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25 May, 2023 by Anonymous
Nice person.
However, fails to respond to emails, calls to the hired office service are frequently unanswered, fails to advise of any updates in case. (Appears to lack appropriate office support staff).
Due to multiple informational mistakes, it has been necessary to preview her work prior to documents being forwarded.
According to the contract I signed with her, I have never received even one invoice as promised.
I do not feel confident given her disorganization, high fees, or her lack of accomplishment/interest with my case.
I regret hiring her and do not recommend this attorney.
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24 Apr, 2023 by Jason
We had our initial consultation with Ana today, and we came away so glad that we spoke with her. We have an elder family member who's navigating a complicated mental health situation. Ana listened patiently to our concerns and expertly helped us plan a path forwards. If you're looking for elder law or state planning services, I recommend her highly!
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09 Sep, 2015 by Caroline
I retained the services of Jim Siemens for my divorce and was elated when I discovered his associate Ana M. Prendergast specializes in Geriatric Law and Estate Planning. Geriatric Attorneys are inordinately difficult to find. Ana eased the exhaustion and frustration I was experiencing in being the Healthcare and Durable POA for an overwhelming, elderly parent. Ana improved the quality of my life and my elderly parent’s life by synthesizing empathy, critical thinking and uncanny listening skills with efficiency, resulting in both short and long-term actionable results.
Ana M. Prendergast is also my Estate Attorney and conducts this with expediency. Often during divorce we are unable to focus on “next steps” and Ana helped me realize the importance of estate planning, especially as a single mother. I referred her to other friends who were equally satisfied with her gift in channeling family needs into well-conceived, solid estate planning.
A quantitative assessment of 5 stars does not do Ana justice; numerically rating her professional and personal qualities is impossible for me because she exceeded and continues to exceed my expectations.
Without reservation, I recommend Ana M. Prendergast and The Siemen’s Family Law Group for any family law related legal needs you may have. They are unquestionably the best family law practice in Asheville.
Caroline
Asheville, North Carolina
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05 Feb, 2025 by Alan weissman
This law office is completely unequipped to handle modern employment law cases. The attorney was shockingly uneducated on clear-cut workplace retaliation, ADA violations, HIPAA privacy breaches, and discrimination law. Instead of recognizing textbook legal violations, he was dismissive, condescending, and gaslighting—forcing me to explain basic legal concepts, only to victim shame me for staying in a job where I was financially and medically trapped.
Rather than advocating for employee rights, he made me justify my own case, despite having prepared over 500 pages of documentation and proof of clear violations, retaliation, and systemic discrimination—questioning clear ADA noncompliance and disability discrimination. I even had to explicitly explain how multiple diagnoses and conditions are legally protected, and he still failed to recognize obvious retaliation. He clearly does not understand modern workplace environments or employment law beyond the most basic level.
On top of that, I was financially and physically displaced due to a Hurricane Helene, another concept that didn’t warrant even the slightest bit of compassion or understanding from him.
I came in for a consultation prepared to pay $400 for solid legal advice but ended up wasting my time repeating myself, trying to explain the nature of modern remote work environments, cloud computing, and corporate tech consulting. He should have paid me for educating him on these concepts—even though I doubt he remembered anything that was discussed after I left the room.
If you are looking for a lawyer who is compassionate, understands nuance, and is actually familiar with employment law from this century, look elsewhere. You should not have to repeat yourself multiple times, be further gaslit, or feel more exhausted after a legal consultation than you did before it.
The lack of competence extends beyond legal matters. If you expect a law office that at least knows how to update their own Google business listing, provide clear office directions, or even put up a sign so clients can find them, you’ll be disappointed there too. If they can’t even manage basic business operations, how can they be trusted with a complex legal case?
Do not waste your time.
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14 Dec, 2024 by Benjamin slutsky
I used Joe for a NFA Trust and it was an super easy experience.
I'd absolutely go to Joe with any legal issue I have
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06 Sep, 2024 by Kevin cole
Excellent communication and knowledge base. Treated me very professionally and did what she said she would.
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23 Jun, 2020 by Morrisfamily222
If you are looking for a family law attorney I couldn't recommend anyone more than Michael Drye. He is very knowledgeable, trustworthy, and shows an amazing amount of empathy for an already emotionally charged situation. He helped me navigate through my divorce legally, but was so patient with me as I sorted through the emotions that inevitably come up in that sort of case. He knows the legal system and gave me sound advice as we went through the divorce process. I would highly recommend Michael Drye!
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05 Jun, 2020 by Mike hartis
I would highly recommend Michael W. Drye as an attorney. He has helped me on several occasions with some of my very important legal matters. His understanding of our legal system is of the highest caliber and I continue to consult with him on an as needed basis. He is a down to earth, honest, reliable, easy to work with, and extremely trustworthy person. You will not be disappointed if you retain him as your attorney.
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05 Jun, 2020 by Jolene puffer
I needed someone who knew the system and had been in the legal community in Asheville and could fight for me. I needed an attorney who wouldn't run up the legal fees and would really dig in. Micheal advised me and helped me more than I expected. I feel luck y to have found him and retained him. I needed a great attorney whose reputation in the legal system was both stellar and respected. He helped so much
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11 Nov, 2024 by Sabrina berg
We hired Chris Reinhardt to help us with a very difficult (one of a kind) custody case. His thorough knowledge of the law, brilliant strategies and determination led to a victory for us!! We can’t thank him enough for his hard work and dedication!!
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07 Nov, 2024 by Haley thomas
I worked with Attorney Abbey Forde for a second time and had another amazing experience. She is very quick to respond and is so intelligent and seriously knows her stuff. She really cares about you and your situation and takes the time to make sure that you understand all of your options and are making informed decisions. I just appreciate Abbey and her term a ton and if I ever need any legal assistance in the future, I’ll be working with Abbey again.
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05 Nov, 2024 by Mr. nice guy owens
11 Nov, 2024 by Sabrina berg
We hired Chris Reinhardt to help us with a very difficult (one of a kind) custody case. His thorough knowledge of the law, brilliant strategies and determination led to a victory for us!! We can’t thank him enough for his hard work and dedication!!
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07 Nov, 2024 by Haley thomas
I worked with Attorney Abbey Forde for a second time and had another amazing experience. She is very quick to respond and is so intelligent and seriously knows her stuff. She really cares about you and your situation and takes the time to make sure that you understand all of your options and are making informed decisions. I just appreciate Abbey and her term a ton and if I ever need any legal assistance in the future, I’ll be working with Abbey again.
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05 Nov, 2024 by Mr. nice guy owens
12 Apr, 2021 by Edward
Heidi Stewart promised to help with an issue with my dad. It was time sensitive. She saw him once and talked to him one other time. On Friday she said she would see him Saturday. On Saturday she said she couldn’t see him because she needed to spend time with her family. She agreed to see him Sunday morning at 11:00 and then texted my wife (in another state) an hour before the appointment saying she couldn’t come and to call her next week. Today, Monday, she sent an e-mail saying her schedule would not allow her to see him and to find someone else. This is NOT the way to conduct business, especially with a lot on the line. I would never recommend someone with such a poor business ethic. I had paid her for the time she invested and was more than willing to pay for the rest had she done so
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19 Jul, 2016 by Sara
Heidi Stewart is very helpful & compassionate. I felt truly understood, as well as emotionally supported while seeking her help with a complex situation. She seems to have a very strong understanding of technical aspects of the law, and she is also sensitive to the emotional needs of her clients. I felt she was giving advice in a genuine effort to help me make the best decision for myself.
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31 Oct, 2015 by Michelle
Heidi was a wonderful advocate for me. When I got bogged down and disheartened she stood my ground for me. She was always professional, up front and fair.
I highly recommend her services.
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25 Oct, 2024 by Judy ball
07 Jul, 2024 by Sarah emerson
He is a bigot. He continues to use the wrong pronouns and name for a child that took their own life due to bullying over being trans. Worst lawyer in WNC. If I could give him 0 stars, I would. Do not recommend.
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14 Jun, 2024 by William emerson
What a disgusting human this man is. First NEVER hire an attorney that does EVERY type of law Criminal, Civil and Family. They call this kind of attorney a "Bill Mill"
He likes to support abusive men against women and goes for the jugualar even in very sensitive situations. He deliberately misgenders trans people including children.He is chauvinist and deliberately uses womens former married names even after his clients have "reliquished" them,and after legal name changes have been made.Honestly I wish I could put on gloves in a ring with this little man, and show him what abuse looks like. 😎
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05 Feb, 2025 by Alan weissman
This law office is completely unequipped to handle modern employment law cases. The attorney was shockingly uneducated on clear-cut workplace retaliation, ADA violations, HIPAA privacy breaches, and discrimination law. Instead of recognizing textbook legal violations, he was dismissive, condescending, and gaslighting—forcing me to explain basic legal concepts, only to victim shame me for staying in a job where I was financially and medically trapped.
Rather than advocating for employee rights, he made me justify my own case, despite having prepared over 500 pages of documentation and proof of clear violations, retaliation, and systemic discrimination—questioning clear ADA noncompliance and disability discrimination. I even had to explicitly explain how multiple diagnoses and conditions are legally protected, and he still failed to recognize obvious retaliation. He clearly does not understand modern workplace environments or employment law beyond the most basic level.
On top of that, I was financially and physically displaced due to a Hurricane Helene, another concept that didn’t warrant even the slightest bit of compassion or understanding from him.
I came in for a consultation prepared to pay $400 for solid legal advice but ended up wasting my time repeating myself, trying to explain the nature of modern remote work environments, cloud computing, and corporate tech consulting. He should have paid me for educating him on these concepts—even though I doubt he remembered anything that was discussed after I left the room.
If you are looking for a lawyer who is compassionate, understands nuance, and is actually familiar with employment law from this century, look elsewhere. You should not have to repeat yourself multiple times, be further gaslit, or feel more exhausted after a legal consultation than you did before it.
The lack of competence extends beyond legal matters. If you expect a law office that at least knows how to update their own Google business listing, provide clear office directions, or even put up a sign so clients can find them, you’ll be disappointed there too. If they can’t even manage basic business operations, how can they be trusted with a complex legal case?
Do not waste your time.
Read more
14 Dec, 2024 by Benjamin slutsky
I used Joe for a NFA Trust and it was an super easy experience.
I'd absolutely go to Joe with any legal issue I have
Read more
06 Sep, 2024 by Kevin cole
Excellent communication and knowledge base. Treated me very professionally and did what she said she would.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Tomandrenee
Jacob handled my property title legal work quickly and easily.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Kelda harrison
10 Aug, 2024 by Simon bennett
Jacob has been a godsend. It's not a fun situation, but his professionalism and experience has allowed us to get through it with the best outcomes possible. A+
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11 Aug, 2024 by Tomandrenee
Jacob handled my property title legal work quickly and easily.
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11 Aug, 2024 by Kelda harrison
10 Aug, 2024 by Simon bennett
Jacob has been a godsend. It's not a fun situation, but his professionalism and experience has allowed us to get through it with the best outcomes possible. A+
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21 Sep, 2024 by Tanner x
THEIVES! We used them to handle a workers comp case and they tried to steal over $5000 by sneaking behind our backs and lied in writing!
We only found out when one of them let it slip discussing that they received their check weeks prior and we have been ignored and left in the cold for months trying to get paid, even after signing papers and settling! Do not trust these people (Greensboro Office) Cannot believe after they get $20,000+ they have the nerve and greed to attempt stealing another $5,000 illegally.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Charles hill
Losing your home is a horrible experience and this law firm doesn't give damn about you or your circumstances. You're doing everything to come up with the money and this law firm's fees is what will get you because they add more whenever they feel like it and whatever amount they feel like. I called and told them that I'd finally come up with all of the money and two days later they added 6,000 with only a few days for me to come up with money or lose my house. I literally collasped and I hope to never have to deal with them again.
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25 Sep, 2023 by Matt
09 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
Mr. Trilling was appointed to me by the court and, in my humble opinion, I'd rather have a box of bricks defend me. Our client-attorney relationship was brief as I ended up firing him and hiring an attorney out-of-pocket, but I knew I would be better off with anyone else. He was rude, insulting and overall I would not recommend him.
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03 Feb, 2009 by James
joel is a great attorney he helped me out greatly
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26 Oct, 2023 by Andrea
It's always great to work with a strong, professional woman. Jennifer is honest almost to a fault. She doesn't make empty promises and will tell it like it is, which you need to hear, whether you like it or not. She is also incredibly smart. She is an expert in family law and and it shows. She considered my feedback and would tell me how realistic it was or was not. I had no problem sharing the reins with her.
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24 Nov, 2017 by Preston
I had a difficult case as my ex took our daughter and moved to North Carolina. I am in California. I was denied visitation so I hired Jennifer. I met her once. In that consultation she informed me that although difficult I should be able to get joint 50/50 custody. Most paperwork was done through email, postal mail with notaries and legal envelopes. All in all, I was given 50/50 custody and my daughter was given residency in both states. I couldn't of asked for anything more. The relief I was given by Jennifer and her assistant Flo was tremendous. I didn't have to appear in court as it was held in North Carolina.
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02 Oct, 2014 by Gregory
Attorney Jennfier Moore and I had radically different perspectives on identical situations, especially the process between quality services expected and her billing practices. Attorney Jennifer Moore takes limited responsibility for her errors; quoted me one price in the office after a consultation but took no action for almost a month. When called to task, she demanded more money before any action would be taken even though I had a receipt of payment per our agreement.
Once that had been settled, she sent a draft with errors that arrived so late as to be unusable but even then, she couldn’t differentiate between me as her paying client and wrote on a binding settlement that my spouse was her client - needles to say, quite an embarrassment. When asked for a partial refund, she was adamant all services were provided: a form-letter with errors that could not be used and was thankfully never sent because of the errors and dismal formatting. A totally worthless transaction that ultimately is going to cost me significant money because of her inability to respond with efficacy or efficiency. For those wanting quality legal services, my “opinion” is go anywhere but to Jennifer Moore.
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01 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
Like many of the other reviews Mike and his paralegal almost never responds to texts, calls, or emails. When they do it is generally nonsense. Unfortunately, legal shield recommended him and other more promising attorneys were not taking clients at the time. I paid every invoice without dispute but he was never prepared as he should have been and fumbled around on nearly everything. It seems his conversation are purposely long winded and end with no action. On one court case he admitted to not reading the proposal from the other party but said I should take it. I had read it and flatly refused as it was in no way fair. I ended up with joint custody instead of weekly supervised visits which so far has lead to 100% custody of one child, no thanks to him. On another court case I did not even get confirmation he will be there it was very stressful waiting and not knowing on top of everything else. After months of no communication and another court case coming up I am forced to go it alone.
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14 Oct, 2020 by Maria gevedon
Good morning Michael E. Ciochina, I want to start by saying thank you so much for the respect, consideration, concern, and professional job you did on my son's custody case. Thank you for the excellent legal representation We could not be happier with the results of our trial. You made a very critical difference in my granddaughter's future. As a concerned Mimi I was fallen apart known the a bruise and torment my granddaughter would go through if we would not have being able to get her out of the environment she was in. Your legal counsel and positive attitude reassured us everything would be okay it was a process but thank God you where there every step of the way. The extra time and effort put forth on your behalf until the end was truly appreciated. The process was challenging, but in the end we can breath a lot better at night knowing that my granddaughter is safe and well protected. I pray that she will continue to wake up happy everyday knowing that she is truly loved and safe. Thanks again for everything you done for our family to bring this precious little girl back home. Thanks for displaying experience and skill to get the best results possible for our family. PS I don't want to leave anyone out your secretary /paralegal Tonya is awesome she was always respectful and listen when I needed someone to talk to awesome woman. I hope God continues to bless your law firm.
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14 Nov, 2017 by Matt
Mr. Ciochina is a great attorney that has walked me through some pretty difficult times to ensure the well being of my daughter. I highly recommend him.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
So unprofessional and communication was terrible. All she cares about is the money and not the actual case. I would NEVER recommend her to anyone.
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12 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous
After getting a referral from a police entity to use Mr. Stewart in a criminal and civil case against my husband, he failed me miserably, mishandled my case, cared not about me, was egotistical and judgmental. His secretary was just as bad, if not worse. I ended up losing a restraining order that I had on my husband, having never gone before a judge to decide the case, because Mr. Stewart failed to appear and sent his ailing secondary staff to represent, going up against a local attorney, related to the DA, whose sole purpose in life is to obtain custody for the wrong parent, using whining and crying and extension of times to prolong the agony. I ended up handing over my children to a volatile man without ever hearing my case against this man for the harms he had done. I would have been in contempt of court had I not done so. Mr. Stewart is a poor attorney at best. He required big retainers and did little to nothing but add up his hours to charge me more for not doing anything. After two months of hell, I gave up and signed a stupid agreement written by my husband and his lawyer, that didn't help me one bit, and just giving up because there is no justice in this world, especially using an attorney like him...I hired another attorney and the grief continued. Because the case went sideways to begin with, I never had a leg to stand on, and I blame it solely on Jack Stewart. I ended up turning him into the board for misconduct and he did credit some fees he had charged me. Surely, the price paid was way bigger than the money I threw at him, because my life has never been the same since.
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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.
