Lawyers map
>46
experienced lawyers
Filter by
23 Nov, 2024 by Jamie kuske
Attorney Peter Kraft recognized my situation and mitigated on my behalf with a result that restored my opportunities. Kindness, empathy, and a humanistic approach to navigating the legal system is what you can expect from Attorney Kraft.
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Nicole sayre
Peter Kraft has been kind and understanding and gone out of his way to help my family. He provided education without any judgement and I highly recommend him!
Read more
31 May, 2023 by Megan vinney
Peter Kraft was amazing to work with. He was not only willing to take on an unconventional case, but he was able and willing to roll with unexpected changes. We 100% recommend him for representation!
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Katelyn farrell
Great attorney. Very honest and committed to helping you!
Read more
01 Dec, 2024 by Aaron kamkes
Very professional and helpful, Tusler Law got me the results I was looking for. Highly recommend
Read more
27 Nov, 2024 by Q l
Poor experience representing my wife's case. Do not recommend.
Read more
31 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
He got my case dismissed! He was always there to answer my questions. He did everything he said he would do. He fought for me and I really appreciate that.
Read more
30 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Never did what he said he would do. Just sat behind his desk eating non-stop. Extremely unprofessional.
Read more
16 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
Not worth the extra money!! Just get a lesser charging one. Would have ended up with same outcome for less money.
Read more
03 Dec, 2024 by Casey
I had the pleasure of working with Attorney Stacy Schlemmer, and I couldn't be more impressed with their professionalism and expertise! From our first conversation, she was professional, attentive, and genuinely cared about my situation. Attorney Schlemmer’s communication was clear and prompt, and Ialways felt supported throughout the process. She was incredibly thorough, ensuring every detail was addressed with precision. I am grateful for how effectively she helped resolved my issue. I highly recommend Ms. Schlemmer’s services for anyone needing legal assistance!
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by Eunice bredael
08 Aug, 2024 by Eunice bredael
Attorney Amy Risseeuw was excellent in her handling of my personal injury claim. From my first contact with Attorney Risseeuw, I was impressed by both her professionalism and her friendly demeanor. Attorney Risseeuw agreed to take my case when other law offices had declined to do so. Along the way she showed great attention to my case and kept me well informed. Ultimately Attorney Risseeuw secured a successful settlement for which I am very grateful. I would highly recommend the firm of Peteson, Berk & Cross.
Read more
05 Jan, 2022 by James
I was very pleased with his service and the team,they respected me all the way through. the day of Divorce was better then i thought because they helped me talk to them before court time, Steven D was very respectful.
Read more
02 Mar, 2021 by Brian
He is a fighter and will do everything thing he can for his clients. A great professional to have on your side!
Read more
25 May, 2020 by Mari smith
He is a very very great Attorney he’s helped me out so much through my case
Read more
01 Aug, 2020 by Danielle
Attorney Kelly is the best family law attorney who learns and knows YOUR case through and through. Unfortunately, opposing counsel was so intimidated that they found a way to remove her from my case as conflict of interest due to firm employment circumstances, so of course she referred me to another strong advocate who represents me and my case as well, who I am extremely pleased with! I have had to be involved with family law for some time, and once you retain Attorney Kelly you will never feel more confident in your choice.
Read more
21 Jul, 2016 by Tiffany
Attorney Kelly was very professional, she was clear with me regarding my position, and she never waivered as she represented me in my divorce. She is professional, timely, and respectful. She offered several recommendations throughout the process and was always respectful of my thoughts and considerations. I appreciated the fact that she always stated the facts and did not allow opinion to enter any negotiations or correspondence. I would highly recommend Attorney Kelly and her entire Team.
Read more
29 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Kelly is an outstanding divorce attorney. She is responsive, thorough and creative in her advice. She is also genuinely collegial with others.
Read more
15 Nov, 2021 by Dan
Absolutely amazing to work with! Was reassuring and sympathetic during the difficult time of incarnation. Went above and beyond from the moment we spoke. Was able to negotiate an outcome that I was comfortable accepting. I would recommend her to anyone looking for a criminal lawyer or any lawyer! Could not have been more satisfied with her treatment and outcome she was able to work out with the DA.
Read more
19 Feb, 2021 by Bruce
Amber represented me in a post divorce motion. She does a good job. Very personable to work with as well.
Read more
19 Nov, 2020 by Brian
This lawyer represented me when my child was in foster care, I don't think my child would be placed in my care now, if it wasn't for her speaking up on my behalf. She did an excellent job & if I need a lawyer in the future, I would hire her again!!
Read more
13 Jan, 2015 by John
I hired Bob 8 years ago to handle my divorce. He kept me focused on the reality of ending a 25 year marriage with 2 children. He gave me excellent advice at a time when I really didn't want to listen and he showed me how to achieve my goal in a fair and honest way. He moved forward with the facts and the truth and looking back today it turned out the best for me , my children and my ex-wife. I would highly recommend Bob.
Read more
09 Jan, 2015 by Tracy
When it comes to searching for the best attorney in the Green Bay and the Fox Valley areas, there is no need to look any further! Bob Loomis is the right choice! Bob is the most ethical, intelligent, professional, and understanding attorney there is. Not only did he look out for my best interest, but more importantly the best interest and safety of my four children. It has been five years since my divorce, but every now and then, when I have a question for Bob, he answers it promptly and respectfully!
Read more
04 Jan, 2015 by Michelle
Mr. Loomis was my lawyer for a contentious divorce. His advice was well thought out, knowledgeable and compassionate. Every phone conversation or meeting started out with " How are you doing?". This attention to how I felt during the process was significant in my getting through a difficult process. I was very satisfied with the terms of the final outcome and felt he represented me and my interests in the best possible way. I would highly recommend him to anybody seeking a divorce. I cannot thank him enough.
Read more
03 Jun, 2021 by Dennis johnson
10 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Paula is by far the best lawyer in the Fox Cities. She fights very hard for her clients to ensure fair and accurate information is being relayed to represent the best interests of her clients. Paula focusing on facts and details rather irrelevant information that would waste any time in court. She is persistent and will go to great lengths to support her clients. She is definitely the lawyer you want in your corner!
Read more
25 Apr, 2018 by Ryan
Paula and her team were incredible! Couldn't have asked for a better team to represent me in my divorce. They clearly knew everything there is to know about family law and got me everything I wanted in my divorce. Property and custody. Highly recommend!
Read more
28 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
Paula and her legal team have always listened to my concerns, gave advice and answered my questions. My divorce was unique, to say the least!! Paula has been with me and my family the entire time..... she's the best!
Read more
28 Feb, 2025 by Alyssa v
David knows his stuff! I highly recommend him as an attorney. He fights in the court room and wins!!
Read more
14 Jan, 2025 by Bernitha gildart
I'm very pleased with the outcome of my case. Linder law office did an outstanding job and I recommend everyone to do business with them guaranteed to be satisfied with outcome...
Read more
13 Jan, 2025 by Shianna phetsavanh
Lindner Law was great in helping me get my settlement. They were kind, informative and super helpful! Would recommend to anyone! 10/10 :)
Read more
04 Feb, 2022 by Nicole maiwald
Dustin was very helpful and listened to my concerns and complaints. A very patient man.
Read more
06 May, 2021 by Jeremy majors
Spoke with Jason and he didn’t rush me off of the phone which I found was a rarity when contacting law firms. Thank you Jason for taking the time to be so informative and educational. Jason demonstrated true professionalism and overall care. 5 stars was an easy choice!
Read more
22 Oct, 2014 by Cher
I met Erica when my legal trouble began over 3 years ago when she was appointed to me by Dean hearing. I have since personally retained her twice for remaining legal troubles. She is very forthcoming with what to expect. she doesn't tell you what you want to hear but she tells you the truth in what to expect and she has really saved me a number of times. Jail sentences I probably would have received had it not been for her! She is very will to work payment arrangements out as well. Absolutely recommend her to anyone.
Read more
22 Dec, 2024 by John avery
Attorney Kaehne is a fantastic lawyer. I was wrongly charged with a crime I did not commit and Attorney Kaehne fought to the end for my vindication. Resulted in being found not guilty in trial and it was all due to his hard work and dedication to my case. I would strongly recommend him to anyone who is seeking a lawyer who will fight for them until the end. 5/5 review for a one in a few attorney.
Read more
25 Oct, 2024 by Amber sippel
I am very thankful for Chadwick. He helped me reduce a felony charge down to a misdemeanor, and I didn’t have to serve jail time or be placed on probation—only pay fines. He was extremely helpful throughout the entire case and always explained things in a way that made sense. Chadwick was with me every step of the way. I highly recommend him for anyone looking for a dedicated and knowledgeable attorney.
Read more
11 Sep, 2024 by Andrew baumann
Attorney Chadwick Kaehne was a pleasure to have on my side. I was very pleased with his knowledge and service. I would highly recommend him to anyone. Very pleased!!!
Read more
28 Feb, 2025 by Alyssa v
David knows his stuff! I highly recommend him as an attorney. He fights in the court room and wins!!
Read more
14 Jan, 2025 by Bernitha gildart
I'm very pleased with the outcome of my case. Linder law office did an outstanding job and I recommend everyone to do business with them guaranteed to be satisfied with outcome...
Read more
13 Jan, 2025 by Shianna phetsavanh
Lindner Law was great in helping me get my settlement. They were kind, informative and super helpful! Would recommend to anyone! 10/10 :)
Read more
03 Sep, 2024 by Melissa ruthven
I hired them for my disability case. I have been unable to work since 2017. The only way I have mobility is by using the DONATED wheelchairs that were given to me because I have zero money coming in. I have Diabetes, chronic pain, IT Band Syndrome, Agoraphobia, anxiety and depression, and they tell me it's my problem that I wasn't approved. They were very lazy and didn't do one thing to help me get approved. You are better off trying to get SSDI yourself rather than hiring this lazy bunch of lawyers.
Read more
15 Jul, 2024 by Greg lecloux
I Was represented by attorney Burkham in my disability case. (2024) The professionalism from Attorney Burkham and her assistant were no less than top notch! They are no doubt all business which is what I needed and they were there to help you if you have questions. Always returned calls. Never sugar coated answers. Their knowledge level was very good. If you would ask if I would trust them with any other cases of any sort I may have ?? for sure. They do deserve a 6 star rating but a 5 is all the computer will allow us to give.
Read more
20 May, 2024 by Barry faust
Mark Sewell was incredible to work with. His diligence and background were helpful in guiding me to an equitable settlement for my personal injury case. I highly recommend the firm!
Read more
03 Sep, 2024 by Melissa ruthven
I hired them for my disability case. I have been unable to work since 2017. The only way I have mobility is by using the DONATED wheelchairs that were given to me because I have zero money coming in. I have Diabetes, chronic pain, IT Band Syndrome, Agoraphobia, anxiety and depression, and they tell me it's my problem that I wasn't approved. They were very lazy and didn't do one thing to help me get approved. You are better off trying to get SSDI yourself rather than hiring this lazy bunch of lawyers.
Read more
15 Jul, 2024 by Greg lecloux
I Was represented by attorney Burkham in my disability case. (2024) The professionalism from Attorney Burkham and her assistant were no less than top notch! They are no doubt all business which is what I needed and they were there to help you if you have questions. Always returned calls. Never sugar coated answers. Their knowledge level was very good. If you would ask if I would trust them with any other cases of any sort I may have ?? for sure. They do deserve a 6 star rating but a 5 is all the computer will allow us to give.
Read more
20 May, 2024 by Barry faust
Mark Sewell was incredible to work with. His diligence and background were helpful in guiding me to an equitable settlement for my personal injury case. I highly recommend the firm!
Read more
16 Apr, 2024 by Francheska vaughan
Kevin and Ronda square will let you down!
Never answered phone calls and tried to made you feel like you shouldn’t even be calling!
Got me a felony on possession of paraphernalia.
Then forced me to take the charge with some excuse about his time and that he would expunge it in a year. After a year, told me to get another lawyer , not him, one that made the promise. Don’t waist your time or your money or your peace of mind!
Read more
05 Oct, 2022 by Josef
She’s very precise, knowledgeable, and knows how to handle a case! She did an excellent job in court. Very punctual, communication was amazing and she is very committed to her job. Thank you! Definitely the lawyer to go to!
Read more
05 Jan, 2022 by Tanisha
Jayme layman is a excellent lawyer she handles everything above the head person in charge should appreciate her to the the fullest
Read more
28 Feb, 2025 by Cevin barto
Paula has been my attorney since 2021 repressing me in a family court/divorce with minors case. She was always on my side and fought hard to get a fair and just divorce settlement. She has most recently represented me in a contempt case. She came well prepared to court and I won my contempt motion with her help. Paula and her office has always been super responsive to both emails and phone calls which I appreciate. I hear some horror stories about attorneys you can never get a hold of, Paula is not one of those.
👏
Read more
06 Jan, 2025 by Julie hellweg
I was in a car accident in 2021. After trying to resolve the case on my own, I realized I needed professional representation. I was referred to Herling Clark Law Firm with a recommendation to work with Attorney Katelyn Sandfort. I put my faith and trust in her following our first meeting. She was very personable and professional and communicated all that would happen in might situation as well as a time line she had for resolving the case. Over the 2 years I worked with her and her staff, my confidence in their approach as well as the process assured me I made the right decision in turning my case over to her. She brought resolution and got me a fair settlement. Attorney Sandfort is a woman of integrity and I could not have asked for a better attorney. Her professionalism is representative of the quality of the Herling Clark Law Office. I would highly recommend their service and representation to any future clients.
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by None-ya business
11 Sep, 2020 by Lennie nadia ortiz hall
05 Aug, 2020 by Steve whitston
Great service
Read more
15 Sep, 2019 by Ken greely
Best attorney ever
Read more
22 Feb, 2017 by Heather
I have worked one on one with Yadira helping a family member with a very bitter divorce. Yadira was EXTREMELY patient, kind, understanding, and very professional regarding everything with the divorce! She has always done her best to calm our nerves and take care of things immediately when they need to be addressed. She is very prompt at responding to calls and emails. Yadira is honest and compassionate and definitely the type of attorney that has her client's very best interest in mind. I would recommend Yadira to anyone looking to help ease the burden of divorce.
Read more
01 Oct, 2015 by Carrie
I had the privilege of working with Yadira while going through a very tough Divorce. I honestly cannot tell you how much she went out of her way to see that the outcome of my case was not only fair but was also in the best interest of me and my future needs. I would highly recommend her to family and friends who are in need of someone who can get the job done. Divorce isn't easy, and honestly, I don't know what I would have done without her. From the very first day I meet her she was honest, knowledgeable, professional and very compassionate in dealing with my situation.
Read more
05 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Very unprofessional. Rarely answer phone calls or voicemail. She we do the opposite of what she says in many cases. If she says she will call you tomorrow it won't be until next week.
When time came to the courtroom, she barely had any argument to the defendant's attorney. As a result, I am now in debt because I could not obtain the funds to pay off my medical bills for an accident that should have never happened. On top of that I still have to pay her.
This was a real regret. If you are in a dire situation please don't go here.
Read more
04 Aug, 2020 by Tracy meyer
15 Jan, 2015 by Amy
Amy was there for me during my divorce every step of the way. She offered well thought out advice and help me maintain a logical view when things got emotional. I would recommend Amy to anyone I know that is going through a divorce as you never know what is going to happen and it's nice knowing you have a friend on your side. Thank you Amy and your staff for everything you did to help me.
Read more
12 Oct, 2021 by Ethan
In 2012 I was charged with felony owing. Mr sisson help guide me through this stressful time. He assured I was still working by personally calling! I highly reccomend Mr. Sisson, and may use his skills soon! Many thanks!
Read more
04 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
mr sisson represented in a restraining order case,sat through the hearing and said little in my defense,had he done his job the person accusing would have been charged with perjury,accusations were totally false.recently I talked to a local atty,about the case,it seems that Outagamie co.did not have jurisdiction in the case[case must be heard in co. where it occurred or in defendents home co.sisson charged 1500 dollars for doing nothing,i believe he should have known about the jurisdiction issue,thank you
ED
Read more
13 Jul, 2014 by Lloydmiller
I hired this lawyer for my son I'm disabled and don't have a lot of money he worked with us after we sat and talked about what happened. He made me feel very comfortable with him it was like I knew him for ever. Never having to go through this before he walked us through each step of the case he answered are questions and told us to contact him by phone or text anytime and always answered on a timely bases he felt like not only a lawyer but a friend I will give his name out to family and friends
Read more
14 Oct, 2021 by Tammy estrada
Alan helped us get a payment in full made. He was kind and considerate to us in that matter.
Read more
27 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
Al helped me get through a very difficult time in my life. Through my divorce he reassured me, took my children into consideration, and always had my best interest in mind. Al was fiscally conscious regarding the time we spent discussing my case, and always responded to me very timely. I would recommend Al to represent them. Al made a huge difference in my life during the most difficult time.
Read more
27 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
I had the opportunity to work with Al Hoff in an opposing roll for a Family Case. Mr. Hoff not only acted unethically throughout each hearing but he also does not follow up with writing orders and taking notes after the hearings. On many occasions Mr. Hoff would completely disregard Judge's orders and try and ram things through the system without consulting opposing counsel. Additionally, Mr. Hoff will unethically attack attorneys and their clients. My advice would be to save your money and go with someone who will not take you for everything you have and mislead you in court so that the process never ends. He has also been taken to court by a client and has had to reimburse them for services that he charged for but never rendered. If you want results do not hire him.
Read more
17 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
First time was great second time he fed right into my exs lies. I will.be asking for another laywer next time. Was very unhappy he allowed my ex to lied to his face. My x even paused. 4 lying that was a died give away he should have noticed. He is only good if u double up with harbor house otherwise he feeds into narcissistic people
Read more
27 Jan, 2018 by Alan dordel
I hired Brian for post divorce problems with my ex, specifically my ex denying placement and attempting to alienate our daughter. Brian is compassionate, proficient, extremely knowledgeable, well versed, and aggressive. He will stand up for you. I've had numerous well known attorneys during my lengthy divorce. None even remotely compared to Brian's ability and results. His courtroom/trial capability and performance are stellar and at the top of his profession. He honestly doesn't miss a beat in court and his tenacity is incredible! I could not be happier. I would highly and strongly recommend Brian in the most complicated and conflicting divorce case. He is the best. His communication skills are excellent. He is on top of all the details. He is worth every penny!!!
Read more
09 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
was looking for aggressive attorney who would return e-mails phone calls etc whenever new thing would arise and HE IS NOT THE ANSWER! he returns nothing! Plus we didn't know anything moving forward until the last minute! I was also scolded like a child for coming into his office without a appointment! We were threated like children . HE DID GET US VAGUE ORDER THOUGH
Read more
24 Oct, 2016 by M
I had Thomas Zoesch "represent" me in a family court case. I paid Thomas a retainer fee, which was pretty small, with the understanding that I would continue to pay him as he requests it. I wrote Thomas a check in July, and that was the last I have heard from him or seen him. I had reached out to Thomas NUMEROUS times to make him aware of an up and coming court hearing I had and was unable to contact him every single time. Messages were left, emails were sent, "emergency" messages were sent to him to contact me. I have yet to hear from him. Funny thing is he had sent paperwork to the court house and my sons father stating he was my attorney. But there has been no communication from him in over two months.
Read more
01 Apr, 2011 by Anonymous
I've used Atty. Zoesch the last 5 years for divorce/family court and he has been quite reliable. He tends to take the middle of the road and isn't as aggressive as I would sometimes like, but that is strictly his style.
Read more
11 Mar, 2021 by Robert
Genelle was rude, short tempered, and unprofessional. She communicated with me very poorly. I only had three actual phone calls with her, and one one of those was to discuss her fee. She describes herself as a pit bull, and she was- to me! I would definitely not recommend this pit bull, unless you want to get bitten! Thankfully, my case ended satisfactorily, but it was more in spite of Genelle, and not because of her!
Read more
11 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
She represented me in my divorse and it was horrible how she was more concerned about what was going on in her own life than what my future was going to be and how unprofessional she handled herself. Do not hire her for anything!
Read more
12 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
I can't say much for the PD case reviews, but as a family law attorney Genelle is exceptional. Her knowledge of parental rights and custody are on point. She will not blindly take her clients side as other attornies do (and waste your money and motions), and provides her client "the whole picture" of possibilities and options. She is reasonable, fair, and always has gotten back to me about my questions. We won our child custody case, had child support adjusted, and have all of our co-parenting issues nearly ironed out.
If you have any cases regarding your child, Genelle is the one to go to. She fights for whats in the child's best interest.
Read more
14 Jun, 2019 by Jennifer
Mr. Beisenstein instructed me to seek a lawyer to prepare a written offer on a property that he knowingly was going to sell to his friends. So I spent all this money to prepare a document all for him to say it was already sold. I contacted him for a year about the property and he wouldn't return my call. It was only after I went into his firm that he called me back. Go with a lawyer that is not sketchy because this guy is bad news
Read more
14 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
I paid this lawyer thousands of dollars and did very little for me. He acts like he knows everything, but when I caught him making mistakes, he blamed others. He overcharged me and did not put his client first but himself.
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.
