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16 Dec, 2013 by Michael
I am thrilled to provide a reference for Attorney Murad Khan: Earlier this year, I contacted Mr. Khan to handle a breach of contract matter and I was very pleased with the results. Mr. Khan provided superior advice throughout the process and was able to help me resolve the issue without litigation. Mr. Khan is talented, sharp and has a firm grasp on how to get results for his clients.
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05 Dec, 2013 by Nathaniel
I am extremely satisfied with the quality of legal service provided by Murad Khan. Murad is a great attorney but in addition, he is an really nice guy who really cares about his clients. He offered insightful solutions to my business and legal problems. I found him to be pragmatic, honest and someone with highly-developed interpersonal skills (which really helped during intense negotiations).
Murad helped my business tactfully mediate a major dispute and successfully negotiate and execute the resulting contracts. In fact, my company had spent 8 months negotiating this deal and it was at risk of imploding. Luckily, Murad and his team were there to help advocate for us and bring us to a successful and fair resolution. I would definitely recommend Murad and his firm.
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19 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
Kenneth defended my husband and I when we did not have much money and worked with us. He had to handle a landlord who was quite intransigent and an attorney Maria Green, a government attorney who took the case personally. He fought for us and he negotiated a compromise. It was him was instrumental in getting the case resolved and not having us go to trial. I would recommend Kenneth any day.
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05 Jan, 2010 by Shenika
I hired Mr. Blackwell to handle several legal matters for me. His rates are fair and reasonable, and he handled my matters with professional expertise and got the results I wanted. He was also readily available whenever I called or need to make an appointment. I was very satisfied with his services.
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02 Feb, 2020 by Andrew
Zamani and Associates, including Amanda Sow, helped me with one of the most difficult things in my life, a child custody issue after I returned overseas. I think some lawyers were leery because it was international and had some complicated issues from strong cultural differences, overseas living complexity with many different countries, work conflict, attempts at restraining orders, diverse family relations and even psychological exams and home studies! I was facing a trial and an unknown chaos of what custody would look like in the midst of all of this. I was given an excellent attorney reference to them after struggling for weeks to find a good attorney. I also am myself an attorney. I read the reviews and was convinced, except they said “holistic,” which is normally is very positive. However, my friends and family recommended an “aggressive” attorney because of the difficulties I faced with my ex and inability to stop them.
Zamani and Associates and Amanda more than lived up to their reviews! I was explained my options clearly, which I thought were not possible. They recommended settlement immediate and indeed settled it quickly as they predicted. I went from a dreaded trial posture and an unlivable living arrangement with my children to obtaining an agreement with a livable arrangement without trial after settlement. What I liked best was their calm demeanor, attention to detail, attempts to follow the client’s wishes balanced with realism and courteous prompt responses from all in their office. I actually knew it was the right office when I first walked in and met their administrative assistant and other staff. Amanda was very supportive to my wife and when I was nervous at my hearings.
Amanda and her firm assist in relationship management, communications and helped me like no other in minimizing difficult interaction with my former partner at settlement meetings and according to my wishes. I valued their personal skills, contacts with other attorneys, and ability to work well with diverse family members. They were unphased by the international, cultural, complex procedural and family web. They always had a common “it can be solved” demeanor. With Zamani & Associates, I did not just engage strong legal minds, like Amanda's, but I gained well connected, skilled attorneys familiar with DC courts.
They are also effective as a firm on critical financial issues in my case. I previously experienced great time delays from other attorneys without receiving needed advice. The firm also handled billing professionally and reasonably. Their rates and billing process were clear, which was previously another big stressor. This really speaks to their integrity, ethical, and quality as a firm.
Amanda helped bring relief to my children and family, and even the opposing party appears to be happy. My experience shows how positive a “holistic” approach can be and how important it is for family in conflict. My family circumstances may never be totally easy, but the tools that Zamani & Associates gave me, including books on communication and brushoffs from their constructive attitude, really helped my me and my family.
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03 Nov, 2017 by John
Amanda helped us enormously in coming to a separation agreement that was beneficial for both of us and our kids. I was always impressed by her thoroughness and tact. I’d definitely recommend her to friends who wanted to do divorce mediation.
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20 Mar, 2016 by Amy
Mr. Long represented me when I was named as a Co-defendent in my ex-husbands mortgage foreclosure proceeding. I have been divorced for more than five years so this came as a surprise to me and it required a very quick turn around in the initial response. I am also living well outside of the region where this proceeding is occurring so it required that we handle everything electronically. Mr. Long quickly reviewed my case and very clearly outlined what I needed to do with specific time frames. Mr. Long provided much needed clarity and a sense of calm to an extremely stressful situation. Mr. Long was very sensitive to handling everything via secure electronic delivery which granted me more peace of mind. Mr. Long successfully achieved getting me dismissed from the case and I would highly recommend him for legal services.
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29 Mar, 2010 by Tonja
I used Mr. Long for a divorce/child custody case already in progress. He was well organized, informative, willing to listen and follow up on my questions and concerns. Mr. Long made a difficult situation understandable by patiently explaining my options. He was prompt getting back to me via email and phone. He welcomed any imput regarding my case and investigated all possibilities that I suggested. Mr. Long and his staff were personable and efficient. If you want a lawyer who is educated and willing to work with you, Mr. Olivier Denier Long is the best attorney for the case. I would definetly retain Mr. Long again if I had the need for an attorney.
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29 Jul, 2016 by Linda
Theresa is excellent. She made partner and has no qualms about doing everything in her power, the power of the laws to hide evidence, and has a vast resource of professionals that are paid well to create what ever appearance of the truth she feels will save you money, get the kids away from their mom to reduce child support or prevent someone from having the money for medical treatment. It depends on your needs but she is excellent at what she does.
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15 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
I had never consulted an attorney for any family law matter before I met Theresa Mihalik. A fellow lawyer spoke highly of her and her firm, which was a good start. Theresa is warm and personable, but most importantly, she knows her stuff. She was generous with her time during our initial consultation and answered all of my questions, even those that I felt stupid asking. She also asked all of the right questions, so that she understood my objectives and could craft an agreement that would protect my interests without creating conflict with the other side. Theresa assessed the work she would need to do for me and charged me a reasonable retainer, which was much less than I had expected to pay. Throughout the 2-3 weeks that it took to finalize an agreement, she kept me apprised of her schedule and responded promptly to all of my e-mails, even if she was in court on another matter. Based on my perspective as a lawyer and a client, I would recommend her to anyone needing family law representation.
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03 Oct, 2016 by Tataina
I hired Gregory for an immigration problem that was not common and where I could not get satisfactory answers from others. He explained to me exactly what he will do and I went for it. We obtained the 100% positive result. Thank you, Gregory, I am happy ))
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16 Sep, 2016 by Alex
I run a small company and I had a car export issue. Gregory successfully defended us against a major car manufacturer with deep pockets. The case seemed difficult and my expectations were quite low. But it ended up being a complete win!
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21 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
I contacted three lawyers for my case and he was the only one that sat down and actually talked about my case and reviewed the evidence I had. He sat down and went over the jury instructions with me and went over a convincing outline as to why the evidence didn't support the charges and how he would approach the case. He also gave a very thoughtful and appropriate prognosis of what may or may not possibly happen with my case. Didn't take him long to get my charges dismissed either, though had it not panned out that way I though he would do a good job if the case had gone to trial.
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06 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
I came to Will Mount to learn more about my legal options regarding a CPO. He not only explained the CPO and the process behind it, but he answered all of my questions as they came. As we decided to proceed with the CPO, he followed up on his own to make sure things were okay. I never doubted that Will was knowledgable, but having someone who genuinely cares made a rather unpleasant situation far less stressful.
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15 May, 2024 by Boonk gang67
12 Jan, 2019 by Ali javed
16 May, 2024 by Ace mama
29 Dec, 2016 by D.s.
She held our hand and that's fine, but we wanted immediate results. That wasn't the case at all. We had to go to court 3 times and each ended with us having no resolution. But 3rd times the charm. She recounted everything, I MEAN EVERYTHING, in the other two hearings and was able to get money back, damages, and made them pay her fees. It was down right majestic how she handled the jurors. She was on the ball and didn't let up. I ALMOST felt sorry for the other side.
She also handled getting the judgment which was another matter all together that we didn't know about. Again, she handled it with swag. We got a check from them trhough her in 2 months! I told other attorneys and they ask for her number.
She is a hero in my book.
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22 Mar, 2014 by Mary
I retained the services of Feldesman Tucker Leifer Fidell when I needed representation in my divorce proceedings. The dissolution of a long term marriage was very emotional and difficult, but Mary Pence put me back in charge of my life, and negotiated an excellent agreement and financial settlement.
I recently needed legal assistance in enforcing certain terms of my agreement and, once again, engaged the services of FTLF. Jonathan Dana and Mary McGuinness Saxon were in touch with me immediately, and over the next six months, did an outstanding job of resolving the issues. Phone calls and e-mails were responded to within twenty-four hours and I was kept fully informed of any and all actions taken on my behalf. My case, once again, had a totally satisfactory outcome
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07 Oct, 2013 by Anonymous
Although I had worked with five attorneys prior to working with Mr. Guiterman, I never had an advocate until I hired him. Mr. Guiterman is not only knowledgeable about family law, he is a no-nonsense aggressive attorney that will do everything he can to help you. He has the courage to tell you when you are not on the right side of an issue and the skill to find the opposition’s weakness. He comes prepared to litigate, if necessary, and to give you the strongest hand in negotiation. While other attorneys seemed to be concentrate in creating billable hours, he focused on helping me efficiently and effectively as possible. Frankly, I do not know what I would have done without his assistance. I highly recommend him for custody and father rights issues.
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24 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
Rebekah has counseled me in a complex, high-conflict custody case with dedication, professionalism, and consistently sound guidance. Her cool head under pressure and in crisis situations has been invaluable, as has her understanding of the dynamics of domestic violence. I have been impressed with the strength of her many advocacy skills -- in my case, Rebekah has been an efficient and clear drafter, a perceptive negotiator, and a thorough and tenacious litigator. The outcome has been successful in every court proceeding in which she has represented me, including a full trial. Rebekah is very responsive and is also accessible on a personal level. She brings to her practice a warmth that makes it easy to discuss with her family matters close to the heart. She has both a tremendous work ethic and a caring spirit. Highly recommended.
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20 Jan, 2020 by Jon
Lori is an excellent attorney. I live 4 hours away from DC and not familiar with the civil court system in DC. Lori guided me through a motion filed against me for a reasonable price and without having to travel. We communicated on the phone and email until the morning I had to appear in court. She was very quick to respond to all of my questions (and I had tons of questions). She was well prepared for court and had the motion dismissed at the hearing level. My case was dismissed early on and I am very confident in her. I would definitely hire again or recommend her.
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22 May, 2017 by Marcus johnson
20 Mar, 2010 by Linda
Very knowledgeable, highly intelligent and ethical, Mr. Hamrick has never failed to keep me informed. He doesn't shrink from taking on powerful adversaries when necessary and will go to the mat for you. Unlike other lawyers I've dealt with Mr. Hamrick will really go to work for you. He approached my case with confidence and passion.
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09 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Won the case in an expert way....brilliant lawyer. He was reliable, expert, honest, responsive to the problem.
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12 Oct, 2011 by Fletcher
I have work with several laywers in varied area's of the law. I can say so for the most part they were aveage as oppsed to one another in the way they handled their respective cases. Exlaining the deatails in short sight but really only having one train of thought as to how the case and the outcome would be.(Their way).Mr Buckner was cut from a different cloth in not only being able to have the have the legal mind to interperet the law but also being able to have the presiding jurist to take note and acknoweldge Mr Buckner's ability to lay out his case.Being a person who actually enjoys the whole law and litigation procedure I enjoyed watching Mr Buckner work. If the need ever arises where I need such services again I would not hesitate to use and recomend whole heartly. Winning doesn't hurt either. Watch this guy he is DEFINATELY going places.
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27 Feb, 2013 by Cathy
Kala drafted legal documents and helped us to resolve a complex legal issue and avoid litigation. She was knowledgable about trust, tax, estate, health care and other issues and very client focused and goal oriented. We highly recommend her.
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30 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
THIS MAN HAS SAVED MY TAIL MANY OF TIMES. EVEN WHEN I THINK MY GOOSE IS COOKED HE ALWAYS FINDS A WAY TO GET ME THE BEST DEAL. SOMETIMES I AM LEFT FOR WORDS ON HOW GOOD HE IS.
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13 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Wendy SCHWARTZ is an excellent attorney. She is kind, compassionate and extremely knowledgeable. Her expertise won my case and positively changed the direction of my life and the lives of my family forever. Her staff is professional and her office is warm and inviting. If you are looking for a no nonsense, empathetic well respected attorney look no further than Ms. SCHWARTZ. Wendy also has a team of other attorneys that are in her firm and I found them all smart and compassionate. Paula Shapiro in particular was found to be invaluable and is not only extremely efficient but Is extremely kind and compassionate. Even the business manager Emani was always understanding and helpful when I needed extensions on payment. I would never want to go through another tumultuous divorce again but if I did I would never have anyone except Wendy H SCHWARTZ and associates represent me.
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10 Feb, 2019 by Mark
FMBK is an outstanding firm for family law. I wanted to change counsel heading into my Trial Setting Conference for a Move Away case, because I needed someone who would challenge the Evaluator’s Recommendation. He called me back and referred me to Taylor Wallin. She shared her strategy and executed the game plan to perfection.
Taylor’s team includes Cierra Vaughn (2nd Chair) and Vanessa (legal assistant). Taylor and Cierra have outstanding bedside manners – compassionate, ethical, good listeners, humble, and not egomaniacs. Simply put, they are “good people!!!”
Cierra was patient by putting things into layman’s terms and did much of the heavy lifting to ensure they were prepared for each critical step.
Taylor successfully got me more time with my children on a temporary basis. She even helped me be a better parent. Taylor effectively connected the dots during deposition of Evaluator, who admitted he made a mistake with this recommendation. Her previous trial experience (including being in front of my judge couple of times beforehand) enabled her to play chess while opposing counsel played checkers. I appreciated Taylor leaned on her mentor for advice at one point. I have a new appreciation with the need for attorneys to pivot as trial unfolds and really think on one’s feet. As you do your due diligence to find the right attorney for your situation, you need to at least meet with Taylor and Cierra. They are Rock Stars!
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12 Apr, 2016 by Russ
I retained Mr. Anders to review a prenup agreement between my fiance and I. He was very knowledgeable and professional throughout the entire process. Gave me thoughtful and pertinent advice in a way that I could understand and relate to. Would definitely recommend!
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19 Jul, 2015 by Fatima
Recomiendo a Karen, hace 10 años llevó mi caso y lo hizo de manera extraordinaria. En unos días espero ir a USA y será gracias a ella que puso todo su esfuerzo.
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18 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
If you need a strong, competent, confident, knowledgeable, well respected, winning lawyer...this is the one. A little pricey but pricing is on par with his experience and his peers. Very economical and effective with his use of time so fees are kept as reasonable as possible. Our use was for family law where he has had great input and impact in the District of Columbia. I understand that he practices several other areas of law (like tax and criminal, and more); I cannot imagine that he would be any less effective with those than he is with this.
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07 Nov, 2013 by Stephen
Many moons ago, while still in the throes of a virulent addiction to cocaine, and on parole, I was charged
with possession of the same. Even though I had volunteered the illicit substance to the policeman,
Abraham Blitzer urged and counselled me to take it to trial. After prosecutorial continuances, on the day of trial I noticed that my name appeared twice on the court docket. When the Judge called my case,
the prosecutor pulled the other Stephen Palmer's file out of the basket. She requested yet another continuance. My lawyer, Abraham Blitzer, jumped from his seat and objected with: "Your Honor,
move to dismiss for lack of prosecution!" The Judge said: "Case dismissed", and pounded his gavel.
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17 Jun, 2019 by William
Working with Mr. Stein has been an amazing experience! I hired him to represent my family in a very contentious child custody case and he met EVERY one of my expectations. His thoroughness and professionalism are unmatched in the court room and his experience with the legal system are always on display! I would highly recommend Mr. Stein to ANYONE with legal matters that seem too tough to tackle. He’s very thoughtful and deliberate in explaining legal matters which will instill confidence and calmness in any client he represent. I can not thank Mr. Stein enough for all that he has done for my family and myself.
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25 Mar, 2023 by Amaiya drew
Warner is a great lawyer! So professional and passionate about his job!!
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02 Aug, 2019 by Hector torres
I am working with WMC offices in Waahington D.C. - Fort Lauderdale, Florida and Puerto Rico. My exoerience is they consistently proved Professional and very knowledgeable best in class attorneys.
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06 Aug, 2018 by Joyce andersen
After being underpaid by insurance for my 'Sandy' claim, and after facing one brick wall after another (even after fraudulent activity was uncovered within FEMA and ins. companies), I turned over my concerns to these knowledgeable and persistent attorneys. Success!! The whole team was understanding, encouraging, and unrelenting in their efforts to help me. I can now complete my repairs.
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23 May, 2024 by Sandra gebhardt
Leah is extremely knowledgeable, open-minded, and an effective communicator. From start to finish, I never questioned that I had the best possible representation in my cross-jurisdictional child support case.
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11 Aug, 2023 by Diana maria serna peralta
Excelente firma de abogados. Me vi en la necesidad de interponer un caso ante la corte de la Florida por la retención ilegal de mi hija por parte de su padre en los Estados Unidos, no conocía a nadie en Estados Unidos, no tenia Visa para ingresar a los Estados Unidos, no hablo ingles, y tuve la fortuna de conocer a mi abogada Leah Ramirez y a Helen Mercedes, quienes desde un inicio me explicaron todo el proceso, tuvieron empatía ante una situación tan desesperante, gestionaron todo oportunamente, y ahora tengo la fortuna de tener a mi hija de nuevo en mi casa en Colombia... Todas las personas que se vean en esta horrible situación, pueden confiar en el profesionalismo y el acompañamiento de estas mujeres.
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25 Jul, 2023 by Shirley spivey-scott
The team at Markham Law Group represented a professional, warm and supportive environment. Their legal expertise and strategic vision helped me overcome a contentious divorce. The turned the tide for me to get a substantial settlement. An all female team was incredibly successful. I would highly recommend them to anyone who is going through a divorce.
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23 May, 2024 by Sandra gebhardt
Leah is extremely knowledgeable, open-minded, and an effective communicator. From start to finish, I never questioned that I had the best possible representation in my cross-jurisdictional child support case.
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11 Aug, 2023 by Diana maria serna peralta
Excelente firma de abogados. Me vi en la necesidad de interponer un caso ante la corte de la Florida por la retención ilegal de mi hija por parte de su padre en los Estados Unidos, no conocía a nadie en Estados Unidos, no tenia Visa para ingresar a los Estados Unidos, no hablo ingles, y tuve la fortuna de conocer a mi abogada Leah Ramirez y a Helen Mercedes, quienes desde un inicio me explicaron todo el proceso, tuvieron empatía ante una situación tan desesperante, gestionaron todo oportunamente, y ahora tengo la fortuna de tener a mi hija de nuevo en mi casa en Colombia... Todas las personas que se vean en esta horrible situación, pueden confiar en el profesionalismo y el acompañamiento de estas mujeres.
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25 Jul, 2023 by Shirley spivey-scott
The team at Markham Law Group represented a professional, warm and supportive environment. Their legal expertise and strategic vision helped me overcome a contentious divorce. The turned the tide for me to get a substantial settlement. An all female team was incredibly successful. I would highly recommend them to anyone who is going through a divorce.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
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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.
