Lawyers map
>29
experienced lawyers
Filter by
15 Aug, 2024 by Daniel hillyer
Cary Dohman is the man. He took care of me, I received the best outcome I could have asked for, and he’s just a great guy. Highly recommend.
Read more
23 Jul, 2024 by Gabriella eve
I had an absolutely amazing experience working with the Dohman Law Firm! The lawyers are attentive, provide great communication, and work above and beyond to ensure the best possible outcome for your case. 10/10 would recommend for anyone in need of legal counsel.
Read more
23 Jul, 2024 by Kolby stutzman
Mr. Dohman has been a great attorney! I have had a very rough time in life lately because life is life and not all blue skies. He was there for me, understanding, patient, and he still stuck with me through my court case! I received the best deal for my case and my circumstances. If you are looking for an attorney, I strongly recommend Mr. Carey Dohman! He has reasonable prices, and he will do everything he can to work with you. Thank you Carey, for all you have done for me, you have been a blessing!
Read more
31 May, 2024 by Anonymous
I was privileged to have received help from Anthony regarding my high conflict divorce case. Who we select to guide and represent us is a critical decision. Luckily Anthony was referred to me and I will always be grateful for his support and assistance. He returned my calls quickly and on time. Once on the call he asks key questions to get to the bottom of your issue and quickly gives you the bottom line. This guidance moves your case along and I appreciated his integrity and honesty. He is very familiar with the DuPage court system and consistently has his finger on the pulse which helps the client navigate the difficult, confusing process. He is a wonderful, ethical family man and he will be a solid choice and advocate/partner for you. Look no further, the outcome of my case was enhanced due to his knowledge and skillset. You will maximize your results for sure.
Read more
05 Oct, 2023 by Matt
I recently finalized my divorce and hired Anthony Giudice very early on in the process and I was sure happy that I did. Anthony made a very difficult and confusing time and process so much easier to handle and really took the time to understand my situation and come up with a plan that worked for me. Anthony was extremely responsive to all of my requests and would make sure that I fully understood my situation each step of the process. Anthony always took the time to answer all my questions and made sure I was prepared for each step of the process. All i have are good things to say about Anthony and his team!
Read more
09 Aug, 2021 by Darren
Anthony is the best attorney I have ever had to work with. I was in a horrible custody situation. I called Goosetree Law. Was told to talk to him. He is huge for Father's Rights. He will lead you in the direction that you want as long you Tell the truth and listen ! He always told me the truth. He always made me feel like everything was OK. He was always quick to answer questions and tell me what's going on. If you want the BEST. Your one phone call away. The whole firm as a whole work together so well. They are all so great and easy to work with. They will all there for all your needs.
Read more
29 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
Earl was not only knowledgeable, but straightforward and compassionate about my situation.
I felt respected and treated like a human, instead of a criminal for a horrible mistake I made.
He kept informing me every step of the way until my case was completed.
He was always responsive to my correspondence and positive throughout.
Considering the situation, I could not have asked for better support!
Thank you so much, Earl, and God Bless!!
Read more
09 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
I was very satisfied with my experience with Earl. He was very helpful throughout my legal process and was able to help me get the best possible outcome. Highly recommend.
Read more
17 Aug, 2021 by Jim
Once again I found myself in a difficult situation in which I needed legal assistance. I knew from the get-go on account of some prior charges from my past, this case would be all the more difficult. I actually felt ashamed contacting Mr. Vergara (Earl). Why would a person feel ashamed contacting their lawyer? Because that's the impact Earl makes on a person. He treats his clients with such compassion...I truly consider him a friend. And I was actually hesitant to reach out for fear of feeling I let him down with another charge. How many folks can say they have that kind of a relationship with their attorney? But that's not Earl, he treats his clients as individuals who sometimes make mistakes and looks to find the best options available to remedy their situation. Again, this case was difficult to say the least, taking a little over two years. All the worse with the pandemic, numerous court changes, judge substitutions, etc, but in the end Earl worked is magic and secured for me an unbelievable outcome for which I'm forever grateful. Additional testament to Earl's character is how so many of his colleagues, lawyers, court staff smile when they see him come into the court. This man is highly regarded by his peers. I could write chapter and verse on Earl as a lawyer, and more importantly a person. He's phenomenal and I cannot recommend him enough. If you find yourself in a situation needing legal assistance, give Earl a call...you will not be sorry. Tell him Jim sent ya!
Read more
27 Apr, 2018 by Ron
I wanted to locate an attorney to work for me regarding a divorce. Interviewed several people initially. Susan spent time up front to explain the entire process in detail for me. The others did not really want to do this! I had no experience with this situation or any resources to utilize during this event. Once hired she stuck to my desired goal of getting the divorce completed quickly and efficiently. Things were moved along even as the opposition wanted to keep extending the time. Start to finish, the divorce was completed in eight months. I was quite pleased with her attention and efficiency regarding my specific situation.
Read more
05 Nov, 2017 by Mitch
I highly recommend Susan as an attorney. She represented me in my divorce and I was pleased with the agreement we reached with my ex. She was prompt with returning phone calls and emails. She was prepared and knowledgeable. Susan is very friendly but tough when she needs to be. She knows everybody at the courthouse from the clerks and security guards to judges. It was good to work with somebody so connected. Divorce is ugly, but Susan made it less so.
Read more
02 Sep, 2014 by Jesse
I picked Susan because she represented my friend's ex-wife and he said she was much better than the lawyer he had. She was very thorough, friendly, but was tough as well. I think in a divorce no one is going to get all of what they want, but the most important thing to me was joint custody of my kids and some holidays, none of which their mother wanted me to have. She also kept my ex from moving out of state with my kids and making it financially impossible for me to see them. I have recomended her to other friends.
Read more
03 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Kozlowski is extremly professional, knows the laws, and does and will recommend what is right. He is honest and did not waste any time in my case. He was more then fair in what I was charged and I was never given or told of any charges that were not expected. He is very an experienced and well know attorney with a great reputation. I recommend him to anyone for anything, if anything I know he will direct you and inform you of all of your options and outcomes. He fights for what is right!!
Read more
24 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
I would highly recommend David to anyone. As I was going through an emotional roller coaster through my divorce, he answered all the questions I had, ensured I was comfortable and aware of the possible outcomes, and ensured everything was closed as soon as possible! He always communicates well, I never had to follow up. I also never felt he was simply lingering a case to rack up the hours, which I have experienced before. He is personable, yet will fight your battle. David also helped me with another matter concerning my daughter, and it was handled and closed quickly.
Read more
20 Jan, 2015 by Maureen
Dave Kozlowski helped me file a claim after I was in a car accident. He was able to explain to me the legal process involved in making such a claim - and he did so in clear, concise language easily understood by a typical person. He did not lead me to believe I would 'get rich' or that it would be a 'slam-dunk' of a case. I appreciated the honesty in my odds.
I would recommend this attorney to family and friends should the need arise. He is friendly, courteous, and extremely competent.
Read more
07 Oct, 2015 by Jennifer
I have used Marissa Hanson several times and she has been truly kind and caring and a true asset to have.
Most importantly she has provided me with accurate information and helped me through all the stages to address my various legal issues.
I cant even begin to say how wonderful she is and I plan to use her as my attorney for many years
Read more
20 Aug, 2013 by Maggy
THANKS MARISSA FOR THE EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE AND THE HANDELING OF THE REALESTATE FILES WHERE IN THIS MARKET THE SHORT SALES ARE TOUGH BUT YOU ARE ROUGH AND GET THEM CLOSED. WE NEED THAT ASSURANCE FROM AN ATTORNEY AND THE CONFIDENCE THAT THE DEALS ARE GOING TO CLOSE. YOU ALSO HELP TO SPEED THE PROCESS BY THE CONSTANT COMMUNICATION WITH ALL PARTIES INVOLVED. THANKS AGAIN AND KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK.
Read more
16 Aug, 2013 by Debbie
Working with Marissa was a pure pleasure, kept me informed and up to date.
Read more
28 Nov, 2018 by Rafael
One thing I can say about Alex is that during my one hour consultation, she remember everything of the information I gave her. She’s quick to respond to emails and phone calls. My case was easy and quick. I am very thankful I found her information, very grateful I took a chance with her and very pleased with the results. If you need a great lawyer that takes time and dedication to her job to explain all the procedures that will happen to both parties choose her. She’s kind and respectful woman, very professional in her job. Will totally recommend her.
Read more
30 May, 2018 by Anonymous
Alex was an awesome attorney for my custody case. She was very realistic on what could be achieved and didn't give me the runaround just to drive up my bill. She gave me the best case scenario, what would most likeley happen, and worst case scenario. She was quick to answer my emails and phone calls and had no problem explaining what was going on with my case. She also took the time to listen to my concerns and frustration.
Read more
10 Jun, 2017 by Happy client from out of state
I got a summons to show up to court to get the child support raised as my daughter lived with her mother, BUT in an insane turn of events, thanks to Alex not only did I end up with FULL CUSTODY OF MY DAUGHTER, the mother paid for a great deal of the fees.
Yes, you read right, with my hand raised to the lord, if it wasn’t for Alex, I’d be watering dollar bills in the ground right now.
I live outside of state and she took on my case on, Alex took care of just about everything, so much so, that at times I’d forget I was going through rough times in my life.
On my flight back home from Chicago, as my daughter slept in the seat next to me, I looked at her, and I asked myself in my head, did that just happened, yes, yes it did, and I pictured Alex giving me a thumbs up with her smile. YOU can have this moment too.
Alex reminded me of one of those hard hitting movie lawyers as I watched her work her magic in court. It was great to see her transform and turn up the heat in the court room.
She was a great listener and suggested realistic, yet outside of the box approaches, most importantly kept transparency with me at all times.
Just give her a call and you will immediately hear and feel what I am trying to convey here.
If you want to feel protected and in SAFE hands, with a STRONG legal back bone as you walk in the courtroom, HIRE Alex! If you’re just looking for some random lawyer to keep you company in misery, then keep clicking.
Read more
09 Nov, 2016 by Larry
Ms Dorta-Dean helped with my real estate transaction and she kept me updated every step of the way. She first explained the fees associated with my sale and then very quickly proceeded to prepare all necessary documents in order for me to sell while not attending closing. This was a very good experience and I would certainly use the services of Elsie again. Two phone conversations and three exchanged emails and we were done. Too smooth to believe.
Read more
05 Oct, 2012 by Pete rodriguez; realtor for coldwell banker
She is an excellent attorney known for many years. And, has handled many of my real estate matters professionally. She is always responsive and easy to find. How many attorneys give out their cell phone? Not many but Attorney Elsie does and I always get copies of all my paperwork on time so I know exactly what is happening. Yes I highly recommend Elsie Dorta-Dean for help and for good Attorney advice.
Read more
13 Apr, 2020 by Renee
I was adopting a Baby Boy and my friend seen her and ask her what type of Lawyer she was. After meeting with Mrs. Walker and listening to her about what needed to be done everything went as she said. Mrs Walker was Excellent in getting it my Adoption for me. Thank You
Read more
5.0
1 Reviews
23 Mar, 2022 by Joe
Great Attorney!! Marios was someone I was hesitant to use as he costed more than most Attorney's. After talking to him and seeing how "Dialed-in" he is with his profession, I was not looking any further. Not only did Marios save me money by doing things faster and with more efficiency than most, but he stayed focused on what mattered to me and got my the outcome I was hoping for. Thank you Marios
Read more
13 Jun, 2016 by Paul
I recently retained Attorney Franzetti. She had been recommended to me by another trusted attorney. From our very first conversation I knew that my situation, sensitive as it was, would be handled with the utmost attention to detail. Franzetti had all the right listening skills, follow-up questions, and plan of attack. This immediately put me at ease. Throughout the proceedings she not only addressed my immediate concerns, but also had the foresight to stay steps ahead of any possible direction the case may take while navigating the legal system. I couldn’t have been more pleased with her professionalism, care and concern for myself, and of course, the outcome of my situation. After having been disappointed by previous attorneys, I can say with confidence that if you are considering Franzetti for you’re your legal needs……look no further!
Read more
09 Sep, 2024 by Ashlie baldwin
Lucas Otto was an outstanding lawyer. He helped me with my adoption. My judge told the court room he had perfect paperwork and that never happens!
Read more
17 Jul, 2024 by Andrea holmes
I came to Otto because I was tired of seeing my brother get screwed over by another law office. He was going through a divorce for over a year and changed lawyers 3 times. The process was getting out of control. As soon as we came to Otto we felt so much better and now he is divorced within 6 months. I appreciate everything Otto and his team did and would highly recommend them. Keep up the good work!
Read more
19 Jun, 2024 by Yaneth barajas
Otto and his team are the best !! They were all extremely helpful in my process if I could give more stars I definitely would . I highly recommend him .
Read more
02 May, 2024 by Roman v
Why another review and why is this my only trusted family law firm? Lidia is up-to-date with technology which makes payment and communication seamless. In addition to her prestigious resume Lidia is respected by many attorneys and that is something a client can be proud of. My case was a bit more with a DuPage Order of Protection and Kane County family court seemingly to overlap; I was not competent and felt was losing this particular hearing. Lidia was willing and able to defend my stance when I needed her the most. I forever continue recommending family and friends here! 10 years and going. Thank you so much :)
Read more
20 Feb, 2024 by Ayleena moree
Me sentí como en esas series de tv dónde l@s abogados les dan una lección a la gente abusiva y uno casi aplaude osea , la mejor desicion, la mejor abogada que eh tenido hasta hoy , súper humana y con ganas de ser justa , mega agradecida mis respetos y admiración vaya un 💯
Read more
15 Dec, 2023 by Araceli gonzlez
100% recomendada
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Adam marks
I would recommend him. Made this process much easier for me to handle. I got my rdp on my first hearing with Peter
Read more
04 May, 2024 by Boss pulido
It was great working with you! I appreciate all of your hard work. I was recommended by Mahoneys law firm in Dundee. I was a bit skeptical about using a different lawyer. He was great at communicating with me about his openings and was very easy to deal with. I would highly recommend him for any drivers license issues you may have.
Read more
30 Apr, 2024 by Stephanie conley
Josh Lloyd represented me through my divorce and was wonderful. I felt fully supported throughout the experience and he never let me down. He's a stand-out attorney and incredibly professional.
Read more
14 May, 2021 by Allison
I regret hiring Emily as my attorney due to the fact that she has a small law firm with high overhead and therefore needs to bill a lot of hours. I hired Emily because I thought she was compassionate and seemed to be understanding about my divorce situation. I was married to a covert narcissist for about 20 years and just wanted out asking for only half of my portion of the marital assets whatever they were because I had no idea. After two years and paying her $40,000 she dropped me because I could not pay and would not pay her the additional $10,000 trial retainer fee that she required before continuing to work on my case. By the way there were no children involved in the case. I felt that she took advantage of me and my situation by playing the games that attorneys do to make money by billing more hours and making it look like they are doing you a favor. My second divorce attorney was a no BS person, worked at a larger law firm (not as much overhead), and got the job done in a reasonable amount of time and had fair billable hours.
Read more
08 Aug, 2019 by Alexandria
I cannot say enough good things about this firm! Emily and Alexandra were excellent attorneys from the very start. They were both knowledgeable about legal process and the best way to proceed based on my specific set of circumstances. I always knew what to expect with my case. They returned my calls and emails promptly, and the office manager was always willing to listen and be empathic. I never felt rushed. They gave balanced advice, were efficient and prepared in court and pushed my case to conclusion. And always cost conscious, which I was relieved about. They invested their energy towards getting me the best possible outcome, and I did – full custody of my daughter. I am forever grateful for their hard work and would highly recommend them.
Read more
24 May, 2018 by Nick
Emily handled my maintenance negotiation after my original divorce decree didn’t have an end date. Emily and her office staff kept me up on all proceedings and we came to an agreed order in a timely fashion.
Read more
21 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
She said she understood my case, but completely lied. All she did was keep filing continuances, giving me the wrong advice and billing me for all of it. Until I ran out of money and she said nothing.
In 1/4 of the time my new attorney took care of it all and did it right, without OVERBILLING
Read more
26 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
Shelly took over my case when my original lawyer had only created animosity, drama and cost a fortune. Within a short time with Shelly I was finally divorced. Shelly is kind, compassionate yet direct and honest.
Read more
27 Aug, 2018 by Emily
Shelly has handled my divorce case with eloquence, care, and kindness. She is very straight forward and honest - possibly a money saver for me as she didn’t waste time. She truly cares and I felt like I was in kind and capable hands the entire time.
Read more
23 Aug, 2023 by Regina
Michael is a great attorney. He did my divorce, which was very difficult due to the ex-husband's wealthy family fighting against me. He took them on with grace and knowledge. Since my ex-husband comes from a wealthy family, he went after me for maintenance support because he ran his company into the ground. I didn't want a dime from his wealthy family, but he wanted everything, including to kick me out of my very own house that I worked my entire life to buy. He even paid off a corrupt appraiser and a realtor agent who appraised my home at $100K over the market value. This divorce has nearly cost me my health, but Michael not only stood by me the entire 18 months of my divorce but was very understanding and answered all my panicky calls every time. At the end of the day, he got me what I wanted, and I have since recommended him to my friends, who were also happy with his services. I cannot recommend Michael enough, especially if you are a woman fighting your ex-husband for divorce or child custody. He will do everything the legal system allows him to get you the best outcome. I should have left him this feedback seven years ago. After seeing some of these reviews, I can tell you that they do not describe Michael, his knowledge, and his ability to represent you. You cannot find a more knowledgeable attorney in the area.
Read more
25 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
Its a concern to see a professional as this Attorney allow his clients to post libeling and slandering vindictive comments about his peers.
The instability of this issue would be a reason I would look elsewhere.
I’m posting my opinion after reading horrific comments on a personal blog page.
No I’m not a former client
But neither is Angie Kotler.
Read more
09 Jan, 2021 by Kara
Michael is absolutely fantastic, he has been my attorney for the past couple of months and was immediately able to get me more visitation with my only daughter.
He is kind, courteous, professional and extremely knowledgeable regarding family court matters.
I could not be more happy or satisfied with the work and dedication that Michael has put in regarding my case.
If you are looking for an ethical, intelligent, straightforward and compassionate attorney, Mr. Chiero is the way to go!
Read more
27 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
Custody, negotiating disagreements, and forcing compliance to an agreement, Doug and his firm nailed everything I have given him. He has always told me in advance what the high and low estimates would be for work. In my case he hit the low target on two deals and was in the mid range on one. All fair in my opinion.
Read more
30 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Nothing is a guarantee in the law field but I am confident Mr. Warlick does everything he can to respectfully represent his clients.
Read more
10 Feb, 2016 by Wallace
Doug Warlick was absolutely useless in my divorce. He was never prepared in court every time I met him there. He claimed to know the judge on a personal level but every time we went to court the judge ruled the opposite of what Doug was asking for. He had no idea about the facts of my case when it was finally presented to the judge after continuance upon continuance. And as soon as my funds were running low he asked the court to excuse him from being my attorney. He bills himself as having "Experience with Integrity". Integrity?? We think not. I have never posted any reviews but Doug did such a poor job that I felt responsible to warn others: Do NOT hire this guy as your lawyer.
Read 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:
-
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.
