Lawyers map
>24
experienced lawyers
Filter by
16 Sep, 2024 by Trevor devore
09 Sep, 2024 by Carolyn dice
Ashley Andrews was extremely helpful and professional. She was willing to work with our schedule. My husband’s work schedule is all over the place, and she was as accommodating as she could be for us. She is very knowledgeable and helped guide us every step of the way. We were confident that she helped us obtain the best possible outcome and the results we wanted.
Read more
07 Sep, 2024 by Kevin fang
I appreciated Ginny's attention to detail and thoroughness and helping me create a prenuptial agreement. She was highly professional and responsive. Would recommend
Read more
18 May, 2022 by Lucia leung
Mrs. Liu is so helpful and knowledgeable. She helped me to apply for my two adopted daughters' permanent residency. She is patient and caring. Her charge is very reasonable. I am very happy with her service.
Read more
27 Oct, 2021 by Minny
Alfred has provided great assistance and support to my case. Highly recommend Alfred to anyone who is looking for a reliable attorney.
Read more
08 Aug, 2019 by Christine
1. Professional and knowledgeable - involved with assets Hong Kong, China, and Los Angeles in this divorce case.
2. Patience and focus - divorce process is very emotional. Alfred is a good listener and able to focus on your legal rights and provide the best advices and option.
3. Trust-worthy - Alfred provided professional options and explain it detail. This attorney puts client's rights in the priority. His practice is to avoid un-necessary lawsuits and satisfy client's needs.
In our opinions, we highly recommend this attorney to others.
Read more
06 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Ginny works on my green card application. She is responsive and detail-oriented. She is a great lawyer to work with.
Read more
29 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
My experiences with Ginny and her paralegal were stupendous through and through. These people know their craft and walk the extra mile for you. I consulted with GTH Law on two different occasions and each one of them was handled with utmost care and professionalism. I also appreciated working with people that care for you on a personal level instead of just handling you as a “case“. Highly recommend."
Read more
29 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
Ginny was referred to me and has been nothing but warm and professional from day one. She was not just the super woman who helped me win the case, but also the one whom I turn to whenever I felt lost and didn’t know what to do. I recommend Ginny to anyone who want to work with a trustworthy strong female badass lawyer!
Read more
10 Nov, 2015 by Gary
Back in the early 1980’s, my ex-wife, who had abandoned us when my son was six months old, kidnapped him 2 years later. It took me 6 months to find them in Oregon. The authorities in Oregon told me I needed a court order to bring him back to California or face arrest if I just took him. So I went up to Oregon to see him and returned to California to begin legal proceedings.
This was a serious situation and I could not take any chances screwing it up. I was young about 23 and I didn’t have much money. I was recommended to Mr. Ziska by a friend. I thank God that I found Mr. Ziska. After listening to my story and my financial situation, Mr. Ziska waived his retainer and only billed me for time when he was actually on the case. For example he would not charge me for say travel time to the court, only for the time at the court. He also allowed me to make monthly payments.
At the end of the case I was awarded full custody of my son with my ex having limited and monitored visitation. He pulled this off at a time when in liberal California custody was always given to the mother and fathers getting custody was definitely not the norm. It was beginning to change, but hadn’t changed at that time.
Mr. Ziska was definitely a “Godsend”, a tremendous blessing to me . . . my son . . . my family. I would highly recommend Mr. Ziska with absolutely no reservations. He has a good heart as well being an excellent and professional attorney. I believe that he is more concerned with the lives of those he comes in contact with than the money he in turn receives for his services. No doubt money is necessary, but I don’t believe it is his focus.
God bless you John.
Read more
22 Apr, 2015 by Diana v
I knew when I decided to get a divorce after 35 years of marriage that it would be difficult. I had no idea that my divorce attorney would be able to calm me down, constantly reassure me and make my divorce not quite so traumatic! Mr. Ziska kept me informed about every stage of my case. He took the time to make sure I understood every aspect of our divorce settlement. He answered all of my questions thoroughly and competently. When we had Court appearances, I was impressed by the amount of respect that was afforded to Mr. Ziska by not only the Courtroom staff, but also the Judges. John Ziska has truly been a blessing in my life and I will always be thankful that he is the attorney I chose to represent me.
Read more
25 Nov, 2014 by John m
After three prior attorneys, John Ziska was finally able to get me sole legal and sole physical custody of my 11 year old daughter. Mr. Ziska understood that my daughter needed her own attorney, had one appointed, and worked tirelessly to help my daughter and I. I owe this man everything! I am forever grateful to him.
Read more
06 Aug, 2021 by Stacy
This is Stacy Campagna and the review below I believe is done by the opposing side in my case of her own attorney. My attorney, Ashley Andrews, is the only attorney in her firm and the only attorney who appears in my case. During the hearing this past week, the other side's attorney did not appear and I understand is no longer eligible to practice law in California. I beleive that this review was done by the opposing side of her own attorney on my attorney's page. I have the following things to say about my attorney: My attorney Ashley is excellent and has never dropped the ball once. Her or her paralegals are always available when I need them, and always respond quickly to all my correspondence and return my phone calls promptly. Ashley is a highly ethical lawyer, which is a huge thing in this field. Ashley has done an outstanding job in supporting me through this whole legal process with sound and solid advice. I would absolutely recommend her to anyone needing a solid and thorough lawyer. I am so grateful for all of her help.
Read more
28 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I put myself in a bad situation and she was able to turn that around and get me joint custody and lower my child support. Now I get to see my daughter. She is simply incredible.
Read more
08 Feb, 2017 by Linda
We faced a change of circumstances and contacted Ashley for a consultation. She reviewed a complex prenuptial/partnership situation, completed the initial research thoroughly and quickly, and provided us with a range of options on how to proceed. She was caring and took time to explain details carefully, ensuring that we understood the implications. I highly recommend Ashley if you want an attorney who takes the time necessary to make sure you understand nuances, and who also ensures that your best interests are her top priority.
Read more
09 Jan, 2020 by Smiles rolon
There is no other lawyer like Michael Oddenino. He is the absolute best. II owned property prior to my marriage and my ex husband came after me. It was emotional and very difficult. I had heard of Michael and when I met him, I was finally able to put my worries to rest. He is confident and really follows through with his word. Highly experienced and professional. Lise is not in Michaels vocabulary. Divorce is never a win but peace of mind is what you get when you work with Michael. Even after the divorce was final, Michael was always available to answer questions via email or a call. He is always there. His team are the best and there is no other family law firm better than Michael and his team. I used to work with attorneys. I know what is out there. I would give him 1000 stars if I could for what he did for me and his team.
Read more
20 May, 2019 by Paul roberts
Has been my attorney for 15 yrs, his staff are hard hitting players , the friendship we have made has helped me through some tough times!! The best lawyer on the planet!! Thanks Mike !! Love ya my friend
Read more
25 May, 2018 by Kimberly dahlson
We found Michael and Jason when a friend recommended them after his divorce case, and could not be happier. They were very knowledgeable and provided excellent advice. We got a great settlement. Highly recommended!
Read more
01 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
Dennis has a great personality and gets the job done. If he thinks someone else can do a better job he will gladly give there contact information.
Read more
03 Aug, 2024 by Dannis gee
我们和paula律师合作了六年，她帮我们从H-1B抽签开始，一直到拿到绿卡，真的是非常值得信赖。一路走来，她都像我们的靠山一样，让我们觉得特别安心。
paula律师的专业水平非常高，总是能在我们需要的时候提供最合适的建议。每次我们有问题或者不确定的时候，她都能用简单明了的语言解释清楚，让我们觉得不再迷茫。她对政策的了解非常深入，总能提前告诉我们需要注意的地方。
她的反应速度也很快，每次我们有紧急情况，她总能及时帮我们解决问题。这种可靠性让我们在移民过程中少了很多不必要的烦恼。
最重要的是，在这十年里，我们从来没有怀疑过她的专业能力和判断力。因为她总是把我们的利益放在首位，帮我们制定最好的方案。她不仅是我们的律师，更像是我们可以依赖的朋友。
如果你正在找一位靠谱的移民律师，我强烈推荐paula律师。她的帮助让我们的移民之路变得顺畅多了，非常感谢她的付出！像这样的好律师，你认识了会终身受用，未来如果我们需要入籍还是会找paula律师帮忙审核，太感谢她了！！！！！！
Read more
19 Mar, 2024 by Megan
Devising an estate plan is stressful and you need to have it done by a professional attorney. John was that and much more for me and my family, cleaning up previous attorney mistakes and providing the expertise needed for litigation. I hope you don't wait to draft your trust, will, or estate because probate takes it's toll; either way, Morris and Morris will defend your assets!
Read more
19 Jan, 2024 by Jingxuan zhang
Paula helped me with my case. Throughout the whole process, she was very quick to answer any questions I had and supported me throughout the process. I would highly recommend Law Offices of Pujie Zheng.
Read more
3.0
2 Reviews
4.7
51 Reviews
07 Sep, 2024 by Agnieszka petynia
I would like to highly recommend Mr. Ronald Kedikian.The bancrupcy process was painless, fast, and efficient .Mr.Kedikian explained step by step procedures of the bancrupcy. Mr. Ronald is a very experienced attorney who is extremely patience with his clients.Thank you so much for your help.
Read more
02 Aug, 2024 by Julianne vandergrift
Mr. Mohajer is a consummate professional. I've worked with him on multiple cases where he represented a parent and I represented the minor children. He is a strong advocate for his clients and also one of the nicest attorneys to work with. He is articulate, knowledgeable, and effective in and out of the courtroom.
Read more
02 Aug, 2024 by Nina lee
20 Sep, 2024 by Michael
Vince Davis is the best! I hired Vince to sue CPS regarding my civil rights. Well, we won the case and got the checks today. Thanks God for Davis, he and his legal team was responsive and available through the case.
Sometimes you have to sue CPS and teach them a lesson!
Read more
18 Sep, 2024 by Joseph sang
I hired 38 year attorney, Vince Davis. I live in Kentucky, and the case was in California. I explained my situation, he developed a legal strategy for me (the most important thing) filed a motion to win my case, and he WON! He was always available for my texts questions and comments, and always responded in a reasonable time. I highly recommend Davis and his 38 years of real legal experience.
Read more
03 Aug, 2024 by Dannis gee
我们和paula律师合作了六年，她帮我们从H-1B抽签开始，一直到拿到绿卡，真的是非常值得信赖。一路走来，她都像我们的靠山一样，让我们觉得特别安心。
paula律师的专业水平非常高，总是能在我们需要的时候提供最合适的建议。每次我们有问题或者不确定的时候，她都能用简单明了的语言解释清楚，让我们觉得不再迷茫。她对政策的了解非常深入，总能提前告诉我们需要注意的地方。
她的反应速度也很快，每次我们有紧急情况，她总能及时帮我们解决问题。这种可靠性让我们在移民过程中少了很多不必要的烦恼。
最重要的是，在这十年里，我们从来没有怀疑过她的专业能力和判断力。因为她总是把我们的利益放在首位，帮我们制定最好的方案。她不仅是我们的律师，更像是我们可以依赖的朋友。
如果你正在找一位靠谱的移民律师，我强烈推荐paula律师。她的帮助让我们的移民之路变得顺畅多了，非常感谢她的付出！像这样的好律师，你认识了会终身受用，未来如果我们需要入籍还是会找paula律师帮忙审核，太感谢她了！！！！！！
Read more
17 Mar, 2023 by Daniel naherny
Mark J. Warfel is an amazing Attorney and I would recommend him to anyone that needs legal advice or representation. Mark is extremely professional, Honorable, intelligent, and he genuinely cares about your case and will keep you informed and reassured every step of the way. He is also very reasonably priced and he will not take advantage of you financially and is extremely fair. I had the pleasure of having him represent me through a very difficult time in my life with a case that I felt lost in. Mark was able to explain everything to me in simple terms and reassure me that everything would be taken care of on my end on time and without having to worry about the confusion of the legal paperwork and legal jargon. I would recommend Mark to anyone can vouch for his character, integrity and genuine enthusiasm and passion in his field.
Read more
13 Feb, 2021 by Anthony bars
Very helpful explained everything and we came up with great solutions for all my stress thank you Mark J Warfel
Read more
17 Dec, 2017 by Wendy hueso
03 Aug, 2024 by Dannis gee
我们和paula律师合作了六年，她帮我们从H-1B抽签开始，一直到拿到绿卡，真的是非常值得信赖。一路走来，她都像我们的靠山一样，让我们觉得特别安心。
paula律师的专业水平非常高，总是能在我们需要的时候提供最合适的建议。每次我们有问题或者不确定的时候，她都能用简单明了的语言解释清楚，让我们觉得不再迷茫。她对政策的了解非常深入，总能提前告诉我们需要注意的地方。
她的反应速度也很快，每次我们有紧急情况，她总能及时帮我们解决问题。这种可靠性让我们在移民过程中少了很多不必要的烦恼。
最重要的是，在这十年里，我们从来没有怀疑过她的专业能力和判断力。因为她总是把我们的利益放在首位，帮我们制定最好的方案。她不仅是我们的律师，更像是我们可以依赖的朋友。
如果你正在找一位靠谱的移民律师，我强烈推荐paula律师。她的帮助让我们的移民之路变得顺畅多了，非常感谢她的付出！像这样的好律师，你认识了会终身受用，未来如果我们需要入籍还是会找paula律师帮忙审核，太感谢她了！！！！！！
Read more
10 May, 2024 by Mark dykes
If u find your self here I am sorry but ask the judge what jurisdiction he is operating in and ask him if he knows that the process he signs his name for is broken
Read more
19 Mar, 2024 by Megan
Devising an estate plan is stressful and you need to have it done by a professional attorney. John was that and much more for me and my family, cleaning up previous attorney mistakes and providing the expertise needed for litigation. I hope you don't wait to draft your trust, will, or estate because probate takes it's toll; either way, Morris and Morris will defend your assets!
Read more
03 Aug, 2024 by Dannis gee
我们和paula律师合作了六年，她帮我们从H-1B抽签开始，一直到拿到绿卡，真的是非常值得信赖。一路走来，她都像我们的靠山一样，让我们觉得特别安心。
paula律师的专业水平非常高，总是能在我们需要的时候提供最合适的建议。每次我们有问题或者不确定的时候，她都能用简单明了的语言解释清楚，让我们觉得不再迷茫。她对政策的了解非常深入，总能提前告诉我们需要注意的地方。
她的反应速度也很快，每次我们有紧急情况，她总能及时帮我们解决问题。这种可靠性让我们在移民过程中少了很多不必要的烦恼。
最重要的是，在这十年里，我们从来没有怀疑过她的专业能力和判断力。因为她总是把我们的利益放在首位，帮我们制定最好的方案。她不仅是我们的律师，更像是我们可以依赖的朋友。
如果你正在找一位靠谱的移民律师，我强烈推荐paula律师。她的帮助让我们的移民之路变得顺畅多了，非常感谢她的付出！像这样的好律师，你认识了会终身受用，未来如果我们需要入籍还是会找paula律师帮忙审核，太感谢她了！！！！！！
Read more
10 May, 2024 by Mark dykes
If u find your self here I am sorry but ask the judge what jurisdiction he is operating in and ask him if he knows that the process he signs his name for is broken
Read more
19 Mar, 2024 by Megan
Devising an estate plan is stressful and you need to have it done by a professional attorney. John was that and much more for me and my family, cleaning up previous attorney mistakes and providing the expertise needed for litigation. I hope you don't wait to draft your trust, will, or estate because probate takes it's toll; either way, Morris and Morris will defend your assets!
Read more
03 Aug, 2024 by Dannis gee
我们和paula律师合作了六年，她帮我们从H-1B抽签开始，一直到拿到绿卡，真的是非常值得信赖。一路走来，她都像我们的靠山一样，让我们觉得特别安心。
paula律师的专业水平非常高，总是能在我们需要的时候提供最合适的建议。每次我们有问题或者不确定的时候，她都能用简单明了的语言解释清楚，让我们觉得不再迷茫。她对政策的了解非常深入，总能提前告诉我们需要注意的地方。
她的反应速度也很快，每次我们有紧急情况，她总能及时帮我们解决问题。这种可靠性让我们在移民过程中少了很多不必要的烦恼。
最重要的是，在这十年里，我们从来没有怀疑过她的专业能力和判断力。因为她总是把我们的利益放在首位，帮我们制定最好的方案。她不仅是我们的律师，更像是我们可以依赖的朋友。
如果你正在找一位靠谱的移民律师，我强烈推荐paula律师。她的帮助让我们的移民之路变得顺畅多了，非常感谢她的付出！像这样的好律师，你认识了会终身受用，未来如果我们需要入籍还是会找paula律师帮忙审核，太感谢她了！！！！！！
Read more
10 May, 2024 by Mark dykes
If u find your self here I am sorry but ask the judge what jurisdiction he is operating in and ask him if he knows that the process he signs his name for is broken
Read more
19 Mar, 2024 by Megan
Devising an estate plan is stressful and you need to have it done by a professional attorney. John was that and much more for me and my family, cleaning up previous attorney mistakes and providing the expertise needed for litigation. I hope you don't wait to draft your trust, will, or estate because probate takes it's toll; either way, Morris and Morris will defend your assets!
Read more
17 Mar, 2023 by Daniel naherny
Mark J. Warfel is an amazing Attorney and I would recommend him to anyone that needs legal advice or representation. Mark is extremely professional, Honorable, intelligent, and he genuinely cares about your case and will keep you informed and reassured every step of the way. He is also very reasonably priced and he will not take advantage of you financially and is extremely fair. I had the pleasure of having him represent me through a very difficult time in my life with a case that I felt lost in. Mark was able to explain everything to me in simple terms and reassure me that everything would be taken care of on my end on time and without having to worry about the confusion of the legal paperwork and legal jargon. I would recommend Mark to anyone can vouch for his character, integrity and genuine enthusiasm and passion in his field.
Read more
13 Feb, 2021 by Anthony bars
Very helpful explained everything and we came up with great solutions for all my stress thank you Mark J Warfel
Read more
17 Dec, 2017 by Wendy hueso
10 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
my "divorce" took over 4 YEARS. he is completely incompetent. stole my money too. he is NOT honest or whatever you need to hear, because he will morph into anything you need at that moment.
do not waste your precious time or MONEY on him. he should be disbarred.
Read more
23 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
this so called professional would not return phone calls, or letters, and when I hired another atty to just contact him and get information, it took my new atty almost two months just to talk to him on the telephone.. and that conversation lasted about 5-10 minutes and ended with Miller asking a question, which I answered the next day when my new atty contacted me... but, again, my atty could not get in touch with Miller, and ended up giving up after incurring over $750 in cost, just trying to speak with Miller
Read more
13 Jul, 2012 by Anonymous
I was a client of Mr. Miller for a family law matter. I experience many months of unresponsiveness and one excuse after another from his administrative assistant about why he didn’t have time to discuss or do anything regarding my case. I would call in every week or two and the administrative assistant who answered the phone would say he was not in the office due to variety of illnesses, he was out of town, or he was in court that week, or he was swamped preparing for court for the next week, etc. Unfortuantely he also failed to respond to items from the opposing attorney. After many months with virtually no progress, I decided to change attorneys. I lost my retainer and a lot of time as well.
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.
