Lawyers map
>44
experienced lawyers
Filter by
5.0
20 Reviews
4.3
16 Reviews
03 Jan, 2025 by Latso cashback
11 Dec, 2024 by Kim stapleton
Jane is a phenomenal attorney. I wasn't quite sure how to handle my child support review and she was amazing to work with. She explained everything to me as we went along and made sure I was comfortable with it all. I highly recommend working with Jane.
Read more
11 Dec, 2024 by Richard valenta
Jane handled my case and did a great job and gave wonderful advice. My case went smoothly and I felt very comfortable with her handling it and her staff.
Read more
18 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Attorney Romell was very personable, knowledgeable, compassionate, a good communicator and easy to work with. She made my divorce process more tolerable and kept me informed throughout the process.
Read more
26 Dec, 2019 by Patrick
After all of the divorce dust has settled, I can't imagine having gone through this process without Sheila Romell. She provided me with excellent guidance and representation, and was always there to be my voice of reason amidst all of the emotions that often times occur during the divorce process. I am 100% certain that I faired better in this process having hired Sheila to represent me! The property division laws in Wisconsin can be unfair compared to some "at fault" states, in my opinion, and I truly believe Sheila protected me and my assets from an unfair or disproportionate division.
Some attorneys will stir the pot, or willingly fight over things, it seems. Not Sheila! On countless occasions, she reminded me that the "things" I wanted weren't always worth the cost of going after them, which I appreciated. Her goal always seemed to be the protection of my best interests, vs unnecessarily bantering with the opposing counsel in order to drive up a bill. That isn't to say that Sheila isn't a well respected attorney, or a fighter, if need be! She seemed to be very well known, and carried herself incredibly well.
Going into my "surprise" divorce, I was wondering how I could afford the legal fees, and whether I would come out in one piece. After the dust has settled, I now know that I couldn't afford NOT to hire Sheila, and am incredibly happy that I did!
I have nothing but good things to say about my representation by Sheila Romell. You hire an attorney for protection, amongst other things. I felt like a lamb going against a wolf in my divorce. Sheila was my protective lion, though, and I will recommend her at every opportunity! A truly wonderful attorney!!! Thank you so much, Sheila!
Read more
05 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
Sheila was an excellent attorney to have by my side regarding my child relocating. From the first time I met with her she was very respectful, understanding and willing to help. The skills she has amazed me. Sheila was well prepared in the court room with organized paperwork and thoroughly explained everything to me step by step beforehand. She was outstandingly punctual. Her communications skills were superior between emailing and phone calls assuring that I stayed aware of everything going on. She makes sure her clients are prioritized no matter what, which I was very gracious for. Also, not to mention she is very well respected. Thank you for everything Sheila you and your amazing staff have been a pleasure to work with. Will rehire if needed.
Read more
5.0
8 Reviews
4.5
44 Reviews
11 Nov, 2024 by Shawn tenpenny
07 Nov, 2024 by Maria gardner
Back in 2022 attorney Jason was very helpful in the process of Guardianship for my son who has special needs ,the process was very good and he made the process stress free, it was only fair that I would comeback to him again for help with my youngest son who is also special needs.
I just want to extend my gratitude in all you have helped us and I hope others can find you I. Such stressful times.
Thank you attorney Jason.
Read more
07 Nov, 2024 by Kevin gardner
Thank you to attorney Jason Heinen for helping with guardianship for our special needs boys ,the process was very stress free and he treats us like family.
My wife Marie and I are very happy with the results.
Read more
03 Jan, 2025 by Kelsey fors
30 Dec, 2024 by Grant loucks
Extremely intelligent person and employees.
Read more
15 Dec, 2024 by David ots
Mr Singleton said he would have my case dismissed because I was wrongly accused and he did exactly what he said he could and would do
Read more
5.0
7 Reviews
22 Feb, 2018 by Scott
Michelle was a welcome relief to a process that is problematic by definition. In the middle of a divorce, Michelle stepped in to take my case and bring sanity to all the members involved. She never took her eye off the goal and worked the process efficiently to get there. I was not an easy client, but she kept me happy and in line and I am so pleased with the results I would recommend her to anyone.
Read more
22 Jun, 2015 by Gladys
Truly amazing and honest lawyer! You cant go wrong. Michelle and her Associates are go getters and will work hard for you and your needs! Im blessed to have meet this Great team. Truly like no other. Returns calls and dosnt leave you just thinking. My experience was unforgettable and Thanks to her and Laurie Bigsby I now have a fresh start with my family! To new beggings!
Read more
09 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Michelle represented me during my recent divorce proceding. (I found Michele after experiencing some challenges with a different attorney). From the first meeting I appreciated Michelle's ability to cut to the key issues, her candor, straight talk and willingness to level with me on some tough topics. She demonstrated an excellent ability to provide me legal advice for the topics that had to be addressed at the moment, but took the time to explain the downstream implications and tradeoffs associated with different strategies and approaches. Divorce is a tough, emotional process and Michelle demonstrated compassion and kindness as well- she knew when to push and how to handle sensitive topics. The value of this kind of smart, objective advice was invaluable to me.
Communication was always timely, thorough and spot on the mark. She was always up to speed on the details of my case. She is not the type of lawyer who shields helfself behind a paralegal (like many do). Michelle is hands on with all aspects of the case. In dealing with divorce matters, she also had the uncanny abilit to 'do the numbers in her head' and discuss possible outcomes. No doubt this comes from experience-as a lawyer and a mediator and every time I talked with her that experience showed. She was as comfortable negotiating, as conducting a deposition as going through the trial process.
Overall, divorce (particularly in a long term marriage) is a messy ugly process that can be made even uglier and more painful with the wrong attorney.
Read more
03 Jan, 2025 by Kelsey fors
05 Dec, 2024 by Kevin labriola
Trisha Festerling was our attorney for (divorce) mediation...Trisha was knowledgeable, professional and personable.
At one point my wife an I hit a "wall" and we both thought that we would not find a resolution...Trisha was able to help us come together and ultimately come through the other end with an agreement that made sense for both my (ex)wife, myself, and most importantly, our children. I highly recommend Trisha Festerling and thank her for her expertise and assistance.
Read more
05 Nov, 2024 by Paul
Madeline has done a great job looking ahead at possible issues and guiding me to take measured steps. Divergent has been incredible, and I'm beyond happy with the work they're doing for me.
Read more
03 Jan, 2025 by Kelsey fors
05 Dec, 2024 by Kevin labriola
Trisha Festerling was our attorney for (divorce) mediation...Trisha was knowledgeable, professional and personable.
At one point my wife an I hit a "wall" and we both thought that we would not find a resolution...Trisha was able to help us come together and ultimately come through the other end with an agreement that made sense for both my (ex)wife, myself, and most importantly, our children. I highly recommend Trisha Festerling and thank her for her expertise and assistance.
Read more
05 Nov, 2024 by Paul
Madeline has done a great job looking ahead at possible issues and guiding me to take measured steps. Divergent has been incredible, and I'm beyond happy with the work they're doing for me.
Read more
09 Dec, 2024 by Kim propp
We had the pleasure of working with Attorney Dan Krause and his fabulous team at their Brookfield office recently to quickly pull together several estate planning documents. It was immediately clear that Attorney Krause was professional, knowledgeable and experienced about Elder Law in Wisconsin, and he easily guided us through the process quickly and efficiently. He took extra care to answer all of our questions and helped us clearly understand our choices, giving examples and possible scenarios along the way. We found him to be very personable, compassionate, and enjoyable to work with. His office staff is top notch and welcoming as well. We are extremely pleased we chose Krause Estate Planning, are comfortable with the decisions made, and are feeling the relief of having important documents in place for our future. HIGHLY RECOMMEND
Read more
08 Nov, 2024 by Christina moreno
Beyond her legal expertise, what truly set Pam Lara apart was her compassion and understanding of the emotional toll a custody battle can take on families. She showed genuine concern for my family’s well-being. During moments when I felt overwhelmed or discouraged, she provided reassurance and encouragement.
Pam also emphasized the importance of focusing on what was best for my child throughout this process. She helped me navigate difficult conversations with empathy and respect for all parties involved, which ultimately contributed to a more amicable resolution.
I cannot recommend Lara Family Law highly enough for anyone facing a custody battle. Their combination of professional expertise, excellent communication skills, compassionate support, and commitment to achieving positive outcomes makes them an invaluable ally during such challenging times. If you find yourself needing assistance with family law matters, look no further—this attorney will fight tirelessly for your family’s best interests. Thank you, Pam Lara! ♥️
Read more
06 Nov, 2024 by Katie politowicz
Great team to work with!
Read more
03 Jan, 2025 by Kelsey fors
05 Dec, 2024 by Kevin labriola
Trisha Festerling was our attorney for (divorce) mediation...Trisha was knowledgeable, professional and personable.
At one point my wife an I hit a "wall" and we both thought that we would not find a resolution...Trisha was able to help us come together and ultimately come through the other end with an agreement that made sense for both my (ex)wife, myself, and most importantly, our children. I highly recommend Trisha Festerling and thank her for her expertise and assistance.
Read more
05 Nov, 2024 by Paul
Madeline has done a great job looking ahead at possible issues and guiding me to take measured steps. Divergent has been incredible, and I'm beyond happy with the work they're doing for me.
Read more
5.0
3 Reviews
4.5
44 Reviews
11 Nov, 2024 by Shawn tenpenny
07 Nov, 2024 by Maria gardner
Back in 2022 attorney Jason was very helpful in the process of Guardianship for my son who has special needs ,the process was very good and he made the process stress free, it was only fair that I would comeback to him again for help with my youngest son who is also special needs.
I just want to extend my gratitude in all you have helped us and I hope others can find you I. Such stressful times.
Thank you attorney Jason.
Read more
07 Nov, 2024 by Kevin gardner
Thank you to attorney Jason Heinen for helping with guardianship for our special needs boys ,the process was very stress free and he treats us like family.
My wife Marie and I are very happy with the results.
Read more
16 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
I was referred to Lindsey by Legal Shield. I didn't know what to expect and was quit shocked when I met with her for our first consultation. She instantly made me feel comfortable and I felt I was in good hands immedialty. She has been outstanding throughout the entire process. She is so compassionate and very detailed orientated. I was always so shocked how quickly she has gotten back to me with concerns I had. As busy as she is she continued to stay on top of things and is very knowledgeable about the law. I would refer her to anyone needing a family law attorney. Linsey has made this entire process so much easier and I am so thankful we had her as our attorney. She is absolutely amazing.
Read more
19 Mar, 2022 by Kimberly
Lindsey was a wonderful attorney. She was very compassionate and thorough in her practice. Lindsey was eager to answer any questions that I may have had during the process and updated me regularly. She was very understanding, knowing that a family separation is not easy and was willing to go above and beyond to obtain a resolution.
Read more
11 Mar, 2021 by Sean
Lindsey was the best thing to happen to me after my divorce. My ex had a large percentage of placement of our child and had been put in a position of power over me, making me feel like I had no option other than to barely see my son and pay an arm and a leg in child support.
After hiring Lindsey (and a lengthy legal battle against my ex) I am in a much better position. She helped me through filing motions, finding compromise, and even communicating with my ex. Extremely helpful, completely knowledgeable, experienced in the field, friendly, and compassionate. I don't know where I'd be without her, she was of invaluable help.
Read more
16 Oct, 2024 by Irish guy
One of the worst trial law firms around. Should be the cheapest firm around but instead very expensive and predatory. Unethical and will blatantly lie straight to your face. Over charges and refuses to follow your wishes.
Read more
13 Sep, 2024 by Joslyn binkowski
I cannot say enough about this woman, Attorney Michelle Fitzgerald is on top of her game every day and can definitely be trusted to do what she says she is going to do. Not only did she pick up my time-sensitive and messy probate situation in mid-crisis (on the first call attempt), but she went above and beyond to treat our situation with high priority, vigilant attention, confident action, and time-critical urgency on the daily. As someone who was in desperate need of legal services in a pinch, Michelle's competency, integrity, and guidance has helped our grieving family tremendously in times of great vulnerability and discord. You'd be hard pressed to find this kind work ethic or customer service anywhere else in the States anymore. We are beyond grateful and forever impacted by your justice.
Read more
21 Jun, 2024 by Megan breternitz
15 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
I knew John for more than 5 years by now. He is a great lawyer. My case went from a simple custody case to complicated divorce and relocation case. He was always well prepared and knew how to hand the case. The most thing I liked in dealing with him was being able to predict the court outcomes. He made a road map plan that we followed, and it worked well for us. He knew the plan that my ex-wife's attorney had which made me well prepared to the court.
I believe he knew my ex-wife personality better than I did. Eventually he got me 90% of what he said he would try to get " he never made promises to get me anything, which scared me at first, but now I know he was very honest with all his words". thank you John for the great job
Read more
03 May, 2015 by Kara
John has handled all my legal affairs for the last 30 years.I have recommended him to many people and still do.He is an excellent attorney and very thoughtful to his clients! I'm glad he was on my side the people on the other side haven't fared so well!I hope he never retires!!!
Read more
13 Jul, 2022 by Kathryn
It's been a few years since we worked with Bob & I realized I never reviewed him! Bob helped me adopt my stepson. We successfully terminated his biological mom's rights & completed the adoption. This is very hard to do & required a skilled family lawyer. The case was contested & took some time, but Bob was very experienced & handled everything. He was very thorough & responsive. Thank you Bob, for helping us get to the rainbow on the other side! - The Hall Family
Read more
12 Nov, 2013 by Panayiota
He has been my fathers lawyer for a long time. And when I needed a lawyer my father sent me to him. He helped me with a lawsuit against me from my former school. He saved me from having to pay alot of money! I would highly recommend him he is an aggressive lawyer that works very hard for his clients. I have since recommended him to 3 people and also found out he has represented a few of my friends and they all got better results then their co deffendents.
Read more
28 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Jake Schwei came highly recommended to me by a high profile trial attorney. Within the first five minutes of my initial consultation, I knew why he was so highly recommended. Jake asked very pointed questions and took incredibly thorough notes. I could immediately tell that he was willing to be as aggressive as needed in order to keep me as whole as possible after my divorce was complete. He never backed down in the negotiation process and never gave me even a small shred of doubt.
Read more
25 Jan, 2012 by Anonymous
I am an attorney who went throught a very difficult and contentious divorce. Jake was there for me, and handled my situation with respect and competent, aggressive representation. Ultimately, he was instrumental in brokering a resolution that all parties could live with. I am glad that I chose to work with him.
Read more
16 May, 2024 by Wassim
I am an attorney and called David J. Hase using the Wisconsin State Bar lawyer-to-lawyer directory to inquire about a school-related case. He talked to me for nearly an hour and thoroughly explained the law in a way that highlights his wisdom. If you are looking for an attorney who is passionate about what he does and cares for the clients he is representing, if I was a betting man, I would bet on David to provide excellent legal representation.
Read more
15 Sep, 2016 by Mkh
Helen is a wonderful, sincere, trustworthy lawyer. She helped me pull my life back together through a rough divorce and bankruptcy. She has remained there for me when I have had questions and concerns for the last few years. I would recommend her to anyone.... You cant find another to be there when you need them, she actually fights for you and helps you through the process and after if needed. She is the best ....
Read more
30 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
excellent attorney, top ethics rare to find, excellent researcher , knows his area and solid expert
Read more
18 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
Attorney Mistrioty is the kindest, most respectable attorney I have ever worked with. His mastery of mutliple subject matters is impressive. He had my complete confidence in both my complicated family law case as well as my business litigation needs. He has been in the courtroom for so many years, he can accuratly predict how things will go and strives to advise accordingly. He is a very very quick thinker, and an excellent communicator, both in court and with me. He takes complete control of the courtroom, and quickly wins judges to his side with his calm, matter-of-fact approach. And he was going against some pretty heavy hitters in Milwaukee! He also has an excellent personality for dealing with me, the client. He takes his time to explain things, and tries very hard to help through very difficult, emotional times. He is very tuned in to the problems that can occur during a family law case and cares very much to guide the client (me) through it. He also got everything I was fighting for in my business litigation. I would highly recommend Attorney Mistrioty to anyone looking for a smart, experienced lawyer with a great personality.
Read more
09 Dec, 2024 by Kim propp
We had the pleasure of working with Attorney Dan Krause and his fabulous team at their Brookfield office recently to quickly pull together several estate planning documents. It was immediately clear that Attorney Krause was professional, knowledgeable and experienced about Elder Law in Wisconsin, and he easily guided us through the process quickly and efficiently. He took extra care to answer all of our questions and helped us clearly understand our choices, giving examples and possible scenarios along the way. We found him to be very personable, compassionate, and enjoyable to work with. His office staff is top notch and welcoming as well. We are extremely pleased we chose Krause Estate Planning, are comfortable with the decisions made, and are feeling the relief of having important documents in place for our future. HIGHLY RECOMMEND
Read more
08 Nov, 2024 by Christina moreno
Beyond her legal expertise, what truly set Pam Lara apart was her compassion and understanding of the emotional toll a custody battle can take on families. She showed genuine concern for my family’s well-being. During moments when I felt overwhelmed or discouraged, she provided reassurance and encouragement.
Pam also emphasized the importance of focusing on what was best for my child throughout this process. She helped me navigate difficult conversations with empathy and respect for all parties involved, which ultimately contributed to a more amicable resolution.
I cannot recommend Lara Family Law highly enough for anyone facing a custody battle. Their combination of professional expertise, excellent communication skills, compassionate support, and commitment to achieving positive outcomes makes them an invaluable ally during such challenging times. If you find yourself needing assistance with family law matters, look no further—this attorney will fight tirelessly for your family’s best interests. Thank you, Pam Lara! ♥️
Read more
06 Nov, 2024 by Katie politowicz
Great team to work with!
Read more
10 May, 2019 by Anonymous
My spouse and I are glad to have her to discuss about our divorce. There was no mess & fight, and Linda made our divorce papers in one day! (Actually in 7 hours!) What we needed to is to make copies and submit them to the court. Done!
I had heard "a divorce is too long & miserable...." but with her, it never happened!
During the discussion, she was very neutral and listened to both of us carefully and gave us reasonable advices.
I definitely recommend het. You wouldn't get nervous in front of her, rather she would make you to talk your opinion comfortably.
Read more
23 Mar, 2019 by Kevin
Divorce is painful. There's no two ways about it. But utilizing Linda instead of hiring two attorneys was a great decision. My ex and I both had pre-conceived ideas of what we wanted our marriage settlement agreement to look like and Linda was a patient teacher, enlightening us multiple times we may not be expecting reasonable outcomes. We were surprised by the complexity of our case. Even our presiding judge commented on how complex our case was and thanked us for having it so neatly prepared and easy to read and understand. He commented on how thorough our documentation and agreement was. Linda was an indispensable asset to us due to her unique expertise and experience, offering us solutions and perspectives we would not have considered. She was even able to break down confusion into simple terms, easier to understand. Especially helpful was her teaching us how the law and court could affect us in the future in ways we could not have possibly conceived. Perhaps her most valuable quality was the ability to bring 2 people with 2 very different ideas, together in the middle, to compromise. At first we had no idea how far from reality our expectations were, and she enabled us to both get grounded with an amicable resolution we could both agree on. It meant we both had to adjust our expectations and once we did we ended up with something we could both live with for our future.
Read more
28 Feb, 2019 by Sue
Linda is wonderful to work with! She brings a tremendous amount of value to the table with her experience and ensures a fair & reasonable approach from both sides. She is able to remain impartial, understand both sides of negotiations and aid both parties in protection as well, resulting in an amicable resolution. She can infuse levity into difficult circumstances. A huge money saver as well!! I'm so glad we hired Linda instead of 2 attorneys!
Read more
19 Aug, 2024 by Amy rizvanovic
My husband and I chose Attorney Landry to represent us because we saw his already existing 5 star reviews - and I am happy to add another one! He truly is an excellent attorney. He is completely non-judgmental; he simply wants to help you, no matter what situation you are in or how you got there. He is prompt with all information, but also relays it in just enough detail so you understand exactly what needs to be done and when. Throughout our process, not once did we feel nervous or uncertain how things would go, because Attorney Landry made sure to explain everything and guarantee he could deliver on what he said he would do or what would most likely happen. We could text or call him anytime with questions, and he always answered between his other consultations and hearings. His pricing is reasonable and is presented in such a way that you can be rest assured he does not charge hidden fees. Above all his professionalism, he is a down to earth guy that you can feel completely at ease with. I personally guarantee, if you need representation, you will be relieved and glad you chose Landry Law Offices!
Read more
19 Jun, 2024 by Ariel
Ryan Shope was absolutely amazing. She took time to answer every question. She was patient when I needed time to get things together. She has a very calming presence during a very hectic process. Her paralegal Danielle was also just wonderful. Always quick to respond and very helpful. Knowing exacting how much it would cost helped immensely!
Read more
07 Jun, 2024 by Heather trudeau
Sterling Law Firm is great! Attorney Jack Braaten answers my questions in a timely matter and no question is too small. Jack can also sets up convenient video calls as well. I am so glad I chose them
Read more
09 Apr, 2014 by Anonymous
Excellent Lawyer! There to listen and fight for you. Very cool calm and collected manner, but gets the job done. Worked with me on a delicate child support/marital support issue & tax claim. Linda won for me, went to court with me and secured a victory! Besides this, her prices are very reasonable for the quality of work that she does. Highly recommended!
Read more
01 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Lilah worked with us to complete our estate planning documents at short notice. My husband and I were getting on a plane, and we wanted make sure our affairs were in order. She met with us to complete our Wills and Power of Attorney documents and at our first meeting completed everything we needed in a nice presentation binder. We were impressed with the ability to get in to see her quickly at a very cost effective price. Thank you Lilah
Read more
19 Aug, 2024 by Amy rizvanovic
My husband and I chose Attorney Landry to represent us because we saw his already existing 5 star reviews - and I am happy to add another one! He truly is an excellent attorney. He is completely non-judgmental; he simply wants to help you, no matter what situation you are in or how you got there. He is prompt with all information, but also relays it in just enough detail so you understand exactly what needs to be done and when. Throughout our process, not once did we feel nervous or uncertain how things would go, because Attorney Landry made sure to explain everything and guarantee he could deliver on what he said he would do or what would most likely happen. We could text or call him anytime with questions, and he always answered between his other consultations and hearings. His pricing is reasonable and is presented in such a way that you can be rest assured he does not charge hidden fees. Above all his professionalism, he is a down to earth guy that you can feel completely at ease with. I personally guarantee, if you need representation, you will be relieved and glad you chose Landry Law Offices!
Read more
26 May, 2023 by Juanita guadiana
Mr. Landry was very personable and professional . Highly recommend if you are looking for a lawyer who will be prompt at call or texts back if you have questions and willing to go above and beyond to help during this stressful situation .
Read more
26 May, 2023 by Val gonzalez
I cannot begin to tell anyone who is experiencing serious financial difficulties how glad I was that I called Atty. Ryan Landry. After being served with not 1 - but TWO garnishments from several years old debts and learning that I would lose 25% of my income from EACH check from the first creditor, and then the 2nd one, it made me realize that I had to do something right away. I called 2 different local firms after seeing their “ads” on TV and didn’t even receive a call back for days - but by then it was too late (for them)! Not only did Ryan return my call the same day AFTER business hours, but he met with me right away, explained all of my options, and then prepared all of the paperwork and filed a Chapter 128 for me literally within 24 hours of our meeting! The Garnishments were stopped and I’m well on my way to paying back BOTH credits at the SAME time on terms that are way much more easier for me to handle. I’m going to be able to take care of these judgments by making 1 low monthly payment each month, and I couldn’t be happier. So, if you are experiencing troubling financial issues, facing a garnishment, house foreclosure or car repossession, trust me - call Ryan - as he will explore all of your options with you and I guaranty you will feel just as relieved as I was, if not MORE!!
Read more
04 Apr, 2023 by Michael
Cleghorn's lies start in her add 1. Free consultation, she billed me for it, 2. Accepts easy payments via credit card, but demands cash and will hinder your case until she counts out the cash.
She ignores all calls, does not take initiative and is not a lawyer you want to hand your life over to. I fired her and in retaliation she gouged be for $3000.00 billing be $300.00 an hour just on drive time to Waukesha Court, she never filed a single motion nor made a single call to me or anyone else. I currently have an active complaint against her with the Office of Lawyer Regulations and I am preparing a legal mal-practice suit because I sat in jail for 4 days because she failed to advise me of a court time, I had mixed up and I only live 5 minutes from court. Do not hire this woman, go with a public defender, same performance without the gouging legal bill.
Read more
01 Apr, 2021 by Sara
I hired Kerri as my attorney pertaining to my son and his visitation with his father. I had previously worked in the courts and when chosing my attorney I thought about who I least liked being opposed to. Kerri was that person. I hated being opposite her, not because she was bad, but the exact opposite. Kerri knows law. She fights for people. She is good at her job. She also did a great job of helping me look at things through the eyes of a court, not just the eyes of an emotional mom.....so that we could make rational and productive points. While I hope to never need her services again, I would retain again hands down, if needed.
Read more
12 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
She didn't help me she lied to me and bs me around I wouldn't EVER recommend her to NO ONE! If i could give her no stars i would!
Read more
18 Apr, 2020 by Paul pelkola
James did a outstanding job in my divorce case with custody of two kids would hire him again if needed
Read more
19 Aug, 2019 by Amie palmer
06 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
We hired this lawyer to represent a member of our family. We feel that he did not do an adequate job in representing this person and did not even defend this person at all, but agreed with what the district attorney said, not even asking for a reduction in the sentence or other options so that this person did not have to sit in jail and be away from his/her family. Our impression was that, we thought the lawyer's job was to help whom he is representing. Plus the person's past record was brought up and James Finn did not even defend that either. Besides, the time was already served for the past cases and were irrelevant to the present case. When the lawyer was walking out of court, after the sentencing hearing, he turned to his person that he represented and said something to the effect of that after reading this person's record, he knew that he could not help this person. Now is that something that you should not say to your client? We paid him money to say this to his client? WOW!!! How unprofessional!!!! We were so taken aback when we heard this! He never should have said that at all! We would never want anyone to experience the humiliation as he did towards this person. We would not recommend him to anyone.
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.
