Lawyers map
>111
experienced lawyers
Filter by
01 Sep, 2024 by Judy
Since hiring this law firm I have been kept up to date during the entire process. The encouragement and care shown by my team made a difference, not to mention the outcome received in the end. Thank you for your dedication!
Read more
23 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
My lawyer has a thorough knowledge of the law and defended my case with determination. I highly recommend this law firm."
Read more
22 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
My legal team was informative and upfront. Helpful and helped me understand what would happen. Great help
Read more
14 Nov, 2018 by Nicholas wiederholt
08 Jul, 2018 by Donna fleury
I love working with a great group of professional people who are helpful and kind. Thank you for sharing.
Read more
24 May, 2018 by Sue ward
Kimberlee was my second attorney in my divorce case and once she took over my case things started to move along. She treated my daughter and I as though we were very important and our case was very important. She answered our questions spent time with us and made sure we understood every step of the process. I was super happy with her!
Read more
17 Apr, 2024 by Garrett gebauer
Very professional and extreme care and attention to details when getting justice served for yourself and your family.
Read more
23 Feb, 2020 by Anonymous
He took the time to understand the situation. Very direct, he didn't beat around the bush. I've only had consultation with him, it lasted a couple days. I appreciated the time he invested in such a quick matter and how detail oriented he was. When I need anymore legal advice, I'm definitely going to him.
Read more
13 Feb, 2019 by Andrew
Mr Roley was very helpful throughout the entirety of my case. He was very communicative and honest. I would absolutely recommend him to anyone.
Read more
09 Feb, 2024 by Jake
Cameron, thank you for what you did for my 2 kids and I. You went above and beyond to make me feel better about the situation I was in lol; and fought hard to dig me out of it. God bless you, im happy I could sway your mind on younger parents. You fought for me for a whole year and never gave up hope and always find another way and I'm more than happy with the outcome you helped provide to me! :)
Thank you,
JAKE
Read more
21 Feb, 2020 by Anchorage citizen
I recently hired Cameron Compton and her team to represent me and my situation and it was the BEST decision I made!! I was referred to her by two other attorneys that do not practice family law. Cameron was extremely timely, extremely to the point, and extremely beneficial. She cut to the chase. We came to a settlement with the other party in a short timeframe. I'm certain all cases can be complicated, but she made me feel like my case was a priority and she valued that my complications were in her interest. Her pricing is worth every penny.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND CAMERON COMPTON FOR LEGAL COUNCIL IN ALL AREA OF LAW SHE PRACTICES.
---
Family Law. Criminal Defense. Probate / Guardianship
Thank you Cameron!
Read more
19 Sep, 2019 by Eda lee
Excellent and honest customer service. Ms. Compton went above and beyond for my family and we are sooo grateful. She handled my custody case and check in consistently after the trial.
Read more
21 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
I interviewed a few lawyers for my divorce and am very glad that a friend referred me to Carl. I have since referred him to others who have been happy with his services as well. He is blunt and to-the-point, but that's exactly what you want! He helped me set reasonable expectations, talked me down when needed, and kicked a** when it was time. I hope I never need a divorce attorney again, but if I do I'll be calling Carl.
Read more
11 Mar, 2019 by Stacy
I worked with Whitney Bostick. She was absolutely wonderful. She took the time to answer all questions I had, always presented me with all my options and let me know what she thought would be the best route to take. She was compassionate and considerate during my divorce and custody case. She responded to emails and phone calls right away, always sent me paperwork in a timely manner, was always on the ball. I appreciate her services, and the fact that they did so in a very efficient manner.
Read more
16 Apr, 2017 by Dana
Carl represented me in a divorce. He was straightforward and trustworthy. I respect his integrity. As a result of his patience and persistence, my case turned out better than I had initially hoped. I recommend Carl with complete confidence and no reservations.
Read more
26 Dec, 2016 by David shea
I was very pleased with the assistance that Mr. Peters gave me concerning acquiring custody of my son. He was direct, honest and easy to understand. He assisted me in writing up the necessary paperwork and where to file it. His services for me were a blessing. I would seek his counsel again for any legal assistance I may need in the future.
Read more
01 Sep, 2016 by Abdel
This man is the best and very honest attorney I have ever dealt with. What really is very impressive is his genuine care about my case, which he dealt with as if it was his. He walked with me in every step, he made sure I am taken care of, and he assured me to be given a positive result.
I can never thank you enough, Michael. You are the best.
Read more
15 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Stahl is probably the best lawyer that deals with criminal issues that impact immigration status. He is very knowledgeable and very helpful and works very hard. He saved my family.
Read more
03 Apr, 2024 by Greg
Michael is a no drama divorce attorney. He won’t waste your time and money on drama. He focuses on numbers, and will use these numbers to strategically and systematically destroy your soon to be ex!
Go see Michael Getshel!
Read more
30 Jan, 2022 by Lance
Michael guided me through a volatile divorce with child custody issues, and for years after with support and modification orders. His calm demeanor and encyclopedic knowledge of the law truly made the process very approachable for a client like me with no experience with any kind of legal matter. I am forever grateful for Michael's expert counsel and wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone that is looking for a true professional to help them navigate the emotionally charged waters of a divorce.
Read more
27 Oct, 2021 by Kristin
Excellent attorney and negotiator. I appreciated his honesty and giving me his straight forward opinion. I highly recommend him and would hire him again if needed.
Read more
26 Oct, 2020 by Connie dougherty
A great big thank you to Otterson Law, especially Tiffany! She is fierce! As with any adoption there are so many things that come up, obstacles, hurdles and just general aggravations. Tiffany let none of these things slow her down at all. She knows exactly how to navigate every situation, she knows the law better than many lawyers and judges and the bottom line is that she gets results! From what I witnessed, she is the very heartbeat of Otterson Law, she is the one that keeps the wheels greased and things running smoothly. Our adoption is now complete and we couldn't be happier ! Thank you Otterson Law! God Bless You , Tiffany and tell your boss to give you a big fat raise!!! We love you!
Read more
01 Oct, 2020 by Trevor brookwell
Otterson Law office handled the adoptions of my niece and nephew in Alaska. They did a great job addressing all of the concerns and making sure that things were handled well. I am glad to have my niece and nephew in our family thanks to them.
Read more
06 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
He is very honest and gives his opinion. He talks a lot but gives lots of information on cases. We got full costady on our child,and i was very happy! I would 100% refer a friend/family member
Read more
05 Dec, 2013 by Mary kae quiambao
Atty.Gorman worked on my case for almost 2yrs,we won the case for my son custody, we won 9motion,He kept me informed every time.Atty.Gorman is great to work with and always has a respond to my questions or concern.He trully made it easy for me while I was going through some stuff in my life.Atty.Gorman is very compassionate,good listener & on top of his game(work)
Read more
25 Feb, 2021 by Carmen
After loosing my case with a different law office, I came to Charles Gunther emotional, afraid, and my life completely turned upside down. Not only did he get me primary legal and sole physical custody, he gave me hope in the legal system. He was always honest, direct and completely understanding of my situation. He would respond quickly and accordingly to every question. He makes his presence known in the courtroom and is very knowledgeable in family law. I will forever stand behind my 5 star review of him as my attorney.
Read more
01 Feb, 2018 by Matt
I hired him back in July 2017 and he has proven to be honest, direct, and his integrity is unimpeachable. He fights for his client and works to SAVE you money! I highly recommend him.
Read more
10 Jan, 2018 by Bradley
After receiving a notice that the Municipality was charging me with assault. I asked a lawyer friend of mine for a reference. He suggested Cashion Gilmore. After speaking with Mera Matthews I felt very comfortable with her, and she took my case.
Mera got my case dismissed, and that made me one happy customer! I will definitely recommend Mera in the future!
Read more
25 Aug, 2017 by Wes
Fighting a wrongful termination and employment labor issue, Attorney Matthews did not skip a beat in successfully following through on all fronts of my case. I could not have asked for a more confident and articulate attorney to stand for what was right and prevail. Matthews tenacity, promptness, and ease of correspondence are among a few of the reasons she stands out above the rest.
Read more
04 Nov, 2014 by Erin
Mrs. Hawxhurst was the best lawyer I could have ever asked for. She was on top of everything. Organized. She was always one step ahead of the opponent. She is very knowledgable. I would hire her again in an instant if I needed a lawyer. No doubt, she is the best!
Read more
18 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Jody is a very professional and knowledgeable lawyer! She helped me with my divorce and did everything she could to help. Always answered any questions I had and kept me informed every step of the way. she is a very caring and compassionate person. She helped me reach a settlement in my favor. Im glad i found her! if you are looking for a good divorce attourney I highly recommend jody reausaw! She did an awesome job , I'm very happy with the outcome .
Read more
12 Jul, 2021 by Daniel
Nicole clearly communicated and worked hard to ensure a good outcome. She served as my advocate. The false allegations were dropped and I was able to continue a normal life with my children. Nicole was friendly, knowledgeable, and hardworking. 10/10 recommend.
Read more
13 Jul, 2024 by Marcus durrett
13 May, 2023 by Maisy yang
11 Apr, 2021 by Brianna mckibben
15 Feb, 2020 by Gail schubert
Every individual I have referred to her involving a complex criminal matter has had very good results.
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Dawn maynor
Things you need to know about Evan:
-He's extremely responsive and ensures that you can reach him at any time- including after hours and on weekends
-He's well versed in Alaska family law and can give you realistic expectations for your case while also advocating for your best interest.
-He will not let the opposing party, or the judge, bully you into accepting something that isn't fairly in your best interest.
-He's thorough and detail-oriented. He will pay attention to the nuances of your case and won't allow things to fall through the cracks.
Now, my full review:
I found Evan in August 2023 after being blindsided by an unexpected custody modification motion that was based on lies and hurtful accusations. I am in Illinois. My originally custody agreement was created in Alaska, albeit my child had never been in Alaska. Her father filed there for dissolution and was willing to give me full custody so the divorce was uncontested and child custody was wrongfully established in the wrong state.
Evan responded to the motion to modify with a request to vacate the original custody order entirely- as it was wrongfully established. The judge denied our motion, but Evan was very confident that his ruling was wrong and offered the option of taking my case to the Supreme Court with a Petition for Review (similar to an appeal). After 10 months of fighting endless motions from the other side (all of which were filled with hurtful lies and damaging accusations), and having a hearing at the Supreme Court, my Petition for Review was granted and my original custody order in Alaska was vacated. My custody case is now in Illinois, the rightful jurisdiction.
Throughout this entire time, Evan recieved almost weekly emails from me. Many custody disputes occurred between the opposing party and I. Evan responded to me promptly- including addressing emergencies on the weekends AND over the Thanksgiving holiday. He always gave honest advice and was empathetic to my complex and nerve-wracking situation. Although I have absolutely no legal education, when I brought case law or hypotheticals to his attention he willingly listened and provided further insight. He never made me feel as though I was wasting his time.
When Evan spoke to witnesses and professional advocates who work with my child he was courteous, respectful, and took notes of their concerns. He treated my case as if he was fighting for his own child and understood all of the intricacies involved.
He did all of this, while never meeting me in person. I fought this entire case, with his help, from my home in Illinois. We interacted through the phone and email. Even so, as my contract with Evan comes to a close, I can say with full honesty that Evan is the best lawyer I ever could have asked for. He genuinely cares for his clients. The cases he takes on, he puts 110% effort into. He is honest, professional, well-spoken, and extremely educated in Alaska law. In the unfortunate situation that I need an AK lawyer again in the future, Evan is the ONLY person I'll go to. If any of my friends or family in Alaska need a lawyer, Evan is the ONLY person I'd recommend. If anyone reading this review is wondering if they need to give Evan a call- I'll end my review, right now, so you can start dialing his number. In the midst of a heartbreaking family law case, having Evan by your side will be the best choice you make.
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Rodney maynor
My family used Evan in a disputed custody case. We were well taken care of throughout the entire process. Extremely responsive, and gave us realistic expectations. Evan treated our case as if he was fighting for his own children. He is a man of integrity, and true professionalism. I couldn’t have asked for a better lawyer to get us through this extremely difficult time. If you’re looking for a lawyer who will listen to you, restlessly research and pursue your case, then Evan is your man.
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Marcus
08 Sep, 2024 by Elena leinberger
Thank you to Chicklow Law Group. Megan Hiser is honest and very supportive lawyer. I am Alaskan Native and she helped me through an ugly divorce. She guided me to make hard decisions. As difficult as it was, she did the work for me to get through the divorce.
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Nicole sharpe
Marc Chicklo and his team are professional, knowledgeable, and compassionate. Family court is a nightmare in the best situation and they worked very hard to make the experience as palatable as possible. Marc was always straightforward and set realistic expectations through out the process. His team was always available and they were great at keeping me informed. The process is overwhelming and daunting but I am extremely grateful I had Marc and his team in my corner and I can’t recommend them highly enough.
Read more
02 Sep, 2024 by Ashley dunn
Megan is amazing! I hired Megan to help me with my divorce case. She is attentive, knowledgeable, fair, and straight to the point. I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney!
I am forever grateful for Megan!
Not to mention the other team members at Chicklo Law are equally amazing!
Read more
08 Sep, 2024 by Elena leinberger
Thank you to Chicklow Law Group. Megan Hiser is honest and very supportive lawyer. I am Alaskan Native and she helped me through an ugly divorce. She guided me to make hard decisions. As difficult as it was, she did the work for me to get through the divorce.
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Nicole sharpe
Marc Chicklo and his team are professional, knowledgeable, and compassionate. Family court is a nightmare in the best situation and they worked very hard to make the experience as palatable as possible. Marc was always straightforward and set realistic expectations through out the process. His team was always available and they were great at keeping me informed. The process is overwhelming and daunting but I am extremely grateful I had Marc and his team in my corner and I can’t recommend them highly enough.
Read more
02 Sep, 2024 by Ashley dunn
Megan is amazing! I hired Megan to help me with my divorce case. She is attentive, knowledgeable, fair, and straight to the point. I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney!
I am forever grateful for Megan!
Not to mention the other team members at Chicklo Law are equally amazing!
Read more
08 Sep, 2024 by Elena leinberger
Thank you to Chicklow Law Group. Megan Hiser is honest and very supportive lawyer. I am Alaskan Native and she helped me through an ugly divorce. She guided me to make hard decisions. As difficult as it was, she did the work for me to get through the divorce.
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Nicole sharpe
Marc Chicklo and his team are professional, knowledgeable, and compassionate. Family court is a nightmare in the best situation and they worked very hard to make the experience as palatable as possible. Marc was always straightforward and set realistic expectations through out the process. His team was always available and they were great at keeping me informed. The process is overwhelming and daunting but I am extremely grateful I had Marc and his team in my corner and I can’t recommend them highly enough.
Read more
02 Sep, 2024 by Ashley dunn
Megan is amazing! I hired Megan to help me with my divorce case. She is attentive, knowledgeable, fair, and straight to the point. I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney!
I am forever grateful for Megan!
Not to mention the other team members at Chicklo Law are equally amazing!
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by Ruth hutchison
Connie was very knowledgeable and never intimidating. The office always responded in a courteous, timely manner. Very pleasant.
Read more
02 Aug, 2024 by Tracy larson
I very much enjoyed the workshop presented by Connie. She kept it fun and upbeat! The only downfall would be that there was so much information to try to digest in two hours. I think if our group had been any bigger we may not have gotten thru it all.
Read more
26 Jul, 2024 by Kelley g
After having to be an executor for a friend, I realized I needed to get my act together. Constance & Colleen really know what they're doing, and everything is so very organized. I just finished my initial part of Estate planning, and I really do feel a weight is lifted off my shoulders, knowing I've FINALLY done my paperwork, so that things are organized for my family/friends when the time comes. Again, I am very happy with the service and expertise shown working with Constance & Colleen on my Estate plan.
Read more
19 Aug, 2024 by Sara zimmerman
Carlson Law Group was a pleasure to work with! If we need a lawyer in the future we will definitely be contacting them!
Read more
23 Apr, 2024 by Jenny long
Alexis and Erica are quite the team! They handled my disability appeal with professionalism and skill. Alexis’ care and attention to detail in my hearing made our case solid and indisputable. I am so grateful she was recommended by a mutual friend.
Read more
23 Apr, 2024 by Jonathan sabado
Brad and his staff were professional. Hands down, the best in our state of Alaska!
Read more
5.0
9 Reviews
4.7
14 Reviews
15 Mar, 2024 by Melissa v.
The insanest place on earth. How the hell you going to ask for all this information about my crash then in the end tell me you can’t take my case because I live in Alaska?! What in the world! I told you I’m from Alaska in the first place yet you made me disclose all this damn information. Waste of my breath!!!!!!!!!!!
Read more
20 Jan, 2024 by Adjo
She is very good lawyer, she knows what she is doing and she is the best at it . I hired her to represent me in a case and she was prepared even I hired her on short notice . She is very helpful and an expert and got me more than I expected. I am more than happy for the way she handled my case. I highly recommend her.
Read more
05 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
i glad to fffsdfsdfdsffd sdfs dfsd fdsf sdfds fsdf dsf sdfds fdfsfs df sdf sfsd fds fsdf sfs
d fsd fdsf sdf sdfsd fsd
fsf sdfsd fds
Read more
04 Oct, 2023 by Sofia shamina
Had a bit of a roller coaster custody case that I’m not sure how I would’ve gotten through without Jessica Falke’s and the rest of the Nyquist Law Group’s help. They truly go hard for you, are straight forward with your options and are on your (and the children’s) side. Highly recommend them. They’re worth every penny!
Read more
11 Oct, 2022 by Jenn
I've worked with Nyquist Law Group for over a year through a very intense and complicated custody modification trial. I simply cannot say enough to recommend this law firm. Every single staff member I worked with was clearly well-educated, attentive to all details for my situation and champions of advocacy for myself and my children. I will always highly recommend Nyquist Law Group for anyone involved in family court matters.
Read more
14 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous anonymous
They do not respond to emails. It’s called common courtesy. They selectively answer the phone, depends on who shows up on their caller ID, and how they are feeling that day. Lazy and apathetic approach to client service. What a disappointment!
Read more
20 Jun, 2024 by Ric schmidt
Wonderful organization! Outstanding Staff!
Read more
22 May, 2024 by Emma haddix
Excellent organization, reasonable timelines, fair pricing. I am so happy with my experience.
Read more
16 May, 2024 by Scott gellerman
excellent service at what I thought was a reasonable price. Also very professional in every way!
Read more
10 Oct, 2024 by Ray ledet
Straight foward and to the point, if you have the questions, this man has the answers. Extremely satisfied with my legal representative.
Read more
10 Oct, 2024 by Mike dee
Eric did a great job and got my problem dismissed. Highly recommend him if you need legal help A++
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Ken o'brien
Great experience with Eric! Replied to my original emailed question very very quickly and communicated consistently via email throughout that same day. Answered all questions asked. Very knowledgeable, helpful, and professional. Would recommend to anyone needing legal advice in his field(s) of expertise!
Read more
10 Oct, 2024 by Ray ledet
Straight foward and to the point, if you have the questions, this man has the answers. Extremely satisfied with my legal representative.
Read more
10 Oct, 2024 by Mike dee
Eric did a great job and got my problem dismissed. Highly recommend him if you need legal help A++
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Ken o'brien
Great experience with Eric! Replied to my original emailed question very very quickly and communicated consistently via email throughout that same day. Answered all questions asked. Very knowledgeable, helpful, and professional. Would recommend to anyone needing legal advice in his field(s) of expertise!
Read more
09 Oct, 2024 by Davi bateman
Justin is an amazing lawyer! When the opposing counsel got nasty, Justin stayed professional and prevailed. Very happy with the results
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Yolani martinez
03 Sep, 2024 by Rangi coffey
We worked with Lara and her team at Nations Law and my husband and I felt that they genuinely cared about our family. We felt that they went above and beyond to help us get our green cards!! They are professional, kind, caring, knowledgeable, efficient and have a good eye for detail. They gave us such excellent service and we are so grateful!! They even let us pay off our lawyer fees every month on a payment plan. They helped me to be able to leave the country for an emergency and return which meant a lot to me. It was all worth it and we were very fortunate to have found them!!
Read more
09 Oct, 2024 by Davi bateman
Justin is an amazing lawyer! When the opposing counsel got nasty, Justin stayed professional and prevailed. Very happy with the results
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Yolani martinez
03 Sep, 2024 by Rangi coffey
We worked with Lara and her team at Nations Law and my husband and I felt that they genuinely cared about our family. We felt that they went above and beyond to help us get our green cards!! They are professional, kind, caring, knowledgeable, efficient and have a good eye for detail. They gave us such excellent service and we are so grateful!! They even let us pay off our lawyer fees every month on a payment plan. They helped me to be able to leave the country for an emergency and return which meant a lot to me. It was all worth it and we were very fortunate to have found them!!
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 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.
