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21 Oct, 2014 by Jaime black, esq.
I have known Tabetha for almost 10 years in the capacity as an opposing counsel, colleague, and client. I have witnessed firsthand the dedication and compassion she extends to her cases. When I stood as her opposing counsel, she was tough but fair and it was clear she was always ready to be an advocate for her client and push for the best result possible. Tabetha is also a valued colleague and an asset to the legal profession. I have consulted with her on numerous cases in order to take advantage of her broad knowledge in a variety of legal areas. Lastly, I have also been a client. Tabetha was accommodating and responsive to any questions I may have had and she took her time when meeting with me. I would highly recommend Attorney Tanner.
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20 Oct, 2014 by Tim
I have used Tabetha for several types of cases over the years. She has successfully argued many cases on my behalf. She is very knowledgeable. She responds quickly to my concerns and worked very hard for me. I would definitely use her services again and recommend her to others!
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29 Oct, 2013 by Randy
There are not enough words in the dictionary to explain the way my life has changed because of the dedication of this woman. She withstood all of the battles to finally win the war and I will be eternally grateful to her for her tireless efforts.....................simply put, she is GREAT at what she does. My Child Support was to Canada and she made everything work out with an ocean and thousands of mile between us. Domo Arigato from Japan for being and outstanding lawyer.
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02 Dec, 2022 by Douglas robinson
I contacted this attorney when I got into a jam with a DUI in the past I have dealt with other attorneys they’ve always been interested in one thing and one thing only money. This guy was fair honest I dealt with the attorney directly and not his office staff, which was amazing., he was always able to communicate directly with me and again, not through a paralegal. I could reach him by cell phone and texting all the time which was very convenient and most of all he was very affordable. I highly recommend this gentleman I will be using his services in the future and refer all family and friends with the need of a good lawyer that’s honest and will not leave your bank account empty .
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02 Dec, 2022 by Douglas
Very affordable Fox News. You talk to the attorney directly. No problem reaching him by cell phone or text highly recommend after dealing with other attorneys in the past he’s by far the best I’ve ever dealt with.
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20 Mar, 2022 by Aa jo
24 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
Ms. Coyne was a pleasure to work with on recent real estate transaction. She responded to my questions in a prompt, courteous and thorough manner. She was patient and took the time to educate me about the process. For anyone looking for highly personalized and fairly priced services, I would highly recommend this small, veteran owned law firm.
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21 Oct, 2009 by Anonymous
Always responsive and available to me and my family in a difficult time. Lisa was extremely knowledgable about the law, and, more importantly, she provided practical advice to resolve difficult issues in a very economical way
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27 Aug, 2024 by Eugene marshall
Kathy was very helpful and understanding. She was able to answer all my questions and helped me through a very difficult time. Her staff was very friendly and welcoming.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Donald
Allissa is super amazing. Great people, easy to get along with. Very honest. Would definitely recommend
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17 Aug, 2024 by Nicole weber
Grace Legal Offices, PLLC is the best law firm I have ever had the pleasure of working with! They are very prompt, professional, and knowledgeable. I highly recommend their services!
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4.6
12 Reviews
4.8
51 Reviews
23 Aug, 2024 by Sophie reichel
14 Aug, 2024 by Tim gaul
Attorney McInroy was very knowledgeable and very well prepared. He had a good rapport with DA and judges
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14 Aug, 2024 by Marina gamal
reasonably priced and WILL get you the job done! Couldn’t recommend him more!
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17 Apr, 2021 by Brett holmes
Family lawyers
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03 May, 2018 by Anonymous
MR.GLEESON was a true professional attorney he was always a phone call or a email away if anyone i know looking for an attorney i will take them to his office. THANKS ALOT SIR FOR SERVICES.
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20 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
My case was fairly complicated and involved a high conflict divorce with associated custody and support issues that spanned a number of years. Michael was very knowledgeable about the process and communicated extremely well throughout the whole ordeal. He listened to my input and gave me realistic advice. Definitely recommended.
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5.0
23 Reviews
4.4
20 Reviews
26 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Attorney Clark is outstanding! He will work for what is right. His staff and him are very responsive. Thank you!
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17 May, 2024 by Kendra
Tom is the type of attorney you need on your side. Hands down the best. He truly cares about you and your financial future. He is thorough, prepared, and thinks of all avenues and obstacles that may arise. He explains everything in detail and keeps you informed on every aspect of the case. If you are looking for someone to be aggressive, knowledgeable, kind to your feelings Tom is your lawyer. I recommend him 100%.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Ron baum
Brian Perry is a top notch lawyer who will get the job done, period. I’ve hired Brian on 2 occasions and each time I’ve come away with a sentence I never would have expected. A combined total from the 2 cases equaled 14 years in prison and over $35,000 in fines. Each situation ended up with a sentence of 1 year of probation, a minimal fine and court costs. Brian will put you at ease during the first meeting as he reviews your case and explains the charges in detail so you can understand and make decisions. He is very thorough, hard working and always gets the best results possible. I trust Brian completely and would recommend him to family and friends knowing they are in the best hands. When you weigh his fee to the cost of losing your freedom it’s an easy decision. ‘You get what you pay for’ isn’t just a saying it’s the truth.
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21 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
He’s not the kinda of attorney that will make false promises for you to hire him. He’s very honest and up front. He also focuses on the big picture and how a judge will see things. He’s very knowledgeable on the laws. All around he’s a good attorney. We have kept him on retainer for two years now for child custody purposes and he has yet to let us Down. He also gives sound legal advice and always gets back to us in a timely manner.
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14 Jun, 2018 by Louis
John King is a no bs attorney with a mind for fairness. His legal counsel has proven both useful and calming in an altogether stressful situation. And seriously, you’ve got to see him in the court room. Professional, courteous, an avid listener, and a force to be reckoned with: we can’t speak highly enough of John F. King.
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06 May, 2018 by Mark
This attorney is out of touch and a waste of your time. Hired him for alimony modification and he attended court hearing unprepared and made agreement with judge without my concent. Avoid this Attorney!
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16 Oct, 2019 by Rebecca
After a severed relationship with another attorney, Lindsay stepped right in and took the reigns with my case. She set clear expectations and the communication I received from her and her team was refreshing in comparison to the experience with my prior counsel. After our initial consultation, I was impressed by how well Lindsay had studied the history of my case. I felt like she had experienced the timeline of events with me and I was never worried about her missing important details. I appreciate that she spent time preparing me for each appearance in court and maintained a professional appearance and demeanor. Lindsay was ready for any obstacles that came in our direction from opposing counsel and I felt confident with her representing me and my children. I would highly recommend her services!
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03 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
Hired her dor a divorce in 2014 and it drug on and on. She seemed intimidated by opposing council and did not work to move things along. Tried to convince me I needed to keep her on after the divorce was final.
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21 Jul, 2018 by Jesse
Lindsay has been my attorney since we enlisted her services when we purchased our house in 2015. She also represented me in a domestic relations case when I found out I had a teenage daughter from a past relationship. She represented me in support hearings and was extremely influential it mitigating a possitive outcome. She is always my only recommendation for family and real estate law.
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02 Sep, 2024 by Lady bug
I've had two experiences with this woman. First time was positive. Second time (years later) her firm refused to take a meeting with me. Unless you have a lot of money you need to get the help you need elsewhere.
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10 Jul, 2024 by Andrew powley
I am dissatisfied with the behavior of this law firm, which has wronged a friend and respected member of our community. After attempting to address my concerns with the firm's owner, I was met with a lie from the paralegal about the owner's availability. This incident reflects the unprofessional conduct that I have observed since my friend first retained this firm. My friend, a responsible and law-abiding individual, was taken advantage of financially by this firm. They have failed to provide adequate communication and have not honored their obligations under the retainer agreement. I have filed complaints with the local bar association and will continue to advocate for my friend and protect others from this firm's unethical behavior.
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29 Jun, 2022 by Chiefs fan
I made a appointment with the owner for a consultation. Her secretary called me to ask me if I wanted to make an appointment with Maria cognetti or her associate for less money. I stated that my friend was going through a divorce but had no money, does she take cases like that ? I was told she does at time take cases like that but we had to go through the consultation first to see if she would. We went to see her, she said she never takes cases like that and her office would of never told me such things! Well this was the only office I ever talked to so 100% I was told that! She said she has never done that. I spent 509.00 for nothing! I do not make that kind of money and for her office to deceive me like that was not right! I would have never came there to give someone 509.00 for nothing!!!! Her secretary also didn’t tell me she was allergic to perfume… but Maria basically called me a liar that her firm said she sometimes takes cases where the client pays afterwards, but shocked her we weren’t told about her perfume allergy?…. So I’m out of 500. For nothing, I said would I showed up to just give you 509.00 for nothing? Just think about that….. if they were honest at the beginning, and if it was a fact they never did that I would of never gone to hand over 509.00 cash for nothing…. Think about that…. And yes it was the only law firm I talked to! She made it seem like I talked to another lawyer. No 100% cognetti law firm 100% that they told me she sometimes takes special cases with no money… so I feel scammed. I wasted hard earned money for nothing!!!! We don’t make a lot in life to hand out for nothing! The fact she made me feel like I lied about what her secretary said is even worse!!!! Think about this … why would I come there if I had no money? I asked the secretary that question! She said yes she does take cases like yours with no money upfront, but you have to get the consultation first to see if your case qualifies.. then Maria said she has never taken a case like that ever!!!!!! Wow bye 509.00 for nothing!!!!!!!!!!
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20 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
I hired Jeanne for my divorce and child support. I had to stay on top of her CONSTANTLY to get things done. I was supposed to have my car signed over to me within a few weeks. I did not get the car for 10 months! She just didn’t do anything about it. I had to follow up to make sure she sent in the paperwork for me to collect my portion of his military pension!! She did not file the paperwork with DFAS!! She comes with a ton of attitude. She can be nasty and very rude at times. One more huge complaint I have with her is that she did not follow through with getting me the back pay I’m owed for 3 months of military pension that I was legally entitled to, according to the military agreement. I asked her about it and she gave me a typical nasty response from her stating that it would cost me extra for her to follow through with this. Meanwhile, I contacted a colleague of hers and he told me that the attorney that handles the divorce agreement usually follows up with that as a courtesy to their client. Jeanne does NOTHING out of courtesy. She has a nasty side and she shows it. She would not fight for my three months of military pensions that were due to me and I am disabled and have an autistic son. I really need the money. She doesn’t care. She also DID NOT FILE the paperwork with DFAS! If I wouldn’t have checked for myself a year before it was supposed to start, I’d be screwed. She didn’t file it. She said she did. DFAS said she didn’t. They had nothing from her. She either lied or was just neglecting my case as she had all along.
When I emailed her she was on vacation, as usual and she told me that she was not going to help me get the money owed me. She is not a good attorney. Even two of her colleagues said so because of her lack of follow through. I will be filing a complaint and or charge against her. I had a terrible experience with her and I would suggest a different lawyer. She took money from me for a case that never happened regarding my autistic son. Hire another lawyer.
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27 Aug, 2023 by Neil wiest
21 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
I had to hire another attorney because this attorney is extremely unprofessional and unreliable. I’m in the process of reporting her to the Barr Association. She kept my retainer money even though she literally did not do any work on my case. She didn’t file anything on my case in 7 months and makes up very long winded, ridiculous excuse for not getting her work done.
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12 May, 2023 by Jordan
Katherine was wonderful. She works with a great combination of knowledge for law, wisdom in her field, and emotional support. She was honest with me and her responses were very kind, even when my communication was a little panicky.
She took the time to understand the situation I was in and came up with a peaceful resolution that both parties could come to an agreement on. I am very grateful.
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18 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Worst attorney I've ever had. In the pre meetings she sounds like she will win you the world plus more. Then it comes time for action and all she wants to do is drag things on to make more money. You can tell her your wishes and everything you need and none of that matters. She will tell you straight up you won't get this or that. It makes no sense im paying you to do a job and your telling me instantly you can't do that. You pay so much upfront thinking alright this will pay for it, but then bam lets double your bill when your done because she doesn't listen to her clients and their wishes. She's not what she makes herself out to be and honestly I don't see how any of these reviews are real besides the one star that I read. If I could give advice for someone looking to hire her for child custody DO NOT FOLLOW THROUGH!
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08 Feb, 2018 by Christopher
Katherine was very quick to get me on for a free consultation on short notice. She took the time to get to know me and my situation before we even talked about my case. I felt like she really cared about me as a person. She was honest and upfront about my chances, and wasn't just trying to take my money. She knows the laws very well and gave me some valuable information. I would highly recommend her!
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18 Jun, 2024 by Brad
Been trying for weeks to obtain transcripts from this guy. Wasn’t a good performance for trial. Seemed to be constantly searching for papers during trial. Stumbled frequently. His final arguments lacked commitment and preparation. Wouldn’t recommend for criminal proceedings.
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18 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Shane and I regretted it. His office would reschedule appointments last minute. There have been a few instances when I arrived at his Camp Hill office for an appointment to find it closed. He forgets what you have told him and repetition becomes necessary. He keeps smoking that smokeless cigarette and seems uninterested in what his client is going through. He comes late for appointments. He came unprepared to the Court and lost my case. In my opinion he used to be good but not anymore.
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15 Jun, 2010 by Anonymous
Attorney Kope and his team are highly skilled professionals who go the extra mile for their clients. While nobody can promise results, it's clear that Attorney Kope lives up to his promise of working for the best possible outcome for each of his clients, and I think this personal attention is what sets Attorney Kope and his firm apart from the rest.
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02 Sep, 2024 by Lady bug
I've had two experiences with this woman. First time was positive. Second time (years later) her firm refused to take a meeting with me. Unless you have a lot of money you need to get the help you need elsewhere.
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10 Jul, 2024 by Andrew powley
I am dissatisfied with the behavior of this law firm, which has wronged a friend and respected member of our community. After attempting to address my concerns with the firm's owner, I was met with a lie from the paralegal about the owner's availability. This incident reflects the unprofessional conduct that I have observed since my friend first retained this firm. My friend, a responsible and law-abiding individual, was taken advantage of financially by this firm. They have failed to provide adequate communication and have not honored their obligations under the retainer agreement. I have filed complaints with the local bar association and will continue to advocate for my friend and protect others from this firm's unethical behavior.
Read more
29 Jun, 2022 by Chiefs fan
I made a appointment with the owner for a consultation. Her secretary called me to ask me if I wanted to make an appointment with Maria cognetti or her associate for less money. I stated that my friend was going through a divorce but had no money, does she take cases like that ? I was told she does at time take cases like that but we had to go through the consultation first to see if she would. We went to see her, she said she never takes cases like that and her office would of never told me such things! Well this was the only office I ever talked to so 100% I was told that! She said she has never done that. I spent 509.00 for nothing! I do not make that kind of money and for her office to deceive me like that was not right! I would have never came there to give someone 509.00 for nothing!!!! Her secretary also didn’t tell me she was allergic to perfume… but Maria basically called me a liar that her firm said she sometimes takes cases where the client pays afterwards, but shocked her we weren’t told about her perfume allergy?…. So I’m out of 500. For nothing, I said would I showed up to just give you 509.00 for nothing? Just think about that….. if they were honest at the beginning, and if it was a fact they never did that I would of never gone to hand over 509.00 cash for nothing…. Think about that…. And yes it was the only law firm I talked to! She made it seem like I talked to another lawyer. No 100% cognetti law firm 100% that they told me she sometimes takes special cases with no money… so I feel scammed. I wasted hard earned money for nothing!!!! We don’t make a lot in life to hand out for nothing! The fact she made me feel like I lied about what her secretary said is even worse!!!! Think about this … why would I come there if I had no money? I asked the secretary that question! She said yes she does take cases like yours with no money upfront, but you have to get the consultation first to see if your case qualifies.. then Maria said she has never taken a case like that ever!!!!!! Wow bye 509.00 for nothing!!!!!!!!!!
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20 Jun, 2024 by Dilu tiwari
09 May, 2024 by Debra washington
The worst lawyer in the whole wide world. He never get back to you, he talks a real good game thoe just stringing you along. Unprofessional just gives you enough to have you hangin. And always have an excuse. He don’t do his job, and always dealing his way through. Do your job! I would not recommend him he will have you questioning yourself. And he play such a great game he will have you thinkin he done all that he could do. DON’T DO IT!
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23 Apr, 2024 by C wil
Best criminal, family law attorney in the York, Adams & Snyder county area. Michael is very patient, and thorough with his work. Mr. Palermo thank you for all your hard work!
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18 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Defended me in a custody case but only wanted to fight and accuse other side of things that never happened which didn't solve any problem. I still do not have any type of joint custody for my child and barely see my child. Would never recommend
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05 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
When my legal issues started I was apprehensive about finding and working with a lawyer. However, I am truly impressed and satisfied with my experience with Ms. Gargiulo. She is a confident, motivated, and very reliable young attorney. She was readily available and responded to my all correspondence in a timely manner. She is very amicable and fought for my interests. I have and will continue to recommend Ms. Gargiulo to all those in need of legal counsel and will use her services in the future.
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14 Apr, 2014 by Anonymous
Attorney Gargiulo helped me through the emotional process of a child custody hearing. She was very knowledgeable, always got back to me asap when I contacted her with questions, and I really felt like she cared about my case, not like I was just another file on her desk. I would definitely recommend her to anyone looking for an attorney.
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09 May, 2024 by Anonymous
He’s the worst lawyer ever! He talk a good game but he don’t do no work for real. He makes deals and take your money!
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10 Nov, 2022 by Maddox cj
he doesn’t care as soon he gets your money goodbye
he is against his clients and he will tell you he’s done something for you to find out later he actually lies to you I never seen anything like this in my life
I don’t understand how he honestly got his license as lawyer
It’s beyond mind blowing how lawyer took oath to be truthful and give his client fairness
I hope no one hires him
I’m not someone just want to bad mouth this lawyer it’s the fact that he shouldn’t be a lawyer and scam his Clint’s to take there money And deceive the clients
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14 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr palermo is a good human being other than that he is not a good lawyer i had him for 2020 oct to January and he gives off that vibe that he is partnering up with ADA because their friends outside that court room. He never talked to me about my case and he will keep you guessing what's happening next. He is not a fighting lawyer he is a lawyer that once he got your money he will stop talking a good game. And handle it the way he wants. He does not come up with any solutions he let the prosecution come up with all of it he does not know how to agociate. Unless u want your money wasted for a easy case dont get him for anything unless you wanna waste your money and put your freedom in someones hands whos only worried about getting the money.i would not recommend taking him to trial because he is to close with the ADAs. And feels like hes against me with the way he talk about the case. MOP is not a fighting lawyer look else where looming out for the people that are good he will help ruin that.
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20 Oct, 2013 by Never mind
I hired David to handle a criminal case and in the beginning was satisfied with what he claim he would be able to do but of course that comes with the nature of the job, lying, at the end when all was said and done when it became time to reach him by phone he change all of his reaching phone numbers actually dropped off of the face of the earth but call himself a helping Christian man in what areas of life, however, if you should choose to hire him remember we all are still living in the flesh and working towards perfection not evil.
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30 Jul, 2012 by Dh
Great attorney, i actually met Mr Dye, by chance, and i was very impressed, with his desire to atcually want to sit down with you, go over and talk things out in full detail, share insights and give his opinion as well as explain law in full good detail.
If you want a good lawyer who truly wants involved and to help you the best he can with clear explanations of law... Mr. Dye is your man.
Good and fair prices and billing. you dont have to worry about a crazy 500. bill just for talking on the phone or to a secratry. With Mr Dye. you want a lawyer and need one asap, you get a lawyer and no b.s..
I highly recommend David Dye to anyone who has a legal concern is his area of law. Im sure he will be able to help you in many ways just as he did me, and im sure you will end up using him again in the future just as i will be.
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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.
