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24 Oct, 2016 by Beth
Randy Golden was amazing in guiding me through a tough cross border divorce case. Not only was he supportive, he gave me choices and kept me informed and involved over a protracted 143 week case. When it came time for trial he was perfectly prepared, and presented with astounding elegance. I went in expecting the worst, and came out with so much more that I ever anticipated! I highly recommend Randy Golden!
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23 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
I wouldn't recommend. I was looking for an advocate in my legal separation case that was filed against me. He filed necessary paperwork, but he reacted negatively when I asked him specific questions, as if I was questioning his ability rather then me just trying to understand the whole process. After the retainer was spent and still had more work to do on a very simple case, I decided to represent myself.
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28 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr Randy Golden is the best lawyer I would recommend. I have two complicated cases with two ex husband Raymond Roth. And Mr Herman strong head like a maul donkey head. And my former lawyer Randy handle serious cases was difficult cases. And my former lawyer Mr Randy Golden won.
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31 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Allan has guided me through a divorce and continues to guide me through child-custody agreements. Allan gives you the facts: he does not overpromise or underpromise in terms of what can be accomplished with the court. He is highly skilled at understanding situations and people. I highly recommend Allan to be your divorce/child custody advocate... He is always working for you, and he understands your situation.
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11 Jan, 2023 by Dana
I purchased representation of this law firm of Alexander and Ewart when I was referred to Mr. Ewart's partner, Brooke Alexander for my son's custody case. Mr Ewart on several occasions made decisions against what was told of him to make, made comments to opposing attorney that was contrary to the demands of my son throwing him under the bus on numerous occasions. When he was called out for these bad decisions and indiscretions, he would say he messed up but would then, on each occasion charge fees to explain himself via emails. The final straw was when he was told that his partner, Brooke Alexander would be the only one acceptable to conduct and represent my son in mediation. He would not reply nor acknowledge this demand and was terminated. This firm still owes back fees advanced and kept in trust of approximately $1500.
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25 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
Our 16 yr old son got into trouble for theft. Turned out he committed 3 felonies. We were, of course, terrified with the prospects of the ramifications for our son. Upon recommendations we contacted Mike. He was immediately available to me on the phone, explained the process to me and was kind enough to ease my mind considerably. He spent a good 15 minutes with me on the phone although I my son was not even yet his client. I have not lost another night's sleep over it. Mike was always available to me. More often than not when I called and spoke to his Paralegal, Lisa, she would either put me through to him immediately or he would call me back promptly. He was available caring and extremely capable throughout the whole procedure. Thank God my son got out of it on Probation and community service, without a record and his future prospects not in ruins because of the stupid decisions of a teenager. You would be doing your child a great service by getting Mike on board with you. I will give him 5 stars only because they don't go up to 100
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08 Jun, 2011 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Liggett under the impression that I would have an attorney who could stand up to the antics of the aggressive and unreasonable attorney of my ex-spouse, and that he would pay attention to detail and keep me from harm. This was not the case. After convincing me to settle for a ridiculously high monthly maintenance payment and to give up a large portion of my retirement, Mr. Liggett didn't submit paperwork in a timely manner for a QDRO, after which my ex and her attorney filed frivolous, (in my view), contempt of court charges. After putting me off for months, and telling me that we're not in contempt, Mr. Liggett let the case go to court, where he finally suggested settling. When I questioned this, Mr. Liggett threatened to walk out on me during our meeting before the hearing. This behavior was unacceptable, especially since we could have settled months earlier and saved me time, angst, and money. In addition Mr. Liggett overlooked loopholes in my stipulation that left my name on the mortgage of the home awarded to my ex spouse. She failed to pay her mortgage and damaged my credit to the point that I can't qualify for a credit card. After calling him and emailing him several times over several weeks about rectifying this problem with no response, I ended our relationship. Mr. Liggett gave reason in his formal notice of withdrawal as my counsel that "Irreconcilable differences exist between petitioner and counsel." Had he simply called me to let me know what these differences are, I would have listened. Yet he chose not to do this, and I truly feel it was because he was intimidated by the ex's attorney. I can see where Mr. Liggett might be decent if the other side is reasonable. However, if your case is contentious and you need someone to really fight for you, I'd recommend going elsewhere.
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28 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Horrible representation. He did nothing for me. He waited to see what my ex offered and told me to acceot it all because it was all "standard". I had no way to know. I'd never been divorced before. I was married for 14 years and accepted maintenance for only 3 years, on his advice, because "it was standard". We never countered anything. He never tried! Later I learned that standard is at least half of the length of the marriage. I hadn't worked for the last 10 years of marriage because I was raising the kids and this short period of maintenance was impossible to ever dig out of.
Ironically, many years later I married someone who also used Dan Michaels as his divorce attorney when he divorced his first wife and his experience was the exact same. Dan never did anything, waited until the opposing side made an offer and just said "accept it all because it's standard". It wasn't at all. He's lazy, expensive and destructive.
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27 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
DId not advise me well and did not represent me in court well. Opposing side ate me alive. Imputed too high a wage to my support and left me with an impossible well of back support I may never dig out of. Still do not have shared custody of my kids. He never verified ex's salary, financials or claims of child care costs. Disastrous outcome for me.
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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:
-
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.
