Lawyers map
>59
experienced lawyers
Filter by
21 Jan, 2025 by Laura leet
I was involved in a car crash in Dayton, Ohio. A local attorney who I trust referred me to The Richards Firm. Rhys was available whenever I had questions and assisted me in obtaining a great result. He handled my case from the start, before litigation became necessary, to resolution, which occurred after we litigated the case for some time. I recommend The Richards Firm to handle any of your personal injury needs.
Read more
08 Dec, 2024 by Katie wood
I was involved in a car crash in Kettering, Ohio. A local attorney who I know and trust recommended The Richards Firm to me. Rhys answered my questions and eased any concern that I had. The Richards Firm is the go-to personal injury firm in Southwestern Ohio.
Read more
07 Dec, 2024 by James baumhower
Direct and honest no bs , what a great lawyer, thank you Rhys
Read more
23 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
He is a honest up front genuine guy. Really helped me when i thought my life was over and was able to get me a chance at life. With a way to pay debt to societie. Without having to go to jail/prison. Thank you Damon
Read more
20 Feb, 2014 by Josh
If you need a family law attorney, i highly recommend speaking with Damon Halverson before seeing other counsel. I recently had a death in the family and my nephews were unjustly taken out of state to a relative who were formerly known child abusers. Even though i never hired him he spent at least an hour and a half of his time and shared his wisdom with me on what i should do. I felt he was very honest and extremely knowledgeable pertaining to my circumstances. Due to not being able to enforce a custody order out of state, Damon at least referred me to someone that he thought could help with the attorney being licensed out of state as well as ohio. Damon also repeatedly said he doesnt want to accept his fee without giving me strong assurance on what he could achieve for me. TRUSTWORTHY MAN/HUSBAND/FATHER/ATTORNEY.
sincerely,
A male/Father Butler county resident of 32 years
Read more
21 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
Has been very helpful in getting the job done. Actually listens to his client. Has a wonderful personality which makes him very approachable.
Has dealt with a family members issues and is compassionate and understanding.
Read more
20 Jun, 2017 by Tim
Mr Holcomb did an excellent job. He did my mother's, fiance's and my divorce and helped with a custody situation. He was thoughtful, affordable, funny and professional. Highly recommend!
Read more
22 Feb, 2025 by Mike
I used Kristen for a couple of cases with my ex. First was my separation and she was spot on. Got everything I needed for my children.
Second time was the best when I was taken to court for child support. My ex wanted me to pay more then my house hold exspenses, health care and 60% of the bills thatwe already agreed on. She actually got my ex to pay me instead of the other way around. The other attorney said she had never seen a judge make a decision this way from what my ex told me. I could go on everything she got for my children. So impressed
Kristen is not cheap but you get what you pay for. She is also very very busy but also always returns your calls in a timely matter. Just be patient with her.
What i found most impressive was how she remembered me on the second case. I called her and she remembered who I was even after 2 years.
Like I said she is not cheap at all but when you need the best you will have to pay for the best. Kind of like mac and cheese you never go with the store brand you always go with the best and that is the Blue Box.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Greg faestel
08 Jul, 2024 by Eric corbin
Great service and flexible with meeting times.
Read more
10 Dec, 2024 by Amber moore
Gerald was willing to drop what he was doing and answered all my questions and gave me ease at a terrible time. We needed up not needing him to represent my bf but he went above and beyond and even gave me my full money back when he didn’t have too. Very appreciated. Thank you!
Read more
11 Nov, 2024 by Joy winn
16 Apr, 2024 by Michele mccorkle
Top tier....
If you have a problem or issue....this is your person...
Read more
28 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
I battled for custody of my girls for years mark and his staff got me custody I would recommend him to any and everyone who is dealing with a custody case very professional and fast reply mark is a great guy!!
Read more
13 Jul, 2017 by Emily
Mr. Harding has been such a blessing as I have navigated through this difficult process. I can not comprehend how much time and detail must go into his thorough research to ensure the best outcome for myself and his other clients. I could not have navigated my way through this legal battle with respect to my private student loans without him.
He is a very dedicated and driven individual who has proven to be very trustworthy. During this process I have gotten a glimpse of the complexities of legal matters, and was grateful to have Mr. Harding there every step of the way. He and his associate Karen have always made themselves available if I had questions or concerns. Because of Mark's patient nature, I always felt as if all of our conversations were very thorough, and I always felt as if I was kept up to date on every aspect of my case. Mark also maintained a honest and straightforward approach throughout our correspondence, and was quickly able to reassess the situation when necessary.
In my experience he has been extremely patient, provided guidance, and always maintained a professional attitude. I entered this situation feeling as if I was in a very dire situation, but I quickly was put at ease when I recognized Mark's compassionate and genuine demeanor. He will do everything he can to help you through the complexities of the legal process. I would highly recommend Mr. Hardig to anyone without reservation, and have complete faith in his exemplary dedication to his clients and knowledge of the law. I am forever grateful to have had Mark represent me.
Read more
13 Mar, 2017 by Schuyler
I hired Mark to defend me in a case that went to trial. He was very helpful and experienced during the whole process. I was acquitted by a jury in seven minutes, which Mark informed me was very fast. I would definitely recommend him.
Read more
12 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
I hired her for my divorce and didn't take her long time to get it done..........................
Read more
23 Oct, 2015 by Jennifer
I have used Hannah's expertise since 2010 for my divorce and ongoing. My life experiences that have been very stressful and agravating Hannah has continued to fight for my children and myself. I trust her to put our best interest first, I highly recommend her. She completely listens and and gives advice and doesn't lead in to false hopes.
Read more
18 Jan, 2025 by Sherry kremer
10 Sep, 2020 by Lori carter
Nicole wasmy lawyerwhen I lost custody of my children. She was awesome. Bery polite, understanding, and professional. She honestly really cared about my children she was with me the whole way thru until I got custody back. Thats notall a few years later my oldest daughter got into legal troubles as a juvenile and Nicole came right toher side to defend her, help her get any help that she needed. Very Grateful for this woman. Shw is bery goid at her job and reallycares about her clients.
Read more
12 Mar, 2017 by Erica stidham
04 Oct, 2024 by Sumaya z. khan
Mr. Hyde and Tylor are very kind hearted and seasoned attorneys. They treat their clients like family with empathy and knowledgeable advice. I would recommend them if you want to save your money , life and future and you don't want to get robbed by lawyers firms. He was very helpful and kind. Whenever I texted him I surely got a reply and he explained everything to me even if I asked multiple times. They stand with their clients instead telling them “they are out of office”.
Read more
10 Jan, 2024 by Rob h
Thanks for information and the help, was a pleasure talking with you. Thanks Robert
Read more
09 Aug, 2023 by Jaylen witt
Terrible, not helpful at all and the receptionist is extremely rude.
Read more
15 Nov, 2024 by Melissa ruffner
Love these guys!
They do great work!
Read more
24 Aug, 2024 by Kirk stephenson
When I was denied my Worker's comp I called these folks. Mr. Tom Farrell Jr. helped me win my appeal & didn't receive a dime for helping with that so I told him the least I could do is give a glowing review. I am extremely appreciative for the direction and quick responses I could get when I had questions.
Read more
29 Apr, 2024 by Phillip l. reese
02 Oct, 2023 by Jessica p
I met Mr. Peck in the year 2018, after speaking with him on the phone for the first time... I knew I made the right choice when I took all the steps, through the hardest moments of my life... I questioned him right away about trustworthiness due to the events that occured in the months prior... He was a godsend in the time of my life where I was facing a scary divorce, going against scary individuals and needed someone trustworthy to represent myself and my child. Their entire firm is extremely respectful, the secretaries for the most part are caring... Eventually as well always return my call, especially when in an emergency. I am very blessed to have met the secretaries that are trustworthy, understandable to life and the many threats on a daily basis. They as well have families, and CARE to get to the bottom of things. I would highly recommend this lawyer to ANYONE in fear for their family, experiencing divorce even if it's a messy one... 10/10: Highly recommend.
Read more
08 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
Ched was demanding, in charge and thorough in a very intense child custody battle. We won! He gave strong testimony up against aggressive spouse and attorney. Ched gets right to the point while showing empathy and compassion. I will use ched in the future if needed, as I am confident with him on my side. Excellent attorney!!! Highly recommend
Read more
05 Jul, 2017 by Shannon kimble
My fiancé had no legal rights or visitation schedule with his youngest son. Our case was rather complicated as well. When we went to Ched it was at the last minute before our hearing and we desperately needed legal help. After leaving his office we felt at ease and confident that he would be able to help us and he did! Not only does my fiancé have rights and visitation he even got more than what's considered standard. There are no words to express how thankful we are for Ched Peck.
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Dung massie
Very attentive to our needs and knowledgeable about the legal system. Very thorough and does great work!
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Michael miller
Mr. Albrecht was extremely knowledgeable and took the time to drive do into my case and have everything setup when the time came around.
He was very courteous and understanding of my situation. He took the time to sit down with me and also chat on the phone to give me better insight on what to expect. Provided me with all of the information and items I needed to move forward.
I'm very thankful for everything he was able to do and thankful a friend had recommended him to me. Great guy, reasonable, knowledgeable, informed, just awesome experience overall. Thank you for helping out this Wounded Warrior.
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Lucy raabe
He was amazing! Helped me take the points of my license. Thank you so much Mr Albrecht ❤️❤️❤️
Read more
11 May, 2017 by Rebekah a. ficks - smith
She was very compassionate , kind, heart of love and she did not back down when people of Hamilton were trying their best to "kick me to the curb" because someone else was trying to blame me for something that they did. When you tell lies on others , God always comes to your rescue, and he does not deliver blessings to the bad people. Even Sheriff Jones helped in this situation cause the you don't be bad to God's children. I do my best to live by the ten commandments and I refuse to go against God's Word. the definition of the Bible is "Basic Instruction to get thru life on a day by day. Exodus 15:2, Matthew 5:6 , Phillipians 4:19 .
Read more
09 Oct, 2015 by J. c. , hamilton, oh
Ms. Stephenson was wonderful to work with. Went above and beyond in helping me with some legal business matters. Kind, caring, responsive to phone calls and requests. Would highly recommend her as an attorney.
Read more
09 Apr, 2015 by Betty
My family was left a terrible mess from our father's estate and Mr. Pater was very supportive and diligent about advising us through the process to resolve it all. My brother, unexpectedly passed away during the process and Mr. Pater was very kind and understood the effect it had on the different family members. I would recommend him to anyone who wants an attorney who is very different from the type who over charge and under produce.
Read more
29 Oct, 2024 by Donnie collett
25 Nov, 2015 by Ashley b
'Honorable Attorney' Two words usually not used in the same sentence - Mr Shanks really excels at what he does and does so with integrity and efficiency! His experience and knowledge of the law really stands out when speaking with him. His judgement proved superb and very well-spoken, which is always an important quality in an Attorney. I will absolutely recommend Mr. Shanks to anyone I know in the future. The outcome was way better than I could've imagined. Much respect! Thanks again!
Read more
17 Sep, 2015 by Luree colwell
He definitely knows what he's doing! I made a plea deal to combine my two felony charges into one, so I was being convicted of a felony 3 which is a minimum of 3-5 years in prison. Judge Pater is one of the toughest and Mr. Shanks said he ALWAYS gives people their prison time, but thanks to Mr. Shanks closing statement about how I have always been an upstanding citizen and I just happened to be at the wrong place at the wrong time (truth), Judge Pater only gave me 3 years probation!! I give all the glory to God, but Mr. Shanks definitely did his job, and represented me better than I could've ever imagined. I highly recommend seeking his representation if you can afford it.
Read more
29 Oct, 2024 by Donnie collett
25 Nov, 2015 by Ashley b
'Honorable Attorney' Two words usually not used in the same sentence - Mr Shanks really excels at what he does and does so with integrity and efficiency! His experience and knowledge of the law really stands out when speaking with him. His judgement proved superb and very well-spoken, which is always an important quality in an Attorney. I will absolutely recommend Mr. Shanks to anyone I know in the future. The outcome was way better than I could've imagined. Much respect! Thanks again!
Read more
17 Sep, 2015 by Luree colwell
He definitely knows what he's doing! I made a plea deal to combine my two felony charges into one, so I was being convicted of a felony 3 which is a minimum of 3-5 years in prison. Judge Pater is one of the toughest and Mr. Shanks said he ALWAYS gives people their prison time, but thanks to Mr. Shanks closing statement about how I have always been an upstanding citizen and I just happened to be at the wrong place at the wrong time (truth), Judge Pater only gave me 3 years probation!! I give all the glory to God, but Mr. Shanks definitely did his job, and represented me better than I could've ever imagined. I highly recommend seeking his representation if you can afford it.
Read more
13 Jan, 2021 by Amanda vietor
We love our attorney Dennis Adams,he's a great guy.
Read more
12 Jan, 2020 by Monika michael
12 Nov, 2019 by James hart
Dennis Adams is the most honest people I've ever met he rates up there with my mother and wife and there all just below the bigJC
Read more
17 Dec, 2024 by Jerry ross
Wonderful, professional, and accommodating… Our experience with the practice was seamless and well appreciated. Thanks again to Kris, Jess, and the team!
Read more
10 Dec, 2024 by Briana graeter
Spoke with Scott about a situation, he didn't have to go over and beyond answering questions and giving me advice but he did!! He is very knowledgeable and I'll definitely be calling back if I need help.
Read more
10 Dec, 2024 by Travis eavey
Scott helps us with My Son's cases. I was very pleased and happy with the service and time He put in for My Son. Never fun to deal with courts but helps when You have A Great Lawyer on Your side.
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Dung massie
Very attentive to our needs and knowledgeable about the legal system. Very thorough and does great work!
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Michael miller
Mr. Albrecht was extremely knowledgeable and took the time to drive do into my case and have everything setup when the time came around.
He was very courteous and understanding of my situation. He took the time to sit down with me and also chat on the phone to give me better insight on what to expect. Provided me with all of the information and items I needed to move forward.
I'm very thankful for everything he was able to do and thankful a friend had recommended him to me. Great guy, reasonable, knowledgeable, informed, just awesome experience overall. Thank you for helping out this Wounded Warrior.
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Lucy raabe
He was amazing! Helped me take the points of my license. Thank you so much Mr Albrecht ❤️❤️❤️
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Dung massie
Very attentive to our needs and knowledgeable about the legal system. Very thorough and does great work!
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Michael miller
Mr. Albrecht was extremely knowledgeable and took the time to drive do into my case and have everything setup when the time came around.
He was very courteous and understanding of my situation. He took the time to sit down with me and also chat on the phone to give me better insight on what to expect. Provided me with all of the information and items I needed to move forward.
I'm very thankful for everything he was able to do and thankful a friend had recommended him to me. Great guy, reasonable, knowledgeable, informed, just awesome experience overall. Thank you for helping out this Wounded Warrior.
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Lucy raabe
He was amazing! Helped me take the points of my license. Thank you so much Mr Albrecht ❤️❤️❤️
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Dung massie
Very attentive to our needs and knowledgeable about the legal system. Very thorough and does great work!
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Michael miller
Mr. Albrecht was extremely knowledgeable and took the time to drive do into my case and have everything setup when the time came around.
He was very courteous and understanding of my situation. He took the time to sit down with me and also chat on the phone to give me better insight on what to expect. Provided me with all of the information and items I needed to move forward.
I'm very thankful for everything he was able to do and thankful a friend had recommended him to me. Great guy, reasonable, knowledgeable, informed, just awesome experience overall. Thank you for helping out this Wounded Warrior.
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Lucy raabe
He was amazing! Helped me take the points of my license. Thank you so much Mr Albrecht ❤️❤️❤️
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Dung massie
Very attentive to our needs and knowledgeable about the legal system. Very thorough and does great work!
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Michael miller
Mr. Albrecht was extremely knowledgeable and took the time to drive do into my case and have everything setup when the time came around.
He was very courteous and understanding of my situation. He took the time to sit down with me and also chat on the phone to give me better insight on what to expect. Provided me with all of the information and items I needed to move forward.
I'm very thankful for everything he was able to do and thankful a friend had recommended him to me. Great guy, reasonable, knowledgeable, informed, just awesome experience overall. Thank you for helping out this Wounded Warrior.
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Lucy raabe
He was amazing! Helped me take the points of my license. Thank you so much Mr Albrecht ❤️❤️❤️
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Dung massie
Very attentive to our needs and knowledgeable about the legal system. Very thorough and does great work!
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Michael miller
Mr. Albrecht was extremely knowledgeable and took the time to drive do into my case and have everything setup when the time came around.
He was very courteous and understanding of my situation. He took the time to sit down with me and also chat on the phone to give me better insight on what to expect. Provided me with all of the information and items I needed to move forward.
I'm very thankful for everything he was able to do and thankful a friend had recommended him to me. Great guy, reasonable, knowledgeable, informed, just awesome experience overall. Thank you for helping out this Wounded Warrior.
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Lucy raabe
He was amazing! Helped me take the points of my license. Thank you so much Mr Albrecht ❤️❤️❤️
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Dung massie
Very attentive to our needs and knowledgeable about the legal system. Very thorough and does great work!
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Michael miller
Mr. Albrecht was extremely knowledgeable and took the time to drive do into my case and have everything setup when the time came around.
He was very courteous and understanding of my situation. He took the time to sit down with me and also chat on the phone to give me better insight on what to expect. Provided me with all of the information and items I needed to move forward.
I'm very thankful for everything he was able to do and thankful a friend had recommended him to me. Great guy, reasonable, knowledgeable, informed, just awesome experience overall. Thank you for helping out this Wounded Warrior.
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Lucy raabe
He was amazing! Helped me take the points of my license. Thank you so much Mr Albrecht ❤️❤️❤️
Read more
18 Dec, 2024 by Merrill thomas
I was in a hit and run accident and this team definitely helped a lot with getting my case finished out. Sierra Coreno was a huge help and I wouldn't of had peace of mind without her guidance. Thank you to everyone at Mckenzie and Snyder.
Read more
12 Dec, 2024 by Reggie benefield
12 Dec, 2024 by Valerie benefield
17 Jan, 2025 by Jason s
Dan did an amazing job. I would highly recommend him to anyone seeking legal representation!
Read more
30 Jun, 2024 by Wenceslav gyamfi
I am excited to work with an experienced lawyer(Brandabur). You work diligently. You helped me pull all the evidences to defend my case. I really appreciate your work. I will recommend you on any day to other clients. Thanks a lot
Read more
19 Jun, 2024 by Lawson martin
Mr. Brandabur went above and beyond to resolve my case! He provided expert legal counsel, and he found a solution that always kept my personal and financial well-being at the forefront. He is an excellent lawyer and truly cares about helping others.
Read more
04 Oct, 2024 by Sumaya z. khan
Mr. Hyde and Tylor are very kind hearted and seasoned attorneys. They treat their clients like family with empathy and knowledgeable advice. I would recommend them if you want to save your money , life and future and you don't want to get robbed by lawyers firms. He was very helpful and kind. Whenever I texted him I surely got a reply and he explained everything to me even if I asked multiple times. They stand with their clients instead telling them “they are out of office”.
Read more
10 Jan, 2024 by Rob h
Thanks for information and the help, was a pleasure talking with you. Thanks Robert
Read more
09 Aug, 2023 by Jaylen witt
Terrible, not helpful at all and the receptionist is extremely rude.
Read more
08 Dec, 2024 by Mark shippy
03 Dec, 2024 by Kathy thompson
Very thorough & efficient. Would recommend.
Read more
14 Nov, 2024 by Christian terry
Had Ched do two custody cases for me just to get on a schedule. Ched would wait until the day of court literally minutes before to tell me we have court or to try and go over the stuff their lawyers were saying. He did not explain anything thoroughly, he would say things that made me feel like he was trying to just be done with the case. The lawyers they had were literally telling ched what he would do. Im still dealing with these cases and they were supposed to be closed in May. Also I had the hardest time getting in contact with him I would text and call and call the office just to get an attitude from the lady at the desk. I would recommend an attorney that will take their time and make sure you get the best representation!!
Read more
04 Nov, 2023 by Brooke akers
If I could give 0 stars, I would. I am in a wheelchair, fighting for custody of my child. I dropped $3,000 on this lawyer just for him to never return my calls, never answer, doesn’t call before court, is never prepared for court, but charges an arm & a leg. He has been on my case for 4 months & done absolutely nothing. He is too busy with his other cases to put the same amount of due diligence and care in each case. He will put you on the back burner for his more high profile cases. I feel like I have a public defender, not a paid lawyer. I’m a single mom in a wheelchair, I could’ve very well used my $3,000 on something else!
Read more
07 Feb, 2023 by John smith
This attorney will bleed you dry with minimal results at best . I'd like to think that he doesn't "drop the ball" on every client but then again his track record is proving otherwise.
Read more
03 Feb, 2023 by Martha gatton
Joe and his team are the best! Can't thank you enough for being you!
Read more
04 Nov, 2023 by Brooke akers
If I could give 0 stars, I would. I am in a wheelchair, fighting for custody of my child. I dropped $3,000 on this lawyer just for him to never return my calls, never answer, doesn’t call before court, is never prepared for court, but charges an arm & a leg. He has been on my case for 4 months & done absolutely nothing. He is too busy with his other cases to put the same amount of due diligence and care in each case. He will put you on the back burner for his more high profile cases. I feel like I have a public defender, not a paid lawyer. I’m a single mom in a wheelchair, I could’ve very well used my $3,000 on something else!
Read more
07 Feb, 2023 by John smith
This attorney will bleed you dry with minimal results at best . I'd like to think that he doesn't "drop the ball" on every client but then again his track record is proving otherwise.
Read more
03 Feb, 2023 by Martha gatton
Joe and his team are the best! Can't thank you enough for being you!
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.
