Filter by

star star star star star
17 May, 2022 by Anonymous
This firm comes with a working knowledge of law experience. They work hard to prepare one with the best litigation to resolve family law issues. They are very personable and respectful of client needs at all times. In addition, to their dedication, they are a team of dedicated people from front desk to the attorneys. They all went above and beyond for me. Thank you!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
16 Sep, 2021 by John
John was able to provide excellent legal advise and application for me regarding a complex case that went off and on for nearly 5 years. An overall favorable result was achieved at a fair and anticipated price. I view John as more than an attorney but also a friend and close confidant.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
19 Nov, 2020 by Chris
Divorce is not an easy time in someone’s life. You need guidance and understanding. John was a guiding light for me. His knowledge is professional, his compassion is real and his foresight is like having a crystal ball. I highly recommend John!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
17 Jan, 2024 by Dave
Brian was able to me accommodate in a very timely manner! He gave excellent advice and cleared up ambiguities. It was quite evident that he knows North Carolina law thoroughly!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
06 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Attorney Brian Johnston and his team at Chapel Hill Family Law are top-notch! They have been incredibly professional, prompt in their communication and compassionate throughout my separation process. Brian walked me through each step of the separation/divorce process and was always available to answer my questions. His extensive knowledge and experience were invaluable in providing the guidance and recommendations I needed for my personal situation. I highly recommend Attorney Brian Johnston and Chapel Hill Family Law for any of your family law needs.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
11 Oct, 2023 by Zachary
I recently found myself facing the unexpected challenge of a divorce and had the privilege of working with Brian Johnston at Chapel Hill Family Law. This was uncharted territory for me, and I needed expert guidance to make sound decisions during this trying time. From the very start, Brian demonstrated an extraordinary level of dedication and professionalism in handling my case. Given the unexpected nature of my divorce, I was seeking an attorney who could provide expert advice and navigate these unfamiliar waters. The customer service provided by Brian and his team was exceptional. They were always accessible, promptly addressing my inquiries and concerns. Their clear communication and guidance helped me navigate the legal intricacies of my situation. Brian's legal expertise was impressive. He displayed a deep understanding of family law and guided me through the process, ensuring I comprehended each step along the way. His professionalism and ethical conduct were evident throughout our interactions, instilling confidence, and trust. I am extremely satisfied with the resolution and grateful for the hard work and dedication demonstrated by him and the entire team at Chapel Hill Family Law.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
11 May, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired Ana Alexander as my lwayer for my separation and divorce case. Attorney Alexander was absolutely amazing!! She was very helpful and was very upfront and transparent about everything. She responded my questions very quick, which reduced a lot of my anxiety. I’ve dealt with other attorneys before but she was by far the best attorney I’ve ever met! I certainly will be using her for my future endeavors and referring her to all friends and family!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
06 May, 2021 by Damian daley
Ana is definitely one of the best attorneys in the business. As a fellow attorney, I have consulted with her on numerous matters. Her depth of insight. legal acumen, effective communication skills and ability to tackle challenging legal issues made her my go-to attorney for years.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
03 May, 2021 by Heather
I'm a fellow attorney in the local area. I've served on a community organization board with Ana and have consulted with her about client matters. She's kind, approachable, and knowledgeable. When clients come to me looking for family law or personal injury representation, I'm glad to refer them to Ana.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
30 Nov, 2018 by Ricky
All I can say about Mr. Drorbaugh is that his answer to my question was exactly what my wife's PO told her at her visit on 11/29/18!! Come back on 12/4/18 pass her drug test [which will be no problem] and she is probation free!!!!! Thank you Mr. Drorbaugh.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
19 Jul, 2024 by Vanessa williams
The Village Law group were fantastic to work with for our adoption. They were very responsive and helped us understand the why behind what we were going through. Everything was handled in a timely manner and it was a very smooth process on our end. I would highly recommend them to anyone who needs family law services.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Jun, 2024 by Lauren mason
Jennifer and Amy (her assistant) did an amazing job handling our stepparent adoption for our two mom family. They made a complicated process so simple and easy. We would recommend them to anyone who needs a family lawyer.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Feb, 2024 by Lori whitaker
Jennifer and her office were absolutely wonderful to work with. They made it as easy as possible and were extremely responsive. We can’t say enough praise about Jennifer and her law group! We are so very lucky to have someone like Jennifer and her expertise available to the LGBTQ community.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
09 Sep, 2024 by Mike cohan
Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Sep, 2024 by Nathan mclaughlin
Mr Suczynski assisted me in a student conduct case in which medical services were called to assist another student. Despite medical amnesty being in place, myself and another student received conduct cases despite doing nothing wrong. Mr Suczynski used his connections and relationships with the school to get the cases of myself and the other student entirely dismissed to which I didn’t even have to attend the conduct meeting. Matthew Charles Law is great for cases beyond being defense lawyers and excel even in situations such as student conduct. Couldn’t thank them enough!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
04 Sep, 2024 by Ashley freuler
Matt Suczynski and his staff are incredible to work with. His office will handle it all for you ~ they are incredibly knowledgeable, communicative and professional!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
15 Aug, 2024 by Bob haddad
Over the years, I've had an excellent experiences working with this firm. Mr. Maitland is very personable, and knowledgeable of many aspects of law. I have worked with him on matters of real estate, and have always been pleased with the outcome of our work together.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
17 May, 2024 by Terence smith
They answered all my questions on the telephone.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
15 Nov, 2023 by David hoffman
We reached out to attorney, Robert Maitland, for the very first time, regarding a very stressful, time-sensitive, provider related conflict on a major home renovation. A huge 40-piece cabinet order was to be delivered the following day but the day before the already weeks late delivery was to happen, we received unacceptable demands for payment by the supplier who threatened refusal to deliver the following day unless their unreasonable demands were met.The cabinets had already been delayed for weeks and needless to say we were frustrated and anxious about the job slow down. Even though the firm’s appointment booking system only provided one single 30-minute consultation, Mr. Maitland not only took his time, prior to our consult, to review our contract and the supporting information that I had forwarded earlier that morning. He never made us feel rushed during the consult in which he recommended a solid solution. More, he agreed to reach out to the provider, drafted a letter of agreement, and calmed the situation down that very afternoon so the delivery could proceed the next day. He accomplished all of the above on a two hour window! More importantly, he negotiated a solution that avoided what might otherwise have been a nightmarish and costly legal battle and anxiety-ridden additional project delay. Frankly, I’ve never received such competent, thoughtful and effective legal service in such a stressful, time-condensed situation, including during my 20+ years as CEO and owner of a major real estate sales and marketing company. If I could have given Mr.Maitland a higher rating then 5-stars I would have done so. If you are looking for a client-best-interest solution, quality legal advice and service from a brilliant and calming communicator you will not find a better contract lawyer than Mr. Maitland!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
11 Mar, 2020 by Kim lott
Google Maps
star star star star star
03 Jul, 2019 by Teresa
I fired Ms McKee yesterday after 6 months of waiting and requesting a meeting with her. I was patient as she was very busy but became upset with her when she had still not answered my questions asked in December of last year and several times after. She had nothing but excuses every time I spoke with her. The last time we talked she was going to finally review my file and then call me. When I arrived for our meeting she had still not looked at my file and that was the last straw. Then she tired to blame it on me! I was combative. Right. More abuse from my attorney to add to my ex and my family. Nice work McKee.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
29 May, 2019 by Anonymous
Upon initial consultation with Martha, I was encouraged to make an agreement with my spouse before leaving and initiating divorce. Martha was passionate for me and defended me well in my negotiations with opposing counsel. She was honest with her guidance and made my separation financially reasonable. I highly recommend Martha McKee for your prenups, separation and custodial agreements.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
19 Jul, 2024 by Robin martin
We have received services from Melissa and her team at Averett Family Law since 2021. They have been a god-send to our family. Melissa and her team are professional, patient, supportive and honest! My husband and I appreciate Melissa’s kindness and expertise! We highly recommend their services. You will not be disappointed!!! Thank you Averett Family Law! You have helped keep our family together and we are full of gratitude!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Apr, 2024 by Jaclyn o'loughlin-rosa
I had the pleasure of working for the Melissa and her team for 2 years. Had I not moved out of NC I would still be working there. Melissa was an excellent boss and teacher. Though at the time i had over 12 years of experience, none of them were in family law. Her and the team took the time to teach me the ins and outs of family law. I moved knowing if I took another position in family law, I would have the knowledge to succeed. I will always appreciate my time with the Averett team!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Apr, 2024 by Samantha christian
Great place to work and has dedicated attorneys!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
25 Jun, 2024 by Jessie mcleod
Google Maps
star star star star star
27 May, 2024 by Robin strickland
Google Maps
star star star star star
30 Mar, 2024 by Bethany fitzsimmons
First of all, I would like to make clear that we did not chose to work with Ms. Nance at Bagwell Holt Smith P.A. She was chosen by the buyers of our home in Durham, and we had no choice but to work with her. Upon receipt of our estimated closing documents, we informed Ms. Nance that the payoff amount was incorrect (too high). When we pointed this out, we were met with the condescending reply that we simply did not understand how to read out mortgage documents. The next day, when we presented Ms. Nance with the correct payoff amount in the form of an email with a pdf from our lender attached, we were accused of "borderline harassment" for having pointed out her careless mistake. The closing documents were corrected. Later, while we were signing closing documents, we were informed by our neighbor that there were people trespassing on our property. The timing of the trespassers seemed quite suspicious to us because the only people who knew we would not be at home were myself and my partner, our realtor, a mobile notary, and Ms. Nance's office. As we had not approved of anyone entering the property, and because we suspected that they may have been under the direction of Ms. Nance, we informed her that we were not aware of not did we approve any requests for people to come onto our property, especially as the Due Diligence period had closed. Her response was that it was the survey her office had ordered to be done during the Due Diligence period, which had been delayed, and said that he had no legal right to deny them. I am not an attorney, however I believe I would have been fully in my rights to have called the police on the trespassers onto our private property given the Due Diligence period had been closed and we were never notified that a survey was going to be done. Our final grievance with Ms. Nance concerns her preparation of our tax documents. We first received one 1099-S form from Ms. Nance's office containing only the social security number (SSN) of my partner. As we are unmarried, we file our taxes singly and so I requested that we be sent two 1099-S forms, one for myself and one for my partner. Though we never consented to electronic documents, we were emailed pdfs of our 1099-S forms however this time Ms. Nance had switched our SSNs so that my SSN was on Jason's form and vice versa. Her response was she just put them in the order they were in on another form (and didn't bother to check that they were correct). I replied asking the corms to be corrected, again, and to be mailed. We then received copies of the 1099-S forms in the mail which had our incorrect SSNs. Upon notification, Ms. Nance re-sent the pdfs of the corrected 1099-S forms. I have once again requested hard copies be mailed as we never consented to electronic delivery of these documents. While preparation of all these documents may be rote to Ms. Nance, they are extremely important to us and have significant impact on our finances. The carelessness employed by Ms. Nance throughout this process is extremely unprofessional. While everyone should be double and triple checking any document they sign, it is easy as a first time home seller to be overwhelmed with the sheer amount of paperwork that goes into selling a home. One should be able to trust that the parties preparing such important documents (and collecting payment accordingly) would have the ability to prepare them correctly and with care. I am glad that we reviewed everything carefully and am sorry for those who have unknowingly been victims of Ms. Nance's carelessness and unprofessionalism.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
05 Aug, 2024 by Jack doff
Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Apr, 2024 by Robert bruzik
Alex was considerate, knowledgeable, and as he was very helpful and honest, at no time did I feel pressured or rushed thru my consultation. Above all he let me talk.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
15 Apr, 2024 by Andy b.
Reached out to them for a consult about an employment law issue. After explaining my situation to the receptionist (who sounded like she was barely listening) I was told if receive an email by the end of the day. Less than an hour later they contacted me via automated form email and said that they were not only refusing my case, but "declining to offer a consultation". The form email stated that they are an extremely small firm and only take certain cases. They also weirdly stated that they're under no obligation to inform me exactly why they refused my case, but instead made sure to urge me to contact a different lawyer or the state bar association, as my case's statute of limitations may expire soon. Yeah thanks, that's exactly why I urgently needed a consult, duh? Extremely weird. Stay away.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
25 Jun, 2024 by Jessie mcleod
Google Maps
star star star star star
27 May, 2024 by Robin strickland
Google Maps
star star star star star
30 Mar, 2024 by Bethany fitzsimmons
First of all, I would like to make clear that we did not chose to work with Ms. Nance at Bagwell Holt Smith P.A. She was chosen by the buyers of our home in Durham, and we had no choice but to work with her. Upon receipt of our estimated closing documents, we informed Ms. Nance that the payoff amount was incorrect (too high). When we pointed this out, we were met with the condescending reply that we simply did not understand how to read out mortgage documents. The next day, when we presented Ms. Nance with the correct payoff amount in the form of an email with a pdf from our lender attached, we were accused of "borderline harassment" for having pointed out her careless mistake. The closing documents were corrected. Later, while we were signing closing documents, we were informed by our neighbor that there were people trespassing on our property. The timing of the trespassers seemed quite suspicious to us because the only people who knew we would not be at home were myself and my partner, our realtor, a mobile notary, and Ms. Nance's office. As we had not approved of anyone entering the property, and because we suspected that they may have been under the direction of Ms. Nance, we informed her that we were not aware of not did we approve any requests for people to come onto our property, especially as the Due Diligence period had closed. Her response was that it was the survey her office had ordered to be done during the Due Diligence period, which had been delayed, and said that he had no legal right to deny them. I am not an attorney, however I believe I would have been fully in my rights to have called the police on the trespassers onto our private property given the Due Diligence period had been closed and we were never notified that a survey was going to be done. Our final grievance with Ms. Nance concerns her preparation of our tax documents. We first received one 1099-S form from Ms. Nance's office containing only the social security number (SSN) of my partner. As we are unmarried, we file our taxes singly and so I requested that we be sent two 1099-S forms, one for myself and one for my partner. Though we never consented to electronic documents, we were emailed pdfs of our 1099-S forms however this time Ms. Nance had switched our SSNs so that my SSN was on Jason's form and vice versa. Her response was she just put them in the order they were in on another form (and didn't bother to check that they were correct). I replied asking the corms to be corrected, again, and to be mailed. We then received copies of the 1099-S forms in the mail which had our incorrect SSNs. Upon notification, Ms. Nance re-sent the pdfs of the corrected 1099-S forms. I have once again requested hard copies be mailed as we never consented to electronic delivery of these documents. While preparation of all these documents may be rote to Ms. Nance, they are extremely important to us and have significant impact on our finances. The carelessness employed by Ms. Nance throughout this process is extremely unprofessional. While everyone should be double and triple checking any document they sign, it is easy as a first time home seller to be overwhelmed with the sheer amount of paperwork that goes into selling a home. One should be able to trust that the parties preparing such important documents (and collecting payment accordingly) would have the ability to prepare them correctly and with care. I am glad that we reviewed everything carefully and am sorry for those who have unknowingly been victims of Ms. Nance's carelessness and unprofessionalism.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
13 Sep, 2018 by Jenna
The first time I worked with Laura was on a prenup and gave substantial time yet I didn't get it until the NIGHT before my wedding after pushing to get it. I always got a voicemail and it was frustrating. That was 2.5 years ago. My husband had a revision done as we are closing on a house and I need her to go over it with me (shouldn't take more than thirty minutes). I have been trying to get someone in her office and have even emailed her, for a week now with absolutely no call back...none. I am going to need a copy of my prenup before I can attain another lawyer and I have no idea if anyone will ever call me back.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
31 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Incredibly hard to reach. Emailed and called for months with no response. I had to do all the work and she repeatedly dropped the ball, until finally I basically lost my case because of her. She never even sent a finalized document after the case was over, or a bill. I'm sad to write this, but I gave her MONTHS and months to make things right and never did.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
22 Feb, 2015 by Williamsfamily
I was referred through a DV agency. I was barely employed and afraid that I would lose my children. Laura at the time was near the end of her pregnancy so the Irwins worked on my case as a team. They I felt were very compassionate and professional. Because is was a smart thing for me to leave the marital home, I and my children were in a shelter program. Which helped me to stand on my own two feet financially. The Irwins billed me without complaints and never slacked because I could not pay at the time. I was so appreciative that I understated what I could pay one month so as to surprise them with a complete pay off that same month. I knew that they deserved every penny and more. It was the best investment I ever made. There were even returns on that investment as Laura gave me legal advice and guidance unsolicited. I was both humbled and empowered by the thought that she actually cared about me and my family. Something you do not always get from a lawyer. My family is now a success story to which I cast the Irwins in as a major part. Today I own my home, have one child in college, the other getting top grades in h.s. and I work with families in need hoping to make good on the Irwins investment in me. This firm helped me at a pivotal point in my life and were nothing but caring, professional, knowledgeable and kind. I will forever be thankful.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
01 Aug, 2018 by James
Ms. Wagner allowed my divorce and child custody case to drag out for almost 2 years. She did little to no work, would sometimes go for months at a time with no contact, and when it came time to sit down with my wife and her attorney, she sat there silent while the other attorney lambasted me. Afterwards, she told me that I had "caved".
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
27 Oct, 2009 by Paul knechtel
Ms. Reynolds was my attorney for family law issues. She was up against a B team opposing cousel firm and lost badly. She neglecdted to include relevant information in presentations, and in pretrial hearings she was oblivious to the fact that she and me as her client were being beat up badly. Even when I pointed it out to her. I have a great deal of experience with attorneys and from now on I trust my instincts more. I thought we were being hammered, I told her so and she didn't see it. It was verging on malpractice is my opinion. She talks the talk but she cannot walk the walk. I spent 10,000 with her and probably moved backwards $20-30 K in the property settlement as a result. I don't really like any attorneys but this one I really dislike. Poorer but wiser.
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