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17 Dec, 2024 by E t
Mr. Bryant was my divorce attorney who drafted our divorce agreement. When I had a consultation with him, he promised to file a show cause against the husband who had been harassing me with email, text and letters. I was unable to eat and sleep and lost over 20 lbs. at that time, having very difficult time. However, he did not file a show cause after hiring him. Mr. Bryant was the one who drafted our divorce agreement. He did not include two retirement accounts of the husband so that I could not receive the two accounts marital assets. Ex-husband kept majority of the marital assets. I realized this loss last summer, so I wrote to Mr. Bryant and his firm about this matter by email and a letter, but I have never received a response from him nor his firm. I still have the mediation notebook that he explained to me that I will receive 50% of all three retirement accounts. Mr. Bryant explained to me that ex-husband had right to claim child tax because he pays me child support. Even though I am a primary physical custody of three children, the husband can claim two child tax credits every year. This was the best scenario for him. There was a conflict of interest between the husband and his firm. The husband had a consultation with his firm, then I had a consultation with his firm during the divorce. When Mr. Bryant realized this conflict, still he did not withdraw my case. The husband did not disclose all financial documents. Our all-financial documents were under his name only, so I did not know what we had had. I wish that Mr. Bryant flighted for me so that we could negotiate fairly. Our child support and spousal support were measly compared to guidelines and what I should have received. Later, I had to hire a new family law lawyer to modify our child support. When I filed this motion, the child support was significantly higher. Our children should have received this correct amount since beginning. Mr. Bryant explained that I will receive a survival benefit of the pension. The husband is much older than me, so this benefit was a good option. However, Mr. Bryant did not include this statement in our agreement, so I am unable to receive such benefit. If he did not explain about this benefit, I had no idea, but he did explain to me, and I wrote it down in my mediation notebook. I really do not understand why Mr. Bryant did all this to me. Financially and emotionally has been hurting to me even today. I felt unimportant and neglected. I trusted Mr. Bryant so much, and he was my attorney.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Linda park
I’ve been going to Mr. Jhon Bryant for more than 10 years. I was in an abusive marriage and thought I was doing the right thing staying with evil. For my only son. When the evil was abusing my only son, I had to do everything & anything to save my 12-year-old son. My only son & I got help from counseling and a psychiatrist. Wasn’t for John & his amazing stuff, I couldn’t have come this far or still standing. “He is worth every penny.!!! “ God bless you, John Bryant! They have saved our lives. BEST LAWYER & BEST STAFF IN VIRGINIA!!! 🙌🙌
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02 Oct, 2024 by Angie hensley
To be fair Mrs. Stubbs is the only divorce lawyer I have worked with but she was amazing! Her entire team was so supportive I truly felt cared about. She held my hand through much of the process answering every question with patience and I always felt protected. My ex husband was not as big of a fan often referring to her as my personal guard dog. I would simply reply with “That’s because you’re on the teeth end, as the one holding the leash I think she is is wonderful.” Mrs. Stubbs & her team were worth every penny, and I never for a moment regretted hiring them. Would give 6 stars if I could.
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17 Dec, 2024 by E t
Mr. Bryant was my divorce attorney who drafted our divorce agreement. When I had a consultation with him, he promised to file a show cause against the husband who had been harassing me with email, text and letters. I was unable to eat and sleep and lost over 20 lbs. at that time, having very difficult time. However, he did not file a show cause after hiring him. Mr. Bryant was the one who drafted our divorce agreement. He did not include two retirement accounts of the husband so that I could not receive the two accounts marital assets. Ex-husband kept majority of the marital assets. I realized this loss last summer, so I wrote to Mr. Bryant and his firm about this matter by email and a letter, but I have never received a response from him nor his firm. I still have the mediation notebook that he explained to me that I will receive 50% of all three retirement accounts. Mr. Bryant explained to me that ex-husband had right to claim child tax because he pays me child support. Even though I am a primary physical custody of three children, the husband can claim two child tax credits every year. This was the best scenario for him. There was a conflict of interest between the husband and his firm. The husband had a consultation with his firm, then I had a consultation with his firm during the divorce. When Mr. Bryant realized this conflict, still he did not withdraw my case. The husband did not disclose all financial documents. Our all-financial documents were under his name only, so I did not know what we had had. I wish that Mr. Bryant flighted for me so that we could negotiate fairly. Our child support and spousal support were measly compared to guidelines and what I should have received. Later, I had to hire a new family law lawyer to modify our child support. When I filed this motion, the child support was significantly higher. Our children should have received this correct amount since beginning. Mr. Bryant explained that I will receive a survival benefit of the pension. The husband is much older than me, so this benefit was a good option. However, Mr. Bryant did not include this statement in our agreement, so I am unable to receive such benefit. If he did not explain about this benefit, I had no idea, but he did explain to me, and I wrote it down in my mediation notebook. I really do not understand why Mr. Bryant did all this to me. Financially and emotionally has been hurting to me even today. I felt unimportant and neglected. I trusted Mr. Bryant so much, and he was my attorney.
Read more Google Maps
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12 Dec, 2024 by Linda park
I’ve been going to Mr. Jhon Bryant for more than 10 years. I was in an abusive marriage and thought I was doing the right thing staying with evil. For my only son. When the evil was abusing my only son, I had to do everything & anything to save my 12-year-old son. My only son & I got help from counseling and a psychiatrist. Wasn’t for John & his amazing stuff, I couldn’t have come this far or still standing. “He is worth every penny.!!! “ God bless you, John Bryant! They have saved our lives. BEST LAWYER & BEST STAFF IN VIRGINIA!!! 🙌🙌
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02 Oct, 2024 by Angie hensley
To be fair Mrs. Stubbs is the only divorce lawyer I have worked with but she was amazing! Her entire team was so supportive I truly felt cared about. She held my hand through much of the process answering every question with patience and I always felt protected. My ex husband was not as big of a fan often referring to her as my personal guard dog. I would simply reply with “That’s because you’re on the teeth end, as the one holding the leash I think she is is wonderful.” Mrs. Stubbs & her team were worth every penny, and I never for a moment regretted hiring them. Would give 6 stars if I could.
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star star star star star
17 Dec, 2024 by E t
Mr. Bryant was my divorce attorney who drafted our divorce agreement. When I had a consultation with him, he promised to file a show cause against the husband who had been harassing me with email, text and letters. I was unable to eat and sleep and lost over 20 lbs. at that time, having very difficult time. However, he did not file a show cause after hiring him. Mr. Bryant was the one who drafted our divorce agreement. He did not include two retirement accounts of the husband so that I could not receive the two accounts marital assets. Ex-husband kept majority of the marital assets. I realized this loss last summer, so I wrote to Mr. Bryant and his firm about this matter by email and a letter, but I have never received a response from him nor his firm. I still have the mediation notebook that he explained to me that I will receive 50% of all three retirement accounts. Mr. Bryant explained to me that ex-husband had right to claim child tax because he pays me child support. Even though I am a primary physical custody of three children, the husband can claim two child tax credits every year. This was the best scenario for him. There was a conflict of interest between the husband and his firm. The husband had a consultation with his firm, then I had a consultation with his firm during the divorce. When Mr. Bryant realized this conflict, still he did not withdraw my case. The husband did not disclose all financial documents. Our all-financial documents were under his name only, so I did not know what we had had. I wish that Mr. Bryant flighted for me so that we could negotiate fairly. Our child support and spousal support were measly compared to guidelines and what I should have received. Later, I had to hire a new family law lawyer to modify our child support. When I filed this motion, the child support was significantly higher. Our children should have received this correct amount since beginning. Mr. Bryant explained that I will receive a survival benefit of the pension. The husband is much older than me, so this benefit was a good option. However, Mr. Bryant did not include this statement in our agreement, so I am unable to receive such benefit. If he did not explain about this benefit, I had no idea, but he did explain to me, and I wrote it down in my mediation notebook. I really do not understand why Mr. Bryant did all this to me. Financially and emotionally has been hurting to me even today. I felt unimportant and neglected. I trusted Mr. Bryant so much, and he was my attorney.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
12 Dec, 2024 by Linda park
I’ve been going to Mr. Jhon Bryant for more than 10 years. I was in an abusive marriage and thought I was doing the right thing staying with evil. For my only son. When the evil was abusing my only son, I had to do everything & anything to save my 12-year-old son. My only son & I got help from counseling and a psychiatrist. Wasn’t for John & his amazing stuff, I couldn’t have come this far or still standing. “He is worth every penny.!!! “ God bless you, John Bryant! They have saved our lives. BEST LAWYER & BEST STAFF IN VIRGINIA!!! 🙌🙌
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
02 Oct, 2024 by Angie hensley
To be fair Mrs. Stubbs is the only divorce lawyer I have worked with but she was amazing! Her entire team was so supportive I truly felt cared about. She held my hand through much of the process answering every question with patience and I always felt protected. My ex husband was not as big of a fan often referring to her as my personal guard dog. I would simply reply with “That’s because you’re on the teeth end, as the one holding the leash I think she is is wonderful.” Mrs. Stubbs & her team were worth every penny, and I never for a moment regretted hiring them. Would give 6 stars if I could.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Sameerah williams
She lost my case
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03 Jul, 2024 by Tim ortiz
Both Janet and Ms Kym were amazing, my case went just as I prayed it would and got what was best for my children accomplished. Thank you!
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15 Apr, 2024 by Ann pons
I would not recommend. There were many times I had to remind her she represented me and not the other party because she prioritized getting any information THEY requested over what I needed before court. I also had the exact same experience another client posted for their review, despite stressing that we needed to ask for child and spousal support she said, we can ask for that during your divorce case and waited until right before we were about to walk into court to run the paperwork up to the clerks office so not only did we not get that set but because paperwork had not been submitted until the last minute I was ordered to pay the other parties attorneys fees. The only time she was quick to make sure I recieved paperwork was when I went to sign off to end her representation as my lawyer. I was told I owed her thosands of dollars and because my retainer had been used up and when asked why this was the first time I was hearing about this was told "we've been emailing the bills to you" despite me repeatedly informing her I was having issues recieving emails. The multiple times I was in her office there was no mention that she was now billing me well after and that my retainer was used up. Instead I was handed a large envelope on the spot that was as thick as a book listing billed hours. You are better off handing your money directly to the other party and saving yourself the time and frustration.
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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:

  1. What experience do you have with child support cases?
    Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it’s establishing, modifying, or enforcing child support orders.
  2. How do you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, offers flat fees, or requires a retainer, and ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost.
  3. What is the likelihood of success in my case?
    Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case and any potential challenges you may face.
  4. How long will the process take?
    Child support cases can take time, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last and what factors may cause delays.
  5. Will you personally handle my case?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of the case. Make sure you know who will be managing your case and representing you in court.
  6. What documents should I prepare?
    Ask the lawyer what financial documents and other information you should bring to help them calculate child support and build your case.

How to Check the Credibility of a Child Support Lawyer

To ensure you are hiring a reputable child support lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:

  • Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no history of disciplinary actions.
  • Look for family law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in family law and have successfully handled child support cases similar to yours.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate.
  • Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on child support matters.
  • Check for certifications: Some lawyers may have certifications in family law or membership in organizations like the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), which can indicate their expertise in child support and family law issues.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most out of your first consultation with a child support lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Income documents: Bring pay stubs, tax returns, W-2s, or any other documentation of your income and the other parent’s income, as this will be used to calculate child support.
  • Existing child support orders: If there are any existing child support or custody orders, bring copies for the lawyer to review.
  • Child-related expenses: Provide documentation of your child’s medical bills, education expenses, daycare costs, and any other expenses that should be factored into the child support calculation.
  • Communication with the other parent: Bring any communication between you and the other parent regarding child support, whether through emails, text messages, or written agreements.
  • List of questions: Prepare a list of questions about your case, the legal process, and the lawyer’s fees.

By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your case more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice on how to proceed.

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