Filter by

star star star star star
27 Oct, 2009 by Meghan porter
I thought Oona was wonderful. She kept me posted and up to date on my case. She always took the time to hear my thoughts and counted in my opinion. I would reccommend her to anyone.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
27 Sep, 2009 by Anonymous
In my first interview with Oona Kingston she provided a clear and accurate assessment of the potential options for divorce settlement and the likely outcome of the settlement. In an arena in which many lawyers seem to thrive on creating confusion and anxiety, Oona was a calm voice of reason and worked diligently to get a fair settlement as efficiently as possible. Oona was more than a match for the big-city, high-priced lawyers on the other side and my legal costs were a fraction of those of my ex-spouse. I highly recommend her services.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
29 Aug, 2009 by Anonymous
During the duration of my divorce I struggled with the sadness of it as well as feelings of being so alone. While my ex had already moved on...I was still trying to process it all...how do I go from here...how do I make ends meet....my only identity was wrapped around my husband...how do I start over? I felt so completely alone with two kids and a house to worry about. Needless to say I felt overwhelmed by the divorce process and the decisions that needed to be made. Oona has the ability to take the entire picture and break it out into what is important and not important. She can simplify the decisions based on what needed to be addressed at that time and what could wait or what didn't need to be addressed at all. Although she is sympathatic to your situation, she has the ability to keep emotions out of the decision making process. I felt this allowed me the confidence to make good, fair, clear decisions based on her advise even while I was an absolute mess. She was honest with me about what was worth fighting for and what was a waist of time. She understands the process and is confident in her abilities and this shows. I had such low self esteem at this point and really felt as though I would never recover and yet, Oona had a away of making me have just enough confidence to at least stand up for myself and my kids. Although my divorce was at the time heartbreaking to me, somehow with Oona's help I stood up for myself. I feel to this day that this was the best thing I have ever done!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
15 May, 2024 by Dawn leahy
I have to say a huge thank you to Attorney Sean O'Sullivan for his work as my real estate attorney! I used Attorney O'Sullivan on my realtor Kelly Warren's advisement when I bought my home and he did a great job. The closing was a little more complicated and he solved each issue that came up with speed and dexterity. I would recommend him highly for any legal needs. He is personable, knowledgeable and super helpful!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 May, 2023 by Joe hubbard
Google Maps
star star star star star
12 Jul, 2022 by Cheryl viera
Excellent office! Sean really knows his stuff! I've used him twice to close on the properties I bought! His receptionist is very sweet!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
15 May, 2024 by Dawn leahy
I have to say a huge thank you to Attorney Sean O'Sullivan for his work as my real estate attorney! I used Attorney O'Sullivan on my realtor Kelly Warren's advisement when I bought my home and he did a great job. The closing was a little more complicated and he solved each issue that came up with speed and dexterity. I would recommend him highly for any legal needs. He is personable, knowledgeable and super helpful!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 May, 2023 by Joe hubbard
Google Maps
star star star star star
12 Jul, 2022 by Cheryl viera
Excellent office! Sean really knows his stuff! I've used him twice to close on the properties I bought! His receptionist is very sweet!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
20 May, 2022 by Zach longhi
John was professional and indispensable in bringing my case to closure. His instincts were excellent and his rates very reasonable. Recommended!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Apr, 2022 by Steven
John and his staff were professional and a pleasure to work with. He helped me after I was hit and injured in a car accident; he and his staff took care of everything so I did not need to worry. If you find yourself in a similar situation I highly recommend John DiBartolo and would go to him again if I needed help.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Mar, 2022 by Tracy harrity
I highly recommend Attorney John DiBartolo Jr. I was rear-ended in an automobile collision which was absolutely terrifying. As a result, I was unable to work for the first time in my life for an extended period of time due to the physical, emotional, and cognitive impairments. I am very grateful for the help I received from Attorney DiBartolo. His services exceeded my expectations. I was continually impressed with his compassion, patience answering my endless questions, willingness to listen, clear communication skills, and responsiveness while helping me navigate the daunting legal process. His knowledge, dedication, perseverance, and passion for the law is stellar! He maintains the highest level of professionalism at all times.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
22 Feb, 2022 by Brad
Lisa took 15 minutes of her time at no cost to explain my situation very thoroughly. She brought up several points that are of importance to my case. Very friendly. I highly recommend contacting her.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
20 Sep, 2020 by Christine
Lisa Kent , esquire., took full advantage of myself and my family, desperate to save my children, knowing I was indigent, but knowing my parents
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
01 May, 2016 by Sandy
Ms. Kent spent a good deal of time meeting with me to go over my case. She pointed out alternative ways of dealing with my issue and was friendly, compassionate and through. I felt well taken care of and was very pleased with the outcome. I especially appreciated it when Ms. Kent followed-up and contacted me after a few weeks later, to make sure I was pleased with the final outcome.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
01 Aug, 2024 by Cynthia
Beth really knows family law very well, she explained the process in detail and answered all my questions. Very professional and easy to speak with.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
03 Jun, 2024 by Jennifer
I am a single mom of two, whose ex committed suicide in 2018 leaving behind an estate to my youngest. I asked if Beth Lux could represent us but I also told her I was inexperienced about lawyers (she was the first I’d ever hired). She had confidence so I gave her a retainer and everything she else she asked of me which was a lot. Mostly because she failed at communicating with other parties out of state. I had to get notarized paperwork from Oklahoma because she couldn’t accomplish it. After a long time, around a year, and 8500 of my US dollars she still had no idea what she was doing except taking my money. She had made a big file but she stood in front of Judge Fidnik saying her wheels were spinning, asking for suggestions from the judge. I had some friends who know constitutional law come with me that day because I felt I needed witnessing of Beth Lux failing me! When she said “judge my wheels are spinning”, my friend interrupted my case from the bench and asked the judge for a recess and she granted him permission to talk to me in a private room! Beth had the audacity to followed us in! He told her he wanted to talk to me alone and she stormed out. We spoke and exited the room to find Beth lux with her ear to the wall! She was busted failing me at about $279 an hour. And I fired her, best thing I ever did! I mean, if you can’t do the job, don’t take so much money!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
03 Jan, 2021 by Bruce
Beth and Her staff handled my divorce with class and made swift work of it! Very pleased.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
22 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
Perhaps one of the greediest, most detached and unconcerned lawyers I've had to deal with in my entire life. More concerned with securing his exorbitant payment before answering any questions, be they basic and procedural in nature, than in instilling a feeling of having my interests at heart and a willingness to move forward with a very easy, very basic legal proceeding. Mark Berson is gruff, immature and from what I was able to gather I can only assume extremely hard of hearing as a number of questions went completely unanswered. As I say I must assume it be an issue of his age and hearing because I know of no professional, in any field, that would ignore or flat out refuse to answer questions and instead only bringing up his dire need for thousands upon thousands of dollars for a single, one day court hearing whose date I had secure without his assistance and before meeting with him. "This is one of the lawyers that gives other lawyers the bad reputation." - One of his colleagues.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
13 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
It took this attorney 3 years to get a court date and he kept telling me that you are not going to win !! He had all kinds of promises at the consultation and after that when he got paid up front he did absolutely nothing. There was no police report and I was the one who found the attorney on the false docket sheet , who said he never heard of me nor knows me or the court date of the hearing Isaac would give me a time and a date to contact him numerous times and he never answered the phone. This is a bad attorney ( if you want to call him that - an attorney ) to be trusted !
Read more Avvo
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You

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

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

When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?

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

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

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

What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?

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

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

How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?

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

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

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

How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?

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

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

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

Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer

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

  1. What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
    Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption.
  2. How will you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved.
  3. What are the possible outcomes of my case?
    An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case.
  4. What is your approach to resolving disputes?
    Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals.
  5. How long do you expect my case to take?
    While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases.
  6. Who will be handling my case?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.

How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer

To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:

  • Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
  • Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
  • Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
  • Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
  • List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
  • Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
  • Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
  • Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.

Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.

Scroll to top