Lawyers map
>419
experienced lawyers
Filter by
08 Jul, 2024 by David hubbard
I would rate Ken Crehan a 6 out of 5 possible stars.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Zack richardson
08 Jul, 2024 by Carly porterfield
Iv used ken Crehan for years!! He is the most reliable attorney I know. I text him the other day for advice and he has literally been there for all my questions. Forever grateful for ken and will always recommend him!!
Read more
26 May, 2024 by Mandy friedman lpcc-s cctp-ii
John A. Sheil is a multi-talented professional who knows the in's and out's of the entertainment business. Not only is he an excellent attorney, he is also a genuinely good person who cares about our community.
Read more
24 Jan, 2024 by Falisha smiley
I just love the way everything has been handled
Read more
30 Oct, 2023 by Matt moermond
13 Sep, 2024 by Erin billings
I’ve worked with Corey Asay on an unpaid wages claim against my former employer. It took over two years due to the defendant stalling, but eventually they defaulted on their settlement and I ended up getting double the judgment! Corey was an excellent attorney and I highly recommend working with him.
Read more
12 Sep, 2024 by Joe hartmann
04 Sep, 2024 by Melesia smith
19 Aug, 2024 by Kelly tenkotte
19 Aug, 2024 by Ray skye
Forced me to put a one star hal arenstein is a terrible lawyer he was supposed to be my lawyer but made a deal to send me to prison my first time ever being in trouble in my life I fired him and got probation 🤣👎🏻
Read more
19 Aug, 2024 by Guy tenkotte
Not the lawyer he once was! He lied to me and my family several times! Couldn’t trust him anymore! Made a deal behind our backs with the prosecutor to send my daughter to prison for her first felony ever. Long story short save your money! Go get Clyde Bennett. He did what Hal said couldn’t be done! Clyde got the charges dropped today! Hal told us she’s going to prison! It’s sad that a lawyer with his name has just given up and stopped caring about his clients! Clyde did just what he said he was going to do for us! Didn’t have to call a thousand times or text him! He did his job! Integrity is rare these days!
Read more
19 Aug, 2024 by Kelly tenkotte
19 Aug, 2024 by Ray skye
Forced me to put a one star hal arenstein is a terrible lawyer he was supposed to be my lawyer but made a deal to send me to prison my first time ever being in trouble in my life I fired him and got probation 🤣👎🏻
Read more
19 Aug, 2024 by Guy tenkotte
Not the lawyer he once was! He lied to me and my family several times! Couldn’t trust him anymore! Made a deal behind our backs with the prosecutor to send my daughter to prison for her first felony ever. Long story short save your money! Go get Clyde Bennett. He did what Hal said couldn’t be done! Clyde got the charges dropped today! Hal told us she’s going to prison! It’s sad that a lawyer with his name has just given up and stopped caring about his clients! Clyde did just what he said he was going to do for us! Didn’t have to call a thousand times or text him! He did his job! Integrity is rare these days!
Read more
19 Aug, 2024 by Kelly tenkotte
19 Aug, 2024 by Ray skye
Forced me to put a one star hal arenstein is a terrible lawyer he was supposed to be my lawyer but made a deal to send me to prison my first time ever being in trouble in my life I fired him and got probation 🤣👎🏻
Read more
19 Aug, 2024 by Guy tenkotte
Not the lawyer he once was! He lied to me and my family several times! Couldn’t trust him anymore! Made a deal behind our backs with the prosecutor to send my daughter to prison for her first felony ever. Long story short save your money! Go get Clyde Bennett. He did what Hal said couldn’t be done! Clyde got the charges dropped today! Hal told us she’s going to prison! It’s sad that a lawyer with his name has just given up and stopped caring about his clients! Clyde did just what he said he was going to do for us! Didn’t have to call a thousand times or text him! He did his job! Integrity is rare these days!
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Brandon wynn
Mr. Bennett is definitely a great lawyer. He did exactly what he said he would do by getting my case dismissed . I would definitely recommend Mr. Bennett.
Read more
29 Aug, 2024 by Ginger finley
Giving glory to Yah! Attorney Clyde Bennett II made a tremendous impact on a case my son was facing. From our first meeting, he let us know that he would fight to get us the best outcome. I can say on August 27 after 8 months of going back and forth to court, he was instrumental in getting a felony lowered to a misdemeanor. Mr. Bennett is very professional and well educated in navigating through the court room. My family is very thankful to have been able to obtain Mr. Bennett and would definitely use his expertise in the future if needed.
Many Thanks for saving our son's future!
Read more
22 Aug, 2024 by Robert wade
I appreciate the authority that Mr. Bennett operated with. If you want someone who will represent you with respect and integrity, he’s the man. If you need an attorney that pushes back, he’s your man. I can honestly say, I wouldn’t be a free man if he didn’t have my case personally. He’s a shark in that court room 💯
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Brandon wynn
Mr. Bennett is definitely a great lawyer. He did exactly what he said he would do by getting my case dismissed . I would definitely recommend Mr. Bennett.
Read more
29 Aug, 2024 by Ginger finley
Giving glory to Yah! Attorney Clyde Bennett II made a tremendous impact on a case my son was facing. From our first meeting, he let us know that he would fight to get us the best outcome. I can say on August 27 after 8 months of going back and forth to court, he was instrumental in getting a felony lowered to a misdemeanor. Mr. Bennett is very professional and well educated in navigating through the court room. My family is very thankful to have been able to obtain Mr. Bennett and would definitely use his expertise in the future if needed.
Many Thanks for saving our son's future!
Read more
22 Aug, 2024 by Robert wade
I appreciate the authority that Mr. Bennett operated with. If you want someone who will represent you with respect and integrity, he’s the man. If you need an attorney that pushes back, he’s your man. I can honestly say, I wouldn’t be a free man if he didn’t have my case personally. He’s a shark in that court room 💯
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Brandon wynn
Mr. Bennett is definitely a great lawyer. He did exactly what he said he would do by getting my case dismissed . I would definitely recommend Mr. Bennett.
Read more
29 Aug, 2024 by Ginger finley
Giving glory to Yah! Attorney Clyde Bennett II made a tremendous impact on a case my son was facing. From our first meeting, he let us know that he would fight to get us the best outcome. I can say on August 27 after 8 months of going back and forth to court, he was instrumental in getting a felony lowered to a misdemeanor. Mr. Bennett is very professional and well educated in navigating through the court room. My family is very thankful to have been able to obtain Mr. Bennett and would definitely use his expertise in the future if needed.
Many Thanks for saving our son's future!
Read more
22 Aug, 2024 by Robert wade
I appreciate the authority that Mr. Bennett operated with. If you want someone who will represent you with respect and integrity, he’s the man. If you need an attorney that pushes back, he’s your man. I can honestly say, I wouldn’t be a free man if he didn’t have my case personally. He’s a shark in that court room 💯
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Brandon wynn
Mr. Bennett is definitely a great lawyer. He did exactly what he said he would do by getting my case dismissed . I would definitely recommend Mr. Bennett.
Read more
29 Aug, 2024 by Ginger finley
Giving glory to Yah! Attorney Clyde Bennett II made a tremendous impact on a case my son was facing. From our first meeting, he let us know that he would fight to get us the best outcome. I can say on August 27 after 8 months of going back and forth to court, he was instrumental in getting a felony lowered to a misdemeanor. Mr. Bennett is very professional and well educated in navigating through the court room. My family is very thankful to have been able to obtain Mr. Bennett and would definitely use his expertise in the future if needed.
Many Thanks for saving our son's future!
Read more
22 Aug, 2024 by Robert wade
I appreciate the authority that Mr. Bennett operated with. If you want someone who will represent you with respect and integrity, he’s the man. If you need an attorney that pushes back, he’s your man. I can honestly say, I wouldn’t be a free man if he didn’t have my case personally. He’s a shark in that court room 💯
Read more
21 Oct, 2023 by Vincent reinhold
Aaron Manter did a great job with my will. Thank you.
Read more
12 Sep, 2023 by Steve mullis
Highly Recommended and very professional
Read more
14 Aug, 2023 by Sharon mcgee
Excellent attorney!
Read more
10 May, 2018 by Lisa
Sandra was our lawyer for my daughter's limited conservatorship. I thought its a complicated and very long process. Sandra made simple quick and easy for us. I just provided her my daughters IEP and she did everything after that. Very knowledgeable in this field.
Thank you Sandra!!!
Read more
08 Mar, 2018 by Christine
I am grateful in my choice to hire Sandra. She did what was asked of her, nothing more and did not waste time and money. She was knowledgeable and thorough. She offered logical & realistic suggestions. She actively communicated when needed. I’ve already recommended Sandra and will continue to do so when asked for referrals.
Read more
23 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
My husband and I contacted her for her services and she was friendly and responsive in setting up a phone consultation. She said she was traveling so needed to meet early in the morning - fine by us. We call her at the appointed time, no response. 10 mins later, we get a text saying she needed to reschedule. For our rescheduled time, same thing, no response from her at all.
Read more
25 Aug, 2020 by Julie
I cannot say enough about having Chad Koop for an attorney. He exceeded my expectations of what an attorney can do for you. He made us feel comfortable and calmed all our fears of a court process. Chad was always available to reach and responded to emails. He is absolutely amazing.
Read more
06 Nov, 2019 by Josh
It is in our experience that attorney Chad Koop has been the single most trusted, reliable, productive, and powerful advocate for our family, standards and our interests. Chad's character, along with his knowledge and his expertise allows the highest grade of professional commitment to his work. I proudly speak for my entire family as I praise Chad for his quality of service.
Read more
12 Aug, 2019 by Brian
I needed some guidance on how to proceed 9 months into a contentious divorce. Mr. Koop took the time to clearly explain my options. Chad even offered a follow-up call the next day in order to offer more insight after he conducted research into the details of my situation.
Read more
19 Jul, 2024 by Tim davidson
Frustrating experience trying to get a survey recorded with Hamilton County and tied with my deed. Staff were professional and polite, but I was expecting a much smoother path, dependent upon their expertise to catch any errors and minimize the number of submittals.
Read more
10 Jun, 2024 by David conner
I would recommend mark to anyone
Who needs workers compensation
Read more
03 Apr, 2024 by Jo nadel
Amazing very dependable nice and helpful and very intelligent. He knows his work and he's does emaculent when it comes to helping his clients..
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Brandon wynn
Mr. Bennett is definitely a great lawyer. He did exactly what he said he would do by getting my case dismissed . I would definitely recommend Mr. Bennett.
Read more
29 Aug, 2024 by Ginger finley
Giving glory to Yah! Attorney Clyde Bennett II made a tremendous impact on a case my son was facing. From our first meeting, he let us know that he would fight to get us the best outcome. I can say on August 27 after 8 months of going back and forth to court, he was instrumental in getting a felony lowered to a misdemeanor. Mr. Bennett is very professional and well educated in navigating through the court room. My family is very thankful to have been able to obtain Mr. Bennett and would definitely use his expertise in the future if needed.
Many Thanks for saving our son's future!
Read more
22 Aug, 2024 by Robert wade
I appreciate the authority that Mr. Bennett operated with. If you want someone who will represent you with respect and integrity, he’s the man. If you need an attorney that pushes back, he’s your man. I can honestly say, I wouldn’t be a free man if he didn’t have my case personally. He’s a shark in that court room 💯
Read more
03 Aug, 2024 by Dasean bankhead
Best law firm in the Nati!
Read more
10 May, 2024 by Andrew angelo
I highly recommend Goldberg Evans. Trista was very knowledgeable and provided well timed advice from the very first consultation. She also does not waste your time and in the long run I feel her representation was very affordable, especially for the expert advice and direction of some complicated and difficult situations. I greatly appreciated the candid advice and her direct work ethic. While I hope to not need a lawyer again, I would contact her first as well as recommend anyone to consult with her first.
Read more
09 Apr, 2024 by Stacy shoff
Trista and her team are incredible! Super professional, knowledgeable and thorough. In the stressful environment of family court, Trista provides balance and strength. Her guidance and expertise were invaluable. Highly recommend!
Read more
10 Jul, 2023 by Erin grause
Melanie Foran was absolutely amazing! I felt so confident throughout the whole time I needed her services. She was prompt in responding to me and my needs, beyond professional and handled my case with the utmost sincerity and care. I felt protected and supported throughout the whole time I have needed her help. I have recommended my friends to her and will continue to do so. I trusted her with my own family and friends and I can not say enough positive things about her and the practice as a whole. The world needs more lawyers like her in this world!
Read more
10 Jul, 2023 by Erin
Melanie Foran was absolutely amazing! I felt so confident throughout the whole time I needed her services. She was prompt in responding to me and my needs, beyond professional and handled my case with the utmost sincerity and care. I felt protected and supported throughout the whole time I have needed her help. I have recommended my friends to her and will continue to do so. I trusted her with my own family and friends and I can not say enough positive things about her and the practice as a whole. The world needs more lawyers like her in this world!
Read more
25 Oct, 2021 by Dennis cerullo
We have used Sue for several family legal items from settling an estate to preparing wills and trusts. Sue and her team have always been responsive and take time to listen to your requirements and provide recommendations based not just on law but also your personal circumstances.
Read more
11 Jul, 2023 by Miranda cooper
15 Oct, 2019 by Jason
Jessi is an exceptional attorney and seamlessly adapted to the ever changing needs of my custody case. She never once exploited my emotions in a difficult time and managed my expectations when needed. If you are a father in Hamilton County trying to keep your child safe and happy, Jessica Beauchamp is going to be your best advocate.
Read more
30 Jun, 2018 by Amber
Hired Jessica to work on custody case . She Didn't take my case or children's well being into consideration she drafted monitions which she never filed . After months of her getting me no where I went and filed my own monitions getting my kids back by my self . oh and the biggest thing is she doesn't know Ohio laws pertaining to birth certificates . I spent almost a year without my kids because of her not doing her job correctly.
Read more
27 Aug, 2024 by Hoda pourvali
I submitted a question via email about a special immigration case and Blake so kindly called me and provided valuable advice, free of charge. I truly appreciate him taking the time to answer my questions.
Read more
26 Aug, 2024 by The dudeist ministers
Blake is a righteous Dude!
Read more
17 Aug, 2024 by Benji leidecker
Excellent representation.
Read more
14 Jun, 2024 by Kathy lyons
Jay B was very thorough, everything was explain and left us with no questions at all. Jay B and the firm would be the one I would choose again if I needed their help again in the future.
Read more
12 Jun, 2024 by Tony sanchez
11 Jun, 2024 by Kin k
I just simply just wanna sayTHA K YOU TO JAY BOLTIN MY ATTORNEY. He was very patient, productive and most of all PROFESSIONAL handling my case. The customer service at the office was very warm and welcoming. They were polite and the environment is very welcoming as well. Thank you Mr Bolton for all the help given. I recommend anyone having trouble and needs attention handling an accident case to give and call Mr. Bolton at Young Reverman & Mazzei
Read more
29 Mar, 2024 by Mark
Jim helped me with a DWI case. He was very professional and explained everything as this was my first time and nervous. I can't recommend him enough
Read more
26 Feb, 2023 by Sherry
Mr. Schimanski is one of the most intelligent people I have met in my life. It was clear to me right away that he has an immense ability to think outside of the box and welcomes the opportunity to push limits and be aggressive. Jim is not afraid to be bold and make waves. I have used his services on several cases, criminal and family with extremely successful results and have recommended him to numerous family and friends. If you are looking for a hardworking, no nonsense attorney who will fight vigorously for your rights Jim Schimanski is your guy!
Read more
12 Dec, 2022 by Barney
I hired Jim after being arrested for a felony. He worked with me and the prosecutor and I had a very favorable outcome. I never would have been able to do this myself or listening to friends
Read more
19 Aug, 2024 by Kelly tenkotte
19 Aug, 2024 by Ray skye
Forced me to put a one star hal arenstein is a terrible lawyer he was supposed to be my lawyer but made a deal to send me to prison my first time ever being in trouble in my life I fired him and got probation 🤣👎🏻
Read more
19 Aug, 2024 by Guy tenkotte
Not the lawyer he once was! He lied to me and my family several times! Couldn’t trust him anymore! Made a deal behind our backs with the prosecutor to send my daughter to prison for her first felony ever. Long story short save your money! Go get Clyde Bennett. He did what Hal said couldn’t be done! Clyde got the charges dropped today! Hal told us she’s going to prison! It’s sad that a lawyer with his name has just given up and stopped caring about his clients! Clyde did just what he said he was going to do for us! Didn’t have to call a thousand times or text him! He did his job! Integrity is rare these days!
Read more
18 May, 2024 by Colleen seta
27 Dec, 2023 by Gigi “gigi”
04 May, 2023 by Judy thomas
21 Nov, 2023 by Amd
23 Oct, 2023 by Steffanie sudarshan
30 Aug, 2023 by Darius guzulaitis
The worst bunch of lawyers I know. Steal cheat and cover up
Read more
05 Apr, 2023 by Mo hamed
Excellent Attorney and affordable, very easy to reach.
Read more
18 Feb, 2021 by Michael
Michael Haas is a very professional, experienced lawyer who easily helped me win my son’s shared custody back from the ex-wife two times in 4 years with hard evidence and great witnesses. Working very well together with me for both wins at a good, reasonable cost for them both.
Read more
02 Nov, 2020 by Alfredo zuniga-carrillo
Wouldn’t recommend to anyone looking for a good attorney
Read more
09 Aug, 2024 by Donchae tyler
05 Aug, 2024 by Janice stewart
This attorney is the best he handled everything . I am very satisfied and I highly recommend him . Thank you John
Read more
05 Aug, 2024 by Amy kochis shuster
John Lynett is the most understanding, patient attorney/person I have ever met. Sonia Whitehouse as well. I am so happy to have worked with team!
Read more
09 Aug, 2024 by Donchae tyler
05 Aug, 2024 by Janice stewart
This attorney is the best he handled everything . I am very satisfied and I highly recommend him . Thank you John
Read more
05 Aug, 2024 by Amy kochis shuster
John Lynett is the most understanding, patient attorney/person I have ever met. Sonia Whitehouse as well. I am so happy to have worked with team!
Read more
15 Aug, 2024 by Ashley j. mills
Mary is great! Highly recommend, 10/10
Read more
18 Jun, 2024 by Danielle
13 May, 2024 by Katie noe
EDIT: I received another clients minor child’s medical records in my paperwork!! Since leaving this review, I received my paperwork mailed to me I had provided this law office.. A completely unrelated case about a child and their suicide attempt and other extremely sensitive mental health records! Please look at the responses to the recent reviews! No accountability, and blaming your client for a poor job? So cute! What a sorority joke!
Sara Michel represented me for a CPO case for my son and I. I provided nearly 30 pages of evidence proving a pattern of behavior with my Ex. I’m still receiving threatening messages of him threatening to file a CPO, he calls my work threatening me, threatens to File CPOs against my significant other (we don’t do anything to him or my son to cause some sort of reaction like this).
All in all, I don’t think my story was listened to. Sara treated me as if i was below her, and I will admit of my past indiscretions. she didn’t talk to me not from a stand point of being the best lawyer for us, but what she could “get done” in the courtroom. after I’ve experienced years of abuse, I suffer from PTSD, and I may have a pattern of behavior as well, but it’s due to the years of violence, physical abuse and mental abuse I’ve been through (gas lighting, manipulation etc). The intimidation tactics continue, my ex husband continues to harass me. I am still doing what I am supposed to do, maintaining my lifestyle changes I’ve made to better myself overall.
The thing that really grinds my gears, is I didn’t even get a phone call from her asking me how everything was going. I just got an email saying “hey, looks like everythings done, we’re refunding your retainer and here’s your binder of evidence we didn’t use any of, even.though we had an hour long meeting and I told you I’d show all this evidence for cause”. None of it happened. We are still at a stand still with custody. And I understand wanting to wait due to my circumstances, but I’ve put in the work to change. I’m still here wondering why I can’t live a peaceful life with an abusive man constantly on my shoulder. Legal advice was ok, but our conversations and the “plans” never seemed to align a couple weeks later. she quickly drafted a document to get everything closed up quickly.
This law office isn’t women for women imo.
Where is Jordan Da’Dario?
Read more
21 Aug, 2024 by Xavier mata
Roger ! Was great took care of business ! And got right after everything ! Definitely so glad I had him by my side ! For my proceedings ! He had a bunch of weight lifted off me !
Read more
20 Aug, 2024 by Accounting rcl express
Every work with the law firm starts from an attorney`s secretary.
There is a lady, her name is Stevie. She was so disrespectful and rude to me as a client! After I got some questions for the attorney, she promised that she would double check and get back to me, so I was patiently waiting for her, she held me from looking for another attorney, by making a promise that I was interested in. After a couple days, I decided to get an update if the attorney is taking my case or not, so I sent her a txt message and I got a very rude and disrespectful reply from her
This firm does not have a professional worker.
We are a trucking company, hiring lawyers every single day and I was never treated like that!!!!!
If it can be 0 out of 5 I will do it with no doubt!!!!!
PEOPLE HAVE SOME SELF-RESPECT, AVOID THIS LAW FIRM!!!!
DO NOT RECOMMEND TO FACE WHAT I HAVE FACED!!!
Read more
15 Aug, 2024 by G. godwin
Absolutely outstanding lawyer! Roger helped me get everything I needed in order and I wouldn't choose anyone else.
Highly recommend! Best in Cincinnati!
Read more
30 Jun, 2022 by Brandon landrum
Nancy is an amazing attorney and cares deeply for her clients. She has went out of her way to help me in my case. She is very knowledgeable and fights for the rights of her clients. 10/10 I would highly recommend.
Read more
12 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
Upon meeting Nancy, I immediately felt comfortable that she was able to understand the potential difficulty of my divorce case. Little did we know what the future would hold and just how challenging and complex my case would end up being. We ended up dealing with an onslaught of false allegations, various CPO's and eventually a case of parental alienation. I will say that Nancy had the experience to tackle all of the issues gracefully and with the children's best interest in mind. She worked extremely well with the GAL in sorting through all of the testimony, details and the facts of the case that resulted in a change of custody. I can't thank her enough for her sensitivity to the issues, her patience with me, and her eternal optimism for the best outcome. She never sugar coated the possibilities and had faith in the system doing its job. Nancy fought for me and the future my children's best interests. I cannot thank her enough.
Read more
27 May, 2021 by April
I was panicked when I first figured out that I needed help with my child custody situation. Fortunately, a friend of mine, who went through a child custody situation, recommended Nancy through personal experience. When I reached out to Nancy she called me back immediately. I was surprised to get a response so quickly. Over the phone, she asked pointed questions and helped me understand that her only concern would be the wellbeing of my child. At the in person consultation, she offered me a game plan to help me in a lot of different scenarios with the father of my child...it was much more than I could’ve imagined getting out of an hour long consultation. Even more impressive was her honesty and candor; she told me that I need not retain her services yet, but that when I needed she would be there for me. In summary, I cannot imagine a more professional, capable, and reassuring legal resource than Nancy. My overall impression of her is this- she’s truly a trust-worthy, eminently experienced, and ethical partner.
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.
