Lawyers map
>145
experienced lawyers
Filter by
02 Jan, 2025 by Kevin sterwald
Their communication and responsiveness to all questions was amazing. They always kept me updated with everything and really made the process easy.
Read more
07 Dec, 2024 by Harland egly
They really took care of everything I needed. On time, professional, and helpful in anyway that was needed. Best thing I ever did was reaching out to this firm. Highly recommend.Thanks again!!!
Read more
04 Nov, 2024 by Lauren h.
Absolute powerhouse women in this office!
Highly, highly recommend. So incredibly grateful for all they've done for me and my children.
Read more
09 Oct, 2024 by Shellerooskie shellers
Attorney Paul is the best. She is straight and to the point because she does not want to waste my money. She knows the law in and out. I'm eternally grateful to her as she was great during my divorce case.
Read more
14 Nov, 2022 by Carolyn miller
Shawn supported and represented my ex husband during our divorce and my restraining order. She continuously harassed my friends and family during proceedings. Horrible ethics. Should be disbarred for her behaviors in and out of court.
Read more
20 May, 2022 by Cole vetterkind
07 Aug, 2024 by Gwen
Jean is the reason pple think poorly about divorce lawyers. Shes as cold as she appears and money is her bottom line. So many attorneys, dont spend any time considering this one.
Read more
14 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
I hired Jean to modify an existing out of state parenting plan. I informed her that several years ago a different attorney said it was impossible to modify until jurisdiction was changed. Jean assured me that modifications could be made from Wisconsin. Our hearing was scheduled via Zoom-The morning of court, i arrived at her office and she was not there. After contacting her on the phone she informed me she was out of the area and unable to get back to her office before the scheduled time and she thought we were going to attend from separate locations. The only arrangement we had ever made was to meet at her office for the hearing. Thankfully i live only 20 miles from her office and was able to speed home with about 2 minutes to spare. I frantically signed into the zoom hearing, and we were all waiting for Jean to trouble shoot her phone/computer to connect to the hearing. The judge was frustrated and irritated- making it very clear that this should have never been filed with the court as Wisconsin has no jurisdiction in the case. Not only was the motion thrown out, i was ordered to pay my ex-husbands portion of attorney fees. Filing this motion upset him ( i made it very clear to jean that he is extremely difficult/abusive/uncooperative with everything) He has now filed several motions against me. He is now fighting for custody of our children, suing me for expenses he claims i owe him and seeking to modify the parenting plan to have more control over our kids and myself. It is nearly impossible to find an attorney in North Dakota so i am scrambling to find representation. After paying a $1500 retainer for Jean (and whatever the remaining balance is that i have yet seen an invoice) $1800 in attorney fees of my ex. I retained an attorney today charging $395/hr and a $10,000 retainer fee with the expectation that this new case will be lengthy and very expensive.
All i wanted was minor changes made to my parenting plan, so my ex-husband stops threatening me and charging me thousands of dollars for every visitation. If i had been told there was a chance the court might not grant my request, i NEVER would have filed anything because i know my ex-husband will make me pay for it. Not only was my motion denied, but there was never any case because of jurisdiction. As a result of Jeans improper advice and lack of knowledge regarding out of state modifications, i have upset my ex and he will "make me pay for it." I will be paying an unbelievable amount of money and expecting a long custody battle to keep my kids. After my initial consultation with Jean i was so relieved to hear that our high conflict and stressful relationship would end- she made me believe it would be so simple. My future looks completely different now knowing i will spend more money than i can afford and spend possibly years dealing with the legal system.
Read more
08 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
Jean helped me with some post divorce work. She helped me collect the reduced maintenance payments a previous lawyer had bullied me into accepting. She knew exactly what needed to be done to collect the debt from my uncooperative ex. I do not have a law degree so I am grateful Jean was there to clarify and educate me and fight for my rights.
Read more
11 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
This lawyer did not pay attention to my concerns. He was more worried about the judges anger and being mad at him. Donavan did not take the time to pay attention . He asked for more support which I never requested. I did the leg work for my case. This lawyer charged $1,000 retainer and spent about two hours on nothing. He said he was holding the rest of the $1,000 in case we had to file a defamation case. Didn't want to " poke the bear". I never did see the remainder of my money and my ex is now dead.
Read more
09 Jan, 2020 by Margie
I recently consulted with Dominic Anderson and he went through a step-by-step process of proceeding forward with a case that was addressed within our Court system. He garners a wealth of legal strategies and did not hesitate on making sure I understood the opportunities that can be addressed to proceed with follow through on a case for funds owed to me. I recommend this business for the legal assistance you are searching for.
Read more
03 Jan, 2020 by Britney
Domanic is an amazing lawyer and helped me win my custody case. Thank you!
Read more
17 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
Very disappointed with his lack of communication and interest in my case. Wouldn't recommend him.
Read more
20 May, 2020 by Garrett
Attorney Patrick Jennings handled my divorce case. My case was very complex. There were frequent changes and dishonesty from the other party. Patrick always had a strategic plan for any situation given to us. His advice helped keep me calm and he kept me focused. I recommend him for any divorce case and especially if there is children involved.
Read more
07 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
Attorney Jennings is a good listener. He heard what I was saying, and really stood by me the whole time. I would highly recommend him.
Read more
14 Aug, 2023 by Greg rugland
01 Apr, 2023 by Bill k
Jeff is a Great Guy to work with !!
Read more
08 Sep, 2022 by Theresa kreuzer
11 Nov, 2024 by Daniel lyons
Katharine Grafft was an amazing help to us. She was able to work with us, understand the complexities of the case and quickly resolve our matters in a favorable outcome. I would highly recommend her to anyone located in southern WI. We will continue to keep a relationship with Dillon Grube in the future. Thanks!
Read more
21 Oct, 2024 by Colton measner
Josh was my first call when my family went through a difficult time. Not only did I know too but everyone I knew said you need to call Josh. From start to finish, he worked hard and delivered clarity for us. In my mind, got us the best deal for our father we were gonna get. Made time for us not matter what and showed he truly cared about my fathers case. Even after all was said and done, he stayed in touch with myself and family to answer any questions that came up. My family and I can't say enough how thankful we were to have Josh and his firm in our corner. I completely recommend him if you ever get into any legal trouble!
Read more
10 Sep, 2024 by Tim clemons
I highly recommend Dillon Grube Law. Josh was my Attorney and was great to work with. I am happy with the results, and I would not hesitate to hire him again.
-Tim
Read more
31 May, 2023 by Julie
Peggy Miller should not be a court commissioner. She knows nothing about how abuse works and is not qualified to be deciding people's lives. I told her how I was beaten up, attacked, threatened, abused. Her and the man who had an expensive lawyer made fun and laughed at me. She turned 8 years worth of abuse into a joke, and let him abuse me more than I could take. I told her I could not take any more, but she couldn't care less about a woman's life. I said I would pay for lie detector tests for the both of us. She said they wouldn't be admissable as evidence. I said no, but when I pass and he fails it will be a good indicator of who is telling the truth! Now there will be consequences to letting him take my life away.
Read more
27 Jun, 2015 by Greg
It was a pleasure working with attorney Miller. She always kept me informed. Did what I asked. Always answered my questions. And always gave me a very fast reply.
Read more
07 Mar, 2015 by Kasey otis
I was going through a custody battle for my daughter. Before she was born I already knew court was the only way we were going to settle this. I was researching and talking to many people about who is the best family court attourney in wisconsin and multiple people told me Peggy Miller. I made the phone call aand talked to attourney Miller then we sat down and talked. She told me from the beginning exactly the approach we would take ans everything we could make happen. I was very confident in what she told me when i left her office and already had my mind made up she was the attourney for us. Long story short everything Peggy told me would happen the first day i met with her and she made it happen almost just as easy. I got everything i wanted out of this case and i now have my daughter! My ex girlfriend went through 2 attourneys with this case and Peggy handled them with no issues what so ever. Im glad to have her on my side. Working against Peggy would have been a nightmare! As far as communication goes shes second to none. Anytime of day i could email her and she would get back to me almost immediatly. It didnt matter if it was 8 oclock on a wednesday morning or 9 oclock on a friday night the response was almost instant. Peggy is hands down worth every dollar spend and I feel very fortunate to have her on our side! If your going through a family or custody battle she is the attorney for you! You wont be let down!
Read more
03 Jun, 2018 by Jeff
She was there for my daughter and me. She was very patient with me. She did what she was hired to do. To protect a Father’s rights to his daughter. Thanks to her I have peace of mind and my daughter is securely in this daddy’s life to this very day.
Read more
23 Aug, 2014 by Jason
Attorney Beddigs was upfront and honest about the challenges I faced in my custody case. Everyone I spoke to told me that it was virtually impossible to change primary placement from a mother to a father in the state of WI (especially since said father resided in another state). Attorney Beddigs and her staff were always available whenever any questions or concerns came up. I always received a response in a reasonable time. I could not have asked for a better representative inside and outside the courtroom. Nicole is sharp, knowledgeable, well-informed, compassionate and TOUGH. Because of Nicole and staff's diligence I, the father, was awarded primary placement. The children now reside with me several states away. I know this nearly impossible feat would not have been possible without Nicole and her staff. I cannot recommend Attorney Beddigs enough. Is she an inexpensive attorney? No. Was she worth every penny? Absolutely. I did not feel nickeled and dimed and was well-informed how funds were being used. I am thankful that I found Nicole and her staff, I feel certain my case could have gone a completely different way without them. If you need a divorce/child custody attorney, do yourself a favor: hire Attorney Beddigs.
Read more
13 Sep, 2012 by Wantsmymoneyback
Nicole is the first lawyer I've ever had. I hired Nicole honestly because I thought she was nice and friendly and not because I did research and read reviews. Lesson learned. A few papers filed and one court appearance later all of my $1500 retainer is used up. Really? She charged me $50 every time I called the office and other than the free consultation I never spoke to her personally again just office assistants. I would not recommend this lawyer to anyone and advise people to do better research than what I did. I would rather have a tenacious troll represent me any day than a pretty face with an empty head.
Read more
17 Dec, 2023 by Pouncho hunley
Attorney Winters has been my legal counsel for over 20 years. I’m so grateful and honored to have met him.
Read more
13 May, 2023 by Reuven cocos
Avoid if you can. I absolutely regret using his services.
He has an inflated sense of what he is worth, and has no qualms charging a ridiculous amount of money for his very average work(at best). I would give him zero stars if I could.
Read more
10 Mar, 2023 by Acirra robinson
This Guy “Micheal Winters” was very rude, had no intentions on being any help. I was rushed off the phone and the purpose of getting a consultation is because someone lacks the knowledge, so to knock someone down for trying to get answers is very unreasonable and rude. This man should not be in this business, definitely not a people person.
Read more
04 May, 2024 by Shane
Rude, self centered, arrogant, will take your money and not do his job. He will make you promises he can not keep, he is only interested in pleasing the court
Read more
26 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
Long story short if you not WHITE and rich or family have money and contacts he won’t FIGHT for you…you better off throwing ur money in the toilet and flushing it
Read more
19 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
No contact. Poor quality of service for expense I’m paying. Getting no where in court with my custody case
Read more
04 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Gricel was my lawyer for my divorce. I am so grateful to have had her help me, I had met with other lawyers but they didn't understand how to handle international divorce. Gricel had tons of experience with international clients and was very honest and effective in court. She explained everything to me, helped me to prioritize what I wanted in the divorce and understand what I could reasonably expect from the judge. We were able to come to an agreement on our home and other important items and Gricel fought to help me have full time with my children.
She understood what I was going through, was sympathetic and very professional. Gricel went through all the questions she anticipated which made the actual court less intimidating. She was efficient and didn't waste a lot of lawyer time making a huge bill like my friends have had happen to them. I hope you do not have a divorce, but if you have one you should hire Gricel. I highly recommend her for any divorce or child support case especially if there are international issues.
Read more
05 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
This attorney did my divorce, and I had worst experience in my life. If you thinking to hair her as your lawyer, please wast your money for something else. Do not even approach her office, if you do, you will regret about that rest of your life.
Read more
17 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
Ms. Santiago-Rivera was prompt and helpful she listened to find out my goals for the case and helped me achieve them.
Read more
17 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
Is a completely incompetent lawyer. Doesn’t validate information, acts off of hearsay. Cost my family thousands upon thousands of dollars in litigation fees. He is out for his own well being makes extremely POOR JUDGMENT decisions. Should not be associated with any public service to social well being activity. Do not hire this man he will draw out litigation fees and soak you for every penny.
Read more
11 Sep, 2019 by Jade
When I was trying to get to a friend that was trying to kill herself I was going a little faster than I should have and almost lost my license, well I explained my situation to him about a couple years ago I was like 16 or 17 at the time and he helped me lower it an make sure I didn't lose my license, I have been driving good since then, it was a very scary thing
Read more
05 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
I would absolutely not recommend this lawyer to represent you! When we were figuring out child support from my ex to me she let the other lawyer tell her what the dollar amount was going to be and it wasn't the right amount for the percentage that your spouse is required to pay for two kids. The whole time in court I was telling her that was wrong and she didn't say anything until we left the court room and then said that we could come back to that. While they were doing the calculations they never took into consideration ALL of my ex's income and my lawyer never stuck up for me telling my ex's lawyer that it wasn't right and that we didn't use ALL of his income, she let my ex and his lawyer walk all over me! At the end she never even looked at his assets to have them split with me so I got nothing, signed off on the house and I got nothing! I have never been through this before so I needed the help of an expert and she was by far NOT an expert! On top of the fact that it costed me $2,000 retainer fee and then when everything was said and done another $800.00 so all together $2800 and I ended with not a fair amount in child support and nothing else!! My divorce was finalized on Jan 5, 2015 and I didn't know that the "divorce decree" that I got sent to me from Teresa's office wasn't my finalized divorce decree until now, when I reached out to my lawyer to see if she could give me a copy, she didn't even one! She had to send an email to my ex's lawyer to send her a copy of it! Terrible, terrible! I would have expected that my lawyer would have been on top of getting all of this stuff for me considering I have no idea what I'm looking for and she did! Now, I am waiting on this divorce decree so I can provide it to my bank so I can get approved for a mortgage to better myself and my kids and I have to wait until it is convenient for my ex's lawyer to send it! Very Very Very Very disappointed
Read more
21 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
Teresa was very helpful. She responds very quickly. I could not have asked for a better family law attorney for me and my boys.
Read more
11 Sep, 2020 by Lennie nadia ortiz hall
05 Aug, 2020 by Steve whitston
Great service
Read more
15 Sep, 2019 by Ken greely
Best attorney ever
Read more
15 Oct, 2021 by James
Attorney Kremkoski has ALWAYS been my lawyer. I can vouch for his character, accountability, and acumen as an attorney at law. Joe has worked hard for me and consequently I have prevailed in every one of the 5 times I have hired him. Attorney Kremkoski is affable and very easy to get along with while he adroitly applies his craft to each case. I highly recommend Joe without any reservation.
Read more
15 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
Although very informative. And appears to know the law real well. He does not follow up. He does not follow through. He takes your money and never calls you back. Save yourself some money. And save yourself some time. And don't hire this lawyer.
Read more
17 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
First time was great second time he fed right into my exs lies. I will.be asking for another laywer next time. Was very unhappy he allowed my ex to lied to his face. My x even paused. 4 lying that was a died give away he should have noticed. He is only good if u double up with harbor house otherwise he feeds into narcissistic people
Read more
27 Jan, 2018 by Alan dordel
I hired Brian for post divorce problems with my ex, specifically my ex denying placement and attempting to alienate our daughter. Brian is compassionate, proficient, extremely knowledgeable, well versed, and aggressive. He will stand up for you. I've had numerous well known attorneys during my lengthy divorce. None even remotely compared to Brian's ability and results. His courtroom/trial capability and performance are stellar and at the top of his profession. He honestly doesn't miss a beat in court and his tenacity is incredible! I could not be happier. I would highly and strongly recommend Brian in the most complicated and conflicting divorce case. He is the best. His communication skills are excellent. He is on top of all the details. He is worth every penny!!!
Read more
09 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
was looking for aggressive attorney who would return e-mails phone calls etc whenever new thing would arise and HE IS NOT THE ANSWER! he returns nothing! Plus we didn't know anything moving forward until the last minute! I was also scolded like a child for coming into his office without a appointment! We were threated like children . HE DID GET US VAGUE ORDER THOUGH
Read more
10 May, 2017 by Kent
I had very good luck with Rita. She handled my case very well and outclassed the opposing lawyer. I felt very comfortable with her and felt she came to court very prepared. I would gladly use her again if a situation was ever needed again.
Read more
06 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
not trust worthy. Takes weeks to return calls, does not follow up with questions/concerns. Have had to take multiple unpaid days off from work for court hearings after showing up at court I'm told that the dates have been changed however I have not received any notification from Mrs Raihle. I feel my time is not important to her, I would never recommend her to others!!
Read more
30 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Rita appeared to care at our first visit. After I hired her, it would often take several days to a week before she would get back to me, and when she finally did, she did not answer all my questions. Worst of all, she filed paperwork and made appointments without even informing me she was doing so. Even the other party was upset about this. Perhaps she simply wasn't interested in my case; I'd like to give her the benefit of the doubt, but this was my experience, and I'm grateful I had other alternatives--as in, an attorney who treats my case with utmost respect and careful attention.
Read more
19 Oct, 2017 by Michael
Paul answered my email very quickly and followed by a brief, very informative phone call. He provided guidance on a simple legal question that I needed confirmation on.
Thanks Paul!
Read more
27 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Paul was hired for a child custody case. He failed to have the other party served properly therefore pushing the court date back.
Read more
13 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
Did not correctly convey the final wishes as stated onto or into the Will. Instead of listening to the final wishes and disposition of property, kept making suggestions and making me feel bad about excluding certain persons.
My will was very simplistic and made even more so on paper. Very old fashioned and not able to see or think outside the "box".
Would not recommend at all!!!
Read more
17 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
Lynn communicates well, responding to emails promptly, for the most part.
My biggest complaint, she was well aware of past violence. During my divorce, my soon to be ex was constantly tormenting me, covering cameras, banging on my door around 2am, playing music at early hours after drinking at a bar, used my tooth brush to clean the shower. This exasperated my mental health issues. I begged Lynn to get him out. But she didnt. It wasnt until he locked me out that Lynn address the issue with opposing counsel. "High conflict" divorced pay well.
I fired her.
Read more
04 May, 2017 by Anonymous
I had been warned by other attorneys about hiring Lynn's firm because their billing is consistently so exorbitant, but despite the warnings I contacted Lynn for help on a very specific child custody issue because I was willing to pay for an attorney that could get things done. I met with her twice and paid her a very substantial advance fee for the filing of the required motion and legal representation at the subsequent hearing. She never filed the motion or did any of the legal work that I paid the advance fee for, but she charged me $1,000, after the fact, for those "consultations". Be wary of writing her a check for advance fees - she'll deplete those funds with unreasonable billings before she even begins to work your case.
Read more
07 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
This lawyer only follows her own beliefs, and wants money. Rather than what is really best for the child, she instantly assums 50/50 is best for a child without considering the history over the last three years as my child continues to be taken care of by someone else rather than my sons other parent. Now my child is sick constantly from smoke and who knows what else. Now as a low income parent, I have to fight to save money just to make it right and what makes more realistic scenario for my child and his health.
Read more
09 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous
Ms. Weber was my attorney during my divorce. I found her to be extremely professional and knowledgeable. Many times the clients expectations for an unlikely outcome are nurtured through their lawyer. One of the things I liked about Julie Weber was her honesty. She never led me to believe that things were going to end up a certain way just because I wanted them to. I would recommend her.
Read more
03 May, 2012 by Anonymous
I had Julie Weber in a child custody hearing. I am writing this to let others know so they don't have to go through what i did. She never cared about the well being of the child . She lacks in experience and puts her personal views in front of the well being of the child.
Read more
05 Nov, 2011 by Anonymous
She talked a big game in the initial consultation (for this alone I was slapped with an enormous bill). When all was said and done, I got standard child support, and half of my ex's enormous debt load - that's it. Could have gotten that walking in there by myself. To top it off, received a HUGE bill 4x what other lawyer's had quoted me during their FREE initial consultations. She did not listen to me, she charged me to keep redoing paperwork that I told her straight away my ex would never agree to. She kept saying, if we go to court we'll get A, B, and C, but when push came to shove, told me it wasn't worth going to court because we'd never get A, B, or C. Extremely frustrating experience. I also thought she initiated way too much personal conversation which I later realized she was charging me an arm and a leg to listen to. Totally not worth it. I'm still shoveling out money to her while my ex is living the high life.
Read more
16 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Sarah was unorganized and not well versed in divorce law. At the one meeting I called to find out her status since I hadn't heard back from her, it was clear she hadn't looked at my documents and then tried to share that I hadn't sent them all over, despite her emailing me earlier to say that she had gotten them. She also gave me bad financial advice which I thankfully did not take which would have impacted my finances in relation to Wisconsin property laws.
Read more
26 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Was hired back in 2009 for custody case. Didn't show up to one of the first court dates due to "flat tire", and having to change it. NO calls to the court, and I was hanging to dry. Hands at the court house when he showed up, well after the hearing was over, were clean as a whistle. It didn't help his story that friends and I had seen him at the bar many nights out in Whitewater.
Once retainer was spent we parted ways. With him as my lawyer, I got my child every other weekend. I have a clean record, the mother of my child had numerous charges from drugs to forgery.
Fast forward a few years later, I hire a new lawyer to take up my case, and after a few years of court cases, I have had full custody and full placement of my child. The mothers rights have all been revoked. I wonder how much sooner I could have gotten my child if I had never wasted my time and money with this gentleman.
Read more
Browse lawyers
Cities in Wisconsin - Find a Lawyer Near Me
-
Milwaukee
-
Madison
-
Waukesha
-
Brookfield
-
Green Bay
-
Appleton
-
Wauwatosa
-
Wausau
-
Eau Claire
-
Racine
-
La Crosse
-
Middleton
-
Kenosha
-
Janesville
-
Oshkosh
-
Mequon
-
Neenah
-
Hudson
-
Sheboygan
-
West Bend
-
Stevens Point
-
Manitowoc
-
New Berlin
-
Baraboo
-
Fond Du Lac
-
Menomonee Falls
-
Elkhorn
-
Elm Grove
-
Fitchburg
-
Oconomowoc
-
Monona
-
Pewaukee
-
Sun Prairie
-
Superior
-
Verona
-
Wisconsin Rapids
-
Glendale
-
River Falls
-
De Pere
-
Chippewa Falls
-
Sturgeon Bay
-
Monroe
-
WEST ALLIS
-
Rhinelander
-
Cedarburg
-
Grafton
-
Hartland
-
Portage
-
Shorewood
-
Whitefish Bay
-
Beloit
-
Lake Geneva
-
Menasha
-
Sparta
-
Greenfield
-
Waunakee
-
New Richmond
-
Jefferson
-
Thiensville
-
Delafield
-
Merrill
-
Port Washington
-
Waupaca
-
Oak Creek
-
Black River Falls
-
Marinette
-
Franklin
-
Juneau
-
Menomonie
-
Onalaska
-
Hartford
-
Beaver Dam
-
Marshfield
-
Shawano
-
Burlington
-
Germantown
-
Hayward
-
Dodgeville
-
Eagle River
-
Lancaster
-
Watertown
-
Mount Pleasant
-
Ashland
-
Cudahy
-
Muskego
-
Platteville
-
Greendale
-
Medford
Browse lawyers
Practice Areas in Wisconsin
-
Business
-
Real Estate
-
Litigation
-
Family Law
-
Estate Planning
-
Criminal Defense
-
Personal Injury
-
Probate
-
Government
-
Insurance
-
Appeals
-
Intellectual Property
-
Tax
-
Civil Rights
-
Workers Compensation
-
Consumer Protection
-
Elder Law
-
Car Accident
-
Mediation
-
Child Custody
-
Bankruptcy
-
Trusts
-
Immigration
-
Child Support
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Juvenile Law
-
Medical Malpractice
-
Debt Collection
-
Lawsuit / Dispute
-
Wrongful Death
-
Discrimination
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
Domestic Violence
-
Class Action
-
Adoption
-
Foreclosure
-
Divorce
-
Federal Crime
-
DUI / DWI
-
Sex Crime
-
Employment / Labor
-
Entertainment
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Copyright Application
-
Wrongful Termination
-
Debt Settlement
-
Landlord & Tenant
-
Drug Crime
-
Construction
-
Cannabis Law
-
Credit Repair
-
Environmental Law
-
Life Insurance
-
Contracts
-
Education 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.
