Lawyers map
>128
experienced lawyers
Filter by
06 Aug, 2024 by Chris scales
10 Jul, 2024 by M johnson
I am very happy that i decided to go with your firm. Very professional and seem very attentive. I have no issues. Thank you
Read more
12 Jun, 2024 by Ashley brittian
Riddle and Brantley are great to work with! Highly recommend them.
Read more
20 Nov, 2018 by Brian
The simplified version is this: My case was complex involving children, financial issues, infidelity on the part of my ex and other points. As a father, the safety of my children was priority number one...and as it turned out it was priority number one for Carolyn and her team as well. She never made promises or guarantees, but laid out positions, plans and strategy that in the end ultimately benefitted my children and me. I have legal and physical custody of my children along with paying no alimony to my ex. Carolyn and her whole team CARE...and that's what makes her so awesome work with and to have in your corner.
Read more
08 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
“When I made the decision to file for divorce, I was very nervous and had absolutely no idea of what to expect. During my initial meeting with Carolyn and Steve, I knew I had found the best possible firm to represent me. I immediately felt comfortable explaining my situation. From the beginning, the firm eased my concerns and lowered my stress level. They analyzed my situation and put together a sound strategy to achieve the best outcome for my divorce.
Words cannot describe how grateful I am to Carolyn and Steve. I never felt like my case was not a priority. Carolyn and her team were thorough and detailed oriented. I was updated every step of the way and always received a quick response to my emails and phone calls and my concerns were addressed clearly and compassionately.
I fully trusted that Carolyn always had my best interest throughout the entire process. She is extremely knowledgeable of current tax laws and their implications regarding my equitable distribution and the outcome of my settlement. Carolyn negotiated the best settlement for me and I avoided having to go through court hearings.
Woodruff Family Law firm treated me like family. They are sincere and trustworthy. My biggest priority was my children and how they were handling all of the changes that our family was having to deal with. It was so reassuring to know that I never had to worry about my case and I was able to give my children the attention and emotional support they needed during the difficult time.
I highly recommend Carolyn and her firm.”
*Pursuant to the Rules of Professional Responsibility, the results of this client under their specific facts may differ from your results under the facts of your case.
Read more
08 Feb, 2018 by Jose
I am glad that I hired Carolyn for my domestic case. She was efficient, and got the job done for me. My ex was a handful. We sent the ex questions to answer. Carolyn explained every step of the way with clear communication. Steve was great as well. I would hire them again. Well worth the money.
Read more
24 Oct, 2023 by Baddie baddston
I paid this woman for a consultation to file a simple document for a simple civil case. I paid the consultation fee and after weeks I didn’t hear from her. Then she had the audacity to be rude through texts. I do NOT recommend
Read more
02 Dec, 2021 by Cj so cool leon
I rashell lee called at 1:05 to inquire about some help on a matter which I was referred by a friend the way I was greeted was veryyyyy rude and not professional at allllllllll.,,, I’m disappointed and wouldn’t recommend anyone to their business with the nasty receptionist they have! Y’all have a bless day! I don’t never do reviews unless it a good one but this one was unexceptional!!!!!
Read more
06 Aug, 2020 by Sidney mahone
Service was very pleasant. Very helpful and informative in dealing with my particular situation.
Read more
21 Aug, 2024 by Tiara hart
Drew has been so helpful and attentive. It has been a long time coming and it was worth it. He went above and beyond for me and I am forever Greatful. He gets the job done !!
Read more
06 Aug, 2024 by Capricorn 4 life
How can I say this....My Lawyer Mr. Drew Brown was absolutely awesome. Any questions I had during my case was answered in a timely manner. Very friendly and down to earth. Got me more than I expected to win on my case. I highly recommend.
Again Mr. Drew Brown THANK YOU.
Read more
23 Jul, 2024 by Kalisa crosby johnson
Drew Brown is the best! He was able to get the job done for me and it paid off! It was 5 years and right on time. Please be patient with the process.
Read more
31 Mar, 2024 by Janet lee carpenter
The Greatest Lawyer I Ever Spoken To. HE CARES, LISTEN, HE CARES!!!
Read more
04 Jul, 2023 by Randall shaw
Absolutely the best house closing experience I've ever had. Mr McLoughlin was very careful to explain everything. I highly recommend him for your real estate closing attorney.
Read more
09 Mar, 2023 by Joe johnson
Very knowledgeable and experienced. I highly recommend him.
Read more
31 Mar, 2024 by Janet lee carpenter
The Greatest Lawyer I Ever Spoken To. HE CARES, LISTEN, HE CARES!!!
Read more
04 Jul, 2023 by Randall shaw
Absolutely the best house closing experience I've ever had. Mr McLoughlin was very careful to explain everything. I highly recommend him for your real estate closing attorney.
Read more
09 Mar, 2023 by Joe johnson
Very knowledgeable and experienced. I highly recommend him.
Read more
05 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Attorney Osegueda was great from start to finish with my case!! The professionalism he displayed made what could have been a very devastating situation seemingly a breeze. The office staff were very friendly and welcoming.
Read more
08 Nov, 2023 by Caitlin
Carlos is one understanding patient lawyer. To keep me in the loop with all my needs and wants and to make things happen, by far the best lawyers I have encountered! I applaud him in his excellence and skills as he is the best and I highly recommend him!!
Read more
04 Jun, 2021 by Vivian
I am extremely happy with the outcome of my litigation case. Carlos is one of a kind, not only he went out of the way to make sure I was fairly treated but he also provides me with advice all throughout the case. It was long and tedious but he was also willing to respond to any questions, he keeps me well informed of the changes on our case and he promptly responded to emails and/ or phone calls. A very easy, professional, and humble person to work with. I will definitely recommend him and his team for any legal issues.
Read more
19 Jun, 2019 by Kyle
Fabulous job with a tough negotiation. I appreciated his strong direction in this complex situation.
Definitely call him for North Carolina legal needs.
Read more
07 Sep, 2018 by Gerald
Saved my business and me. Ferocious advocate who stood by me. I would hire this guy again every single time.
Read more
11 Aug, 2018 by Derek
Has represented me in several business cases. Viscous advocate for my interests.
Read more
18 Sep, 2024 by Lexus quarles
Y’all definitely are the best thank y’all so much for helping me with my case
Read more
21 Jul, 2024 by Sharif seymoure
18 Jul, 2024 by Cheryl stewart
R Steve Bowden and Associates are a great group of people to work with. They are kind and compassionate. My settlement was above what I expected. They really work hard for you.
Read more
09 May, 2024 by Y m
Cannot get anyone on the phone. Keep getting voicemail. Not good.
Read more
29 Apr, 2024 by Betty vaughn
16 Apr, 2024 by Nafezha mohammadi
14 Jul, 2023 by Kari
Carole was hired by my abusive husband’s trustees to review a prenup prior to my marriage. She neglected to inform me of unconscionable provisions, for which I am now facing major fallout for her failure to inform. When I contacted her for help after being assaulted by my husband, she waited a MONTH to respond, costing me valuable time in negotiation. When she finally got back to me, she LAUGHED at me and denied the veritable clause in the unconscionable prenup granting more rights to the dog than me when I made her aware that my dog has more rights in the prenup than I do. Incompetence is the kindest term I have to describe her legal representation. I’m in a major bind due to her negligence and irresponsible counsel. Beware before hiring.
Read more
08 Jun, 2019 by James
Carole and all the others that I worked with was always kind and helpful.
Carole Albright worked very hard to have all infomation to the case.
Read more
10 May, 2016 by Anonymous
Carole is compassionate lawyer who helped collect the appropriate details & documentation to successfully present the case. She kept me apprised of progress as the alternate Counsel worked their case & Carole's attention to detail helped ensure a successful outcome.
Read more
31 Jul, 2024 by Cooper jones
27 Jul, 2024 by Carmen jarmon
Listennnn! Attorney Carpenter did in two weeks what another attorney didn’t do in an ENTIRE YEAR! This is not a hyperbole, this is a documented fact! He came highly recommended but because of the lack from the other attorned we were skeptical! He got the job done and there was not even a need for a court appearance! He is not only good at what he does, but also down to earth and understanding of your feelings regarding the matter and the need for quick dissolution/resolution! We are so grateful for him and never even met him in person! If I could give six ⭐️s I would! I hope to never need another attorney but if I do, he is definitely my choice hands down!
Read more
27 Jul, 2024 by Helenka eastman
Very professional but even more commendable was how attentive and personable Mr. Carpenter was. When it comes to legal processes that one may not completely understand, trust is a big factor. You want someone that understands you, has your back and applies the law appropriately and effectively .I believe that is a rare quality these days. We were not just another number in his contact list. He always got back to us and knowing that put us more at ease. I highly recommend him! Best choice we ever made!
Read more
31 Jul, 2024 by Cooper jones
27 Jul, 2024 by Carmen jarmon
Listennnn! Attorney Carpenter did in two weeks what another attorney didn’t do in an ENTIRE YEAR! This is not a hyperbole, this is a documented fact! He came highly recommended but because of the lack from the other attorned we were skeptical! He got the job done and there was not even a need for a court appearance! He is not only good at what he does, but also down to earth and understanding of your feelings regarding the matter and the need for quick dissolution/resolution! We are so grateful for him and never even met him in person! If I could give six ⭐️s I would! I hope to never need another attorney but if I do, he is definitely my choice hands down!
Read more
27 Jul, 2024 by Helenka eastman
Very professional but even more commendable was how attentive and personable Mr. Carpenter was. When it comes to legal processes that one may not completely understand, trust is a big factor. You want someone that understands you, has your back and applies the law appropriately and effectively .I believe that is a rare quality these days. We were not just another number in his contact list. He always got back to us and knowing that put us more at ease. I highly recommend him! Best choice we ever made!
Read more
31 Jul, 2024 by Cooper jones
27 Jul, 2024 by Carmen jarmon
Listennnn! Attorney Carpenter did in two weeks what another attorney didn’t do in an ENTIRE YEAR! This is not a hyperbole, this is a documented fact! He came highly recommended but because of the lack from the other attorned we were skeptical! He got the job done and there was not even a need for a court appearance! He is not only good at what he does, but also down to earth and understanding of your feelings regarding the matter and the need for quick dissolution/resolution! We are so grateful for him and never even met him in person! If I could give six ⭐️s I would! I hope to never need another attorney but if I do, he is definitely my choice hands down!
Read more
27 Jul, 2024 by Helenka eastman
Very professional but even more commendable was how attentive and personable Mr. Carpenter was. When it comes to legal processes that one may not completely understand, trust is a big factor. You want someone that understands you, has your back and applies the law appropriately and effectively .I believe that is a rare quality these days. We were not just another number in his contact list. He always got back to us and knowing that put us more at ease. I highly recommend him! Best choice we ever made!
Read more
5.0
20 Reviews
3.4
10 Reviews
11 Sep, 2024 by Shalawn covert
If you need a family law attorney run the other way. He came to court unprepared and late. He was late for our case because he was dealing with another case at the same time and day. We had to get most of the paper work for our case and he is just rude and disrespectful to his client. He threaten several times to walk out and let the judge know he was recusing himself. Needless to say he lost the case. All after he had received his money. This man shouldn’t be able to practice law the way he treats his clients.
Read more
19 Dec, 2023 by Frank fister
He epitomizes the used car salesman/lawyer stereotype.
Read more
30 Oct, 2023 by Ken morrison
This is a terrible law firm.
Read more
4.7
13 Reviews
4.2
70 Reviews
31 Jul, 2024 by Cooper jones
20 Jul, 2024 by Lia sater
08 Jul, 2024 by Tanisha thomas
31 Jul, 2024 by Cooper jones
20 Jul, 2024 by Lia sater
08 Jul, 2024 by Jacquise perry
He was hired for my kids father. I send him messages and he doesn’t respond at all. He doesn’t visit him or give him any info about what’s going on with his case. My kids father has been sitting for a whole year and nothing has moved or changed. It seems once he was paid in full, he just don’t respond to my messages nor visit and tell my kids father anything about what’s going on with his case. We call his office and can never get in touch with him nor get a call returned. I have never seen an attorney that doesn’t communicate at all. If I could give a 0 star I would. Save your money and frustration.
Read more
27 Jul, 2024 by Madison bright
26 Jul, 2024 by Treshaun james
25 Jul, 2024 by Alex christine metcalf
Literally the worst encounter with a law office. Daniel Karlsson was very unprofessionally late and would rather take your money than be honest and say he doesn't feel comfortable taking your case. To then refund and send you out of the office if you bother to ask questions about payment and why you will still pay full price even if you do all the work of gathering and organizing everything need for your case. He made me feel like I had already lost my case. By the tone of his voice and facial reactions, he was believing the non sense and accusations from the opposing party. Several times I had to ask him how he felt about this case and his confidence level about it, it was not promising. He had no faith in my evidence (that he ignored to look minus one item), and honestly shocked how he spoke to me considering he worked with the innocence program and studied women and gender studies?! He has no idea how to speak to a concerned and terrified mother. Also, this office can't get appointments timed properly and they are more of a puppy mill-- you're just a # and $ to them. You'll have everyone but the attorney you made an appointment with try to come in and speak to you on their behalf. It was without a doubt the worst experience with attorneys I've ever had. I'll never recommend this place. I should've listened to the other reviews on here and the people in the waiting room telling me to run and get someone else immediately because they will not fight for you. So glad I dodged a bullet!! Do yourself a favor and do not hire this office.
Read more
31 Jul, 2024 by Cooper jones
20 Jul, 2024 by Lia sater
08 Jul, 2024 by A j
10 May, 2021 by Michael
I was recommended to John Kirkman in 2006 when. a former girlfriend spread rumors at my workplace and used my efforts to be left alone to feign the need for a restraining order. Mr Kirkman failed to comprehend these dynamics and failed to return phone calls. I called his office to relieve him of representation of me, yet he still showed up in court and billed me for the time. If you seek an attorney where communication is important to you I would hire one of the many other defense attorneys in Freensboro. Two stars is a gift.
Read more
09 Jan, 2020 by Jeff
John was an absolute pleasure to work with. Constant reassurance from him during the entire process and all charges dismissed! I would 100% recommend him and his office for any legal needs you ore your family may need!
Read more
28 Apr, 2018 by Margie
I was lost... I had to depend on him for everything...this was the divorce from hell ! He did everything in his power to help to survive after a 30 yr marriage ,financially and emotionally . I would highly recommend John Kirkman and his associates.
Read more
31 Mar, 2024 by Janet lee carpenter
The Greatest Lawyer I Ever Spoken To. HE CARES, LISTEN, HE CARES!!!
Read more
04 Jul, 2023 by Randall shaw
Absolutely the best house closing experience I've ever had. Mr McLoughlin was very careful to explain everything. I highly recommend him for your real estate closing attorney.
Read more
09 Mar, 2023 by Joe johnson
Very knowledgeable and experienced. I highly recommend him.
Read more
31 Mar, 2024 by Janet lee carpenter
The Greatest Lawyer I Ever Spoken To. HE CARES, LISTEN, HE CARES!!!
Read more
04 Jul, 2023 by Randall shaw
Absolutely the best house closing experience I've ever had. Mr McLoughlin was very careful to explain everything. I highly recommend him for your real estate closing attorney.
Read more
09 Mar, 2023 by Joe johnson
Very knowledgeable and experienced. I highly recommend him.
Read more
23 Jun, 2021 by Aloysius
I was in a tough spot with trying protect my children from a potentially harmful environment. I hired attorney Armstrong and we began the process of seeking full custody. After filing for custody of my two youngest children, I was able to get full custody. This was all during the COVID pandemic as well.
Read more
19 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
It has been an absolute delight having Charlene support me through my legal process. She’s passionate, honest and leads with integrity. Having Charlene as my advocate has alleviate a lot of worry, stress and anxiety. She extremely responsive by phone and email and I’ve always felt that she has my best interest at heart. If you are looking for an Attorney I’d highly recommend Attorney Armstrong your legal needs.
Read more
19 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
Attorney Armstrong was very knowledgeable, professional and patient as I dealt with one of the worst periods of my life
Read more
09 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Do not initiate any business with this woman.
She did get my divorce completed, albiet, very, very overpriced.
I was accosted by her in the courthouse recently when trying to obtain a copy of my divorce decree.
She overheard me giving them the necessary information to get my records and she very aggressively approached me.
First, she very unprofessionally yelled at me across the room in front of many people asking what my name is and I tried to ignore her. I did not know at first who she was. She was very persistent and wouldn't leave me alone.
She said she is Bonnie Rossi and I told her she was my attorney and handled my divorce. She said she needed me before even asking my name so that was extremely confusing.
She came up to me and almost grabbed me and I had to stop her by stepping back and she asked me again what my name is. I told her I would be happy to tell her after I was done with my business.
She startled my Dad as the way she approached me, he thought I had done something to hurt her.
She waited the entire time. I was unable to talk to her and she said she needed me. She said she would call me and never did so I still don't know what is going on. All she told me is she had something going on that she needed me, but that was before my name was revealed.
After leaving the courthouse I made a statement to my Dad that she is in the wrong field if she thinks her name would never be mentioned in a courthouse.
The way she aggressively approached me, caused me to go home and cry for hours as I now suffer from extreme recent trauma and cognitive issues as I tried to explain to her at the courthouse.
AVOID HER SERVICES AT ALL COSTS!!!
This experience was not worth what I just went through....
Read more
28 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Unprofessional and rude! Did not do her job or help my case. If you want to see results and even win your case then DO NOT hire her!!!
Read more
11 Jun, 2018 by Rosemarie
Have you ever felt like your back was against the wall? Stuck between a rock and a hard place? Look no further than to Bonnie E. Rossi! She was a lifesaver, and the life she saved was my daughter's. I discovered serious problems at my daughter's father's home that included neglect and various types of abuse toward her. I knew I needed professional help to get my daughter out of there quickly and away from all the negativity going on. I have almost no experience or knowledge about lawyers and the laws in general concerning custody of children, so I had many questions and was nervous. Between Bonnie and her paralegal Danielle, our fears were immediately put to rest. They were thoughtful, caring, and always quick to respond to my questions . They treated me and my husband with respect and dignity and basically gave my teen daughter a voice. They always validated our concerns and made us feel like we mattered. Straight to the point in general and easy to talk to. She knew what to do and how to do it quickly with minimal stress on everyone, especially my daughter. She even spoke with my daughter one-on-one and explained things in ways she would understand. We knew we had chosen the right attorney when we were given custody of my little girl and within a reasonable amount of time no less! We'd recommend Bonnie to anyone needing an aggressive attorney who cares and gets the job DONE!
Read more
14 Sep, 2024 by Samantha bolton
She was very professional and got the job done for my parents.
Read more
01 Dec, 2023 by Juliet godinez
Very unprofessional , looks like she bought her degree,
she was not ready for the mediation , she never put my ex into the child support system. it took over a year to finish my divorce, they only answer your calls when is time to pay money but when you need answers they never return your call sometimes more than 3 months, and that lady Lynn it was so hard to work with her, you can't trust her she was just ling to me ,she told me 'I'm about to send the divorce papers' and then six weeks later after many times calling her, she never served him. Good luck if you pick this lawyer. I wish I should have looked at her reviews before I wasted my money.
Read more
28 Jun, 2023 by Faith carter
31 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
I consulted with Mr.Pearman for the closing of a house and decided to go elsewhere. I was quoted several different fees for closing, a much longer process and the practice seemed old school. I was able to find a different attorney to close within 30 days for a 1/4 of the cost.
Read more
12 Mar, 2013 by Nicole
I have worked with this attorney on multiple issues including real estate closings and domestic matters and have found him to be knowledgeable and well parepared.
Read more
08 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
Ms. Williams agreed to represent my client who is a refugee with a ticket. She never contacted him. I contacted her twice to find out what was going on and she said “oh sorry. He should probably find someone else. I am too busy.” She AGREED to represent him. She said she would contact him. If I had not contacted her the second time, I doubt he would have heard from her at all. Very disappointing and unprofessional. But based on the other reviews, I guess I should not have been surprised.
Read more
16 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
I loved Ms. Williams! She was caring and did a great job in my criminal case. Would recommend her to anyone.
Read more
13 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
Amy Williams is an awful attorney. She never returned phone calls. It takes her weeks to return text. She isn't prepared with accurate information for court. She misleads her clients. I would have been better off representing myself. I asked her to visit me several times while I was incarcerated in Guilford County before my court date to discuss my case...she never came. She didn't keep me informed about my case. Very disappointed with her representation
Read more
18 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
If you care about the outcome of your case, don’t hire this guy. He has no concern for his clients or their cases and disappears for long periods of time with no warning, no communication, and he apparently has no qualms with blatantly lying before a judge about whether or not you, as his client, have contacted him. He will not respond to emails, texts, or voicemails and fails to familiarize himself with his clients’ cases. His lack of professionalism makes me wonder why he’s even practicing law, and he should be held accountable for the delays and problems he causes his clients to face with their court cases.
Read more
11 Dec, 2013 by Brandy
I had the worst experience with Mr.Kevin Dowling, he does not care about his clients. If you do not call him you WON'T HEAR FROM HIM AT ALL!!! Every time I meant with Mr. Dowling I had to retell my case over to him each time I meant with him. He truly acts as if he could care less about his clients and what they have going on, my case is very important to me, I mean this is my life. PLEASE DO NOT EVER USE THIS ATTORNEY HE WILL NOT PUT YOU FIRST AS HIS CLIENT!!
Read more
05 Apr, 2020 by Gary
I went to Mr. Berry needing minor adjustments to a Will and two Power of Attorney documents that were only 5 years old. He demanded a retainer of $950 but said there would be a refund if the work did not require the requisite hours. I briefly discussed another legal matter with Mr. Berry, but only retained him to work on updating the three documents. After doing work that should have taken an experienced attorney no more than a few hours, my bill came to exactly $950. I am taking him to Small Claims Court.
Read more
03 Jan, 2020 by James
Tom Maddox didn't seem to have my best interest a heart. He has built his record at the expense of his clients. He will not reach any higher than the lowest hanging fruit. During my property loss case, where my truck was totaled by a drunk driver, I not only lost my truck, but also my business. Tom was not at all interested in pursuing the loss of my business because he was afraid to ask for it from the defendants attorney. I sent in two invoices very early in the case to charge to the defendant, I ended up paying these invoices totaling almost 350.00 out of my portion of the settlement. I know this is a small amount, but this goes to show he wasn't will to demand that from the defendant. He doesn't hesitate demanding money from you. When you hire Tom Maddox, he make you feel like the defendant. Stay far, far, away!
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
-
What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases. -
Who will be handling my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.
How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
- Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
- List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
- Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
- Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.
Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.
