Filter by

star star star star star
28 Nov, 2023 by Scott
Thankfully I have not needed the services of Millar Legal personally, but I know two others that have. The theme always seems to be that Aaron is a highly skilled attorney, without question, but the difference for them was how personable and compassionate Aaron was during an (obviously) stressful and emotional time. I personally know Aaron through other professional channels and can attest to the fact that he genuinely cares for people, beyond just the courtroom. The other great reviews and testimonials all ring true. Easy call to make.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
18 Nov, 2023 by Tamera
I began the divorce process in October of 2021. At the time, I had different counsel. Nearly a year into the saga, I was referred to Aaron through another family law attorney. Once I hired Aaron, I knew I had the right attorney. My case was very high conflict. Aaron would ask my thoughts and ideas on the best way to navigate all the roadblocks that were thrown our way. Aaron was always calm. He was a voice of reason. He would ask questions to ensure he understood what I needed. Aaron did not always agree with me. When we didn’t agree, he explained his position and the most likely outcome. He was quick to return emails or phone calls. I could count on a response within 24-48 hours. My case ultimately ended up at trial. I appreciated Aaron’s honesty and integrity throughout the entire process. He was very thoughtful with all of the motions and exhibits he presented to the Court, as he understood the Court does not have a lot of time to spend on each case. At trial, Aaron was able to take hundreds of pages of information and display them on a spreadsheet that was easy for everyone, including the judge, to understand. During the first day of trial, the Judge held up Aaron’s spreadsheet specific to alimony. It detailed previous martial expenses, current expenses and predicted expenses. The Judge shook it above his head while exclaiming that is how it should be done! While making his ruling, the Judge once again commented how helpful Aaron’s presentation was in determining alimony. Aaron was always in control: control of himself, control of the room, control of the issues, control of the evidence. Aaron was able to get me full physical and legal custody of my 16 year old, he successfully negotiated that she determine parent time and secured more alimony than I ever wanted or expected. Aaron and I made a great team. Normally I would approach Aaron with a solution to the latest problem. Aaron was always open to my ideas; he wasn’t threatened by my involvement. I had some ideas that were unconventional but checked off all of the boxes when it came to the law. Aaron was willing to advocate for me even though he didn’t know what the outcome would be. Aaron was very methodical. He was not ego driven. Aaron did what was best for his client, not what was the easiest or most popular. Whether he agreed with me or not, Aaron would always hear me out. My prior counsel dismissed me even when I had what ultimately became the winning strategy. I will always recommend Millar Legal to anyone that finds themself needing legal representation, specifically in a high conflict divorce case.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
01 Sep, 2023 by Courtney kenmir
Mr. Millar was a wonderful attorney to work with. Throughout the entire process, from the date I first reached out for a consult, up until the end of mediation, he was honest with me about my options and helped guide me toward the best possible outcome based on my needs. He and his team were extremely professional and it was clear he is very knowledgeable. Whenever I had a question, he and his team were quick to answer with a thorough response. The care and dedication that his team took really demonstrated that they cared about me as a client and wanted me to be successful. He did well at making me feel confident in mediation, which was extremely helpful during what could have potentially been a high stress situation. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
07 Sep, 2021 by Karen
Steve was very supportive, compassionate, knowledgeable and was able to get my charges reduced drastically. He sticks up for you like a middle finger! I highly recommend him to anyone going through a court case in his expertise area.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
28 Sep, 2019 by Henry
When charged with a life changing domestic violence felony I knew finding the right lawyer was a huge decision and very important. Steves background as a prosecutor led me to him. He knows the tactics they use and can form a great defense argument. Following his every request and decision gave the best outcome of my jury trial. Not Guilty of DV Aggravated Assault. Choosing Steve would be a great choice to defend DV related charges. I couldn't be happier with the outcome of my case and how Steve handled everything.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
11 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
Steven burton Representing me very well and amazing lawyer defensive lawyer if you’re ever in trouble he is the one that you need to have representation from didn’t excellent job I can say is five star five star rating
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
15 Mar, 2022 by Michael
I hired Paul for 19 cases never thought it would turn out like it did he always kept me in touch with the cases. The time came after the 3rd court date and Paul got them all dismissed. He will fight for you all the way through. Anybody needs a lawyer this is the guy.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
09 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
understanding, easy to work with, knows is law, was able to advice me from beginning what will untimely happen, when verdict time came, Paul Deliver what i had hired him for. Thank you again Paul.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
04 May, 2016 by Darren
Paul is very knowledgeable and helped us navigate a very unique legal situation. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend him to anybody needing legal representation. He listens to you and then goes to work to get you the best possible resolution. Paul is a five star lawyer.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
09 Feb, 2022 by Shaniece
I was really worried about court since I haven’t been in trouble in a long time and he answered all my questions thoroughly and gave me great advice! He was there every step of the way and went above and beyond for me! Thank you so much I appreciate everything!!!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
15 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
Matt stepped in to help me with a probation case on VERY short notice. He responded to my initial request promptly, courteously, and professionally, and was excellent at explaining my options. He reviewed my case thoroughly and presented it very well at my hearing....and the results were more than I could have hoped for! I hope to never need an attorney for similar matters again, but if I do, Matt will be my first call -- and I would recommend him to anyone that needs the best attorney around!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
28 Jun, 2017 by Murphy
I don't want to get into specifics but Matt really got me out of a jam. I was able to serve probation on a charge that I was sure I'd have to do time for. I've had three good friends hire Matt and all of them have been very happy with the outcome. Hopefully I won't need his services in the future but if I'm in trouble ill definitely be calling him again!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
17 Aug, 2020 by Ana tellez
Many thanks to attorney Tara Reilly without you I would've been completely lost. You went above and beyond to help me and guide me on this moment in my life that I thought I could not get through. Thank you thank you so much.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
18 Aug, 2019 by Travis
Tara was amazing. From the first consultation she was upfront and on point with what to expect and how proceeding would go. She always had a couple of choices for me to pick from and following her advice made all the difference. Her paralegal Baillee makes the world's best coffee!!!! What a great team!!!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
05 May, 2019 by Anonymous
I loved how welcomed I felt from the moment I walked in their doors for my free consult. they were the first law firm I chose to meet with and ended up being the last because I felt so strongly they were the law firm for me and my case. Tara Reilly and her team are amazing and provided me with everything I could have needed and made this whole process of a custody modification go by smoothly and as quickly as possible. and then to top it all off because of them and their experience and expertise I won my case! I am so thankful for Just Law and being there with/for me every step of the way
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
29 Apr, 2024 by Todd
Best lawyer in town I promise you that I have used him a few times far better than anybody else
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
10 Mar, 2020 by Scott
I had a pleasure having John Johnson as my lawyer. He is very easy to get in contact with when you are one of his customers and always communicates with me to assure that we are both on the same page.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
09 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
John Johnson demonstrated the breadth of his legal expertise and knowledge when I hired him to represent me in a complex legal case. He explained the legal process in a manner easily understood by a layperson and adequately prepared me for my court meetings. He had always my family best interest in mind. He is a person of good moral character and I believe his integrity is impeccable. For potential clients seeking legal representation, I highly recommend Mr. John Johnson.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
17 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr. Metos was kind, patient, empathetic and non judgmental to my daughter. He helped her be accountable for her past history of substance dependence and navigated her through many cities in which she had warrants. I am forever grateful.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
28 Apr, 2016 by Karen
We all make mistakes; some of us make illegal ones. being caught is horrifying. Your fate is left in someone else’s hands, and you have little control of what the consequences of your actions will be. It’s like having the lights turned off, it’s pitch black and you can’t find the light switch. Mr. Metos was my light switch. He was patient, non-judgmental, and the best in his field, which is exactly what you want when you find yourself in this type of situation. Fred was able to negotiate a minimal amount of time for my sentence; I received three months which could have been 15 years. Seven years after serving my sentence, Fred was able to have my record expunged. Life is good; I owe a great deal of my success and happiness after that dark period in my life to Fred.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
25 May, 2021 by Anonymous
While waiting to see if I would be charged on false allegations made by my daughter against me (together with her lesbian lover), I had a couple of other criminal attorneys representing me pre-filing who were taking a wait and see approach--not a good idea. My child welfare attorney told me to hire Greg. I did. Greg delivered. Big time!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
03 Jul, 2020 by Angie
I hired Mr. Ferbreche to handle my husbands criminal cases. I had spoken to a couple of other lawyers in my search for the right one for us and after the first consultation with Greg Ferbrache I knew he was the one. He was extremely knowledgeable in the law and after he had a couple of days with our case he knew the case well and started working to get us the very best outcome possible. In the end the case closed much better than we expected. While the case was going on he responded to our calls and text in a timely manner and answered our questions in simple terms so we could fully understand everything. He was in tune to our personal needs to get things resolved so we could get back to our lives again. We are both very pleased with the outcome and would hire Mr. Ferbrache again if ever the need arose.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
28 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
An attorney who understands the process and the law...is hardworking, patient, consistent, and kind. His experience and expertise provided an amazing result. Recommend wholeheartedly.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
09 Aug, 2024 by Mark
What can I say, Jarom was the best, most attentive, hard working attorney I have ever met. Communication throughout the whole process was amazing all times of the day. Quick to react to emails, calls, messages and more importantly to get the job done. Being a non USA citizen we could’ve hit many obstacles which Jarom managed to navigate around exceptionally for the months that proceeded and followed, which ultimately resulted in the case being DISMISSED. I've also never dealt with a professional more committed to my reassurance and guidance, while also in a timely manner. Thank you Jarom, for helping me navigate this process. I highly recommend Jarom for legal representation. Can’t thank you enough!!!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
20 Sep, 2024 by Danny
I loved working with Dani. She was in my corner from day one. She kept my expectations in check while also fighting for my rights as father. I highly recommend hiring Dani if you want an attorney to focus on your needs and who will fight for YOU and not your wallet.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
03 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Dani was my lawyer through a very difficult and contentious divorce. She made the process bearable and helped me maintain a reasonable and pragmatic approach through the difficult times. She was an excellent advisor/expert and resource. She got my divorce settled in 10 months through a custody and alimony battle that was expected to take 18-24 months
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
12 Aug, 2024 by Braxton
A great lawyer and an overall better guy. He’s easy to work with and very passionate about his job. He got me out of a tight
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
28 Sep, 2024 by Necia ivie
Mr. Alder was recommended by our former attorney and we were very pleased with his services.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Aug, 2024 by Sid astle
Google Maps
star star star star star
16 Aug, 2024 by G boschetto
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
18 Sep, 2024 by John hall
Amazing law firm. Kristina Reudas was our attorney for a pretty challenging situation and she was always reasonable and intelligent throughout the process. I come from a family of attorneys so it’s easy to spot a great one and she certainly is one that stands out.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
20 Jul, 2024 by Colton furlong
Brian Jackson was an absolute rockstar with helping me with my business buyout. Would recommend him to anyone!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
04 Jun, 2024 by Elizabeth ortiz
Wonderful experience with attorney Linh Tran Layton, would highly recommend. Thank you Linh!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
06 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
This attorney got more than $3000 from my pocket in last than 2 weeks. Although, he did not do anything. He just kept asking for money and money. I found another attorney and he was able to work on my divorce for less than that. Be careful with this man.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
18 Oct, 2021 by Sherry
Brent was my attorney through a difficult divorce. My ex-husband was an unwilling participant in the marriage AND the divorce. Not wanting to participate in the divorce made him difficult to negotiate with. Brent was able to see through his stalling tactics and eventually, we were able to force the divorce issue. Brent was effective in communicating with the narcissist who was my husband. It still took a while, but I was able to get out of the relationship with my dignity intact and with everything I wanted and needed. I am satisfied and grateful for Brent's experience and highly recommend him to anyone who is looking for an attorney who finds themselves working with a difficult partner.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
05 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
I have him help me with my pro se order to show cause, He volunteered through the court system to help those who represented themselves. He was trying to get the other party to listen to my suggestions for settlement, giving me advice, and being on my side when you really need someone to be there for you, even if you are presenting yourself.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
03 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
During one of the darkest times in my life I hired Laura as my divorce attorney. She was kind and yet so knowledgeable of the law. She always kept me informed of procedures and timetables with the proceeding. Divorce is never an easy process and she made far better than I could have imagined. She is very professional and yet is able to listen and know what needs to be done and how to do it. I would recommend her highly to anyone I know.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
30 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
Laura was persistent and helped me obtain custody of my children. After many disputes, she presented the truth to the court in a clear and effective manner. I am happy to have her in my corner.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
28 Sep, 2022 by Jeff
Clyde Snow Sessions does not disappoint. Laura represented me recently and she went above and beyond in her representation of me. She actually secured an outcome for me that I didn't think would be possible. She is extremely knowledgeable and personable. I will use Laura again should the need ever present itself.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
25 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
After interviewing several lawyers I decided to retain Kelly Ann Booth. I was impressed by how aggressive she was--though the retainer fee was steeper than other lawyers. I liked her personality and felt she would represent me well. That faded over time as she showed up late to my initial hearing. She never contacted me or kept me apprised of what was happening. I didn't feel like she was representing me very well so I found another lawyer. It was an expensive lesson--as I lost my entire retainer and didn't really have anything to show for it. I think she could be a very capable lawyer, but I wouldn't hire her or recommend her.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
03 Aug, 2018 by Josh
I was very impressed with Kelly Ann Booth and her partner Rudy Bautista. They are very aggressive defense attorneys. We fought my case to trial and after a 2 hour deliberation the jury came back not guilty. Such a gratifying moment. Kelly Ann and Rudy worked hard on my case from start to finish.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
15 May, 2018 by Amanda
We had the honor of having Kelly Ann represent us recently for a criminal matter related to my spouse. Not only did Kelly Ann get us the best outcome possible and do an amazing job fighting on our behalf, she also helped us get through the whole expungement process as well to get the arrest taken off his record. If you find yourself or a loved one in trouble with the law, you can’t go wrong with Kelly Ann.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
01 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
Mr Johnson is a terrible person, let alone attorney. I have been fighting for my rights of visitation with my children, and due to false allegations made by my ex husband, allegations i can prove are false, Mr Johnson treated me like i was a liar. He did not help my case in any way. Not worth the time or money.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
15 Apr, 2016 by Scott
A superb attorney. Eric immediately impressed me. Affable, compassionate, sympathetic, empathetic, and fully invested. Eric worked tirelessly on my case. He made it his personal mission to do everything in his power to ensure a successful outcome. Hire him now and sleep well at night.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
16 Mar, 2016 by Aaron
I was hit with a false child abuse allegation at the commencement of my divorce and thought my life was over. Things were a total disaster. DCFS had substantiated the false abuse, a TRO prevented me from having any contact with my kids and they were being badly alienated with the help of a biased therapist. Eric fought hard for me and we accomplished the impossible. I now enjoy regular visitation and all that drama is behind me. Eric is an excellent attorney for someone who is up against the ropes. I highly recommend him.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
21 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
One star is too many, zero should be an option. The amount of damage Tamara did to my case is unforgivable. She made glaring errors, completely forgot to file orders, would ignore emails/calls/texts for months and months on end, and gave advice that has harmed the lives of many, including children. She made no efforts to take accountability for what she did or try and fix the damage done, withdrawing when the full scope of her mistakes became apparent. It will take years to attempt to undo what she did, and more money than I can imagine. Tamara should not be a licensed attorney. She has been reported to the office of professional misconduct with hundreds of pages of documented evidence. I will take all necessary steps to hold her accountable for her actions so she cannot do this to another unsuspecting client. Do not consider her in your search for an attorney if you are looking for competency and professionalism, or even just an attorney you’d like to be able to get a hold of within a month two. There are bad attorneys, then there are attorneys who will ruin your life. Tamara is the latter.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
01 Feb, 2021 by Ashley
She helped me through some incredibly hard times this last year. I have PTSD and she did everything for me concerning my ex so I didn’t even have to speak directly to him. She helped my divorce go through and made me feel incredibly comfortable the entire time. She listens attentively and was always comforting and never judgmental. I can never thank her enough for all that she has done for me and my family.
Read more Avvo
See 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. What is the likely outcome of my case?
    Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case, including potential challenges and expected outcomes.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

Scroll to top