Lawyers map
>214
experienced lawyers
Filter by
23 Jan, 2025 by Naomi delgado
I don’t understand a lot about financial processes like bankruptcy but Rick West made it very easy to understand. I felt that I was constantly kept in the loop when it came to my cases progress and what the lawyers needed from me. I learned a lot about credit building and maintenance. I really appreciate all that Mr.West and his team have done for me and my family.
Read more
22 Jan, 2025 by Mandy andrews
Rick west and the whole team have been extremely helpful and knowledgeable. I look forward to moving forward to my life now and rebuilding my credit.
Read more
06 Jan, 2025 by Teresa collins
Attorney fees were very reasonable. Mr. Fesenmyer promptly answered all my questions and kept me on track for all deadlines. He was compassionate to my situation and made me feel at ease through a very difficult process. TY!
Read more
5.0
21 Reviews
4.6
755 Reviews
20 Jan, 2025 by Sb
Very good attorney was really helpful and stayed on top of everything from the beginning . I was recommended by family members that he did a great job for also. I couldn’t of asked for a better outcome I would highly recommend
Read more
02 Jan, 2025 by Jay robinson
I can’t speak for the Law Firm as a whole, but I would recommend not using Lauren Davenport on the Family Law side if you intend to FIGHT for custody of your child. I’ve spent around $10,000 (or more) and she couldn’t even accomplish something as basic as getting a case dismissed for lack of jurisdiction (when in Supreme Court of Ohio has already set a precedent on a similar case).
In my opinion she’s weak. She lets the other attorney and magistrates control the flow of your case. She’s not aggressive at all despite being told constantly to be so. She doesn’t follow your requests for what you are trying to achieve and claims “this or that” will be better but in the end it has zero results. She constantly agrees to agreements that aren’t in your favor and brings it back to you instead of having common sense and rejecting it and demanding a more favorable agreement for her client. Basically none of her legal advice worked in my favor. You hire an attorney to WIN not to be a mediator.
I would only use her if your intention is to settle or it’s a divorce without any disputes. My child was taken out of my home state without my consent and it should have been very easy for her to get results. In the end I had to settle into an agreement that was not in my favor due to her inept handling of my case.
I also do not believe she had my best interest at heart. If you accept the money your goals should align with mine. Your opinion or what you would like to see shouldn’t be part of it. I also believe in at least 1 instance information was willingly or unwillingly leaked to the opposing party.
These people don’t care because they move on with their lives and on to the next case. Unfortunately, I cannot allow that. Not with me. Not with costing me a regular relationship with my son.
Read more
12 Dec, 2024 by Noah smith
I had a case today, and I genuinely from the bottom of my heart appreciate everything this man did for me. He is very professional at what he does, if he suggests an outcome that’s gonna be how it plays out. He is amazing. I’m shocked I still am able to keep my license to say the least, but really really grateful. I give him 5 stars for all of the effort he put, great communication, and how he is a standup man for his word, you can just tell when meeting him. Thank you so much Mr Kordalis! I recommend him to any and everyone who is going through some legal troubles he will make sure you are greatly taken care of in every way professional way possible. His 5 star on google with over 250+ reviews genuinely should tell you everything you need to know, he has done nothing but take care of his clients.
Read more
4.7
13 Reviews
4.9
793 Reviews
23 Jan, 2025 by Naomi delgado
I don’t understand a lot about financial processes like bankruptcy but Rick West made it very easy to understand. I felt that I was constantly kept in the loop when it came to my cases progress and what the lawyers needed from me. I learned a lot about credit building and maintenance. I really appreciate all that Mr.West and his team have done for me and my family.
Read more
22 Jan, 2025 by Mandy andrews
Rick west and the whole team have been extremely helpful and knowledgeable. I look forward to moving forward to my life now and rebuilding my credit.
Read more
06 Jan, 2025 by Teresa collins
Attorney fees were very reasonable. Mr. Fesenmyer promptly answered all my questions and kept me on track for all deadlines. He was compassionate to my situation and made me feel at ease through a very difficult process. TY!
Read more
21 Jan, 2025 by Sara mirmasoudi
Adam and team appeared professional and polite, but he dismissed several of my concerns about my ex and told me that they are not usually documented in the official paperwork and that those are just agreements that my ex and I would make afterwards. Well, I accepted his "expert advice" against my better judgement and here I am post divorce and those exact concerns are causing issues and making my life difficult. Had Adam considered my concerns and listened to what I had to say about my ex, I would not be in this situation. As well, he ignored a few emails that were focused on those specific topics.
As well, at times I felt like he was more on my ex's side (or his lawyer's side) than my side. I constantly had to defend myself to him and repeat my concerns over and over and over, and he still didnt hear them.
And after all this and settling our case (3 months ago) without proper language which is causing me pain on a daily basis, "Mesaros finance team" has not sent me the remaining/unused portion of my money back despite my written and verbal requests.
So, bottom line, dont recommend!
Read more
25 Nov, 2024 by David homer
Cavinder Law was exceptionally helpful when I found myself in need of legal assistance. Kerri is fast and knowledgeable, always getting back to me quickly. Jason clearly knows his way around things, as he was able to get things taken care of with an outcome beyond what I expected possible. I highly recommend Cavinder Law Office if you need help navigating the complexities of the legal system and some one to push for your interests. Fair price, great service, ideal outcome!
Read more
22 Nov, 2024 by Amanda given
David is absolutely wonderful! He and his team guided me through a tumultuous divorce and custody battle. I had been through a few other small town attorneys before him & without a doubt I would have been in bad shape had I not switched to David. He was kind, he was thorough, & he explained things in non legalese for me to understand. I know I’ll refer to David for any future needs. A big thank you to Sherri & Rylee too! 10/10!
Read more
23 Jan, 2025 by Naomi delgado
I don’t understand a lot about financial processes like bankruptcy but Rick West made it very easy to understand. I felt that I was constantly kept in the loop when it came to my cases progress and what the lawyers needed from me. I learned a lot about credit building and maintenance. I really appreciate all that Mr.West and his team have done for me and my family.
Read more
22 Jan, 2025 by Mandy andrews
Rick west and the whole team have been extremely helpful and knowledgeable. I look forward to moving forward to my life now and rebuilding my credit.
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Becca owens
Rick West is great! He helped my husband and I get all of our bankruptcy filed and taken care of. Him and his staff were all very helpful and explained everything very well that helped my husband and I understand everything we were filing and what everything meant. We absolutely recommend him to anyone that has to file for bankruptcy!
Read more
15 Jan, 2025 by Destiny mann
James was absolutely amazing with my divorce, he was communicative, he helped eased my anxiety with answering every question I had and made a very terrible time as pleasant as it could have been. I cannot recommend the miller firm enough to anyone who needs a lawyer.
Read more
25 Oct, 2024 by Zraebiel
James was really great from the first moment we spoke. He was very reassuring from the initial consultation until the final hearing. He was pretty easy to reach and available when I needed someone to talk to in the back and forth with the other attorney. Thank you so much for everything! Blessings and best of luck to him and the staff which was also very helpful!
Read more
13 Aug, 2024 by Sidney davis
This man is the Law GOAT 🐐 he,saved my political career, cleared my name ,and vindicated me from a 6 figure gold digger…all before lunch…🤷🏽♂️
Read more
12 Jan, 2024 by Jill settle
Was impressed how quickly he responded. Though my concerns was not his expertise. He recommended someone that could help me
Read more
26 Dec, 2023 by Chanel
Helped with a custody case post-divorce. Was through, attentive, and meant business! She made sure that what I wanted and what was RIGHT was fought for. Highly recommend
Read more
23 Dec, 2022 by Michelle smith
The office was very wonderful to deal with over a very difficult situation we appreciate all the time and effort it took to coordinate all the preparation required for my daughter‘s case. Mr Webb Took lots of time reviewing researching and preparing us for what we were going to expect in the hearing. Stephanie reached out to us before the hearing to get all the ducks in a row.
We really appreciate all of the time and professionalism it took thank you so much
Read more
17 Jan, 2025 by Pope glover
Don't hire they will take your money and still keep you in jail or prison behind them filing your paperwork wrong. Would not consider them to no one.
Read more
07 Jan, 2025 by Damek o'dell (dman638)
28 Dec, 2024 by Sean webb
I had a case, I contacted them, paid in cash, fully! Never was told I'd get someone specific, I assumed I called and asked for services of Jon paul ruin, I'd get him, when brianna breault showed up for court, I was OK, because it was. Simple hearing, she told me she would speak to prosecutor and be in touch, my quote was 6500$ for trial services, I plead guilty, so she came to 2 hearings, said less than 20 words in court, she didn't even have a sentencing strategy, I got maxed out! Then they kept all 6500$! I never came close to trial! I got the maximum sentence allowed! On a plea hearing at that then when I called last week about how to properly file my judicial release, they wouldn't even speak to me! Terrible experiences, stole lower class folks money, they would of gave any notable namedclients a full refund had they received a max sentence on a plea! I got charged more than quoted! Disrespectful honestly! Terrible people
Read more
29 Oct, 2024 by Angie dieter
She made the process quick after my ex took me back for the second time. She fought for what I wanted and did it efficiently so I didn’t need to spend as much money.
Read more
03 Nov, 2023 by Travis welsh
31 Oct, 2023 by Bob sledge
Anne successfully handled my divorce and refunded some of the money I paid her since she didn't use it all. I'm happy with her services.
Read more
17 Jan, 2025 by Pope glover
Don't hire they will take your money and still keep you in jail or prison behind them filing your paperwork wrong. Would not consider them to no one.
Read more
07 Jan, 2025 by Damek o'dell (dman638)
28 Dec, 2024 by Sean webb
I had a case, I contacted them, paid in cash, fully! Never was told I'd get someone specific, I assumed I called and asked for services of Jon paul ruin, I'd get him, when brianna breault showed up for court, I was OK, because it was. Simple hearing, she told me she would speak to prosecutor and be in touch, my quote was 6500$ for trial services, I plead guilty, so she came to 2 hearings, said less than 20 words in court, she didn't even have a sentencing strategy, I got maxed out! Then they kept all 6500$! I never came close to trial! I got the maximum sentence allowed! On a plea hearing at that then when I called last week about how to properly file my judicial release, they wouldn't even speak to me! Terrible experiences, stole lower class folks money, they would of gave any notable namedclients a full refund had they received a max sentence on a plea! I got charged more than quoted! Disrespectful honestly! Terrible people
Read more
16 Aug, 2024 by Shawn pierce
Justin McMullen did an amazing job at facilitating my expungement. Thank you so much!!
Read more
16 Jun, 2024 by Trisha hunt
Used Justin McMullen with Joslyn Law firm for legal representation and had an ideal outcome. Very helpful and professional!
Read more
31 May, 2024 by Jimnmissy hause
Called for representation, they scheduled a consult I took off work for and they never called it was supposed to be a phone consultation. Very unprofessional.
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Mark
Mike was very thorough explaining the law as it pertained to our situation. The outcome that he negotiated for us was exactly what we were looking for. His attorney fees were extremely fair. Highly recommend.
Read more
04 Jan, 2024 by Bruce
Excellent job completed on time. I would recommend Michael to family and friends.
Read more
22 Sep, 2022 by Ryan
Michael Sheets was very helpful and honest really appreciated his direction and would really recommend him to any friend or family
Read more
13 Feb, 2018 by Staci
Helen was my attorney during my divorce. She listened to my concerns and fought for everything I needed in order to keep my house and raise my two children. She was exceptional and went above and beyond what I thought an attorney would need to do. She was always available to answer questions and guided me through the process of regaining my independence. I would definitely recommend Helen Wallace to anyone in need of a lawyer.
Read more
22 Sep, 2017 by Hayley
Helen provided me the highest level of service and guidance needed to work through my divorce and custody case. Through a challenging process, she provided sound advice, empathy and support, and we achieved our desired outcome. I truly believe in situations like this, you get what you pay for. I'm very glad I invested in the best.
Read more
16 Jan, 2017 by Barbara horwitz, esq.
I have known Helen professionally for several years, and have always found her to be highly competent in her work, and extremely thorough. I have referred clients to her for family matters, and they have always reported back how well she did for them, and how much she cared about their well-being. It is a pleasure to work with her!
Read more
10 Jan, 2025 by Tina g
During what was undoubtedly one of the most challenging, terrifying and stressful times of my life, Jeff Wren proved to be an invaluable resource. He guided me through the legal necessities with grace.
My situation is very critical, sensitive and complicated. He understood the details and prepared to best present my case in court. He took the time to explain why he prepared the way he did and was patient with numerous questions, fears and concerns.
Jeff's professionalism and timely communication helped alleviate some of my stress. I am deeply grateful for his service and while the judge dismissed the case due to a change in jurisdiction, I highly recommend him to anyone facing similar circumstances.
Read more
09 Jan, 2025 by Carlos ventura
Jeff Wren helped my daughter win full custody with ease and kept her calm and feeling secure to where she was able to power through
Read more
09 Jan, 2025 by Melissa ventura
Jeff wren made my divorce go through very smoothly and was very good at reassurance and helped me win my case with ease
Read more
20 Jun, 2023 by Brandy
Mr. Fogt is extremely knowledgeable and handled himself professionally. He gave spot on advice and communicated very well. He was personable and treated my family with nothing but respect. We were blessed that Mr. Fogt served our family and handled the case. I would HIGHLY recommend Mr. Fogt. We can't thank him enough.
Read more
29 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Fogt is a very professional and knowledgeable lawyer in the court system. He helped me from the initial consultation, throughout my hearings, and all the way through getting my record sealed two years later. His presence was much needed the whole time to help me keep my peace of mind. I highly recommended Mr. Fogt as a great lawyer who knows the local court system and as someone who will handle your case in a professional and timely manner.
Read more
13 Oct, 2013 by Anonymous
Chris Fogt exceeded all my expectations! He made me feel at ease about my case. He was caring, personable, professional, and very knowledgable. His rate was reasonable given his knowledge, skill, and experience. I was very happy with the outcome of my case. I highly recommend Chris Fogt!
Read more
20 Dec, 2016 by Chris
I have worked with Julie and her excellent staff (on and off) for the past 3 years to resolve my child custody case. I could not ask for a more professional and genuinely caring group of people who were always there for me when I needed them and made me feel like my case was a priority. I feel fortunate to have such a great lawyer looking out for me and my family, and I plan on having Julie represent us in the future.
Read more
09 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
Ms. Kolber consulted with me on my current employment contract as well as my previous employment severance agreement. Without her expertise and advice I would not have been able to fully protected myself and helped secure my professional future.
Read more
06 Dec, 2016 by Robert
I hired attorney Kolber to help me with a real estate matter. She did a great job and I will hire her again when necessary. Bob W.
Read more
01 Mar, 2022 by John
Justin and I sat down originally once I decided to attempt shared parenting. He was very helpful with discussing the process that needed to be done and the proper steps in doing so. Him and I always kept an open communication during this process which made it easier to respond to certain steps during this. He was overall a Great Person to work with and Fought for what he felt was right for the children in the process. Him and I put together a great case and in the end I (father) was awarded resident parent for my 2 children. Would recommend him to anyone that is going through the same thing I went through. Thanks Again Justin.
Read more
05 Mar, 2021 by Jeffreh
Justin represented us in a custody battle over our non-biological granddaughter.
We received full custody.
Justin was knowledgeable, professional, but, most importantly he truly cared.
Justin listened to our input but was willing to stand his ground when he thought a different approach was in our best, overall interest.
We followed his lead, we trusted his judgement and knowledge and the result speaks for itself.
We would HIGHLY recommend Justin, not just for Custody matters, but any legal matter that he is qualified to pursue.
Read more
21 May, 2020 by Connor
Justin did a magnificent job leading me through child support/custody hearings. Always kept in touch, laid out all available options, made decision making easy for me. Him and his team handled all the prep work, all I had to do was show up. Very thankful for Justin and all the help he gave.
Justin’s confidence in himself made me feel extremely comfortable and confident in a tough situation. Honest and hardworking!
Read more
28 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
Ms. Melchor handled a case for me and it was a very emotional time for me. I so appreciated her professionalism and attention to detail, but also the fact that she cared. You don't always see both of those qualities in attorneys. I am so thankful to her and would hire her again in a heartbeat if I ever needed to!
Read more
25 Jun, 2019 by Tumeka
I hired Miss Kimberly for family court she was able to file papers for me as far as looking for my sister's husband she was able to file paperwork that I needed to have done for me to get custody of my nephew she put together the evidence I need it in order to get my nephew she showed me what I needed to do talk to me and cancel me on what I needed to do also and I also want my case I will truly recommend Miss Kimberly stop
Read more
24 Dec, 2018 by Ronaldo
Over the course of fighting for my charges to be reduced and/or thrown out Kimberly proved herself to be highly competent and aggressive in my defense. She was prepared and always could foresee what would happen in court which helped me to be more confident she was doing the best job possible in my case. Thank you, Thank you , Thank you Kimberly !
Sincerely,
R. J. Martinez
Read more
16 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr. Krochmal is an excellent attorney. He is honest, direct and just. I would recommend him to anyone involved in a custody scenario. He sees the truth and speaks the truth. I found him to be of the highest character.
Read more
03 Dec, 2017 by Scott campbell
Very thorough, thoughtful and tough. Needed him in a time of need and found he was absolutely perfect for the job. Was very direct with me, told me what I needed to hear and not what I wanted to hear (no fluff). Would recommend him to anyone that has a need for his services.
Read more
10 Mar, 2015 by Angel
Hands down, decent and just atty. You can't go wrong with K Krochmal. Luckily my husband and I reconciled but I couldn't have asked for a better equipped atty. He came highly recommended by court staff/personnel of child support agencies and his fees were more than fair, having been through divorce and child custody disagreements in the past with several different attorneys along the way, he was by far the best and his fees were in most cases, lower.
Read more
23 Jan, 2025 by Naomi delgado
I don’t understand a lot about financial processes like bankruptcy but Rick West made it very easy to understand. I felt that I was constantly kept in the loop when it came to my cases progress and what the lawyers needed from me. I learned a lot about credit building and maintenance. I really appreciate all that Mr.West and his team have done for me and my family.
Read more
22 Jan, 2025 by Mandy andrews
Rick west and the whole team have been extremely helpful and knowledgeable. I look forward to moving forward to my life now and rebuilding my credit.
Read more
06 Jan, 2025 by Teresa collins
Attorney fees were very reasonable. Mr. Fesenmyer promptly answered all my questions and kept me on track for all deadlines. He was compassionate to my situation and made me feel at ease through a very difficult process. TY!
Read more
25 Oct, 2020 by Stacey
I would reccomend him highly works hard makes u feel comfortable and he is very smart and he takes time to explain ur case in a way u understand and he answered my calls everytime.very good at what he does
Read more
10 Apr, 2015 by Tonya
mr. Scott has been very helpful and trustworthy through my court process. He is kind and helped ease my mind when I was nervous for court time. Very knowledgeable of law and how to speak in court.
Read more
05 Dec, 2013 by Nicole
Rob was very easy to talk to and gave me great legal advice in regards to my divorce. He knows how sensitive this issues can be and will give you compassionate and straight forward advice with no fluff.
Read more
05 Apr, 2018 by Jeffery
Attorney James Kirkland exceeded in all areas throughout the duration of my custody case. I'm an Ohio native, but relocated to Western Massachusetts, my sons lived in Ohio, but yearn to be with me. Although me residing out of State made the case complicated alone, Attorney Kirkland listened to my story and accepted the challenge. He was very organized, focus and reviewed every single detail and aspect that went into the case. He was not afraid to take the steps necessary to get results If there is one thing that I am sure of, is that he KNOWS THE LAW, and he knows it well. What made Kirkland unique was his approach. He is respectful, honest, thorough but very Family Orientated. I highly recommend him to anyone in need of legal representation, surrounding family law.
Read more
05 Dec, 2014 by Juan
I usually never write a review or give excellent ratings unless it well worth it. I am not the type of guy that logs on and reviews product or services. This, however, is my exception.
I was in the Marine Corps when Mr. Kirkland took my divorce case in 2012. I needed a lawyer to represent me in court because I could not attend any hearings, due to my military obligations. Mr. Kirkland not only took my case (and even though we didn't have a chance to meet face to face) he was able to fully complete my divorce decree in court.
Fast forward two years later. I had another crazy summons by the ex-wife (figures). Once again I need a lawyer and decided to go back to Mr. Kirkland for legal advice. Not only did he remember me after two years, but he once again took my case and fought for me.
Mr. Kirkland is an excellent lawyer at a reasonable price, and I think the most important part is that, he is military friendly. He always gets back to you and keeps you informed throughout the whole proceedings. To all my military friends out there, I highly recommend him.
Juan
Semper Fi
Read more
15 Oct, 2014 by Sarah
I have been very pleased w/the Kirkland atty firm. The entire staff is very helpful, courteous and understanding while maintaining a professional atmosphere. Mr Kirkland himself is very open and straight forward. He answers questions in a timely manner, explains when necessary, prepares in advance and is very thorough.
I have been working w/Mr. Kirkland and his office since 2011 as we walk thru a rather contentious divorce case. Both in his office and in the courtroom, Mr. Kirkland is attentive and efficient.
Read more
08 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Randy was my" GO TO GUY" during an incredibly difficult time. - Randy put in many hours putting together documents and providing me with updates along the way. Randy put me at ease with EVERY encounter. He is proficient with every aspect of his work and is very honest and will certainly do everything he can to help your case. I would recommend him to anyone in need of an attorney.
Read more
01 Dec, 2017 by Glenn
Mr. Rock provided exceptional service and legal counsel guiding me through a difficult process. He was with me every step of the way explaining my options, the ramifications of my decisions as well as advising me on what he thought was my best choice. His professionalism and expertise allowed me to have the best possible result after putting myself in a difficult situation. It was obvious after the first meeting that he would work for me to obtain a good result. I would highly recommend Mr. Rock if you have any legal difficulties
Read more
05 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr Rock promptly called us back after we send him an online message. He then graciously answered all of our questions. His knowledge of the subject matter was extensive and we are So appreciative of his consultation. It gave us the encouragement we need to face a possible day in court. Thank you So Much William!!!
Read more
20 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Kyle and John Paul have been a blessing to me and my family, their staff is always on top of their job and courteous. Could always count on seeing someone every week while I was locked up. Thank you guys!!
Read more
27 Feb, 2015 by Andy s
I will recommend this firm represented me on wud charges and worked very hard for me. You can always get ahold of someone and almost always got a call back that day. John Paul in the court room has a commanding presence well worth the money thanks rion rion and rion!!
Read more
29 Apr, 2008 by Anonymous
Mr. Rion and his law firm executed my 5-year divorce proceedings with the utmost of professionalism, expertise, fairness, and ethical conduct...with a bit of humor thrown in to take the edge off!
I would highly recommend the Rions (John H., Jon Paul, et.al.) as expert litigators. They are superb...like a full deck of cards...a class act(ion) suit! :)
Read more
22 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
Brice was very helpful in explaining the entire court process and he did a great job keeping me updated. I believe he worked very hard and got me the best outcome for my case. His reasonable pricing was also very helpful.
Read more
03 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
From my first visit to mr. Keller's office I felt welcome and assured that I would receive the best possible outcome of my case. Everything was handled professionally and I was satisfied with the high level of persistence and attention to detail my case required. I would definitely use Mr. Keller again and he is highly recommended.
Read more
07 Feb, 2013 by Bill
helped me through a DUI and did an excellent job for me
Read more
09 Feb, 2011 by Anonymous
did an excellent job on my divorce, thank you.
Read more
25 Sep, 2014 by Jessica
Mrs. Shannon worked with me on my divorce/separation. I am beyond grateful for her and her expertise. She really seemed to have my best interest at heart. I don't think I could have made it through this difficult time without her. Now that I have come out on the other side, I am more than happy with the way things played out. I would definitely recommend Attorney Shannon.
Read more
23 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
I've had the pleasure of working with Mrs. Shannon for over a year now. She is knowledgeable, professional and passionate. Her dedication, and expertise is remarkable. I believe she has truly made all the difference in my case. I highly recommend Attorney Heather Shannon.
Read more
12 Oct, 2017 by John
Has helped me with planing my estate. Also did estate planning for members of my family. Also handled my daughter's estate when she passed away recently.
Read more
26 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
Got shafted by a bad magistrate's ruling in Fairborn Municipal Court.
Attorney Mizzi wrote my objections to the Magistrate's decision and the judge overturned the conviction and acquitted me.
Would hire him again. He did a great job!
Read more
10 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
I was referred to Josh Carter by a friend who hired Mr. Carter plan his estate. I went with Mr. Carter based not only on my firend's satisfaction and referral, but also based on the fact I knew how much it would cost before meeting with him. Mr. Carter's fees are published on his web site, and he stuck to his fee and never billed me again....even though my case was complex and resulted in a contested trial. Additionally, Mr. Carter always returned my calls which was different from my previous lawyer. I would definitely recommend Mr. Carter for domestic relations cases.
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.
