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06 Oct, 2015 by Ben
My Sincere thanks goes to you for your excellent legal representation. I could not be happier with the results. You made a very critical difference in my future. As a successful professional, I had a lot lo lose and the level of your legal council helped me stay positive. The extra time and effort put forth on my behalf until the end was truly appreciated.
Thank you,
Ben
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26 Nov, 2014 by Heather
She is extremely knowledgeable and well versed in family law. I always felt like she had my best interests at heart. She was always kind and compastionate, yet tough and strong. I found her to have an itegrity above reproach. I felt safe knowing that she was in my corner.
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20 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
Where to start...screwed up my order to the extent I could have filed a grievance with the bar, and then refused to fix the mistakes in it - which again, was grievable. Look for somebody else.
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07 Oct, 2021 by Aubrey kruger
Very polite staff and people that truly know what they are doing!
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28 Aug, 2021 by Tyler black
Cares solely for himself and his own interests.
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25 Aug, 2021 by Jamie overway
Doug van Essen is rude and disrespectful! Do not support this man!
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25 Sep, 2019 by Andrew
She is a life saver. I had another lawyer that took my money and didn't care. She changed my situation around and now my daughter is happy. She is the best of the best. I went from losing to winning. Well worth the money and some!
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23 May, 2018 by Anonymous
She seems nice and knows the talk and walk; but she does slip and slid with the truth. Just beware if you make an agreement in mediation with her, because in front of the judge she changes what was agreed upon. I think this is her way. So, if she is your attorney and you don't mind her moving this way, she's good to hire.
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20 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
I used Jayne for mediating a divorce. She gave false information which created issues with dividing up assets, failed to make an appointment for which she was in the office but did not respond to a phone call or message, and her office staff doesn't respond in a timely manner.
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26 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
During one free consultation, Mr Cox convince me to hire him. He gave me so much confidence that my case is a win in front of the judge without any doubt. I wished I had done more research on selecting a divorce attorney. My divorce was in 2022-2023 out of state where divorce was filed. Examples:
1. Mr. Cox was booked in two hearings, in the middle of the court zoom, he left the meeting, another attorney came and said, Mr Cox had to leave for another hearing he was scheduled. My hearing ended.
2. Poor employees retention. Within 4-5 months, I worked with three paralegals and each time I had to resend my documents to them all over.
3. Scheduling a meeting with Mr. Cox specifically before a hearing was challenging. He was late to our meeting and unprepared. Each time, I had to explain my divorce case to him once again. He was always on rushed to his next meeting.
4. In several incidents, the paralegal made an error on my documents. I contacted the paralegal to correct the error. However, I was charged once for the documents sent to me, second time for receiving corrected documents. Bill statement indicated “document corrected-resent”. It didn’t specify, paralegal made the error.
5. In spite of my repetitive requests, my ex wife’s bank subpoena never arrived by the divorce mediation hearing. There was plenty of time to receive it on time. It had impact on my financial commitments to my ex wife. My mediation hearing was a failure.
6. I learned more about divorce mediation online than my lawyer.
7. In one hearing that he told me he represents me without my presence the day before, I received a call at 6:30 AM-PT while driving to work. Mr Cox on the phone asking me where are you? why don’t you join the hearing? Nervously, I pulled over to join the zoom hearing while having issues with WiFi connection.
Best wishes!
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01 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Sean seems nice and accommodating till he gets his down payment. He then started his lying, started changing his, our strategy , he over charged multiple times, bullying, indecisive, terrible experience.
Do yourself a favor Don't hire a liar!! especially if it's your future counsel.
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07 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
4 mos of billing excessively with 0 results . When questioned has a temper tantrum showing what a fat dumb asswipe he really is . Challenges me to a fight actually not realizing I hold a world ranking in Korean Tae Kwan Do . What an idiot
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29 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Poor communication won’t respond for several days. Doesn’t listen fully about your case. Very unprofessional. Calls you in the beginning to get his money and meets you at various different settings for 5 minutes but then doesn’t respond. Clearly presented information I never gave him to the courts on top of not letting me see the documents befor submitting . Won’t send me my paperwork or respond but has withdrawn from the case. All around worst expierence ever and he said he would be with me every step of the way
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14 Mar, 2017 by Trisha
When I met John I thought he seemed like he was going to fight for my case. I had to repeat myself every time we met. John was not very quick in returning my phone calls and emails, sometimes I never got a response to my questions. There was something he advised me against in the beginning and the case was prolonged and I ended up having to do the thing he advised me against anyway. If I would have done it when I asked about it my case might have been settled sooner.
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10 Sep, 2009 by Kim
I was so impressed with John's knowledge and professionalism. I didn't have alot of experience with attorneys but I was so at ease with Mr. Danian. I could not have dealt with this matter on my own, he worked very quickly, and I would tell anyone who's seeking legal counsel: he's an excellent person to have in your corner, and I will contact him again with any and all legal matters.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
I've used Sracy in the past to be the Representative, in Settling an Estate matter after my Mother Inlaws passing.
My husband knew Ms. Vandyken thru his employment because they would run into one another there for many years. We both owned English Bulldogs also at the time and became what we would consider Friends.
She worked Hard,Honestly,Aggressively, and Attentively. She allowed us to focus on the Mourning and Healing Process from my Mother Inlaws passing. She made us feel that we had our own "St Michael", that stood for us in battle. Stood "FOR Us", not just "Beside us." Her One on One Phone calls always Made us feel that our case was Important to her, also. We loved her and we couldn't Thank her,enough!.
I think when you find and pay for the right Representation. That person that you've put your Trust, Life, and Furture in their hands. You build a Relationship with them.
One of which you can reach out to Directly. . At Least every couple of weeks for any updates,answer for new questions you may have, Or to just Call and see how your doing thru the difficult and stressful process of things?
Stacy Did that. If not, we could always call and leave a message with her staff. And recieve a phone call back from her.
She was Truly, a Blessing to us in such a Difficult time. We are truly Blessed.
Unfortunately , at this time our Daughter, whom she met many years ago at age 16,Has now had to hire Stacy for her Own, Legal counsel.
She was in need of an Aggressive,Strong, Attentive Attorney. One that will Stand Up For,and Protect her and her Children's best interests,
She'll be the one to stand " with Her", in Every Court appearance herself. Not an Associate. One who we Know, will Fight just as hard for her, as she did for us.
Stacy's an attorney who will Communicate "Directly" with her every couple of week to update her, and to guide her thru all of the zigs and zags there are with a Divorce with small children.
We have hired Stacy for a 2nd time and it was not only all of the reasons that I listed above, but because Stacy IS one who will not back down from apposing attorneys, will object when it's warrented,
Stacy Vandykem will Fight for, Her. And the future of our Grandchildrens.
Being in an Abusive Marriage for years was tough enough for our daughter, standing up in a courtroom, is Petrafieying to her.
Knowing that Stacy Herself, will stand Beside her in a court room, and will be Fighting for our daughter, her best interests, and an attorney who is not Afraid.
Our children,no matter if now young adults. Need Guidance at times. And I know that guiding ours to Stacy Vandyken, is Exactly the Women she needs right now to Fight for her and her children.
Knowing Stacy Vandyken will be in the courtroom, truly brings us, 'Peace"
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14 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Communication was horrible if any by her or her assistants. I don't feel supported, I can't get directions and I can't get any information despite the numerous attempts made every week.
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16 May, 2023 by Anonymous
You may as well represent yourself. Stacy threatened to withdraw as my attorney if I didn't do things her way. She talks a big game but always backed down from the opposing parties attorney. She will not fight for you because "she already knows what the court is going to say". It seems like all I paid her for was to talk tough, back down and forward emails.
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20 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
She seems to be very diligent at first. Then she drags things into endless activities like counseling, mediation, and delays actually producing results. My family has been negatively impacted by what she claim we MUST do to repair it to a degree. The effect has been the opposite. Two years after a nasty divorce process, we were still were not able to resolve matters according to her advice and had no results when trying to tie loose ends financially and custodial. She has caused me to lose almost my entire savings and retirement by following her advice. She recommended not interacting with FOC and leave it all to her which was a big mistake. She charges for what she says she will not charge for and keeps the process going perpetually with no results to her client. She also dropped me as a client when realizing we may not "win" and refused to attend a hearing that really mattered the night before it was scheduled. Bad
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18 Jan, 2016 by Justin
Diane handled a custody issue and we were happy with the job therefore we hired her again to help with another custody issue and for reimbursement for medical bills. She took full payment up front and went to 1 hearing and was then supposed to enter an order. Months went by and we heard nothing. I then proceeded to call, multiple times a week leaving messages with her paralegal. I sent a rather strongly worded email after over a month of no response and still got no response. I then got a hold of another attorney and she graciously called Diane to find out what was going on. She stated Diane was busy and embarrassed about not getting back with us and to give her two weeks for her to contact us. Three weeks go by and still no contact so I made one final call and talked to Diane's paralegal and was promised a call that night, as can be expected no call. There was absolutely no excuse to treat a repeat, paying client like this. If she was busy a simple 5 min phone call or email explaining this would have sufficed and we would have been content to wait.
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20 Nov, 2009 by Anonymous
This attorney was on the ball. She was very easy to work with and addressed all our concerns.She is direct and informative. We felt she did a GREAT job.
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07 Mar, 2018 by Danielle
I got my letter of her being my attorney for misuse of 911 two days before the preliminary exam..I called her the morning after I got it, left her a message and didn't get a call back. Which I take as a common issue when you get hit with a bunch of cases some yours and some county appointed. For the only review I see post being bad..I'm gonna have faith in her more than one bad reviews worth..if she got her family law degree in 1984...I only hope her firm has younger staff to keep her up to date on the new changes to her specialty area. The violence against women's act.. federal crime victims rights and hopefully soon victims of corrupt court practices act so we can finally stop keeping judges who break the law on the bench and make them just as accountable as any other person who doesn't folllow. I look forward to Ms. Hines prob your bad review wrong Victoria.
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20 Aug, 2012 by Victoria
Never kept me updated on court paperwork or what was happening. She wasnt very accurate or knowledgeable of what was going on in a family matter.
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23 Jun, 2024 by A
Should be fired. She does NOT care about families or the health and well-being of children. Completely ignored FOC recommendations, placing children in harms way. She is a despicable example of a woman, a mother, a human being, and a judge. She should have NO power. Children could literally be killed because of her negligence.
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12 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Was able to witness events that took place during a divorce case and was horrified. Judges have an obligation to not see a case if they have any sense that they may have a bias, Ms.Gottlieb completely disregards this. She walks into a room and whatever she says goes, contradicting accounts are thrown out. I really hope she can fix her power overload before it catches up to her.
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07 Nov, 2023 by Gerardo
She should not be judge for family matters she has no sense of what a parent is and don't listen to real facts, she can destroy a kid life with out regret, she should be voted out.
Stay away from her if you can.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Nick
Paid a $4000 retainer for a lay up child custody case. I did some research and asked about filing an EX PARTE since the other parent took the kids and wouldn't let me see them. Matt advised that that wouldn't be a good idea and we should go the normal route that takes months. By the time I realized he was incompetent and couldn't be paid to care it was too late to file an ex parte and they used the fact I didn't file an emergency order against me. I ended up spending $12,000 with another attorney Mr. Kroll who was a shark and was more engaged. Bailey essentially stole $4000 from me and provided no services. He sucks. Please if you see this review have him work on contingency or something because paying him up front is just so he can take the money and bill it all away with out ANY ACTION AT ALL. I'm about to get full custody with all the facts and evidence of the case, thanks for nothing and taking the money from me Bailey. Do you read your reviews across the net and wonder why you are so uniformly poorly rated?? My mother said ignore the reviews it's only upset people who leave bad reviews when it happens they lose, sorry mom you were wrong, wish I had listened to the reviews on avvo and Google. I went 8 months without seeing my kids due to this lazy clown and the fact he didn't do as I even advised him to do, and it was used against me. "You didn't file an ex parte so you must not have been that worried about them in other parents care" Oops!!!!!
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26 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Matthew wasted months of our time trying to get me to mediate and agree with my child's father in spite of my adamant rejection to the idea.
Matthew was visibly flustered on the day of the hearing and did not prepare more than a few screenshots for "evidence".
Prior to the hearing, Matthew was unavailable for preparatory calls/conversations as soon as the clock hit 5pm every day. No witnesses interviewed, no evidence reviewed, etc.
I had personally prepared myself for these last months to have a productive conversation with the other side and with the FOC to make meaningful changes to a custody agreement but Matthew had other ideas -- minutes before the hearing was to begin, he became angry with me for still not wanting to mediate so, the second I went to go find my husband for support, Matthew started the hearing without notifying me and adjourned it without my consent, without my being present. Then when we caught Matthew outside the hearing room, he announced he was withdrawing from my case and refused to explain what happened during the hearing he had just adjourned.
We had to hire a different, more competent lawyer right away to reschedule the same type of hearing for several weeks from now. Again, massive waste of time and money, not to mention a painful day for me and my family.
Matthew is completely incapable, and he's clearly fearful of hearings -- he only wants to mediate and satisfy the other side.
The other reviews here, unfortunately, resonated all too well with us.
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16 Oct, 2018 by Brian
I hired Mr. Matthew Bailey who works for A.D.A.M out of Okemos, Mi who claims they help men through a divorce and they r for the men all the way. Well, unless u have a lot of money in your marriage he won’t fight for u. Instead he will side with your wife’s attorney and not help u like he claims or like a competent attorney would do. In my case, the mediator, the judge, and even my own attorney was against me. After my divorce hearing was granted in my wife’s behalf, the judge and the mediator went to eat at the Griffin Pub in Battle Creek, Michigan and I know this cuz I saw them as I was walking by outside going somewhere else. I swear on my grandma’s grave they were there together. I tried to get Mr. Bailey to subpoena my wife’s bank records to prove she either has money in there or she transferred it to another bank or gave it to someone else and Mr. Bailey refused to after he took her word for it that she didn’t have any money. Also, after a marriage whatever property is accumulated DURING a marriage should be divided equally including vehicles which my wife had among bank accounts and other property, but did Mr. Bailey go after any of that? NO !!!! He claimed his family was affiliated with the mediator which should have been a conflict of interest and Mr. Bailey could have asked for a different mediator cuz of that. Did he ask? NO !!!!! Instead he told me that it can be a good thing to have him like a 50/50 good thing. I don’t recommend him or any attorney from that law firm or any other attorney who advertises on the radio or television. Do your research people before hiring an attorney and believe reviews about them before hiring them. I wish I did.
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04 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
Michael is a dishonest human being with no moral compass. The reviews on this site ARE 100 % accurate and true! I'm sure he will respond to this review denying these things as well, but he KNOWS they're true.
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17 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. King to handle my custody case. He drunk text me and then apologized the next day. He did it again about a month later. When I called him out on his behavior and that I didn’t appreciate it he “fired” me.
I am friends with other women who had hired him and he definitely has a pattern of inappropriate behavior with female clients. He waits until their case is closed so “they are no longer a client.”
He also violates attorney client privilege by talking about the specifics, with names, to people he is dating.
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19 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired Mr.King to handle my divorce. I was extremely weary about this “ All Inclusive” divorce ( for very good reason!). I even brought this up to tell, to which I was told “ I will fight until the end!”. I wish I was kidding when I say once the check cleared, the fight was gone. All the things I wanted before I paid him, were now “ not possible”. And the ones I had to practically beg him for weeks.like Financial Discovery ( pretty standard in a divorce). When I finally got a hard copy of the report that “ there’s nothing hidden” was 100% wrong, which leads me to believe he never read it. Mr. King “ fired me” due to the judge questioning if he was telling me orders from the court. He was not. Plus, he was supposed to change my child support after a certain day, told me he did. You guessed it, nope. Found out about the lie 4 months and THOUSANDS later. I honestly could have used the money I over paid in child support, still saved way more money, plus gotten much more accomplished in my divorce. Should have gone with my gut. Instead I got lied to, nothing accomplished and dropped once the judge found out.
And If ever expect an answer to a phone call, text or email in under two weeks after he gets paid. Don’t hold your breath, Plus, I was told and given completely inaccurate court date times. Nothing like taking the day off of work cause a “ small boo boo”
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26 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Someone who hates her job and can't even seem to be polite to the attorneys. She is biased and hateful, doesn't seem to understand case law and doesn't seem to really care that she doesn't understand it.
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24 May, 2021 by Craig
Had a hearing with her today, pertaining to my daughter. She wouldn't allow me to speak at all, using the mute button on zoom any time I tried to speak. She listened to no relevant information, and made a terrible decision.
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17 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
Bob was my attorney. He juggles as many things as possible, doing very little for each, but billing a Kings' ransom. .He literally did nothing but bill and double bill. He often, couldn't make court dates but would "prep" his partners and charge me for his time to "prep" and for his partners' time (double). Most divorces are simple =4 things. Bob refused to listen to what I asked and unethically carried out a simple divorce for two years . He would stand in front of the Judge as a mute. A second grader could do that ..but not bill like he did. I asked to speak to a Board member , with Bob , from his low energy behavior and he billed me for three attorneys presnent. Multiple mistakes made and took ZERO ownership. Could care less on the havoc he wrecked on my children from constantly being in Court for egregious stuff (if he showed). Take a look at how he he takes care of himself and that will be indicative of he will handle your case.
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17 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
My son entered in to a bitter, violent, and volatile divorce in July 2018. He reached out to Jeff because he is supposed to be a strong representative for fathers involved in a divorce. After hiring him on July 5, 2018, we found that my son's case was not held as a priority to Jeff. He often didn't return responses to emails or phone calls in a timely manner. Even though the safety of my son's children were at risk, he put other clients ahead of his case. When we brought this to his attention, he stated that he is busy and has other clients. Court paperwork in regard to temporary custody of the children was forwarded to my son for review without Jeff reviewing it first. There were many obvious mistakes including using the name of a judge that had retired 5 years ago, incorrect child support computation, incorrect directions for the exchange of the children, failure to include joint legal custody, failure to include that his spouse was no longer allowed in the home. When asked why the paperwork had not been properly reviewed, Jeff stated he was working on other cases and thought it best to get the information to my son as soon as possible. The most egregious action, however, was his biased opinion of my son and his chances of getting custody of his children. From day one, he used the word "jerk" when describing how a judge might look at my son. He told him the court system in which he had to file, was one of the worst ones to work with. When the friend of the court referee met with Jeff, he advised my son that the referee was not going to work with him and didn't even want to hear his case. Jeff advised my son to just accept whatever he could work out with his spouse's attorney as it would be the best he would get. This does not sound like an attorney that is willing to work for his client in his best interest. I would caution any male that is involved in a divorce to research very carefully before hiring an attorney to represent them. In the 6 weeks that Jeff represented my son, there was not one thing accomplished that would hold any weight in court. This allowed his wife to take his children, withold them from him, break into their house and take many of his belongings, and make constant threats. No one should go through this situation without an attorney that is willing to dig in and fight for them. We have since hired another attorney and are very pleased with her. She has gotten a court order that gives him time with his children, protection of his home, and personal safety.
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12 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
Hired this lawyer to fight for my daughter after her mother abandoned her for 14 year cooking meth and in and out of jail.
Instead of him doing what we wanted in court he bent over backwards and did what the court wanted. Did nothing to help us.
He knew I wanted to appeal the decision that he recommended to the courts which was the opposite of what we wanted. 2 months go on and he calls saying he didn't get anything from the courts until the judge signed the order.
This lawyer is a joke. Does what he thinks is best instead of doing what's best for is client. Worst lawyer I've ever come met!!
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30 Oct, 2021 by Shane
He doesn’t return phone calls or emails but charges for reading the messages. He took months to even file the case. My wife wrote most of the petition with little help. But the worst is that he did absolutely no preparation to learn about the county in which we were dealing with and was completely unprepared for the hearing even though we provided him with all the information he could need in an easily readable format. He did little to support my petition and actually agreed with the opposing council that it didn't sound like a big deal. I knew immediately that I had lost and would not be able to get my son the help he needs. I spent thousands of dollars to end up in a worse situation than when I started.
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07 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
I have CPTSD. My ex admitted he lied to me for years, taking my career from me, my contributions to social security, and professional growth . My ex’s salary $87,000. His lawyer suggested I live with my ex if I couldn’t afford to live on my own. Judge McNabb ordered just $600 a month for me to live on.
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10 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Roane represented me in a divorce. He failed to file papers as agree upon within 60 days. He didn't understand legal tactics used by the opposition. He advised me to accept a very low dollar amount. He failed to go after other typical compensation in divorces. He had conversations with the opposing lawyer without disclosing them to me in which the other lawyer told lies (because he was misled by my spouse). My lawyer chose to believe those lies for some unknown reason. They were untrue and there was no evidence to support the lies. There was plenty of evidence to support my facts. He acted like he was counsel for the other side. He overcharged me by over $10,000. The other side actually wrote the final agreement. My lawyer didn't even review it closely to find the loopholes in it. When you are going through a divorce and need a lawyer to be your advocate because you are in emotional pain, don't hire Mr. Roane. In my case, I paid way too much, and left with very little when there was lots to go after for a fair and equitable settlement. To add insult to injury, he actually called me to ask if I was still employed. Then he sent out a nice big final bill for doing next to nothing. Find someone else to represent you.
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FAQs
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What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
-
What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases. -
Who will be handling my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.
How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
- Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
- List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
- Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
- Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.
Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.
