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19 Jun, 2024 by Steve hanas
We were very confused about how to handle our estate. Sylvia simplified everything and immediately grasped the our intentions. We left feeling 100% confident that our needs were met. We have already recommended Sylvia to several of our friends.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Savannah schlesman
One of the nicest and the most easy going people you will ever meet. Never hesitates to help someone out.
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23 Jun, 2023 by Maryann alexander
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28 May, 2024 by Meredith martin
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02 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
I’ve been trying to complete my divorce now for over 3 years. He lacks communication with myself and my soon to be ex-wife’s attorney. He has repeatedly ignored requests from myself and her attorney. I’m ready to go straight to the courts to see what I can do. This has been a complete nightmare. I wouldn’t recommend him to anyone, not even my worst enemy.
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14 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Kevin and Lauren were absolutely great with me. My case dragged on for 5 years. They were with me every step, guiding me and helping me. In the end I got the things most important to me. Thank you Kevin and Lauren.
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25 Jun, 2024 by Melissa solevilla
My partner and I worked with Clearwater Business Law when drafting our partnership agreement and other documents. We had a great experience with his team. I have subsequently referred them to several friends who have also had great experiences. As a fellow lawyer in the community, I highly recommend them!
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13 Mar, 2024 by Mzdeg68
Michele walked into the court and stated our case... not mildly either!!! She was most aggressive and got us where we felt good about things! I would recommend her for your legal needs!
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29 Dec, 2023 by P s
they are there to help you as they Helped me, very friendly and Courteous Staff and very Knowledgeable. they will be the first in my book to call if needed again. thank you very much!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Sue fern
I have been running my own business for 20 years but I know when I need to hear from someone with legal and business wisdom and that is Andrew. He is direct, knowledgeable and gives information that helps me make my own good decisions. I would recommend him to anyone looking for expert professional legal guidance at any level.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jill k wash
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08 Jul, 2024 by P s
they are there to help you as they Helped me, very friendly and Courteous Staff and very Knowledgeable. they will be the first in my book to call if needed again. thank you very much!
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10 Mar, 2020 by Arian
Dean has literally saved my life during such a difficult time. Not only has he delivered on everything he said he would, he has gone above and beyond to represent me and help me receive the best possible outcome at every turn. He manages expectations by clearly communicating how every scenario could play out, is responsive and genuinely cares about my well-being / end result. I would be lost without Dean and his team and am very thankful for all of their help during the hardest chapter in my life.
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13 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
Dean Tsourakis was a pleasure to work with during difficult times. His take charge confidence immediately put us at ease and he successfully settled all issues. I highly recommend dean when his field of law is in need.
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06 May, 2019 by Melanie s
After calling several attorneys and deciding which one to hire, we hired Dean. It was the best decision ever ! He and his team were right to the point and no nonsense. They guided me and gave me good advice when I needed it and got the Job done to my full expectations. His wife Renee was fantastic ,she has it together for sure always prompt and efficient. Jackie , his paralegal as well was amazing! This office and Dean are on the ball and Dean is very knowledgeable and professional and well RESPECTED in the courts and the legal field. DEAN IS A GREAT ATTORNEY.. he is very good at his job ! We were thrilled with the outcome!
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07 May, 2021 by Edward
Laurie is phenomenal. Her abilities and deserves 6 out of 5 stars. I have and will continue to recommend Laurie to anyone in need! Laurie you crushed it, the detailed trial presentation with documentation to back it up. Her quick wit and ability to cross examine on her toes. The quick and timely responses from her and her associates. She was honest and truthful even when if it wasn't something I wanted to hear. Thank you again from my family
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14 May, 2019 by Alan
I have dealt with Lori sweet attorney l for many years she takes a personal interest in all her clients and is so professional from start to finish I would recommend her and her law firm to anyone that's looking for good representation .I also have recommended my friends that need a fantastic attorney and all of them said that they were very satisfied with the outcome and her handling of all of their legal concerns.
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10 Aug, 2018 by Louis
Laurie is an excellent lawyer and did a remarkable job in getting me full custody of my children. Very professional and was always available when I needed questions answered. I found her by luck and she was indeed a lifesaver. I can’t say enough as to how happy I was to have her on my side. Thank you Laurie.
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20 Jul, 2024 by Dan hunt
Gino Megna did an outstanding job with my divorce, I was fortunate to have him represent me...thanks Gino
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25 Jun, 2024 by Ginny livingston
I was so happy pleased got my life back thanks to Tom maqiure
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05 Apr, 2024 by Vinnie carter
Mr.McGuire & staff get the work done fast & friendly & affordable.
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29 Oct, 2023 by Lou
Simone , listens to what you have to say, Then she does her Job , and does it well - - Go Get Them Girl . My Case Was Won , not exactly how we wanted , but its over and Im Moving On .
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30 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Simone did a fantastic job handling my divorce. I was scared, not sure what to do or what to expect going through the process. She gave excellent advice and walked me through each of the steps. Thank you so much.
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22 Apr, 2022 by Mark
Simone Lennon took my case for a very difficult divorce. I had to go through the appellate court after the first judgement was granted for my ex wife giving her everything we worked for together in a 30 year marriage. After getting our day in court through Covid delays Simone not only got the judgement overturned, but she also got all the assets split. It was amicable for all! The best part she did NOT charge a ton of money!!!! Simone you brought light to a very dark situation. I can never thank you enough! Mark M.
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16 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Hired Chris for divorce.. He proved to be a very nasty, insulting, judgmental, sick, unhappy person. He knows how to be nice at first, to reel in your business, but he turned into a nightmare of hostility and incompetence. He made frequent mistakes including huge errors in my final judgement document. He mixed me up with other clients. He often would side with opposing counsel against my wishes. I gave him a flat fee retainer with the understanding that if the case went to court, he would need an additional $10,000, refundable if it didnt go to court. Even though I knew it would settle, I gave him only $6200 for court because I sensed that he was going to rip me off. We settled the case through my negotiations and not his expertise. He was completely triggered by opposing attorney and intimidated by him. After final judgment, his immediate phone call to me was hostile belligerence, not good luck to you. He deliberately picked a fight for no reason. He refused to refund the $6200. Citing that it was like a commission for me keeping most of my house. I see these reviews that are good and it baffles me, because he was atrocious in every aspect. Retirement should be a necessity.
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18 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr. Christopher Yeazell represented our special needs child in a very unique case. Chris developed an immediate rapport, and level of TRUST with our autistic child. We knew then that Chris was going to fight for our child like his own child. Chris ensured us that our child's rights, and well being were his immediate, and long term priority. Chris was professionally aggressive, and diligent with our case from day one. Chris accomplished everything, and more that we could have hoped for. This case was extremely emotional for our family. We can't thank Chris enough for standing with and for us, and fighting the right fight. We highly recommend Chris and his firm for any case. Mr. Yeazell is brilliant, dedicated, and committed to his craft. Chris is an exceptional person, and highly skilled attorney.
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17 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
Christopher E Yeazell is an extremely intelligent individual.He was very clear and concise when it came to my case,not only does Chris Yeazell get the job done exceptionally well ,he makes you his priority no matter the situation. The outcome of my situation was easily handled by him in an extremely professional matter,and exceeded my expectations .I have highly recommend this attorney to others and would consider to do so again.
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26 Sep, 2016 by Tatiana
Carmen went above and beyond as a lawyer. She not only did her job great, but she also made sure that I was as calm as can be. Carmen had everything organized and well prepared.
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06 Sep, 2016 by Hector
Attorney Carmen Bland is an outstanding Lawyer. I always felt that my needs were met as her Client. She was Professional, knowledgeable yet she kept the process as simple and as light as possible for me, she made a stressful situation a powerful experience with a great outcome. She was easily accessible, got back to me quickly, she was aggressive and got me the results that I wanted. Attorney Carmen Bland is quality attorney that I would refer to anyone hiring a family law attorney.
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06 Sep, 2016 by Jennifer
I am new to Florida and was referred to Carmen when I started my divorce. She was amazing. My ex was not wanting to do things in a timely manner and make things more difficult. She took the time to help make sure I understood everything and kept me informed along the way of what to expect next. She knows how to play hard ball when needed and helped make the process amazing...everything I asked for when it came to my children Carmen helped make sure that I got it in the parenting plan. I would refer her to everyone. She knows how to get things done especially when it was a difficult time all the way around. I will use her again in the future if needed.
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08 Jul, 2015 by Mike
First off, how I got to this page is because I'd just typed 'Eric Barnes Clearwater' as I'm again in need of him and had his number in an old phone. OK, I'd hired Eric because my ex had just packed up and left, ignored my phone calls, and would not let me have ANY communication with My Boys, which's My World and My Everything. She'd done this because apparently 'I worked too much', when I was just trying to do everything possible to ensure a roof was over our head and to make sure My Boys had everything they needed and wanted, and to put away funds for their future (college) cause I knew that Ed McMahon wasn't going to knock on our door and present us with the winning ticket! Unfortunately, long time ago in the 90's I had made bad decisions by hanging around with the wrong people and getting in to to trouble with the law, and she'd felt that because I'd made bad decisions in the past that the judge would automatically rule in her favor and just let her have My Boys, and honestly I'd thought that the judge would see that I used to be a trouble maker and not let me in the picture. Well she and I were definitely WRONG! The judge gave me MY RIGHT TO BE THEIR DAD regardless of my past because my past was just that, my past, and bad decisions in the past before kids DO NOT dictate what kind of Dad or Parent oen will be, and some Dads may dispute this, but I'm the BEST Dad there is! My Boys are My World and My EVERYTHING, and soon after I'd won my time with them to be their Dad, she'd started playing games again, and would not even show up. Eric had pulled her right back in court for contempt. No games, no time wasted, just "OK, Mike, don't worry about it. I can only imagine what you're going through cause I'm a Dad myself, but I promise you I'll call down to the judge's assistant after I hang up with you to get us on the calender and bring her in front of the judge." Anyways, I can go on and on with this and specifics, but honestly don't have the time, but being how I landed on this page accidentally, I thought that I'd just write a quick review on Eric because without him I would've missed years with My Boys, and because of him I'm forever grateful, and I can assure you that My Boys are as well. I'd never missed any time with My Boys, but recently My Dad passed away and there came an exception as I didn't want My Boys to see me in the emotional state that I was, and to give you an idea of the impact that I have on My Boys, I was told by them, "Daddy, we cried when mommy said you weren't going to get us" and without Eric that would've never been said because I would not've been entitled to My Boys cause the Court System here in Florida is completely messed up and automatically favors the mom, regardless of who's the better parent, so it's on us Dad'd to bring them in to court and point out why that's an absolute ridiculous outlook, and being how I've been there, done that, and am doing it again, I'd strongly recommend Eric cause he does what he says without nickling and diming you, and helps ease your mind through the process.
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14 Mar, 2013 by John
I have retained Eric twice and both times Eric was professional, responsive, and reasonable. As far as the last poster suggesting that he is not aggressive, I disagree, Eric is appropriately aggressive when necessary without alienating the other party in order to get the most out of a negotiation. Bottom line, he got results and charged appropriately. I would highly recommend.
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01 Jan, 2011 by Matthew
Eric was rarely prepared when going to Court. Because I relyed on his "expertise", I am paying $400 more per month in alimony than he said I would. He left me hanging in the 11th hour of mediation. He is nice, but not aggressive so the end result is unfavorable. He no longer is associated with David Sharpe on Sunset Point Rd. in Clearwater.
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04 Feb, 2024 by Cj
I had the unfortunate need to retain an attorney during an ugly divorce, but I can confidently say that I could not have asked for better representation. Mrs. Pitelis and her team were always there for me, whether I was dealing with an emergent situation regarding my children or providing much needed guidance through the bureaucracies of family court. She even spoke with me and provided counsel outside business hours from her personal phone when the need presented itself. In addition to being present and diligent, Maria has a wide breadth of knowledge with regards to case law, the court system in Pinellas county, and other divorce attorneys and how they conduct their cases. She clearly takes time to be appraised of any developments that maybe affect your case, and communicates those developments to you as her client in a digestible and concise manner. I hope I don’t ever need to retain an attorney again, but if I do need a family court attorney down the road, Maria will be my first and only choice.
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13 Nov, 2021 by Michael
Maria always stayed in contact and was sensitive to my feel.she genuinely cared about my cases and made me feel like I was apart of her family.
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18 Oct, 2019 by Becky
When my exhusband and I separated, it took a while to get through everything. I hired Maria to finish it up so I could move on with my life. Best decision ever! She is professional, thorough, down-to-earth and really knows her stuff. Everything got wrapped up quickly and she even helped me when my ex tried to come back to change the terms of the child support last year. I highly recommend her!
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23 Mar, 2021 by Mary
I AM A NO 1 CHRISTAN SCHOOLTEACHER WENT IN BY CAB COLD DAY I AM SENIOR WAS TREATED AS DIRT THEY R CRUEL ABUSIVE MEAN PUTTING CIVIL LAWSUIT ON THEN FOR ABUSE
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25 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
This Lawfirm was a waste of crucial time and money! Our legal issues only worsened and have been VERY difficult paying more experienced firms to resolve due to their errors! We wish they were honest and referred us for a more educated & experienced lawyer. Now our situation has become a seriously bad situation directly from the mistakes caused by this person! This is anonymous from fear of erratic people’s retribution by their history!
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22 Mar, 2020 by Carly
I had made a free appointment for a legal consultation in the past and met with John McGuire who gave me his honest opinion that I didn’t need a lawyer at that time. He didn’t ask for any payment for that appointment which I really appreciated since I was hesitant at first thinking I would have to pay if I saw a lawyer. I remembered the law office when I got in a bad car accident in 2019 and made another appointment. I had so many medical bills and all these adjusters were calling me asking for statements but John McGuire helped me feel relieved right away. His paralegal, Mindy, kept me updated on my case and seemed to really be on top of my case. Not only did I end up getting a nice settlement but Mindy also negotiated my medical bills so I got even more money in the end. I didn’t even know you can negotiate medical bills like that! I Would definitely recommend anyone who has legal questions or issues to go to McGuire Law Offices!
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06 Feb, 2024 by Sean
I hired Margaret to get custody of my son. It was probably one of the easiest cases she is ever had. My ex practically made it incredibly easy for her to win the case and yet she still bled me dry over 20 grand and then threatened to sue me over $800 because she had the wrong email address she never called me and nothing sent in the real mail alomsot in a shady way from what i got out of it evey thing was done. even after i had my son full time she was still billing me.. shes like a vulture picking me dry knowing i will do wahtever it takes to make sure my son was safe Needless to say, she kept finding ways to bill me again and again after assuming that it was all said and done and there was going to be no more payments I would receive another payment. This went on for years and finally I had to tell her to put it in writing that I do not want her to be doing any work for me anymore or else I wasn't going to pay her the $800 I can't help but wonder if she would still be charging me if I never said that.. I would call somebody else. Do not waste your time with this. She also took forever to make things happen while my son was in Multiple different house that he was a witnessing his own mother getting abused and beat and yet she still couldn't figure out how to get him out of that situation. I highly recommend finding somebody with a little more talent and experience, especially if it has to do with your child
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25 Sep, 2021 by Sue
Worked for her for a short period. Very unprofessional. Horrible ethics. Out for herself, not her clients.
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13 Dec, 2018 by Kenneth
Every time we went to court she was very unprepared. I gave her a $5000.00 retainer and now she will not give me my left over monies back or send me and itemized invoice. I left her several emails and phone calls she is ignoring them all. I would never recommend attorney Margaret E O'neill to anyone. I am very disappointed with her services. The way she represented me falls nothing short of disgusting
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25 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
This man is only good at writing up the motions, but not at litigation in a court room. You will lose, he he not equipped to handle any courtroom litigation or defend your case in anything more than a traffic ticket!
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16 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Referred by a friend who had a brother that had faced felony charges and he was able to get them dropped. Personally hired him for a traffic incident and he was fabulous and very knowledgeable.
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17 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
Mr. Tinny has not kept me or my family informed whatsoever on anything. He has been very vague in statements to me and my family and in talking with him doesn't seem to even care about me as a person or my case. He swindled us out of a lot of money all the while doing next to nothing, take it from me, don't hire this lawyer. Thank you and God bless
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03 Dec, 2008 by Anonymous
I hired Mr Tinny for a DUI case in which I was ill, not under the effects of drugs or alcohol. Mr Tinny represented himself as capable and promised us many issues that he never followed up on. Most of all Mr. Tinny did not keep us informed and worst of all he refused to return calls. This was my first time with any legal issues and Mr Tinny puts a bad taste in your mouth for anyone in the leagal profession
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17 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
this guy is dis respectful rude and tries to do nothing but make you take a plea deal and says that you will go to prison and that you will lose the case. this guy really sucks and would not recommend this guy at he is rude and really disrespectful to every one true ass hole. and I had to do all the foot work and he didn't want to do anything he just wanted to hand me over. he did none of the work I did it all
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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.

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