Lawyers map
>1.4k
experienced lawyers
Filter by
15 Jan, 2025 by Linda bearse
I had a serious problem with my bank Mr. Jones met with me and the banker and we figured it out. He was very helpful. Highly recommend it.
Read more
09 Jan, 2025 by Becoming jay mel
Mr jones was absolutely wonderful and very professional. He helped us to resolve a custody issue that had been dragged out way too long. He went to him he was able to resolve the issue almost immediately. Highly recommended
Read more
09 Jan, 2025 by T.o.p farms l.l.c
Mr. Jones did a great job and getting custody of my baby. I highly recommend him. He and Thank you his staff were great !!
Read more
10 Jan, 2025 by Walter wright
Was very professional got the job done
Very thankful
Read more
01 Nov, 2024 by Dustin lind
I was so pleased with the service provided by Smith Law Firm! They delivered everything promised, on price, and under the timeline estimated. They were kind, understanding, and patient with both of us every step of the way answering our questions and ensuring both of us were happy with the results. I would recommend them to anyone!
Read more
11 Oct, 2024 by Caleb brunson
Didn't even give us the time we paid for. Pathetic, obviously cares for his lawyer friends and knows the person I came in with a case about. After $75 basically didn't want to take effort into seeing how he could help us even though he agreed fraud was all over the documents we had. I should have known he's close to courthouse and is friends with all the other lawyers. He didn't want to hurt his good friend Mitch McNabb who is in prison he said. 0 stars.. felt like he robbed us of 75$.
Read more
16 Jan, 2025 by Nikki bucciero
She’s the One You want to bring your case to a closed win! Jennifer is passionate for the law and is very knowledgeable in several aspects in and out of the courtroom!
Read more
16 Jan, 2025 by Carolyn keysaer
Jennifer has always been great at what she does, but that happens when you are an upstanding human being. If you want someone who is going to put it all on the table and fight with all her guts for you, you found the right one! She is a special one!
Read more
16 Jan, 2025 by Teresa baxley
The most caring, compassionate service. Ms. Tompkins and every member of the Tompkins firm goes out of their way to make you feel like family. Ms. Tompkins lives her firm motto, “Justice without Judgement”
Read more
08 Jan, 2025 by Morris atkins
This law firm was incompetent, unethical, and unprofessional. When I had questions, I wasn't able to get in contact with Emily and she wouldn't return my phone calls. Abby was unprofessional and she didn't contact me when she said she would. Cadbury attempted to lie to me about services that was promised, but never rendered. This was a very uncomfortable and unfortunate experience and I wouldn't recommend this law firm to represent anyone for anything.
Read more
12 Dec, 2024 by Chelsea d
My partner was charged with a probation violation, I needed a lawyer to represent him and it was right before Thanksgiving holiday so I didn't think I would have any luck but Shane made it happen, he showed up for him and we got a great outcome, I'm so thankful for him & his team! He's an amazing and extremely professional lawyer. I would recommend him to anyone.
Read more
25 Nov, 2024 by Ednaris berrios
From the staff to attorneys they are all very helpful and professional! Their dedication to their clients goes without say. I will recommend Shane Associates to anyone who needs a great dedicated law firm.
Read more
17 Sep, 2024 by Hannah shutt
17 Sep, 2024 by Drake rayborn
Awesome attorney! Did exactly what he said he was going to do!
Read more
09 Jun, 2024 by Noneya buiz
Hadley drug his feet long enough for the subjects to go bankrupt on me causing me to lose out on the property I was trying to protect.
Thanks for nothing
Read more
23 Jan, 2025 by Montana smith
Everyone in this office was determined to help me and my family. Between Mary Bruce to her team, they worked WONDERS. I'm able to get back what I lost and still have a little more 💖💖🥹🥹
They never strayed from the tasks. Always kept me informed. I will never be able to thank Mary Bruce entirely because there are just no words for how grateful we are. We will definitely be keeping Drake injury lawyers in our contacts.
Read more
22 Nov, 2024 by Fernanda iupi
Everyone on their team were just very supportive and they handled my dad’s case with all the attention and professionalism. I definitely recommend Drake Injury Lawers.
Read more
29 Oct, 2024 by Douglas smoot
On February 21st, 2019, a large pickup truck speeding through a parking lot in Huntsville, AL broadsided my car, totaling it and causing serious, multiple injuries to me. The initial court case was scheduled in September, 2019. Four continuances by the defense delayed due process until late 2023. A settlement offer concerning my uninsured motorist insurance was negotiated by my initial attorney. I refused the low-ball offer and the attorney withdrew from the case telling me, “it would be crazy not to accept that offer” among other disparaging comments.
After calling several firms which rejected my case, I was referred to Drake Law Firm by an attorney friend. Attorneys Mr. Whitt Drake and Mrs. Mary Amari Bruce reviewed my case files and decided to represent me if they could get a continuance. It was granted and Mary Amari Bruce, attorney took the lead. I had a few telephone conversations with her over the next year concerning all the documented facts of the accident, depositions, and my medical records. She asked me what amount I would settle the case for and to write a short summary of how I was affected by the accident.
In summary, Mary Amari Bruce, Attorney presented the case to the lawyer for my insurance company in an intelligent manner that persuaded him to accept our demand to settle prior to the upcoming court hearing. The settlement amount increased from the previous lawyer’s low ball of 19% to Mary Amari Bruce’s settlement of 86.5% of my UIM insurance coverage. The facts were always there, it just took one year and getting away from the good ole boy network to a smart female Birmingham lawyer!
Read more
18 Nov, 2024 by Taji last
Great firm, they got my ticket dismissed.
Read more
14 Oct, 2024 by Shadella stripling
Jim is definitely one of the best attorneys in the area. Not only is he extremely personable and easy to work with, he knows his stuff and has connections. He helped me get an extension on my court date until I was able to pay. He reassured me this would not follow me for the rest of my life. He told me just to show up to court (nothing more nothing less) & got my misdemeanor charge dropped with ease. Even the judge reminded me I should thank him because I hired one of the best & he saved me lots of money from attending a class I would have had to, to get my charge dropped. All in all 10/10 would HIGHLY recommend.
Read more
08 Oct, 2024 by Keaton
Jim golden helped me with my case well he did more than help he got me the outcome I was expecting,he was very precise and punctual,he made sure to let me know court dates ahead of time,and he is still helping me after the case is over I give this law firm a 5 star rating
Read more
08 Feb, 2024 by Joy bourgie
Amazing Attorney!!! Very knowledgeable, empathetic, compassionate and fair.
Read more
31 Jan, 2024 by Bryan
I wouldn't recommend this attorney; he is the worst attorney ever.
Read more
11 Aug, 2023 by Heather leonard
Leslie is thorough and thoughtful in how she represents her clients.
Read more
01 Jan, 2025 by Lula riley-franklin
20 Nov, 2024 by Zayden smith
I give them 5stars because they always be on point and get everything solve and very kind and treat you very kindly with respect and they always there if you need them.Thanks Pepper &Odom Lawfirm I will continue to send more clients your way
Read more
08 Sep, 2024 by T mckinney
Lack of communication also when one thing is said something totally different from what was said will be done if anything is done at all. Just get everything in writing or email when having these attorneys represent you. It was said to me that the attorneys fees would be reduced that did not happen at all. It was said to me so I would settle.
Read more
15 Nov, 2023 by Johnnie durant
Attorney Kia Scott is an awesome Attorney and I would recommend her to anyone.
Read more
12 Jun, 2023 by Dana barry
12 Jun, 2023 by Amyracle coles
26 Aug, 2024 by Bradley leonard
100% recommend this firm. They were amazing to deal with from day one. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly and handled my case with so much care. They were quick to respond and very thorough. I’ve sent several friends here and will continue to do so.
Read more
05 Mar, 2024 by Nikki adams
Love them
Read more
13 Dec, 2023 by Barry shipman
31 May, 2024 by Jj groce
Gregory was wonderful to work with and help getting my disability approved.
Read more
24 Jun, 2023 by G duncan
I went to my first disability hearing without a lawyer and the judge there told me that I should not try to handle my hearing alone. I talked to a few people in the area who do this work, but Mr. Forsyth went above and beyond to be helpful and give me all the info I needed, even before I hired him to handle my case. I was happy with the decision I got back from the judge and I would recomend this firm to anyone in the same situation who needs help.
Read more
20 Jun, 2023 by Holly harper
Mr. Forsythe was extremely adept at fielding the process of filing for disability. He is professional and unbelievably patient however I feel it’s best to mention that he is most of all, honest.
He always was upfront about the process and didn’t give me false hope. He managed expectations and kept me in the loop every step of the way. He returned countless emails and called each time he had an update. I’d have been lost without his guidance and wisdom.
I highly recommend meeting with him if you or someone you know is disabled and ready to begin the process of filing for disability. You couldn’t ask for a better attorney. Meet with him and see for yourself!
Read more
26 Nov, 2024 by Denver hughes
Ashley was absolutely amazing. She handled my case with such confidence and professionalism. Her and her paralegals were the best! Would recommend her to anybody! And will use her again if I ever need legal representation. This was a custody case involving my kids and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome. If you’re needing representation for custody issues, look no further!
Read more
11 Oct, 2024 by John rogers
05 Oct, 2024 by Chris murphy
Over the last couple of years the team at Mezrano has been helping me try to reach a settlement. We were finally able to reach it recently and they made the process almost completely hands free for me and kept me updated on the progress regularly. They were an absolute joy to work with and I would recommend working with them to anyone!
Read more
22 Dec, 2024 by Debbiec garceau
Great attorney ADA!
Read more
17 Feb, 2024 by Melanie smith
Really down to Earth super-sweet lady!
Read more
17 Jan, 2024 by Nathan south
Best defense attorney
Read more
03 Dec, 2024 by Kristie
Jennings has and staff have been absolutely helpful and went above for me during this time.
Read more
22 Nov, 2024 by Jillian burkhalter
Mr. Jennings and Stacy are very helpful and knowledgeable, they are were able to assist me in all my concerns.
Read more
11 Nov, 2024 by Kristina vaughan
They are very personable, helpful, knowledgeable, and patient. I highly recommend them.
Read more
06 Jan, 2025 by Monserrat leon
Scott is an amazing lawyer that understands what you’re going through and works with you. I live in a different state and he really helped me through the process and answered all my concerns or doubts I had. His secretary and him were very professional and helped me with my case. I really recommend him as a lawyer.
Read more
18 Nov, 2024 by Andrew cuty
I had the pleasure of working with Mr. Crongeyer for a speeding ticket I received, and I couldn't be happier with the experience. He made the entire process seamless, handling everything without me needing to step foot in a courtroom. Mr. Crongeyer fought hard on my behalf and secured a resolution with zero court fees, no ticket fine, and no impact on my insurance. He was worth every penny, and I can’t recommend him highly enough. If you’re facing any legal trouble, don’t hesitate to give him a call!
Read more
27 Aug, 2024 by Darryl wilson
Best attorney around!
Read more
16 Dec, 2024 by Chad barnett
Great experience the whole way through. Cody Poe and his associates are fantastic to work with.
Read more
27 Nov, 2024 by Paula fox
I have worked with Cody Poe on a couple of different collection law suit issues. He is always available whenever I speak to him and very personable. Cody not only represents you but also helps you understand what's happening step by step. I can say that in my many years of working for Attorneys and dealing with Attorneys in my line of work, he is the most down to earth and hard working Attorney that I have ever dealt with. I highly recommend this Law Firm if you are looking for representation in any of the areas that they practice law in. I am very sure you will not regret it and you will be less stressed and more educated on the process once you do.
Read more
06 Jun, 2024 by Jennifer thomas
Our case was not a big money maker Mr.Bishop worked the case as if it was worth millions. He went above and beyond for us!
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Janet cartee
19 Nov, 2024 by Brandon smith
Willie's team under promises and over delivers. A Plus in my book.
Read more
24 May, 2024 by Megan dawson
12 Dec, 2022 by Danielle thomas
28 Mar, 2022 by Antwaun mcdaniel
20 Feb, 2021 by Olivia gaines
Assist you with your needs.
Read more
12 Dec, 2022 by Danielle thomas
28 Mar, 2022 by Antwaun mcdaniel
20 Feb, 2021 by Olivia gaines
Assist you with your needs.
Read more
21 Aug, 2024 by Mandy young
In 2019 I was having some financial issues , especially being in a single parent home. David walked me through the process of bankruptcy (chapter 13) I was in a 5 year plan. Fast fwd to 2024, I was about to be done with the plan and he came to me about my student loans and said he due to new laws passing he might could get my student loans forgiven. This process took about 8 months but the process was worth it. $86,000 was forgiven and I have a new blank slate. David and his staff made this process very understandable and easy. I highly recommend him and his office. He explains everything and is very patient, professional and knowledgeable.
If he could have 10 stars I would give it !!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Read more
22 May, 2024 by Santini fitzpatrick
David Weston ,is the best, he really cares about his clients and has taught me so much over conversation when in comes to bankruptcy and so much more to the point that I am able to relay helpful information to others and that is very rare to come by these days and i recommend any and everyone I possibly can to him and his team there outstanding
Read more
06 Jul, 2023 by Vikki faulk
22 Apr, 2024 by Prince homebuilders inc
Very helpful.
Read more
16 Feb, 2024 by Autumn wood
communication
Read more
24 Jan, 2024 by Dan florcyk
My response would be similar to the other positive responses I've read in Adam's review section. He was thoughtful, honest and upfront with the reality of my case and I never doubted a word he told me. In the past I've had very different experiences dealing with attorneys, Adam has helped adjust my sights relative to the legal profession. Thanks Adam
Read more
14 Oct, 2024 by Lenesha whorton
04 Oct, 2024 by Nicole scott
He is a crappy lawyer with no communication skills at all. Hired him for a real estate case never met him once after 2 yrs of having to call his office once a month because he wouldn’t communicate he stated he couldn’t help but yet I paid him and now another lawyer has taken care of the very problem I hired him for…. Would not recommend to anyone for anything.
Read more
20 Sep, 2024 by Krystal robinson
02 May, 2024 by Judy smith
I would recommend Danny to anyone he for sure knows what he's doing when it comes to eviction.
Read more
03 Nov, 2023 by Barbara jackson
Very unprofessional hung up the telephone on me. What lawyer writes a will and don’t keep a copy! Wrote my mom’s will and the whole thing has been a hot mess. He dropped the ball big time! He listened to all the lies my step sister told about me never once did he call to verify her statements. My stepsister got rid of all the furniture from my mom’s house and didn’t have an estate sale. This wanna be lawyer knew about it and did nothing. When I called his office to ask questions is when he hung up the phone on me. That was very unprofessional and unnecessary! His advice to me was hire and attorney. I live in Atlanta Georgia my mom lived in Adamsville Alabama. I’m told the office doesn’t even look like a law office. Beware Alabama save your money!!!!!!! Truly he deserves no stars!
Read more
30 Sep, 2023 by Debrah morton
This attorneys office showed opened online. But was not open when I drove there to drop off paperwork. They didn't answer the phone nor have an voice mail or answering service to answer the calls. Never heard of an attorney that didn't want to answer your call to try and get the CASE!!!.... lol maybe they were out chasing
Read more
23 Feb, 2024 by W. steven barefoot
Most compassionate and straightforward attorney I have ever met or hired. She's extremely truthful and always has the clients best interest in mind. If you want the truth and sincere legal advise, hire Gossman. If you want to be milked by continuances, go somewhere else. Listen to Gossman. She knows the law and all the judges that she practices under, know her to be truthful and a straight shooter. My case was extremely complicated and she finalized it well above my expectations.
Read more
30 Aug, 2023 by Chelsea mason
My husband and I were WILDLY disappointed in the “representation” provided to us. Not only did she not fight on our behalf she pretty much gave the other side what they wanted and completely ignored our wants and concerns for the case. She colluded with GAL. And in the end put our child in the greatest danger he has literally ever been in. Now we’re having to spend more money on a more competent lawyer to actually remove the parental rights as we initially ask. And now we’re out thousands of dollars 😒
Read more
09 Aug, 2023 by Lauren jennifer
I recently had the misfortune of engaging the services of Gossman Law Firm, and I must say that it was a complete disaster from start to finish. The level of incompetence and unprofessionalism displayed by this firm was beyond anything I could have imagined.
Read more
14 Mar, 2024 by James glaze
29 Oct, 2021 by Mitchell gardner
Steven Gravely... Lee Tucker isn't in this office any longer. Steven is a great person and lawyer!
Read more
28 Oct, 2021 by Karen colley
31 Aug, 2018 by Caitlin
This is the worst lawyer I have ever come into contact with. I came to her based on these reviews, and wish I had looked elsewhere. On two separate occasions, she went to court knowing the other party had not been served. Why go to court when nothing can be accomplished unless you're simply trying to drain the retainer? It was hundreds of dollars wasted. I was also told by her that she would let me know whether I should come to court on another date. I emailed after not hearing anything weeks after and was told to come. I took off work, showed up, and she was not even there. Beyond all common courtesy, I was billed for the subsequent phone calls I made for showing up for no reason that amounted to less than 6 minutes. When I asked that they be removed, the immediate rebuttal was that they forgot $200 in fees on my invoice from months prior, but would be happy to remove the $50. I was also emailed someone else's extremely private DHR document instead of mine. Even after voicing my uneasiness to Wendy, I did not receive an apology. I have never received an apology for this unprofessionalism. I felt like a paycheck, not a valued client. The unethical treatment took an anxiety inducing situation and made it a complete nightmare. I hired her Dec 2017, and after $2,054 of legal fees, have gotten absolutely nothing accomplished.
Read more
22 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Ms. Wendy for an uncontested divorce which unfortunately became contested. Wendy was great, patient and attentive. The documents drafted were top notch and I loved that they were sent to me to review each time a document was filed. I would definitely recommend Ms. Wendy.
Read more
31 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
Ms. Reese represented me in a child custody case in Jefferson County Family Court. She is very knowledgeable and experience in handling child custody matters. She was able to assist me in understanding the process and facilitate communication with DHR. Wendy was a strong advocate for me and I cannot thank her enough for the countless hours she spent working on my case. We spent numerous hours in court and I was able to watch lots of attorneys and I can say, without a doubt, that Wendy is one of the best. Do yourself a favor and hire her if you are seeking to regain custody of your children.
Read more
13 Sep, 2024 by Jeffrey g. hester
Matt is an excellent lawyer.
Read more
27 Jul, 2024 by Elisha ophelia rodriguez
Jeremy is one of the best lawyers I have ever come in contact with to fight dhr for my custody back of my daughter. Had a lawyer for 3 years that done nothing and 2 weeks after I hired Mr Jeremy I had my unsupervised visits back and my baby girl with me 5 days out of the week.. 8 months after I hired him I had full custody back. I couldn't believe it he did what he promised he would do for me and for that I will forever be grateful. He is a very smart and intelligent man and business man. H3 knows the laws and he stands by them. She kept finding any little reason to keep my baby in foster care and I felt like I was never going to get my baby . Thank you Jeremy for everything you did for me and ESPERANZA. We will forever be grateful to you. Awesome work I God bless you and your family..
Read more
01 Jul, 2024 by Andre lacey
Mr.Crowley was a very if part of why my case was finally decided upon. He did an awesome job in my opinion in a very professional and personal. Great man, lawyer, and person overall. Big Thanks!!
Read more
23 Oct, 2024 by China glenn
I love love chip and his wife they save my hubby from a mix up facing 20 years forever speaking highly bout them 🫶🏽
Read more
03 Nov, 2023 by Brandon & emily wilhite
These are hands down the best lawyers period! You talking about a lawyer who knows the law and fights for her clients , this is the one. She and her husband did what seemed to be impossible for us , she made it happen. She is like a lawyer that you see on movies that really fight for people and don't stop. When you look up the definition of a real lawyer , they should be in that definition of what a true lawyer is and does. If you want a lawyer to just answer your calls and tell you what you want to hear , maybe not the one , but if you want a lawyer that may not have time to answer you all the time because she is fighting for you and working for you and getting stuff done , she is the best. When she calls you it's going to be with information and results and facts. Again hands down the best sent from heaven lawyers around. They are awesome and the best at what they do !!!!! Words can't express really how great they are and how great they are at what they do!!! Just absolutely amazing lawyers and people in general!!
Read more
28 Oct, 2022 by David
Amber is highly professional, understands The System, knows the law, is fearless, and second to none as a trial attorney on the courtroom stage. Extremely credible. Make no mistake: many defense attorneys will happily take your money, then sit and wait for a plea deal to float onto their desk. Not Amber. She’ll honestly advise you then defend you like you’re family. She leaves no stone unturned, using the best experts to bring the facts and truth to light. A 5-Star attorney.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Vaneishia carpenter
Awesome bunch of people who know their craft! If you need a lawyer definitely call and find out if Steve can help he's a great person who does all he can to get the job done.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Stephanie robinson
08 Jul, 2024 by Carmen brown
Great people!
Read more
Browse lawyers
Cities in Alabama - Find a Lawyer Near Me
-
Birmingham
-
Mobile
-
Montgomery
-
Huntsville
-
Tuscaloosa
-
Vestavia
-
Hoover
-
Dothan
-
Mountain Brk
-
Florence
-
Auburn
-
Gadsden
-
Fairhope
-
Anniston
-
Daphne
-
Decatur
-
Bessemer
-
Opelika
-
Cullman
-
Jasper
-
Madison
-
Prattville
-
Enterprise
-
Pelham
-
Trussville
-
Vestavia Hills
-
Athens
-
Selma
-
Foley
-
Phenix City
-
Guntersville
-
Pell City
-
Fort Payne
-
Andalusia
-
Albertville
-
Wetumpka
-
Tuscumbia
-
Bay Minette
-
Northport
-
Orange Beach
-
Alabaster
-
Gulf Shores
-
Clanton
-
Troy
-
Talladega
-
Scottsboro
-
Spanish Fort
-
Homewood
-
Oneonta
-
Columbiana
-
Irondale
-
Greenville
-
Brewton
-
Helena
-
Sylacauga
-
Chelsea
-
Union Springs
-
Millbrook
-
Moulton
-
Dadeville
-
Gardendale
-
Oxford
-
Ozark
-
Alex City
-
Centre
-
Hamilton
-
Pike Road
-
Robertsdale
-
Demopolis
-
Eufaula
-
Russellville
-
Grove Hill
-
Leeds
-
Monroeville
-
Tuskegee
-
Moody
-
Muscle Shoals
-
Mountain Brook
-
Redstone Arsenal
-
Atmore
-
Calera
-
Fayette
-
Harvest
-
Haleyville
-
Hartselle
-
Jacksonville
-
Maxwell Afb
-
Warrior
Browse lawyers
Practice Areas in Alabama
-
Business
-
Personal Injury
-
Litigation
-
Real Estate
-
Family Law
-
Criminal Defense
-
Estate Planning
-
Insurance
-
Probate
-
Car Accident
-
Government
-
Workers Compensation
-
Consumer Protection
-
Appeals
-
Wrongful Death
-
Civil Rights
-
Tax
-
Class Action
-
Medical Malpractice
-
Child Custody
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Bankruptcy
-
Intellectual Property
-
Child Support
-
Lawsuit / Dispute
-
Juvenile Law
-
Elder Law
-
Trusts
-
Mediation
-
Immigration
-
Adoption
-
Debt Collection
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
Divorce
-
Foreclosure
-
Discrimination
-
Domestic Violence
-
DUI / DWI
-
Employment / Labor
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Entertainment
-
Wrongful Termination
-
Federal Crime
-
Sex Crime
-
Construction
-
Debt Settlement
-
Copyright Application
-
Landlord & Tenant
-
Credit Repair
-
Drug Crime
-
Cannabis Law
-
Life Insurance
-
Admiralty / Maritime
-
Education Law
-
Environmental Law
-
Constitutional Law
-
Wills
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 Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
-
What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases. -
Who will be handling my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.
How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
- Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
- List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
- Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
- Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.
Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.
