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04 Oct, 2022 by Mackenzie mainwaring
The lady Sheri who answered the phone was one of the rudest people i’ve ever spoken with. Will never be calling again due to this lady. Very unprofessional with a huge attitude. Don’t get into the field of helping people if you can’t help people without being rude.
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12 Feb, 2021 by Tim woosley
Non Communicative. Very Un profesional. Not sure what they spend the retainer money on. No explanation
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31 Aug, 2020 by Sylvia washington
Jessica Rogers assisted me with my Fathers Estate, her knowledge, clarity and timely responses were so refreshing. I would highly recommend her for any Estate Law issues!
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12 Jul, 2022 by Leo
What an outstanding Criminal Lawyer Lindsay is and her Assistant Kim is awesome, they believe in your Constitutional Right; that you are innocent until proven guilty, they go the extra mile, and do all they can to prove you are innocent, no matter how long it takes. If you are in need of a Criminal Lawyer, in my opinion, "You will not find a better team to defend you, and I can almost guarantee an innocent verdict will be found. Thank Lindsay, and Thank you Kim, Amazing, Amazing job you did for me. GBU
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12 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Supportive, big energy small package. Thoughtful about expense and how she was handling my money. Very much appreciate her direction through custody.
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08 Nov, 2016 by Heather cranor
I was very impressed by her veracity and professionalism. Was always available whenever I called with questions. I would highly recommend her for any family law issues.
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09 Feb, 2019 by Kat
She touted herself as an expert in Domestic partner. This was before gay marriage was legal. It cost me $12,000 dollars. I had to declare bankrupt, I lost house Lost everything. I did get a nice bouquet of flowers for my 12 grand. If it's the same receptionist, she smells awful. Like a wet ashtray. Save your money, go call Saul. I will never forgive for what you did to me,Vanessa.
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20 Jun, 2012 by Ed
Ms. Crakes did a great job dividing my and my ex-wife's retirement funds after our divorce.
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25 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous
I hired Ms. Crakes to divide the retirement benefits that I was awarded in my divorce. I found her to be very knowledgeable. There were several different types of benefits to be divided, and she was able to answer my questions and explain the process in a way that I found easy to understand. She completed the work promptly and I felt that she looked out for my interests throughout.
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09 Apr, 2024 by Jeremy
Amanda has been nothing short of phenomenal, she’s guided thru the whole process and has been thorough at every step. Her guidance and advice has been advantageous to me in every aspect of my case
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18 May, 2022 by Anonymous
I first hired Amanda in 2017. The over all out come that first time was ok. Everyone was satisfied with the end results. I again hired her in 2021 and am so glad I did. Just like before I had a excellent experience with Amanda and all in her office. Things always were discussed thoroughly. Best and worst outcomes were always discussed so that I was able to make informed choices. Email and phone calls were always easy and I had no issues ever getting in touch or asking questions. Amanda and her staff always made sure I was prepped and ready for all court hearings. I would absolutely recommend Amanda again and again.
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17 Apr, 2022 by Christopher
I retained Amanda Husted’s services in 2019 for a custody/domestic partnership dissolution case that involved a tremendous amount of complexity and conflict. Amanda took an honest and focused approach to my case and was able to reduce the level of conflict and anxiety immediately. I never questioned Amanda’s advocacy for my daughter or the preservation of our relationship, nor did I ever see anything that would indicate she was driven primarily by financial gain versus doing what was in our best interest. Although Amanda did have a very busy calendar, she was always available for consultation during key decision points and critical phases of the case (such as plan negotiations and trial prep). I could not have been happier with Amanda’s services and still consult with her prior to moving forward with any decisions that could have future implications.
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06 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
I was barely 5 minutes into a free consultation, she was extremely rude and insensitive. First of all, any one who feels the need for a family law attorney - is already under immense stress. For her to be as rude, inconsiderate and blatantly insensitive - was absolutely uncalled for. Interrupting me, telling me to get over it. When I finally told her that I thought it was not going to work with her tone of voice and the way she spoke to me - then she agreed and was insulting me. I had to hang up the phone. It was pretty disgusting
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10 Oct, 2016 by Stacey
I retained Kathleen Mercer after a friend recommended her to me. And so glad I did. She has been my attorney for three years now! She worked hard long hours for me. She is an attorney who fights for what is right and doesn't give up if it gets tough. My case was very tedious and not at all easy. Kathleen worked with me, and not only represented me, but cared about the outcome and my family's future. She kept in good communication with me; often working late or within my schedule. She has a great ability to put into legal words how I felt, and fought for it, when I was unable to. I was explained to in detail every step of the way so that I would know what to expect. I recommend Kathleen as she is a very knowledgeable, experienced, and compassionate attorney.
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15 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
I used Ms. Mercer for an attempted divorce. She was unable to answer questions. Refused to discuss anything other than what she chose. When she didn't like what was happening in the case, (even though I had no control over it) she immediately withdrew from my case. Now I cannot get another lawyer because they are all too concerned about what mess she has created. I am in worse condition now than before I started. Still married, and no one will help me because of her. However, she was still paid in full!
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09 Aug, 2022 by Karen
Barry runs the clock and runs up your bill while getting little to nothing done. He took 10 hours including multiple emails and conversations when a simple email saying "we agree - do this" would have sufficed. He was given specific instructions but chose to do something completely different than what we asked.
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03 Mar, 2015 by Kai
Barry Davis helped me protect my rights after I was injured in an automobile accident. He provided educated and insightful legal counsel that empowered me to seek fair compensation for my injury. I highly recommend Barry Davis to any individual seeking legal representation for Personal Injury in Eugene, Oregon.
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11 Nov, 2014 by Daniel
Mr. Davis handled my case with expertise and wisdom. He communicated clearly and knew the law. He was always available to answer my questions and help me through the tough periods of my case. Mr. Davis is one of the best attorney's in the area and I did my homework. I read this last review and it sounds like someone who was told something they didn't like and had an ax to grind. Mr. Davis is absolutely knowledgeable and a superb litigator. I would recommend him highly.
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17 Feb, 2021 by Poppy
Failure to prosecute perjury and respect federal law that protects the rights of free speech and ................................................... ....
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11 Jun, 2013 by Alyson
She helped me go through the most difficult time in my life. I don't think that words can ever express my true gratitude towards her. She is absolutely amazing!!
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26 Jun, 2024 by Sarah vajgert
Jacy is a fantastic attorney and person. She was recommended by 5 other friends and colleguages in town. I knew after our first consultation she would put my mind at ease. Honestly my divorce was very challenging time in my life. She changed my tears to many times of laughter and loved her personality she had. Her knowledge runs deep in family law. What appreciate most was her availability if I had any questions. Hands down she is the best family law attorney in town! Highly recommend. And I would ignore any previous reviews on here.
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17 Dec, 2022 by Melinda lefevre
Corrupt law firm. They’re helping an angry, jealous woman keep a man’s children from him with no good reason. He is an honest, hard working man and is a great father and it’s disgusting that there are corrupt people who take money to hurt someone with their children. They absolutely do not have the children’s best interest at heart. I highly suggest you find a different firm if you value having fair and just treatment of your case.
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20 Jun, 2022 by Kari brown
The best of the best.
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24 Mar, 2020 by Joe
Both my wife and I like Mr Palmer, very personable, straight forward, friendly. Not afraid to tell you all about his accolades and then some, but that's okay, you want to know the attorney you have is worth his salt. Some of the meeting times we had seemed redundant, like, didn't we already cover this? In some ways, I felt after we left the appointment, he set his tablet aside and forgot most of what we went over times past even though he took copious notes. Our case was simple, not heated and hateful, we knew what we wanted for outcome and actually got less than where we started. His interrogation of the ex spouse was pitiful. We had gone over some talking points that he either forgot or decided at the last minute not to use, of course once the case starts, you can't say a thing and if you try to pass him a note he pushes it away. His knowledge of courtroom procedures and family law is really very good, we just didn't like his style and the judge in our case evidently didn't either. For us, the missed outcome didn't hurt us but we could think of other cases where it could be crucial. We will not recommend against him because, like I said, he knew his stuff. Maybe just not a good day for us. If you're looking for a bulldog attorney, then you might want to consider someone else, if your looking for a gentleman attorney, then that description is more in line with his style and personality. You can't have them both.
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24 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Quoted me $150/hr to take my case. Sent me an Email saying he worked ~3 hours to review my case then charged me almost $1500 to tell me he was not going to take the case based on information I gave him the first day in the consultation! This lawyer will take your money without providing any services whatsoever! Take your money elsewhere, there are plenty of lawyers who are not out to steal your money. James A Palmer should be disbarred!
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17 May, 2018 by Anonymous
Jim represented me in a child custody matter. He took my case when others were frighted off. He knew his stuff. I got the outcome I was seeking. I recommend him.
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28 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
My case was never a priority and it cost me greatly. I was charged every time I spoke to him or his secretary even when they would call me. Half the time his secretary wasn't available and was over worked so she didn't have the motivation to have things processed.
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04 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
His legal assistant will constantly call you which they charge when she does so. She would call almost daily if not several times in one day. Also Stacey will have you do the investigative things yet charge you. Just like we were to go though all the findings and note the discrepancies. Yet again we were charged. When questioned about billing told we were okay just showing where the money was going. When in fact we had a owing balance due. And their is no detail billing showing what was done. On several occasions things were to done and sent to the other attorney and had to get extensions as she had forgot to send it or to let us know about it. Did not do what said would be done. Don himself is very knowledgeable and straight to the point. But he really needs an assistant that knows what she is doing and can handle the documents she is responsible for and to have it done in a timely manner.
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13 Jun, 2009 by Anonymous
I came to Mr. Armstrong looking for a second opinion after some curious experiences with a different lawyer. He was a godsend. Far more helpful to me than the lawyer I had been paying. He is informed, honorable, smart, strong and reasonable in a crunch, and a good man. Working with him will spare you much unnecessary stress. Highly recommended!
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08 Dec, 2008 by Blake
Retained Douglas Haynes to represent me in my divorce. He was completely non-responsive. As the court date neared he did not take my calls or responde to voice mails or emails. I was not able to retain another attorney. I finally sent a certified letter requesting that he respond. I copied the court on that letter. He never contacted me. I went to the court date expecting to represent myself only to find him walking in and responding to the court as my case was called. I was shocked he was there but a little relieved that I had someone to represent me. It was then that I found out that he never informed me of a deposition that I was to attend. The court awarded my ex-wifes attorney a $1500 judgement against me for failing to appear. The judge also had me pay for the mediation ordered. Doug Haynes has cost me so much money from his lack of representation. I would recommend never seeking advice or service from him.
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What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You

A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.

Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.

When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?

Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:

  • Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
  • Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
  • Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
  • Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
  • Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
  • Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
  • Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.

Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.

What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?

A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:

  • Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
  • Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
  • Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
  • Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
  • Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
  • Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
  • Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.

How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?

Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:

  • Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
  • Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
  • Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.

The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.

How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:

  • Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
  • Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
  • Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
  • Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.

Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.

Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer

Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:

  1. What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
    Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption.
  2. How will you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved.
  3. What are the possible outcomes of my case?
    An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case.
  4. What is your approach to resolving disputes?
    Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals.
  5. How long do you expect my case to take?
    While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases.
  6. Who will be handling my case?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.

How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer

To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:

  • Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
  • Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
  • Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
  • Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
  • List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
  • Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
  • Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
  • Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.

Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.

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