole while I was getting divorce. I hired him because he belongs to a big firm, but that was it. I never heard before of him.
What a terrible mistake!....After we spoke a couple of times, he told me that my case was too difficult and he prefer not to work with me. So I asked him if I could get the $2000 back that I gave him as a retainer fee, and of course he said no.
I hired a second attorney. Yes, my case was difficult because my ex husband run away with my children, but this second attorney got me a mediation in just 3 days and got my children back.
Do not hire Mr. Poole. You will lose your money.
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22 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
This attorney does very minimal work. I was asked to retain him by a partner in his firm and from day one I didnt have a good feeling but given the partner that asked me to retain him, I did. I have pretty much had to beg for proper legal information since that time. He filed some paperwork that anyone could have filed, sent some emails, allowed the other party in my case to threaten him in to bringing such a simple case to a halt and then decided he wanted to remove himself from my case. Beware.............. You get what you pay for.
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17 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
My initial consultation was very comfortable and informative. Her staff continues to keep me informed and are honest even when i dont want to hear it. I would recommend her to anyone whos going through divorce.
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26 Mar, 2011 by Anonymous
She missed several hearings related to my case.
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15 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
It is with sadness that we announce the unexpected death of Ms. Antje Kingma on January 9, 2024. Please flag her account and sites accordingly.
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13 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
Hired Carmen Gillett et al - to handle case. They took my legal budget, ignored timely issues needing prompt resolution, and sent far too many Out of Town Notices.
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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.
