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08 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Justin was thorough and detail oriented through the entire litigation process. His pleadings are always thorough and meticulous attention to detail. He took on a very challenging case and executed with precision and ease as well as fighting multiple times to help me acquire and re-acquire reunification each time it was terminated at no fault of mine. He has obtained extremely favorable results each time we walked into court where other attorneys failed and has not lost a single time, he represented me. He was the final attorney representing my case after one was not able to secure favorable outcomes and the other left the family law practice (Justin came highly recommended from testimonials I read about him and through other attorneys he litigated against) and his staff and entire office continues to have my complete faith and trust as the litigation is about to conclude. He has literally done everything within the bounds of law to fight for my rights to my relationship to my seven children and seen once in 1,368 days, had ensured 109 reunification sessions even when interference impeded me every step of the way he was there to help, he also obtained extremely talented professionals to add to the team of a highly complex case and was able to restore competency within the professionals involved in my case. This continued to ensure a road and path to my children no matter the obstacle. He will represent you with all of his will and might and has phenomenal ethics and a great respect from judges and his fellow attorneys he litigates against. You will not regret obtaining this attorney or anyone within his law firm. Sean Domer and Fred Taylor have stepped in and also executed positive results in my case. I have not had an adverse ruling with Justin Bush since he began working with me in 2019/2020 timeframe and I would not even consider another attorney in the Hampton Roads legal community. We are still in on-going litigation but this case which has spanned over 4 years however it is nearing a conclusion and I have no doubts he will continue to do achieve a final outcome that is positive. He is not an attorney that loses - and ALWAYS puts his clients in advantageous positions -- Following his counsel which is filled with insightful, actionable, and successful direction is a decision YOU WILL NEVER REGRET !!!!! Thank you Justin , Sean, and your entire office. Note** The operational folks, and paralegals - are the most dedicated, kind-, and warm-hearted people a client could ever interact with. You don't just get a dominant attorney you get a dominant law firm from the top down. The strongest and highest endorsement I could come up with. There is a reason he is in the top 1% of his class and has all of the certifications and accreditation. He is the Michael Air Jordan of his field and will bring it home every time.
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26 Oct, 2021 by Jessica hill
Got my divorce against a narcissist that was hiding his address at a price affordable to me. Received numerous updates. Thankful to finally have everything overwith. Especially thankful to Lisa Chavis for all her hard work and emails.
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21 Oct, 2021 by Diamond cornish
I came to Mr. Bush in 2019 with a child custody/support case, with Covid things got pushed back many times over the last 2 years. Even through the difficult time he always maintained communication and always was easy to get a hold of anytime I had an issue or questions. He was able to help me so much and fought for me. I would highly recommend him to anyone. Huge Thank you to Mr. bush and his team.
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26 Oct, 2021 by Jessica hill
Got my divorce against a narcissist that was hiding his address at a price affordable to me. Received numerous updates. Thankful to finally have everything overwith. Especially thankful to Lisa Chavis for all her hard work and emails.
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21 Oct, 2021 by Diamond cornish
I came to Mr. Bush in 2019 with a child custody/support case, with Covid things got pushed back many times over the last 2 years. Even through the difficult time he always maintained communication and always was easy to get a hold of anytime I had an issue or questions. He was able to help me so much and fought for me. I would highly recommend him to anyone. Huge Thank you to Mr. bush and his team.
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20 Oct, 2021 by Grayson davis
Justin Bush handled my case and he acted like a friend to me. He took my case personally and professionally and helped me in every way possible I didn’t get the outcome I wanted this time but that was not Justin’s fault at all. I know I’ll have to go back to court one day and his number will still be in my phone and the first one I call to stand by my side.
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24 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
He would ignore my phone calls for up to 3 weeks on MULTIPLE occasions. He is on TikTok and he would ignore me but continuously be uploading ridiculous TikToks. All he wanted to do when we got to mediation was settle for anything the other lawyer offered, he did not care for my children and what was best for them. I got charged for a subpoena of bank accounts and they actually LOST the information to view the bank account statements. Absolutely unprofessional and unreliable. I wasted so much time and over a year. I probably could've been divorced a lot faster with less expense. Going through a divorce as a single mom is one thing, but to also end up wasting money and a year of time made everything extremely tough. Do not waste your time.
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13 Dec, 2023 by Manny
He was awful and completely show his @$$ in court. I will spare the details, other than what I think was the funniest aspect of his train wreck of a presentation: During his cross-examination, it was revealed that this guy FORGOT HIS NOTEBOOK!!!! He had no notes and had no idea of the line of questioning that he had prepared (not that his notebook likely contained any profound material). He proceeded to attempt to enlist my help while I was on the stand as he fumbled through what little he was able to recall….all this, while I was on the stand, patiently waiting. Needless to say… if this man is representing you… run. He was a jumbled mess, with an ill-fitting suit… his garbled presentation was an embarrassment to him and his firm.
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26 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
This attorney was my x husbands representation! He delayed the settlement repeatedly because of his personal life, causing years to go by and increase in attorneys fees for his negligence. Now over a month after finalizing through the courts, he can’t seem to get the financial part of the settlement finalized. Nor does secretary return emails.
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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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