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05 Apr, 2024 by Raissa larson
Caroline was lovely to work with throughout a long and frustrating process. She's efficient, thorough, and a wonderful advocate. Can't recommend her highly enough!
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27 Mar, 2024 by Daniel brockman
Ms. Campbell prepared my will.
Helpful, accommodating, and practical.
This was my second major work with her.
In 2018, she prepared documents for me for a contract of some complexity.
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16 Feb, 2024 by Doug campbell
Dan and Caroline of Campbell Miller Law have been enormously helpful to me, my business and family members over the past 12 years. Always responsive, professional, and prompt, easy to work with, and have made complicated and sensitive matters less stressful every time I have needed their services. I would highly recommend them to anyone needing legal support.
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30 Apr, 2024 by James
Bryon successfully navigated me through a difficult divorce with an agreement my ex and I are both happy with. He was very reliable in answering my questions quickly and pushing the case forward.
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28 Jun, 2023 by Jessica
Hiring Attorney Guymon was one of the best decisions I could have made entering my divorce, he and his paralegal, Tressa Smith, made all the difference in navigating and battling through a challenging divorce. Aside from their legal expertise, they handled my case with such care and compassion. They listened, helped me remain calm in some of the most trying times in my life, and stood up for me always. Their level of prompt and continuous communication was outstanding, I was always kept in the loop in real-time. I never felt alone or unprotected during the twelve-plus months of working with them. Ultimately, they enabled me to find my way out of a 20+ year marriage with my integrity intact and enough time and resources to find a new beginning in life. I highly recommend them to anyone going through a challenging divorce.
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11 Apr, 2023 by Michelle
Bryon is wonderful. He supported me and my spouse through every step of our divorce with grace and compassion. During an extremely stressful portion of our lives, he and his team acted efficiently and professionally. It was a huge relief to know that someone was always there taking care of the details we wouldn't have even thought about. It gave us back the energy to just focus on each other during this difficult time. Really kind man. Thank you Bryon!
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15 Nov, 2015 by Kim
I was a former client of Mike Salazar, actually I used his services twice. I went through a difficult divorce, up against high priced attorneys in town, and Mike was able to represent me, battle on my behalf and makes things as close to "fair" and "just" as possible. His office manager, Deairea, is also incredibly knowledgable and supportive. They make a great team. During a very painful chapter of my life this team did an outstanding job for me. Thank you to you both!!
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29 Oct, 2015 by Kim
Mike helped during a very painful chapter of my life. He's knowledgable and professional. He has my recommendation!!
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21 Oct, 2015 by Carmen
Definitely the best attorney I've ever had. Mr Salazar is caring, professional & tireless to keep my best interest at the forefront. Most importantly my daughter has benefitted from his representation. He is my attorney for life.
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25 Mar, 2019 by Debbi
My case took longer than some and I had many, many questions and bumps along the way. Amanda and Corie always made me feel like I was the most important client they had.
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01 Sep, 2018 by Meredith
Amanda represented me for my prenup. She was thorough, concise, and very detail oriented. I felt protected and that she was really looking out for my best interests. I definitely recommend her to anyone needing strong representation.
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06 Sep, 2017 by Jonathan
Very kind and compassionate about my situation. Got my children the week after she took my case to the court. Very positive and precise on her move. Treated me like her family instead a client. Won the full custody in a very very very short time. Protected me from evil tactics from my ex wife. Thank you for revealing the truth, and you absolutely made a difference.
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04 Nov, 2019 by Amy
Chris is the BEST! Truly, the best. I met with multiple attorneys while going through a divorce. I had a consultation when I was going to switch representation and his pointers for where I was in my situation were spot on! By following his advice I completely changed the momentum in my case. I interviewed a lot of lawyers and Chris is hands down the best. He was level headed and educated me in my current situation as well as managed my expectations for what was to come. I cannot recommend him enough. Tracie, his paralegal, and him make a great team and are so personal. Please make a wiser first choice than I initially did and just hire him. I am positive you will save thousands just by starting off with the right person to represent you.
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19 Oct, 2019 by Tamar
I have been a client of Chris and Tracie’s for almost three years. I have worked with several other law firms and attorneys. I can say that it is possible to find a good attorney but it is very difficult to find a good law firm. Harbor Family Law provides the complete package. I have never met an attorney as calm and effective as Chris, a paralegal as incredible as Tracie, nor an operations manager as kind and considerate as Kelli.
Harbor Family Law is what every client hopes to find when seeking an attorney. The staff upholds standards of integrity and diligence that is difficult to find elsewhere. Chris represents his cases with clarity and intelligence. He is direct while maintaining respect for all parties involved. He provides clients with insight and direction. Tracie is irreplaceable in the law community. She is responsive, and truly invested in her work. She is knowledgeable and has a vigor for the best possible outcome for their clients. As a team Chris and Tracie are exceptional. Together they provide a stable atmosphere where clients can trust that they are in good hands. Kelli is truly a breath of fresh air and a joy to communicate with. The character and dependability of Harbor Family Law is outstanding. I simply cannot recommend them enough!
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01 Oct, 2019 by Nick
Chris has been my attorney for over 12 yrs now, representing me in custody matters concerning my daughter. He has all the qualities a client would look for in their attorney. First, his communication style both with clients and in court is clear, calm, and genuinely empathetic. Chris is able to come up with rational solutions and present them to all parties involved in a very palatable way. He is also highly analytical and detail oriented, able to put together all the pieces of the puzzle to problem solve complicated cases with lots of data/documents. Chris has never missed a beat in getting me and my daughter the best possible outcomes, while always being direct and honest with me about potential outcomes. Last but not least, Chris appears to be highly respected within his own community both among other attorneys and judges/commissioners.
It should also be noted that Chris has an exceptional assistant. Tracie is incredibly knowledgeable, helpful, and empathetic. Together, they make a truly indispensable team that I cannot recommend highly enough!
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11 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
Hiring Erin to defend a complaint against my license was key for reducing stress and finding comfort in a complex and scary situation. Going up against the state can be quite intimidating but Erin educated me along the way and helped navigate each turn. She is brilliant, honest and offers unique perspective. I appreciated how kind and caring she was. She made me feel as though I was her only client and this was her only case. I highly recommend her being on your side, I think you will be just as pleased.
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03 Sep, 2018 by Heather
Erin Hammond represented me in a very difficult divorce case. Erin is there for you and guides you through the difficult path. Highly recommended for any family law issues.
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11 May, 2018 by Andrew
Best lawyer around when it comes to healthcare provider issues. She represented me in a case where the patient was clearly trying to get us to pay for services she did not deserve. Highly recommend!
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26 Dec, 2008 by Anonymous
I know I was lucky to find Darcy McPherson. She wanted to help me from the very beginning. I saw her in action to do whatever she could to help me get my life back. I know I had made a mistake and she knew it too but she knew that was not who I was. I saw the things she did on my behalf...she is very good at what she does and through all her cases she still has compassion.
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03 Jul, 2024 by Robert schoeler
Harbor Family Law is the 5th Family Law firm that I have worked with since starting my divorce in 2016. I can say that the service I received for Tony Z and his team at Harbor Family Law greatly exceeded my expectations. The team was professional, organized and always quick to respond to my emails and phone calls. I would highly recommend Harbor Family Law for your family law matters.
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21 May, 2024 by Christine f
I highly recommend Attorney Bryon Guymon and his paralegal, Tressa Smith, for their exceptional dedication and expertise in family law. When we approached them with our urgent situation, they exhibited an extraordinary willingness to take on our case with less than 20 days to respond. Despite the time constraints, they remained steadfast in their commitment to guiding us towards a solution that prioritized our child's needs above all else. Their compassionate approach and deep understanding of family dynamics were evident throughout the process, offering us not just legal counsel but also emotional support during an undoubtedly stressful time.
Moreover, Attorney Guymon and Tressa demonstrated remarkable efficiency in helping us navigate the legal system, ensuring all necessary documentation was filed with the court accurately and promptly. Their attention to detail and proactive communication eased our anxieties and instilled confidence in the process. Thanks to their expertise and unwavering support, we were able to find resolution while minimizing the impact on our child. I wholeheartedly endorse Attorney Guymon and his paralegal to anyone in need of compassionate and effective family legal representation.
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30 Apr, 2024 by James
I had a great experience with Harbor Family Law. They were quick, informative, and understanding. I definitely recommend them for anyone dealing with family law issues!
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.7
23 Reviews
11 Jul, 2024 by Dave webster
The team at Robinson and Hadeed will go above and beyond and exceed your expectations, they are very professional and dedicated to their work. I couldn't of gotten a better outcome to my case than I did with anyone else and I am very grateful for that, especially since my case was a very difficult and dreadful one, but well worth it in the end. I am very blessed and proud to say that I am a full time parent and I have them to thank for that.
Thank you,
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03 Jan, 2024 by Gavin fazio
Shannon has represented me over the last 5 years or so, in a nasty and very unfortunate custody battle. She has honestly been a rock for me at times but also told me how I was hurting myself. She holds you accountable but she busts her butt for you as well. Which is what I have appreciated the most.
Shannon is absolutely amazing, if you want an attorney that not only cares, but has the skills and knowledge to defend you properly, she is the one you need in your corner.
I honestly cannot thank Shannon enough, I wish there were more attorneys like her.
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06 Dec, 2023 by Wendy
When I met Shannon Hadeed, I arrived at her office as a woman who had been stripped not only of my dignity as a mother and woman in the courtroom, but was impoverished financially and strained emotionally by deeply disturbing litigation imposed upon me, which went unchecked by duplicitous legal representation. I held little hope of finding an attorney I could trust, who would also truly advocate for me and my family to help me achieve the dissolution of marriage I so gravely needed.
Shannon changed that. With her perseverance, pragmatic and creative solutions, as well as honest approach to expectations with proceedings, I was able to finally begin planning for big picture rather than drowning in chronic survival mode and massive legal debt. She provided reassurance, structure, and a plan with a bird’s eye view, as well as flexibility to adapt when needed. She held an affirming and calm presence, which is so crucial for persons such as myself who have endured a history of traumatic litigation. Importantly, Shannon was an honest steward of funds, transparent with estimates and outcomes.
Shannon is sharp, savvy, sensible and empathetic, and navigates court proceedings with the tenacious heat of a burning ember. Rather than a smoke and mirrors show that sparks a flash that quickly smolders, Shannon applies the bellows without hesitation and whips up the flame. She loves being an attorney and that shows. Because of her, I have been able to begin rebuilding my life and reclaim hope for a better future.
Thank you for all you do, Shannon!
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11 Jul, 2024 by Dave webster
The team at Robinson and Hadeed will go above and beyond and exceed your expectations, they are very professional and dedicated to their work. I couldn't of gotten a better outcome to my case than I did with anyone else and I am very grateful for that, especially since my case was a very difficult and dreadful one, but well worth it in the end. I am very blessed and proud to say that I am a full time parent and I have them to thank for that.
Thank you,
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03 Jan, 2024 by Gavin fazio
Shannon has represented me over the last 5 years or so, in a nasty and very unfortunate custody battle. She has honestly been a rock for me at times but also told me how I was hurting myself. She holds you accountable but she busts her butt for you as well. Which is what I have appreciated the most.
Shannon is absolutely amazing, if you want an attorney that not only cares, but has the skills and knowledge to defend you properly, she is the one you need in your corner.
I honestly cannot thank Shannon enough, I wish there were more attorneys like her.
Read more
03 Dec, 2023 by Wendy kalskett
When I met Shannon Hadeed, I arrived at her office as a woman who had been stripped not only of my dignity as a mother and woman in the courtroom, but was impoverished financially and strained emotionally by deeply disturbing litigation imposed upon me, which went unchecked by duplicitous legal representation. I held little hope of finding an attorney I could trust, who would also truly advocate for me and my family to help me achieve the dissolution of marriage I so gravely needed.
Shannon changed that. With her perseverance, pragmatic and creative solutions, as well as honest approach to expectations with proceedings, I was able to finally begin planning for big picture rather than drowning in chronic survival mode and massive legal debt. She provided reassurance, structure, and a plan with a bird’s eye view, as well flexibility to adapt when needed. She held an affirming and calm presence, which is so crucial for persons such as myself who have endured a history of traumatic litigation. Importantly, Shannon was an honest steward of funds, transparent with estimates and outcomes.
Shannon is sharp, savvy, sensible and empathetic, and navigates court proceedings with the tenacious heat of a burning ember. Rather than a smoke and mirrors show that sparks a flash that quickly smolders, Shannon applies the bellows without hesitation and whips up the flame. She loves being an attorney and that shows. Because of her, I have been able to begin rebuilding my life and reclaim hope for a better future.
Thank you for all you do, Shannon!
Read more
03 Jul, 2024 by Robert schoeler
Harbor Family Law is the 5th Family Law firm that I have worked with since starting my divorce in 2016. I can say that the service I received for Tony Z and his team at Harbor Family Law greatly exceeded my expectations. The team was professional, organized and always quick to respond to my emails and phone calls. I would highly recommend Harbor Family Law for your family law matters.
Read more
21 May, 2024 by Christine f
I highly recommend Attorney Bryon Guymon and his paralegal, Tressa Smith, for their exceptional dedication and expertise in family law. When we approached them with our urgent situation, they exhibited an extraordinary willingness to take on our case with less than 20 days to respond. Despite the time constraints, they remained steadfast in their commitment to guiding us towards a solution that prioritized our child's needs above all else. Their compassionate approach and deep understanding of family dynamics were evident throughout the process, offering us not just legal counsel but also emotional support during an undoubtedly stressful time.
Moreover, Attorney Guymon and Tressa demonstrated remarkable efficiency in helping us navigate the legal system, ensuring all necessary documentation was filed with the court accurately and promptly. Their attention to detail and proactive communication eased our anxieties and instilled confidence in the process. Thanks to their expertise and unwavering support, we were able to find resolution while minimizing the impact on our child. I wholeheartedly endorse Attorney Guymon and his paralegal to anyone in need of compassionate and effective family legal representation.
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30 Apr, 2024 by James
I had a great experience with Harbor Family Law. They were quick, informative, and understanding. I definitely recommend them for anyone dealing with family law issues!
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10 Feb, 2023 by B f
Extremely helpful and informative. Gave me the advice I needed and more. Highly recommend for family law.
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30 Jan, 2021 by Nellbelle
Alysha is well versed in her expert area. She was excellent with her communications and handled the matter very professionally in court. I felt very confident in my case with her by my side.
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13 Sep, 2020 by Maren wagner
So helpful and amazing!
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11 Jul, 2024 by Dave webster
The team at Robinson and Hadeed will go above and beyond and exceed your expectations, they are very professional and dedicated to their work. I couldn't of gotten a better outcome to my case than I did with anyone else and I am very grateful for that, especially since my case was a very difficult and dreadful one, but well worth it in the end. I am very blessed and proud to say that I am a full time parent and I have them to thank for that.
Thank you,
Read more
03 Jan, 2024 by Gavin fazio
Shannon has represented me over the last 5 years or so, in a nasty and very unfortunate custody battle. She has honestly been a rock for me at times but also told me how I was hurting myself. She holds you accountable but she busts her butt for you as well. Which is what I have appreciated the most.
Shannon is absolutely amazing, if you want an attorney that not only cares, but has the skills and knowledge to defend you properly, she is the one you need in your corner.
I honestly cannot thank Shannon enough, I wish there were more attorneys like her.
Read more
03 Dec, 2023 by Wendy kalskett
When I met Shannon Hadeed, I arrived at her office as a woman who had been stripped not only of my dignity as a mother and woman in the courtroom, but was impoverished financially and strained emotionally by deeply disturbing litigation imposed upon me, which went unchecked by duplicitous legal representation. I held little hope of finding an attorney I could trust, who would also truly advocate for me and my family to help me achieve the dissolution of marriage I so gravely needed.
Shannon changed that. With her perseverance, pragmatic and creative solutions, as well as honest approach to expectations with proceedings, I was able to finally begin planning for big picture rather than drowning in chronic survival mode and massive legal debt. She provided reassurance, structure, and a plan with a bird’s eye view, as well flexibility to adapt when needed. She held an affirming and calm presence, which is so crucial for persons such as myself who have endured a history of traumatic litigation. Importantly, Shannon was an honest steward of funds, transparent with estimates and outcomes.
Shannon is sharp, savvy, sensible and empathetic, and navigates court proceedings with the tenacious heat of a burning ember. Rather than a smoke and mirrors show that sparks a flash that quickly smolders, Shannon applies the bellows without hesitation and whips up the flame. She loves being an attorney and that shows. Because of her, I have been able to begin rebuilding my life and reclaim hope for a better future.
Thank you for all you do, Shannon!
Read more
24 Dec, 2020 by Claire harvey
I had a phone consult with Amanda to discuss a settlement after a dissolution of an intimate partnership. The consult was on a Wednesday afternoon. She told me she would have a settlement letter drafted by the following week and out to me. It took her four additional weeks to generate a letter. Covid was a complicating factor, however each Friday afternoon that I called to check on the status of my letter, there were excuses and almost outright hostility. No emails or calls to update me on progress. When they finally generated the letter and sent it out, they didn’t send a final copy to me. I got a new lawyer who is very communicative. He sent her an email to request a refund of my trust money and She charged me $103 to review his email and refund my money along with the almost $45 a week she charged me to call to check on the status of my overdue letter. This was the worst experience I’ve ever had with a professional. I wondered at times if there was something else going on in her life.
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08 Jul, 2020 by Nate abel
Amanda and her team were a welcome relief. The first attorney I hired in my divorce was shockingly terrible, and led to me completely losing faith in the family law system. Luckily I switched to Amanda. Amanda, Corie and Logan were incredibly professional and responsive. Their team provided expert personal advice without wasting time and money. Amanda and her team have my highest possible recommendation if you're looking for a family law attorney.
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21 Nov, 2019 by Joe urvina
01 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
Emily has been very considerate of out financial needs through this long and painful process. She has gone out of her way to find ways to get her job done as effectively as possible without breaking the bank. You can tell she spends time working diligently doing research and complaining information into a clear presentation of where her time was spent. Never muddled around doing unnecessary tasks and always prepared me for the different possibilities of every court session. She has always taken great care to make sure I always knew what was going on. Her values reflect ours which is why we've been working with her three years now.
We are so thankful she has been so considerate and for sticking with us on such an annoying case.
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01 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
I have used Emily in three cases. She has been very helpful and respectful to my needs. I would recommend Emily as a great lawyer. She's a rock star.
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27 May, 2014 by Anonymous
I hired her to help me with my dissolution and custody case she was fine the first week but after that she wouldn't get back to my e-mails, phone calls, or texts for weeks at a time. She didn't file papers that needed filled and set me even farther back then I started. She even told me the day before I had court to be there and then an hour before my court time told me it was cancelled and then proceeded with the hearing without me but was texting me from the court room telling me what was going on in the courtroom. She is the reason my kids were sent back into an physically, mentally, and sexually abusive home with their father. Then on top of that she had the nerve to try and bill me for her doing nothing but screwing up my case more then it already was. To this day I am still trying to fight to get my kids out of that environment.
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11 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
I was trying to get a modification to my parenting plan and residential time. We were sent to Felicia to try and mediate things first, before litigating the matter bc we had a collaborative divorce. She was very biased to me (the father) and didn't listen to anything I had to say. She backed up my ex wife who lied through her teeth even when I had proof to the contrary. She expressed that all my wishes were me being controlling and I needed to learn to accept things. She also stated that I was unreasonable and no judge would ever grant me what I was asking for even though they are very standard parenting plan provisions. She was clearly sided with my ex wife and as a result my ex wouldn't even discuss the things I asked for. Felicia was very hostile to me and not a nuetral third party like a mediator should be. My ex wife got all the things she wanted while I walked away feeling like I just woke up from a nightmare. I wish I could go back and had done research on her bc I never would have gone to her! I would never, ever send anyone to her. She is very unethical in her practices. She is clearly easily persuaded to take sides. Horrible, HORRIBLE experience!
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02 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
Felicia Malsby was recommended to be part of a mediation meeting between me and my ex-husband for the purpose of creating a visitation calendar. The mediator (Jamie) and Felicia Malsby charge an appalling amount ($400.00 per hour) for the services they provide. They both stated biased opinions, did not aid in the solution of creating a visitation calendar, and did not want to go according to the specifics of the parenting plan which was decided upon through a trial and court orders by a respected judge. Both Felicia Malsby and Jamie wanted only to take suggestions my ex-husband made for visitation, disregarding specifics of the plan, or my recommendations. Felicia Malsby charged an additional $400.00 at the end of the meeting for 'prep work'.
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05 May, 2012 by Anonymous
I hired Felicia last year for my divorce. This was an easy non-confrontational divorce. Because of this, I thought my cost would be reasonable. Was I WRONG!!! Felicia is money hungry! My "easy" collaborative divorce cost me 5 times more then my friends that used other attorneys. I wish I could go back a year, and do it all over again with an ethical attorney.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
-
What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases. -
Who will be handling my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.
How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
- Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
- List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
- Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
- Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.
Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.
