Lawyers map
>21
experienced lawyers
Filter by
20 Dec, 2024 by Patricia aguilar
My mom was re-ended by a car and we were completely lost and didn’t know what to do. Ed and his team were so helpful! They answered all our questions and were very compassionate. They also kept us in the loop every step of the way until the case closed. Definitely recommend them!
Read more
20 Dec, 2024 by Nikki deleon
I had the pleasure of working with Ed on a civil matter, and I couldn’t be more satisfied with the experience and outcome. From our very first consultation, Ed was attentive, knowledgeable, and took the time to thoroughly understand my case.
If you’re looking for a lawyer who is professional, compassionate, and dedicated to your best interests, I highly recommend Ed. I’m grateful for his help!
Read more
20 Dec, 2024 by Tori starke
I was in need of a personal injury attorney, and came across attorney Michael Wak’s page…I am beyond glad I did! To begin, his assistant Susan is very pleasant and friendly. Attorney Waks is very direct and personable, and I appreciate him calling and checking in on me during the process. I am well pleased with my offer, and the experience I have had with this office. I pray I never have another accident, but if I do, I will 10/10 return and recommend him to anyone! Thank you !!!
Read more
12 Sep, 2024 by Rachel
I chatted online with Wadhwani & Shanfeld and they called me pretty quick with some questions and made everything simple and easy for me and my husband to file bankruptcy. The helped us and we're always available if we needed to talk or ask questions.
Read more
12 Apr, 2024 by Enrique navas
EASY, TO THE POINT, ONE FLAT FEE.
DID MY PART, WAITED PATIENTLY AND NOW I'M (DEBT) FREE AND READY TO START OVER! THANKS (LAWYER) GREG.
Read more
12 Apr, 2024 by Brenda castañeda
Raj and Brenda were a pleasure to work with. They made all the paperwork easy, guided me properly and made the whole bankruptcy process painless. Would recommend to anyone looking for a bankruptcy attorney!
Read more
10 Apr, 2024 by Julia simmons
I'm an attorney and I've seen Poland in action, he's one of the best attys in the buesiness.
Read more
20 Jun, 2023 by Harley j.
The best lawyer!!!! I truly recommend him, you will not regret it!!!
Read more
12 Apr, 2023 by Analys noyb
Richard is a great lawyer
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Chris
I hired Zack, and he got my case dismissed in just FOUR DAYS! His expertise and dedication were evident from the start. He navigated the complexities of my situation with remarkable skill and kept me informed every step of the way. I couldn't believe how quickly he worked to achieve such a fantastic outcome. If you're looking for someone who truly cares and delivers results, I wholeheartedly recommend Zack!
Read more
02 Oct, 2024 by Chris
I definitely recommend that you use this law firm. Zachary James McCready set me free I am more than satisfied with the legal representation that I received. They were able to quickly get my case dismissed after 2015 ticket and I was able to move on with my life. The way they treat their clients is absolutely amazing. I'm so glad that I found them. You won't be disappointed if you hire them.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.Hired attorney he fought for my rights.
Read more
01 Oct, 2024 by Roma
Honest and amazing attorney. You get all your money's worth and then some with McCready - he gets the job done and leaves his clients with 100% satisfaction. He makes every client feel safe and valued and treats everyone with empathy instead of judgement.
Read more
25 Jan, 2020 by Paula
I contacted Bryan after my husband was arrested and was accused of assault. My husband suffers from Parkinson's Disease and has mental health issues, and we needed help from an attorney who was a good listener and would fight for what was right. The case went on for over 14 months. Bryan was patient and dedicated throughout this experience. He kept the family focused on the end result and he never gave up. His sense of humor and personality made a very challenging situation bearable. I would highly recommend Bryan as a criminal defense attorney.
Read more
21 Sep, 2019 by Jeremy
Brian brought me home...i was fighting 20yrs for a gun charge plus a manufacturing weapons charge with an additional gang enhancement we fought for 13 months... he had the gang enhancement dropped including the manufacturing weapons charge I did 18 months only... additionally he had a restraining order violation accusation charge of mine immediately dismissed as well on a separate occasion that case didn't even make it to arraignment...thank you Brian
Read more
16 Apr, 2019 by Judy
ch 23, 2018
I highly recommend Bryan if you find yourself in need of a criminal defense lawyer. He's a professional that truly understands the potential outcomes of your case and works proficiently on achieving the best possible scenario. In my case, I was facing possible jail time. Bryan made sure I was going to be okay. In the end, the case was dismissed. He truly is a great attorney!
Read more
20 Dec, 2024 by Patricia aguilar
My mom was re-ended by a car and we were completely lost and didn’t know what to do. Ed and his team were so helpful! They answered all our questions and were very compassionate. They also kept us in the loop every step of the way until the case closed. Definitely recommend them!
Read more
20 Dec, 2024 by Nikki deleon
I had the pleasure of working with Ed on a civil matter, and I couldn’t be more satisfied with the experience and outcome. From our very first consultation, Ed was attentive, knowledgeable, and took the time to thoroughly understand my case.
If you’re looking for a lawyer who is professional, compassionate, and dedicated to your best interests, I highly recommend Ed. I’m grateful for his help!
Read more
20 Dec, 2024 by Tori starke
I was in need of a personal injury attorney, and came across attorney Michael Wak’s page…I am beyond glad I did! To begin, his assistant Susan is very pleasant and friendly. Attorney Waks is very direct and personable, and I appreciate him calling and checking in on me during the process. I am well pleased with my offer, and the experience I have had with this office. I pray I never have another accident, but if I do, I will 10/10 return and recommend him to anyone! Thank you !!!
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Taius g
I am beyond grateful for having Robin as my attorney during a great time of need. Robin was accessible, available and went beyond my expectations when it came to representing my best interest in court. He was very knowledgeable about my situation and had no problem explaining the legal process along the way. I couldn't recommend him and his office more. Thanks!
Read more
06 Sep, 2024 by Laura rosales
I’m really grateful to the Law Offices of Buchsbaum & Haag, LLP for their outstanding support in my case against a large tech company. From start to finish, they handled everything with professionalism and fairness. They made it easy to navigate and kept me informed and supported throughout. I truly felt they had my best interests in mind. If you’re looking for a team that genuinely cares and fights for your rights, I highly recommend them.
Read more
23 Jul, 2024 by Crystal johnson
I went to Brent as a last resort. I was scared. I never went through what I went through with a certain party. I needed some guidance and legal council. He was kind enough to take my case and fight for the right thing. I appreciate all the hard work him and his team has done! Very professional and if I need help again, I will definitely be going to him. I will be recommending my friends and family if they ever need his services.
Read more
24 Jul, 2024 by Danielle mejia
Thank you so much for helping me with my bankruptcy case! I had a great experience, if anybody needs help with their bankruptcy contact Marc he’s the best and he will get the job done!
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Eathan mancia
Marc is the best, making the process easy and is always on top of it!
Read more
07 Dec, 2023 by Yesenia almaraz
I would like to start by saying thank you! To Marc and his team. I was going through a difficult situation and from the first phone call I had with Marc he made me feel at ease. When I thought of bankruptcy I pictured everything bad, but Marc made the whole process easy. He was there to answer all my questions which made everything easy to understand and everything was so quick. I really appreciated that everything was able to be filed electronically which made the process smooth and fast. I had a great experience working with them. I definitely recommend Marc and his services.
Read more
12 Sep, 2024 by Rachel
I chatted online with Wadhwani & Shanfeld and they called me pretty quick with some questions and made everything simple and easy for me and my husband to file bankruptcy. The helped us and we're always available if we needed to talk or ask questions.
Read more
12 Apr, 2024 by Enrique navas
EASY, TO THE POINT, ONE FLAT FEE.
DID MY PART, WAITED PATIENTLY AND NOW I'M (DEBT) FREE AND READY TO START OVER! THANKS (LAWYER) GREG.
Read more
12 Apr, 2024 by Brenda castañeda
Raj and Brenda were a pleasure to work with. They made all the paperwork easy, guided me properly and made the whole bankruptcy process painless. Would recommend to anyone looking for a bankruptcy attorney!
Read more
20 Dec, 2024 by Patricia aguilar
My mom was re-ended by a car and we were completely lost and didn’t know what to do. Ed and his team were so helpful! They answered all our questions and were very compassionate. They also kept us in the loop every step of the way until the case closed. Definitely recommend them!
Read more
20 Dec, 2024 by Nikki deleon
I had the pleasure of working with Ed on a civil matter, and I couldn’t be more satisfied with the experience and outcome. From our very first consultation, Ed was attentive, knowledgeable, and took the time to thoroughly understand my case.
If you’re looking for a lawyer who is professional, compassionate, and dedicated to your best interests, I highly recommend Ed. I’m grateful for his help!
Read more
20 Dec, 2024 by Tori starke
I was in need of a personal injury attorney, and came across attorney Michael Wak’s page…I am beyond glad I did! To begin, his assistant Susan is very pleasant and friendly. Attorney Waks is very direct and personable, and I appreciate him calling and checking in on me during the process. I am well pleased with my offer, and the experience I have had with this office. I pray I never have another accident, but if I do, I will 10/10 return and recommend him to anyone! Thank you !!!
Read more
11 Dec, 2013 by Katerina p.
Very good people, great to work with, though I didn't finish my case, I wanted a name change, but maybe ill do it later. Mr. Walker is the lawyer ill definitely turn to.
Read more
07 May, 2013 by Allen chau
Mr. Walker is an excellent lawyer who practices law with honor and integrity. If you are looking for a lawyer who is truly attentive to your needs Mr. Walker is it. He will patiently listen and methodically asses your case. He is honest and will fight for you. You don't just get a lawyer when you hire Mr. Walker, you get a friend. Building a meaningful relationship is Mr. Walker's core value. Believe me when I say that you are in good hands when you hire Brian Stuart Walker.
Read more
10 Feb, 2010 by John
Stuart represented me with integrity and due diligence....Although my wife tried every trick in the book,Stuart was able able to find ways around it...He found case law etc and went the extra mile ,,He is very resourceful, responsive, low key when he needs to be yet unflappable and persistent when representing my interests. Stuart made certain representations at the onset that we felt were realistic and acheivable and I must say that he was able to deliver on every one...I have previously been wary of legal matters and lawyers in particular. BUt if you ever need one you cant find better than Stuart....He is not only highly skilled in his field but he has class and maintains a high degree of moral integrity when dealing both both sides and expects his clients to do the same....It was a pleasure working with him...The Divorce process is never pleasant but if it has to happen you will at least have some peace of mind working with an understanding attorney who tells it like it is, lays out your options and will give you realistic expectations and will never sell you out to the other side and will always represent YOUR best interests according to your instructions.
Read more
16 Jan, 2025 by Christina
I thank God that Janine Frisco stepped into my life during the most stressful and upsetting divorce from my ex husband. She gave me a voice and represented me in the most professional, knowledgeable and proactive way. Janine never wavered in her ethical intentions of representing and standing up formy (and my children's) legal rights and protection. She has succeeded in each court hearing that my ex has drug me through and has done so with dignity and respect for what is fair and just. I know that I would not have made it through without her legal representation and feel that she has been a shield in protecting my rights in times that I felt helpless. And always with the best of intentions for myself and my children. Thank you Janine Frisco and your associates for being there for me!
Read more
17 Oct, 2024 by Alfredo
I needed an attorney that would be able to see the gravity of the situation my daughter was in with her mother and Jeanine was that an more! She was able to understand what I needed and what I wanted from the child custody process and delivered the absolute best outcome! She is prepared and knowledgeable about the laws and how to navigate the court system. She was articulate and moved fast to avoid delayed hearings in order to do what was in the best interest of my child. Her presence and confidence are commanding and make you feel like you are taken care of. She is honest and trustworthy. I would recommend her to anyone that needs someone in their corner through such difficult times; I cannot thank her enough for everything she accomplished.
Read more
15 Nov, 2022 by Natalie rose
Mr. Walker is extremely professional. I have a legal matter I am dealing with and he took the time to listen to me, he was honest and straightforward and gave me the best advice. Thank you Mr. Walker,
Read more
09 Feb, 2022 by Monica chavoya
09 Feb, 2022 by Jasmine lopez
I’m so happy I was recommended to Mr. Walker
Very professional, very helpful in every way! If you need a lawyer he’s the one to call.
Read more
05 May, 2022 by Wakean
I strongly recommend and can honestly say it with complete confidence that Jerry and Julissa are two Dynamic Duo of strategy and professionalism. They attacked and approach every detailed and key pointers in my case in hopes of Winning and guess what We Did. My case wasn't average and definitely wasn't easy to handle when you have a record the length of a football field also let's not forget two prior prison terms. Jerry and Julissa handled my gun charge with experience and knowledge Best Lawyer in Town is Jerry Nicholson..
Read more
04 Apr, 2022 by Sora
Thank You to the whole team at Mr. Nicholson law office. They are a life saver. Can't explain how happy I am. He told me I will not have to see court, meant it and thats exactly what happen. Great man to have on my side. Not just me he also helped my son. We are both greateful. We can't thank everyone at the office enough.
Read more
09 Mar, 2022 by Jim
Jerry did a magnificent job of defending my DUI case, which could have been MUCH worse without his assistance. I got arrested for my second DUI just short of ten years after my first offense, and my blood alcohol level was about 0.15—nearly double the legal limit of 0.08. This meant that I was facing added legal enhancements that usually require mandatory jail time. Jerry is a former Deputy District Attorney who has handled a wide range of legal cases, so he started attacking my case from several directions. He discovered, for example, that I was taking medications that can cause people to become dizzy and faint when consuming alcohol, a fact that would have enhanced my DUI symptoms. He also located an expert witness who estimated that my blood alcohol level was considerably less than 0.15, a fact that helped mitigate the worst enhancement. Jerry has many connections throughout the legal system, so he presented his collected evidence to the court. As a result, the second enhancement was dropped, and I pled “no contest” to a single charge as if it were my first DUI offense. I also paid a fine, served community service, and received unsupervised probation, but I served no jail time. Jerry came to my rescue in a big way, and he can come to your rescue as well. Thanks again Jerry…you da man!
Read more
14 Jan, 2025 by Kristina navarro
It took a team to accomplish my divorce. The two main people I would like to thank separately is my attorney Michael Perez and Kimberly Haro, great legal team.
I had a good experience with Envision, last year 2024 I started my process for a divorce. My divorce was tricky because my "husband" has been MIA since 2018. I realized that I needed an attorney to accomplish this goal for divorce instead of following the advice of family & friends to "do it on your own it should be easy."
IT WASN'T EASY & I WOULD STILL BE AT THE START LINE AND HAVING ALREADY PULLED OUT ALL MY HAIR TRYING TO DO THIS ON MY OWN.
I am an overthinker nothing is easy for us, I am pretty sure at the beginning I was driving the staff at Envision a little crazy with all my questions & concerns. Its okay I saw it on my invoices and of course no complaints they should charge me for all my questions and concerns. But I got the answers I needed and after awhile I let them handle it and left them alone to do their job I hired them for. They made this experience as painless as possible for me, my divorce took almost a year but like I said it was a tricky one. There is also a lot of hurry up and wait moments (i.e.. court filings). Getting a divorce you need to understand it takes time and does not happen with a snap of your fingers. Just know with Envision it will happen and as fast as they possibly can get it for you.
So once again thank you,
Kristina
Read more
27 Dec, 2024 by Jasmine jackson
This law firm only best interest is money. Not you as a client. Please read this again! They will double bill you, double charge you and change the words on the statements to make it seem as if it's different paperwork they are filing. Also, the attorney will tell you that you can pay 6k and that will cover one court appearance. This is also false. I've already paid this firm over 10k and still paying as I'm still in the process. I suggest finding a lawyer who has a flat rate fee. I have not seen any production with this firm whatsoever. At this point I'm just dumping money for the same paperwork to be filed. Please save yourself the stress and time and find somewhere else! You will barely ever speak with the actual attorney only the paralegals. They seem to know very little about their jobs. If I wasn't so far in I'd represent myself. By the time this is all over I'm sure they will break the bank. Don't walk but run to another firm and do your research!
Read more
30 Jul, 2024 by Tracey coleman
14 Jan, 2025 by Kristina navarro
It took a team to accomplish my divorce. The two main people I would like to thank separately is my attorney Michael Perez and Kimberly Haro, great legal team.
I had a good experience with Envision, last year 2024 I started my process for a divorce. My divorce was tricky because my "husband" has been MIA since 2018. I realized that I needed an attorney to accomplish this goal for divorce instead of following the advice of family & friends to "do it on your own it should be easy."
IT WASN'T EASY & I WOULD STILL BE AT THE START LINE AND HAVING ALREADY PULLED OUT ALL MY HAIR TRYING TO DO THIS ON MY OWN.
I am an overthinker nothing is easy for us, I am pretty sure at the beginning I was driving the staff at Envision a little crazy with all my questions & concerns. Its okay I saw it on my invoices and of course no complaints they should charge me for all my questions and concerns. But I got the answers I needed and after awhile I let them handle it and left them alone to do their job I hired them for. They made this experience as painless as possible for me, my divorce took almost a year but like I said it was a tricky one. There is also a lot of hurry up and wait moments (i.e.. court filings). Getting a divorce you need to understand it takes time and does not happen with a snap of your fingers. Just know with Envision it will happen and as fast as they possibly can get it for you.
So once again thank you,
Kristina
Read more
27 Dec, 2024 by Jasmine jackson
This law firm only best interest is money. Not you as a client. Please read this again! They will double bill you, double charge you and change the words on the statements to make it seem as if it's different paperwork they are filing. Also, the attorney will tell you that you can pay 6k and that will cover one court appearance. This is also false. I've already paid this firm over 10k and still paying as I'm still in the process. I suggest finding a lawyer who has a flat rate fee. I have not seen any production with this firm whatsoever. At this point I'm just dumping money for the same paperwork to be filed. Please save yourself the stress and time and find somewhere else! You will barely ever speak with the actual attorney only the paralegals. They seem to know very little about their jobs. If I wasn't so far in I'd represent myself. By the time this is all over I'm sure they will break the bank. Don't walk but run to another firm and do your research!
Read more
30 Jul, 2024 by Tracey coleman
16 Jun, 2024 by Jessica
My ex abused me and she was shaking in the court room representing him.
She’s a disgusting human being and I hope karma comes to her and her children.
Read more
09 Feb, 2015 by Bellonda bixby
Nadine Orliczky is part of a capable and motivated family law firm. She is an excellent strategist who helped me navigate a potentially complex and difficult case. Whenever we met, I received her undivided attention, and I felt my family’s well-being consistently considered. The firm became the clean-up team for a divorce that had already gone bad. I wished I had met the team at BGD at the beginning.
It is noteworthy to share that the entire firm showed efficiency with my money which was exemplified by clear and ethical billing practices. Staff were knowledgeable, friendly, organized, and worked well as a team.
Read more
15 Feb, 2014 by Bert
Nadine helped me in a case where my ex-wife planned to move 3,000 miles away with my young daughter. She is a top notch attorney that represented me with professionalism and compassion during one of the most stressful times in my life. I would recommend her 100%.
Read more
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 Domestic Violence Lawyer Can Do for You
A domestic violence lawyer provides legal assistance to individuals involved in cases of domestic abuse, whether you are a victim seeking protection or someone accused of domestic violence defending against the charges. These lawyers help with obtaining restraining orders (protective orders), representing clients in criminal court, and handling related family law issues such as child custody, divorce, and visitation rights.
If you are dealing with domestic violence, a lawyer can help protect your rights and navigate the legal system to ensure your safety or defend you if you’re falsely accused.
When Should I Hire a Domestic Violence Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a domestic violence lawyer if you are:
-
A Victim of Domestic Violence:
- Filing for a protective order (restraining order): If you need immediate protection from an abuser, a lawyer can help you file for a protective order, which legally requires the abuser to stay away from you and refrain from contacting you.
- Divorce or separation due to abuse: If domestic violence is a factor in your relationship, a lawyer can help you pursue a divorce or legal separation and ensure that you are protected throughout the process.
- Child custody and visitation issues: A lawyer can help you secure custody of your children and limit or restrict the abuser’s visitation rights to protect the safety of your children.
- Filing criminal charges: If you are pursuing criminal charges against the abuser, a domestic violence lawyer can work with law enforcement and prosecutors to ensure the case is handled properly.
- Assistance with safety planning: A lawyer can advise on the legal steps to create a safety plan, including securing temporary housing, and taking steps to protect you and your family.
-
Accused of Domestic Violence:
- Defending against criminal charges: If you’ve been accused of domestic violence, a lawyer can defend your case, challenge the evidence, and represent you in court. If possible, the lawyer can help get charges reduced or dismissed.
- Challenging a restraining order: If someone has obtained a protective order against you, a lawyer can help you contest the order to prevent it from negatively impacting your life, including your employment and child custody rights.
- Dealing with family law issues: Domestic violence allegations can affect child custody, divorce, and property division. A lawyer can represent your interests in family court and ensure that your parental rights are protected.
- Avoiding criminal record implications: A lawyer can work to minimize the impact of the allegations on your record, which can affect your employment, housing, and future legal matters.
Hiring a lawyer at the earliest stages can help ensure your rights are protected and the case is handled effectively, whether you are seeking protection or defending against accusations.
What Does a Domestic Violence Lawyer Do?
A domestic violence lawyer provides various legal services depending on the specifics of your case. These responsibilities often include:
-
For Victims:
- Filing for protective orders: A lawyer can help victims of domestic violence obtain temporary or permanent restraining orders, which provide legal protection by restricting the abuser’s access to you and your children.
- Representing you in divorce and child custody matters: Domestic violence often leads to divorce or separation, and a lawyer can represent you in family court to protect your assets, secure custody of your children, and arrange spousal and child support.
- Criminal representation: Lawyers work with law enforcement and prosecutors to pursue criminal charges against the abuser, ensuring that you are informed and supported throughout the legal process.
- Safety planning and legal advice: Lawyers provide advice on how to stay safe legally and can assist in securing temporary housing, providing guidance on how to leave abusive situations safely.
-
For the Accused:
- Defending against charges: A lawyer will build a defense by investigating the case, gathering evidence, and challenging the claims made against you. If necessary, the lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or penalties.
- Challenging protective orders: If a restraining order has been placed against you, a lawyer can contest the order and present evidence to defend against it, aiming to minimize its impact on your life and reputation.
- Handling related family law issues: Lawyers help defend against domestic violence allegations in divorce, child custody, and visitation disputes, working to protect your parental rights and reputation.
- Preventing long-term consequences: A lawyer will work to protect you from the long-term consequences of a domestic violence conviction, such as a criminal record that could affect employment, housing, and more.
How Are Domestic Violence Lawyers Paid?
Domestic violence lawyers generally charge for their services in different ways depending on the case's complexity and the type of legal work involved. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: Many domestic violence lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location. Hourly rates are common for both criminal defense and family law matters.
- Flat fee: For specific tasks, such as filing a restraining order or defending against a straightforward domestic violence charge, some lawyers offer a flat fee that covers all legal work related to that service.
- Retainer: In complex cases, such as those involving criminal charges, divorce, and custody disputes, a lawyer may require a retainer fee, which is an upfront payment that covers future legal services.
- Pro bono or reduced fees: Some domestic violence lawyers provide pro bono (free) or reduced-fee services to victims of domestic abuse who cannot afford legal representation.
It’s important to discuss fees during your consultation to ensure you understand how much your case will cost and what payment options may be available.
How Much Does a Domestic Violence Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a domestic violence lawyer depends on the complexity of your case, the lawyer’s experience, and the type of legal work required. General cost estimates include:
- Restraining orders: The legal fees for filing a protective or restraining order typically range from $500 to $2,500, depending on whether the case requires a hearing.
- Criminal defense: If you’re defending against domestic violence charges, legal fees may range from $2,500 to $15,000 or more, depending on whether the case goes to trial and the severity of the charges.
- Family law issues: Legal fees for divorce, child custody, and other family law issues related to domestic violence can range from $3,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case.
- Hourly rates: Domestic violence lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour for their services, with more experienced lawyers charging higher rates.
Always ask for a detailed cost estimate during your consultation to understand the total cost of legal services.
Top Questions to Ask a Domestic Violence Lawyer
Before hiring a domestic violence lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the right experience and approach for your case. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with domestic violence cases?
Ensure that the lawyer has handled domestic violence cases similar to yours, whether you’re a victim or the accused. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, flat fees, or a retainer, and ask for a detailed cost estimate. -
What is the likely outcome of my case?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case, including potential challenges and expected outcomes. -
How long will the process take?
Domestic violence cases vary in length, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last and what might cause delays. -
Will I need to appear in court?
Ask if your participation in court is required, and how the lawyer plans to represent you during hearings or trials. -
What steps should I take to protect myself or my rights?
Whether you’re a victim seeking protection or defending against allegations, ask the lawyer how they will help you navigate the situation.
How to Check the Credibility of a Domestic Violence Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable domestic violence lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- Check their bar status: Verify with your state bar association that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for domestic violence experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in domestic violence cases and have successfully handled cases like yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients say about their experience with the lawyer.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have been involved in domestic violence cases.
- Check for memberships in relevant organizations: Look for certifications or memberships in family law or domestic violence advocacy groups, such as the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV).
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a domestic violence lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
-
For Victims:
- Details of the abuse: Prepare a detailed account of the abuse, including dates, locations, and descriptions of any injuries or threats.
- Police reports and medical records: Bring copies of any police reports, medical records, or photographs that document the abuse.
- Legal filings: If you have already filed for a restraining order or been involved in any legal proceedings, bring copies of those documents.
- Questions about your safety and legal options: Be ready to ask about the best steps to protect yourself and your family, as well as what legal actions you should pursue.
-
For the Accused:
- Details of the allegations: Prepare a detailed account of the incident or allegations against you, including any evidence or witnesses that support your defense.
- Legal documents: Bring any legal documents you have received, such as a restraining order, criminal charges, or child custody filings.
- Questions about your defense: Prepare questions about the legal process, possible penalties, and how the lawyer plans to defend your case.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation and provide the best possible legal advice.
