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29 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
Phillip and his team helped me through a long and treacherous divorce. His advice was solid. He did an excellent job preparing me for deposition and court and was an excellent lawyer! He listened to me the entire time & even read my scribbles quickly in court when my spouse was lying and was able to quickly point to evidence that my spouse was not being honest!
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17 Apr, 2018 by Dave
Tenacious, I think that’s the best way to describe Phil Cronan. I am not educated in law, I ask more questions than I should and I’m very reactionary. That said I can’t thank Phil and his team enough for putting out the fire that became my life. I would recommend them to anyone who needs help in family law. Phil took the time to make sure I was informed and explained every step so we could reach the best possible outcome. Thanks again
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17 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr. Cronan and his team have been my representation through a lengthy divorce and custody battle and have been nothing but superior. Philip is outstanding in the courtroom yet has been compassionate to me as a mother during these difficult times. The whole staff's attention to detail and concern for my family's well being during challenging litigation have been like no other. I am grateful for their knowledge and expertise and continually refer family and friends to the firm.
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11 Jul, 2016 by David
I hired Ms. Maumenee in a MD real estate transfer matter. She was timely, accurate, a pleasure to deal with and I could not have been more pleased. I would use her services again if I ever have a matter in her jurisdiction.
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14 Mar, 2016 by Dave
By profession, I am a lawyer though not practicing. I hired Elizabeth to represent me in an unusual and difficult real estate and domestic matter. She exceeded all expectations. Her expertise was exceed by her wisdom...well maybe the other way around.
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02 Nov, 2009 by Rebecca
Ms. Whiting is a child advocate and puts her heart and soul into her clients. She represented my children during a nasty divorce case several years ago. The thing that I respected the most is her complete and utter honesty, even when it wasn't what I always wanted to hear. She listens to both sides (parents) , however, she puts the childrens needs first.
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15 Jun, 2019 by Karen
I have had Mr. Hollis as my attorney in the past for my daughter and myself. Recently, I had need of his services again, just for me. My case had been dragging on for over a year and a half. Going back to Mr. Hollis, even though I had moved off the Shore, was the best choice I made. He managed to do in a few hours what several lawyers on the Western Shore were not able to do in over a year and a half.
He listens to his clients and does everything he can to bring about a fast resolution. His knowledge of the Maryland courts is thorough, his care of his clients is always first on his mind. You could not ask for a better attorney.
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07 Sep, 2023 by Caleb perkins
06 May, 2017 by Ian scott-taylor
Elizabeth help surcure an amicable and successful conclusion to the issue. She is professional and walks you through every step of the process. Worth a phone call and visit.
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07 Sep, 2023 by Caleb perkins
06 May, 2017 by Ian scott-taylor
Elizabeth help surcure an amicable and successful conclusion to the issue. She is professional and walks you through every step of the process. Worth a phone call and visit.
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07 Sep, 2023 by Caleb perkins
06 May, 2017 by Ian scott-taylor
Elizabeth help surcure an amicable and successful conclusion to the issue. She is professional and walks you through every step of the process. Worth a phone call and visit.
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24 Oct, 2023 by Kelsey broadway
22 Jun, 2023 by Nicole
I would 100% reccomend Ryan as an attorney. I came to him with a custody case that I thought was impossible. He went through each step with me, calm cool and collected. He answered every phone call and email in a timely matter and does not look to take advantage or over charge. Ryan is very knowledgeable and straight forward when it comes to the law. I thank him for all of his help.
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11 Dec, 2022 by Lisa boog
Very nice and very helpful! Recommend to any one!
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27 Sep, 2022 by Jasmin méndez
👍
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11 Jul, 2020 by Elena vidal
Once again Mr. Gras has provided me with expert guidance in tricky situations. I highly recommend his legal counsel in family and business matters. Beautiful office in downtown Easton, gracious surroundings and decorum.
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14 Mar, 2018 by Kedrian hazell
01 Mar, 2024 by Joan knoepfle
Wonderful people. Helpful and efficient. Love Dawn.
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08 Feb, 2024 by Carrie s.
David Baines Esquire, is a liar, a thief, a misogynist. Expect him to waste your time.
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26 Oct, 2023 by Frank gunsallus
21 Apr, 2020 by Nicholas tindall
On several occasions Chris has made time during the week, often on short notice, to meet and discuss an important issue I had going on. He is a great listener, able to look at all sides of an issue, and offer an intelligent, logical course of action. His expertise over the years has been invaluable in navigating each situation that has arisen.
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11 Sep, 2018 by Leslie westbrook
Inadequately prepared for my court hearing. Gave incorrect facts about my case to the Judge! Did not prepare me as an experienced lawyer in this field should have. I cannot recumbent. This is a lawyer-centric firm, not client-centric. I felt unheard and diminished.
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09 Apr, 2024 by Elizabeth
Estate Planning with Tim Oursler.
He really helped make the process fairly easy.
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17 Apr, 2023 by Bob tenanty
The firm was highly recommended to represent me in my divorce. My case must have been too small. In the 30 days they represented me the first outgoing letter to the opposing counsel was sent to my son’s email address. He called me and asked if I had gotten it and of course I had not. A second communication to the opposing counsel on March 23, 2023 was copied to a misspelled email address so I did not receive it. I was informed of this email on April 6, 2023 when my attorney returned my March 31, 2023 phone call and April 3, 2023 email. I could not believe that it took two weeks to find out about this misdirected email and terminated their services at the end of the phone call. Three hours later the attorney forwarded a copy of her March 23, 2023 email to my correct email to show me that she had sent me a copy on March 23. The March 23 email showed my misspelled email. I emailed my attorney back pointing out the errant email and heard nothing back until March 12 in an email to my correct email address sending the termination letter and final billing and a copy of the check for the remaining balance left of my retainer. Only one problem with the termination letter and check. ..the mailing address had the incorrect street name. Extremely unprofessional and in the end made no progress toward finalizing my divorce at a cost of over $3,700.
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22 Dec, 2022 by Jon janney
Showalter was recommended to me and I hired him in August 2022 to expedite the approvals to begin construction on my home on the Eastern shore. After the initial consultation where he sounded very confident that he could help me, it was next to impossible to get in touch with him. It was to the point that I was calling the office on a daily basis to try to speak with him. On the rare occasions that he did get back to me, he'd say he was working on everything and would be going to the next county meeting to get approvals. After each meeting, I'd check in to see the progress and each time he'd say he missed the meeting and would go to the next one. Finally, I called the county who said nothing had ever been submitted by him and no meetings were set up. I even offered him to drop the case if he was too busy to which he said he could handle it. After four months of being strung along with absolutely no progress, I found a new lawyer who has done more in the two weeks I've been with him.
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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:
-
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.
