Filter by

star star star star star
07 Jun, 2024 by Jean
Chrissie was an incredible lawyer in helping us navigate through the joys and challenges of infant adoption. Her passion for ensuring what's best for the child was clear time and time again, while representing us and counseling us on every step of the way. She went out of her way to be available and present during pivotal and at times difficult moments throughout the birth process and adoption journey. She also showed compassion and care beyond just our family, helping soothe concerns and fears on both sides while remaining loyal to us as her clients. We are so grateful to her for what is the greatest joy to our family - our sweet little girl.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
20 May, 2024 by Emery
I initially tried to work through my divorce case alone, but it was too much to deal with. Working with Chrissie took off almost all of the strain. All I ever had to worry about was filling out the necessary forms and she took care of all the rest, and I didn’t even have to appear in court. Her fees were very competitive in comparison to other local attorneys. I have already referred a family member to her practice as well.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
17 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Chrissie Martell is an excellent attorney! Her knowledge of the law, good judgment, and willingness to listen to her clients shows that she has passion for the job and her clients. She is defiantly one of the best attorneys in Dupage county and Kane county. I wouldn’t hire anyone else to be my lawyer! Whenever Chrissie helps me out, I am always pleased with the results and outcomes. I highly recommend her.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
17 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Sylvester is very prompt in returning calls as well as answering phone calls. He is willing to meet with you in regards to your case and makes sure you understand what could happen in your case. Mr. Sylvester makes sure you are never thrown off guard and truly helps his clients. He fights for you and never forgets what was discussed prior to court. He makes sure him and his client are on the same page and is able to put his client's mind at ease. He's confident, he's tough, and he fights for you. He never gives up and makes sure your voice is heard. He is fair and is willing to work with his client's. I highly recommend Mr. Sylvester.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
06 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
I hired Mark to represent me in my divorce. I appreciate Mark's patience and excellent communication skills. He was patient with explaining the divorce process to me and what my options were. He would often offer guidance but would not direct me on what to do, which was both helpful and unhelpful at times (having never been through a divorce before). Overall, I would recommend Mark. He is a straight shooter and I felt he looked out for my best interest both monetarily and emotionally
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
26 May, 2023 by Anonymous
Mark Brent provided excellent representation in my guardianship case. He was responsive, thorough, very knowledgeable and professional. He handled the court appearances with ease and confidence. His entire team provided excellent support. I will continue to rely on his expertise for future matters.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
08 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
Mark Brent is a great divorce attorney. He made a very emotional and stressful process easier. He is very knowledgeable and compassionate. He was able to guide me through the process and made sure that I clearly understood everything that needed to be done. We were able to complete the process in under 4 months. I am so grateful he handled this for me.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
18 Apr, 2024 by Christine chuman
Kate is amazing! She sticks to her guns and knows her stuff in the court room. I am glad to have her on my side.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Mar, 2024 by Susana flodstrom
Kate has always assisted my husband and I whenever we needed legal counseling and representation. She is kind, very professional and easy to reach/ talk with. We have felt relieved and are grateful for her services. Thank you, Kate
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Mar, 2024 by Stanislaw zielinski
I'm very grateful for Kate Donat Iturralde for her unwavering support throughout my case , She has shown exeptional commitment, She is knowledgeable , honest and very helpful attorney.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
30 Sep, 2019 by Julie
Van was instrumental in assisting me with a tenant issue. After months of not receiving rent from my tenants, I hired Van to evict my tenants. While this was an stressful time, he was extremely patient and helped me understand the eviction process. I can't thank him in enough for his persistence and I was very lucky to have a lawyer with his level of expertise represent me.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
13 Jan, 2019 by Marites
I could not say enough to thank Atty Van Larson for the help he gave me during my toughest time when I was extremely stressed out and anxious during my divorce process. He is knowledgeable in his field and very perseverance to keep my case moving. Atty Larson walked me through what needs to be done and what to expect. He was thruthful to what he says and don't want me to have a false hope. Atty Larson was well prepared each court hearing. He will talk to me in the room at the court house before and after court. Atty Larson care for his clients and went over bored to help me. He suggests things inorder for me to save money. For example, he would ask me to drop documents instead of sending it through email or he will ask me to make copies of documents for him and for other party instead of him doing it. Atty Larson responds quickly whether on email or text even on weekends. He was always on top of everything and would remind me in advance of the next court date. He was also prompt on giving me an update of my case. I am highly recommending Atty. Van Larson as he is the best attorney based on my experience.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
07 Jan, 2019 by Michelle
I’ve known Attorney Van Larson since 1997. He is one of the top lawyers in Kane County and the State of Illinois. He has represented me in countless legal matters, including several complicated family law matters and real estate transactions. He is well-respected within the legal community having witnessed his interactions with opposing counsel, judges and other legal professionals in the courtroom. Additionally, I’ve referred countless individuals and every one who has chosen him for representation has expressed how pleased they were with his legal expertise and results. He is one of the fairest, most realistic attorneys I’ve ever known. He shoots straight and doesn’t over promise. He listens to his clients, and is very patient when working through challenging and emotionally charged circumstances. No matter what the legal matter, hands down, I would recommend Van to consult with you. He will give a fair assessment and will only take your case if he believes he’s the best person for the job.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
02 Mar, 2024 by Nicole madriz
He is an exceptional attorney! His hard work always shows, you can trust him to get you the best results. He is compassionate, attentive and will listen to what you have to say. He will answer any questions you may have. My family and I will always go to him for any problems.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
23 Feb, 2024 by Carlos ramirez
Google Maps
star star star star star
27 Jan, 2024 by Alan vega
Matthew Downs is a superb lawyer who possesses professionalism, honesty, and compassion.He is incredibly knowledgeable and has a great deal of expertise. would carefully consider your case and work to get the best result for his clients. His charges are fair. I definitely recommend Matthew Downs.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
04 Jul, 2024 by Shirley's ebay store
I glady recommend Gosselin Law Firm! Gabrielle handled my mother's estate and was genuinely supportive, caring, and understanding. Gosselin Law is hands down the best in Kane County. I will never forget how much your services meant to me.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
15 Apr, 2024 by Jan wasek
Very friendly n helpful. Been going there since the 80's!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
23 Jun, 2022 by Jack riordan
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
29 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I am extremely satisfied with the services I received from Roman Seckel. His integrity, good values and dedication were evident throughout the whole process. He represented me very well and I would highly recommend him. Thank you Roman, for your patience with me and always having my best interest at heart.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
21 Mar, 2015 by Garry
Roman did an oustanding job in my case. He remained clear and decisive on his approach to handling and ultimately resolving the case , in which I am pleased with the result. I would like to personally thank him and I would recommend his services to others.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
24 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
I choose Mr. Seckel to be my lawyer because he was local and saw decent reviews of his law firm. My case, I feel was easy enough. I just wanted child support and reimbursement of day care expenses. However, he was completely incompetent. After going to court, my ex was able to lower his child support by half without being represented by his own attorney. In addition, I had to suggest to Mr. Seckel ways to make things more difficult for my ex, such as proof of work search and obtaining the child tax credit due to low child support payments. I eventually became tired of paying for court dates in which nothing favorable came from them. Finally, I am still paying him even though my ex was able to reduce his child support by half without representation as mentioned before! What a joke!!!
Read more Avvo
See 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

Scroll to top