Filter by

star star star star star
02 Aug, 2018 by Kevin
Extremely competent lawyer who knows the legal system very well. I hired Anne for a family law case that took a sharp turn into dependency court. For those of you who do not know, dependency court is grueling, complicated, and requires someone with poise, confidence, as well as, physical and emotional stamina. Anne went over and above the necessary lawyer/client relationship. Anne was my lawyer, but most importantly my rock during this difficult climb. I would not wish fighting for your child in dependency on anyone, but if you do, Anne is the one you want on your side. Anne has become my dear friend, and indoctrinated into our family. I do not know where I would be without Anne Alper.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
10 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Ms. Anne V Alper has mishandled my case from the beginning. I have documentation from the signing her contract to every back and forth email consisting of her excuses. She focuses on doing the right thing for her clients, as she claims, but Point and fact, she does not. As Jackie posted her dealings with Ms. Alper, I must do the same as this is horrible that a lawyer can repeatedly take advantage of clients. It is unfair immoral, and this repeated activity from a lawyer needs to be evaluated accordingly.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
17 Apr, 2017 by Jackie
Anne appeared to be knowledgeable in child custody cases and appeared to be concerned about my issues and need to get things moving in a timely manner. I paid a 4,000.00 retainer and got absolutely NOTHING accomplished: no custody agreement signed; Anne did not respond the the other parties last submission and as a result I am in default; when I brought this to her attention she filed a motion but it was too late. I lost $4000.00 and Anne was indifferent at best. Buyer beware. I have all documentation to substantiate these allegations so feel free to email me if you would like the details I would hate for anybody to go thru what I Went. I had to hire another attorney to start from fresh.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
28 Dec, 2023 by Roberto
I honestly was very disappointed with this experience. On the time we worked, she was very distracted with various cases, returning very disoriented, forgetting things we already discussed and not really focus on my case but charging premium money. She missed a few deadlines, made several mistakes on simple paperwork and charge for work that she did not do. At the end, she refused to give the documents that she created for me, really bad lawyer, but karma is there for all of us, so all the best Lisa.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
25 Jun, 2018 by Luis
I was very happy with the services provided to me. I would recommend anyone to hire her
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
29 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
We spoke to him many times, fully paid. Once he made a mistake, we paid again. By the end there was happy ending. Two years later asked him a legal question, he ignored us...
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
05 May, 2011 by Jose
Mr. Orlando genuinely cared about my case. He is honest, professional, and kept me informed with an update almost every day! He was very efficient and expedited my case very quickly!!!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
27 Apr, 2023 by Richard
She obviously doesn’t need any new clients. I left a phone message 10 days ago. No return call. I left a message on her web site 2 days ago. No return message.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
03 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
I needed help to clear up an old issue in South Florida, and I needed help. Because of the pending charges in Florida I was trapped in a dead-end job, making not enough money to pay attention. I actually made a list of the top appearing lawyers on AVVO, and Google, and spent 3 days off (over three weeks) to try and find help. In telling of my frustration and wasted days, I was referred to Norliza Batts by a family member. She called me back the same day, we discussed the case, and was much less expensive than the few lawyers that had called back. I Sent in my retainer the same day, and suddenly things started happening, Good things. The Norliza Batts Firm began researching my case immediately, had to go to Court multiple times to assume my case as the original lawyer was no longer practicing. Because of Ms. Batts experience, she was able to navigate the prosecutors, Judges, and legal defenses that applied. Norliza, personally attended to my pleadings and proceedings and resolved my case, her personal attention to the matter was the only thing that got things DONE. She personally picked me up from the airport, and we discussed the case and drove to court. I consider her the most valuable business connection I have made in years, and am currently using her firm for corporate affairs. You will not find a lawyer ore skilled in the intricacies, and personalities of the Broward county justice system. I cannot recommend her strongly enough. I am posting this review anonymously, to move on with my life, BUT I am writing this review in the hopes to pay it forward and save you the aggravation I went through elsewhere.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
19 Oct, 2022 by Claudia a.
I hired Chris W. Rumbold seven months into my divorce, as little had been accomplished by my previous attorney, which made me frustrated and scared. Chris turned my case around and delivered my divorce in only four months. I am so grateful to Chris for his professionalism, legal acumen, and empathy. Chris and his legal assistant Yami genuinely care for their clients. I will forever be grateful to Chris for helping me through one of the toughest times of my life. His staff, Yami and Kim, are professional, helpful, and always available to answer any questions I had. Chris took time to explain the caselaw to me, so that I could make informed decisions. His calm and friendly demeanor always helped reduce stress before a hearing. He is always prepared in court and went the extra mile to deliver the results I hoped for. I wholeheartedly recommend Chris W. Rumbold and his office.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
24 Oct, 2020 by Michael
I hired Mr. Rumbold to represent me for post-divorce actions. After completing the first hearing, he dragged his feet and delayed, avoiding brining any other issues to a hearing for two years until I switched attorneys. He was very rude at times and was more focused on the billing than on moving my issues forward.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
11 Jan, 2024 by Michael
Warning! Do not hire this biker Gabriel Carrera as your personal attorney, The worst. incompetent and disgusting human being.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
03 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
I can't believe how efficient he was. Mr. Carrera was able to resolve my case better than I initially hoped for. I felt helpless until I hired him, then I knew everything was going to be ok. If you need a lawyer, he's your guy!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
19 Jul, 2022 by Rich
Best Attorney in the world !! Hands down I've worked with many attorneys in the past and Tony is incredible. If you need to hire the the absolute Best Divorce attorney, look no further he will answer all your questions and take Very good care of you. He is a Real fighter for your needs and wants.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
27 May, 2022 by Tom
I highly recommend using this attorney. he handled my divorce and got me 50% timesharing, no alimony and next to nothing in child support. This guy is a bulldog in the Courtroom. He is a little pricey but worth it. If you want a good attorney that is going to fight for you then its obviously going to cost a little more then other attorneys. My divorce took two years, seemed to drag out but that is because my ex's attorney kept filing Motion for Extension of Times, canceled hearings and canceled the mediation twice but I am extremely happy and highly recommend using him.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
19 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Tony after I was screwed over by my last attorney. Tony stepped in right away and got me timesharing with my kids, lowered my child support and put my ex's attorney in his place. My ex's attorney had me believing that I was not entitled to 50/50 and I had to pay an outrageous amount in child support. Immediately, the child support was lowered to what it should have been, and my ex had to pay me back the overpayments. I also got immediately make-up timesharing. My life has been changed. My kids are happier they have their Dad back. I am finally seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. I see all these bad reviews but I don't understand it. I paid him every penny, and he was worth more. I never had a problem and will continue to refer him to anyone. He is worth it. He and his assistant are very professional and were always there for whatever I needed it.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
20 Feb, 2024 by Tania
THE LAWYER CALLED ME IMMEDIATELY AFTER REQUESTING INFORMATION AND PRICES ABOUT MY DIVORCE AND BEING IN THE BEGINNING OF THE PROCESS AND PETITION FOR CUSTODY OF MY 2 CHILDREN. HE SECURED ME A FINALIZED DIVORCE AND CUSTODY OF MY CHILDREN FOR $2,500. KEEP IN MIND THAT THE FATHER OF MY CHILDREN AT THAT TIME TOOK ME OUT OF CONTACT WITH THEM BY NOT COMPLYING WITH THE MUTUAL AGREEMENT OF VISITING THEM OVER THE WEEKEND. I DECIDED TO PAY HIM THE FULL 2500 THE SAME DAY AND HE NEVER TOLD ME THAT HE WAS GOING TO ASK ME FOR MORE MONEY THAN 3 MONTHS LATER WITH 2 COURT APPOINTMENTS VIA ZOOM HE REPRESENTED ME WITH VERY LITTLE KNOWLEDGE OF MY CASE AND WAS INSULTED BY THE JUDGE BY TELLING HIM THAT THE LAWS HAVE CHANGED.THE LAWYER DIDN'T SOLVE AFTER THAT HE JUST DEMANDED MORE MONEY FROM ME AND SUCKED ME AWAY FROM MY CASE AND LEFT EVERYTHING AS WHEN HE STARTED IT AND I REFUSED TO PAY HIM 2000 MORE. HE DIDN'T RESOLVE OR PROCESS ON THE CONTRARY 7 MONTHS LATER AND STILL MY DIVORCE IS IN PROCESS AND I HAD HIM FIRED FOR REASONS THAT HE IS ONLY INTERESTED IN COLLECTING MONEY AND WITHOUT ANY RESULTS NOR COMPLETE PROCESS. I AGREE TO A FEE AND PAID IN FULL FOR THAT SERVICES THAT WAS A SCAMMED.HE IS A SCAMMER SINCE HE GOT ME ENGAGED IN DIVORCE AND CUSTODY AND WHEN I DIDN'T RECEIVE ANY MORE MONEY HE HINDERED ME WITH GETTING OUT OF MY CASE. IN THE END I LEFT MY CASE HALFWAY THROUGH WITHOUT A SOLUTION AND THE SECRETARY VALERIA WAS VERY RUDE TO THE SENSE THAT SHE DID NOT EVEN WANT TO PASS ME THE MESSAGES FOR THE REASON THAT I REFUSED TO PAY MORE THAN WHAT WAS INITIALLY AGREED AND PAID.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
23 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Enfield to handle my Divorce matter. I was divorced in 2 months!!! He answered all my questions and made my divorce smooth.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
08 Sep, 2012 by Anonymous
Asked for a retainer, never responded my call, his assistance, hazel, is not professional at all. Makes mistakes on your documents and tells you to fix it by correcting her mistakes with whiteout. It's been more than a month and they still have not file anything with the courts.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
12 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
She was disengaged in my case, in my opinion. She didn’t respond to my emails in a timely manner, and on several occasions, when she did reply, she didn’t even answer the question I had asked. But quickly charged me for reading the original and subsequent emails, as well as her response. She had inaccuracies in the two filings she did for me- which cost me real money. Poor communication skills, and a lack of attention to detail are what comes to mind, when I think of this law office. I deeply regret hiring this lawyer.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
16 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
My experience with this lawyer is that she is not proactive or helpful, communicates poorly (and frankly seems to avoid communication whenever possible), and at times, she did not even seem to be up to speed on my case. She added little to no value to my case and I would not recommend her.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
27 Oct, 2015 by Angelo
Roselli was referred by my Lawyer Bruce warner, who was suspended during my case.She was briefed by Warner and went to court for 10 minutes. I was fighting relocation of my Son.After the hearing she didn't call! I had to call her. It was thrown back to the last judge and my Son's mother had already left for Colorado.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
20 Jul, 2023 by Eric
I wound up with Nathan by a fluke from the Kenny Leah Office. I was being represented, poorly, by a Christina Valencia initially. This was during Covid so everything was virtual. The one thing that was not explained was that Christiana was pregnant when she took on my case, and in the middle, as fate would have it she had the baby. Would have been nice to know, but no one said anything. Then the next day the substitution was made with Nathan Kohley. He was found to be very un responsive with questions. Very quick to bill for services that could not be verified. The entire experience with him as well as the over all law firm was awful. After spending $17,000 it was time to jump off a sinking ship. Maybe Kenny has employed new attorneys that have a better sense for family law now, but I wouldn't bet on it. I do believe both of these attorneys no longer practice family law and are now part of Universal Property & Casualty. Perhaps they found something they can do, because it sure wasn't family law. Also for the record Kenny Leah's practice states that they represent only men. This is absolutely not true.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
06 Jun, 2020 by Chris sanges
He was not aggressive and was extremely expensive. I felt like he did a poor job representing me and did not look out for my best interest. I had to fire him and change lawyers.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
01 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
Jonathan represented me during the first stages of my divorce. He was quick in charging, not very willing to comunicate and quickly decided to let me go as soon as things went a bit difficult. He missed to have me fill a Financial Affidavit! to start the proceeding (divorce 101). I paid him because of my respect for his father, not because I was satisfied with the service.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
22 Nov, 2011 by Anonymous
As a defense Attorney the objective is to defend your client. This man failed to provide a defense at all for me. He seemed fearful of the prosecuter and reluctant to argue facts. He did not provide me with the evidence against me. It was impossible to reach him and when I would receive a response, it was through email. He is ultimately a coward in the court room. He should have stuck to what he knows best, collecting money!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
04 Sep, 2019 by Mario
Paid retainer and hired lawyer. Used lawyer's services for a few months, but was not happy, due to her lack of skills and knowledge within the family court system.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
09 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
I don't normally post negative remarks or reviews but this one stayed with me. On the recommendation of a friend I went to see Mr. Reinstein regarding a business issue a few months ago. Although, I knew there would be a charge for the initial consultation (most attorney's don't charge for this) I felt offended. Thinking that was the norm, I gave him the benefit of the doubt and went to see him. He offered no real options and was rather negative about my situation. I felt ripped off. Luckily I subsequently found and worked with a wonderful attorney. The moral of the story is you should consult an attorney for free and walk away feeling empowered about what they can do for you.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
02 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Stay away from this woman! She only cares about her retainer fee. I hired her for a very serious matter. I temporarily lost custody of my 3 year old son, and was only given a 5 min phone call per day. I was supposed to have another hearing in 30 days which Hollis never bothered to set up. I asked for supervised visitation, and again Hollis did nothing. I really did not speak to Hollis very much. I mainly spoke to her paralegal Donna who was rude and made me feel like I was bothering her. I did not feel that Hollis gave me any direction, or really cared if I got custody of my son. My family said we were going nowhere with Hollis, and we fired her. My new attorney is excellent. He got me an emergency hearing and I was able to get visitation, and I am confident I will get custody back. Hollis was useless, and a waste of money. Do not use her.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
02 Oct, 2024 by Amber
I had an extremely disappointing experience with this law office. Over the course of 8 months, there was no clear strategy or meaningful advice provided by the attorney. It felt like my case was being dragged on unnecessarily, with no real effort to reach a settlement or move things forward. Instead of receiving proactive legal guidance, the case seemed to be left to 'go with the flow,' which left me feeling misrepresented and frustrated. I would not recommend this office to anyone seeking effective family law representation.
Read more Avvo
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You

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

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

When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?

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

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

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

What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?

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

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

How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?

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

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

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

How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?

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

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

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

Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer

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

  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.

Scroll to top