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16 Sep, 2022 by Owen
Jack Denton is among the most honorable and hardworking people I have met. I began helping my father with his divorce case in late 2021, and at the time, was frustrated by a different attorney’s lack of attention and focus on my dad’s case. I am my father’s power-of-attorney but live in Texas while dad still lives in Mississippi. My father has dealt with some cognitive decline in recent years and has a hard time keeping track of key details, so I knew I’d have to replace dad’s previous lawyer with one I could fully trust. I wanted to find a lawyer who didn’t know my family for various reasons, so I found Jack on Google and was immediately impressed with the large number of high ratings and positive reviews. I found one negative review but the context and complaint seemed laughable to me, and I was even more convinced at how outlandish that complaint was after I began interacting with Jack, myself. I called his office one day, and Jack spoke with me on the phone, at length, and gave me good (free) advice on how to try one last time with dad’s current lawyer at the time. He was complimentary of that other lawyer and gave me some context about the situation. He said he would be available if I chose to go a different route or things didn’t work out with that lawyer. Read that again: despite my explicit frustration with the previous lawyer, Jack didn’t swoop in to make a buck—he gave me sound advice on the next steps before I made a move to retaining him as dad’s lawyer. Long story short, I did, and Jack helped us navigate a final effort at negotiating with the other party in the divorce, helped us file necessary pleadings to push the process along, and gave all of us good and clear updates along the way, adapting to our unique needs because of my location and my dad’s memory difficulties. He helped shepherd us through some of the toughest months of my dad’s life, and sure enough, his advice and judgment was sound, time and again. He nudged us in the right direction at times, and advised against certain things at other times, and generally helped us keep the peace with the other party in the divorce. I can’t think of a better experience from a divorce attorney. He charged us far, far too little for the quality of service he provided, and that’s the truth. Jack Denton is a good lawyer and an even better person, and I highly recommend him. I hear he does property title work, too. I just wish I had a house to buy in Mississippi to send more business his way. There are several good lawyers in south Mississippi, but Jack Denton has earned my full trust.
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24 Mar, 2022 by Anna
I am not from Mississippi and was very afraid about having a legal issue here as I had no connections or support. I found Mr. Jack Denton as a referral from a friend of a friend. I have never worked with a lawyer previous to this experience. I originally contacted his office on a weekend, and his receptionist answered. She was incredibly kind and supportive and was able to schedule a consultation appointment within 24 hours. I met with Mr. Denton for that consultation and entered the room just terrified and overwhelmed by my current situation. He calmly and confidently explained how he would approach my situation and was incredibly supportive. He reassured me that this was easily something that we could handle. I immediately retained his services without hesitation. I left feeling relieved and calm. We worked together for several months, during which time there were many ups and downs in the preparation for my case. This was out of both of our control and I was emotional at every turn. Mr. Denton always responded quickly to my questions with patience and support. He took care of everything immediately and responded with reasonable solutions that made the entire situation much more approachable and achievable. I feel that I should have paid much more for all of the work he put into my case and for how much advice he offered. I cannot put a value on the reassurance and security he provided. Our case ended with the best possible outcome that I could have imagined. Having someone in my corner who not only knows the legal system in Mississippi but also has the experience and connections to gain better insight into my case and the realistic outcomes that I could expect made me feel confident. I was very impressed by this process and ecstatic with the outcome. I wholeheartedly recommend Mr. Denton to anyone in need of legal services. He is kind, honest, patient, exceptionally capable, and well connected within the legal community. Thank you so so much, Mr. Denton!
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09 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Denton handled my divorce very well. He made it a smooth and painless process.
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04 Feb, 2010 by Patricia
When I meet with Tim it was like meeting a angel. He had all the right words to say no matter if they werent what i was wanting to hear. He will go way beyound his dutys to get you pointed in the right direction that you need to go. He has done a great job helping my husband and I out in a problem that no one else wanted to touch. Tim I want to thank you for doing a great job on our case and i knew without a doubt you could do it. Your the kind of attorney everyone needs that will take the time out and speak with you and explain things when most just want money and do a half (you know) kinda job. Thanks for all you have done and are doing for us....
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22 Jan, 2010 by Michael allen
I really like Tim because he is knowledgeable and gives attention to detail as pertaining to the rule of law. He is very empthatic and shoots straight. I would recommend him to anyone for any law needs. He also handled a business litigation for me.
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19 May, 2020 by Demetria
I was referred to Mr. George by a friend. Mr. George and his staff took such good care of me and my family during our hardship. I continue to rely on his expertise. I appreciated the research that he applies to each of his cases. His fees are reasonable.
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14 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
I was charged with a serious felony that could have caused me to go to prison for life. Mr. Schmidt put in the hard work and was able to get my charges dismissed.
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12 Dec, 2023 by Shandee freeman
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26 May, 2019 by Curtis shaffer
Seth Hunter was awesome in his attention to detail and knowledge of the law in my case.
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17 Mar, 2019 by Malissa cameron
Very friendly staff! They are very professional and have it all together! Would highly recommend
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09 Sep, 2024 by Depree cooley
She is very gifted and passionate in what she do. She is dedicated and Devoted to fighting for you and getting the justice that you deserve. She takes pride in her work. She help change my life forever. She is always honest and loyal no matter what.
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20 Mar, 2024 by Marcus
I truly love and appreciate Miss Rickman I was appointed her on a 2 first degree felonies and as my Pro Se lawyer (public defender) she really held true to her word and fought for my physical freedom. She has never left my mind or heart. -Marcus Simmons-
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08 Mar, 2024 by Geoffrey edmiston
They helped us out when we were from out of state and in a bind. Great service and communication! We would wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone in need of legal help.
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08 Jun, 2024 by J.
I filed a complaint against her license with the bar it was so bad. She signed a temp order without sending to me or my agreeing, didn’t tell me about an emergency hearing that occurred, didn’t show up for and canceled all of our meetings, submitted discovery on my behalf weeks after I fired her with no evidence or witnesses on my behalf at all, she said she drank “crown for breakfast” to me and her assistant before my pre trial hearing in poplarville (naturally she had no clue what was going on that hearing), the list goes on and on. Truly shocking abandonment of her duties! I asked her for a refund and she lost her mind- sent over 10 threatening emails, threatened to file charges and all. I am an abuse survivor and am begging you to find a different and competent attorney if you’re fighting that fight. It’s hard enough with adequate support in this court system.
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25 May, 2024 by Shawn o'steen
Very good people! Margaret is a great lawyer who genuinely cares about her clients.
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03 Feb, 2024 by John hobden
This is your go to defense lawyer in hattiesburg mississippi. when it matters, you want the best lawyer. I highly recommend Homes law firm.
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21 Jun, 2024 by Jamie riggs
My husband and I were looking for some legal information on how to navigate a family custody case in another county and Mrs. Porter was NOT SHY!! She was honest with us, she told us various possibilities. She didn't allow her lack of knowledge of another county's court system deter her from helping us. She even made wonderful references to lawyers that were able to practice in the county that we needed. I like that she was up-front with us. She immediately said that she didn't work in that particular county, but she STILL did her due diligence in helping us. She understood where we were coming from as former foster parents and actually HEARD US. We loved her and would go back to her in a heartbeat if we needed to!! She has also kept in contact with us on our case and offerred prayer for us as we went forward. There is nothing like an attorney that places her clients first!!
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30 Nov, 2023 by Larelle thoms
Original post 8 years ago. I had a very negative expierence with this attorney and Requested my money back. I am a disabled military wife of an active duty soldier and , I hired her for a custody hearing for my 4 daughters and after basically saying look youve done nothing I want my money back and am Lodging a complaint with the Mississippi Bar she passed the blamed onto her assistant, and asked me for more time and more money. She wanted more money for a job she hadnt done and did everything she could to extend time. Then when I asked her assistant for my paperwork and court file she told me to stop harassing her assistant , blocked me from emailing the office and told me I could contact her only. Then when I told her I wasnt paying her anymore money because she had not done the job I hired her for , which was the custody representation for my 4 daughter, I wrote a demand for refund letter for the $3000 retainer and the amount for shipping and my replacement court custody file she said she had didnt have any longer not only that I had to send her a bill for the 2000 page court file. My advise if if you arent in the state to meet your attorney do not hire them. I am still waiting for my refund. I am just going to say I had a horribly negative experience and i felt strung along. each time I called she was out of the office, in court, on vacation,sick her kid was sick, she was going thru her own divorce, she had a personal day. I notified her I was a DISABLED MILITARY WIFE OF A SOLDIER WHO WAS ACTIVE DUTY AND GOING TO DEPLOY TO AFGHANISTAN and she was quick to take money money and I got NOOOOO representation. Then when I called and emailed to get services she said I was harassing her assistant , who she pushed me off on. I wouldnt even give this person a star. Today LITERALLY 8 YEARS LATER- Ms Porter attempted to gas light me saying I was dishonest in providing information in my case. SHE ATTEMPTED TO DEFAME MY GOOD NAME AND CHARACTER. I FIRED HER BECAUSE SHE WAS HORRIBLE- she DIDNT DO THE JOB SHE WAS HIRED TO DO AND TRIED TO KEEP MY MONEY. I AM NOT THE ONLY ONE SHE HAS DONE THIS TOO. 8 YEARS LATER... I AM RESPONDING TO HER ATTEMPT TO GAS LIGHT ME. SHE CANT TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR HER ACTIONS OR LACK THEIR OF. HAD SHE DONE WHAT SHE WAS HIRED TO DO THIS REVIEW WOULD BE MUCH DIFFERENT. 8 YEARS LATER DOESNT SEEM SHE CAN TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR HER ACTIONS STILL. LESS THAN ONE STAR AND ZERO INTEGRITY.
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30 Nov, 2023 by Kristal
Elizabeth was absolutely amazing for the moment we reached out to her. She got us in and had our cased moved along so quickly. She answered any questions we had along the way and completed from start to finish very quickly. She was very compassionate and caring about our situation. Very professional and couldn't have asked for a better lawyer. Thank you Elizabeth. We will be back soon for another matter.
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03 Feb, 2023 by Andrew verardo
Greg is a very approachable and friendly person. However, he does not utilize text or email to assist with the process, nor did I feel that he would fight for me with regard to fairness in my divorce. My situation was very difficult, and I was not advised well, or at all in some cases, regarding state divorce statutes and laws before agreeing to an out-of-court temporary order. Consequently, I was put in a difficult financial situation. I would frequently report harassment from my soon-to-be ex, yet he still drug his feet on getting the process to trial, which never occurred until after I sought new counsel. I had to do much of my own research. After 5 months of little to no communication or action and mounting financial stress as a result of poor counsel, I declined his services and sought new counsel.
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14 Sep, 2021 by Jennifer locke
ONE OF The Best Attorney in HATTIESBURG you will not be disappointed. He will fight for you and your family. He definitely does his research.
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03 Mar, 2021 by Lybron craft
Highly recommend to use for a divorce case.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Gregory williams
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11 Mar, 2024 by Rebecca holske
My hopes and prayers are to raise enough money to pay for his great services!
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03 Dec, 2023 by Audrey jackson
Great lawyer. Follows up often.
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17 Jun, 2024 by Dora graves
Great people.
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26 Jan, 2024 by Graham
While I adore several of these attorneys as friends and people I admire, it does not make up for the worst experience I've ever had with a law office. The first time I called, I was constantly cut off and could not finish a sentence. I was spoken to as if I were a toddler. I still ended up booking a consultation, as I'm bleeding thousands due to fraud that I need legal counsel to fix. I requested it to be conference call due to inclement weather - but they just flat out didn't call me. They did a consultation and declined my case without asking me a question or even showing me the respect of calling me as I requested. I felt completely dismissed and unimportant. When I asked about not receiving a call, despite requesting it a few hours earlier, their staff responded with an attitude, spoke down to me, and hung up on me! I waited 5 days for an appointment, which didn't happen. I've since requested additional callback through their website, as their phone staffer will hang up on you, and have heard nothing back. If you want to deal with a gatekeeping headache, this is the law office for you.
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27 Feb, 2023 by Soribel hernandez
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14 May, 2024 by Evan
He will make you pay in advance and will more than likely lose your divorce case. You will not get your moneys worth, and none of it back when he can’t even get you a DIVORCE!! Do yourself a favor and go Somewhere else!
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12 Oct, 2023 by Myron speights
Very knowledgeable and professional law office!
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11 Sep, 2023 by Glenn mcneil
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17 Jun, 2024 by Dora graves
Great people.
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26 Jan, 2024 by Graham
While I adore several of these attorneys as friends and people I admire, it does not make up for the worst experience I've ever had with a law office. The first time I called, I was constantly cut off and could not finish a sentence. I was spoken to as if I were a toddler. I still ended up booking a consultation, as I'm bleeding thousands due to fraud that I need legal counsel to fix. I requested it to be conference call due to inclement weather - but they just flat out didn't call me. They did a consultation and declined my case without asking me a question or even showing me the respect of calling me as I requested. I felt completely dismissed and unimportant. When I asked about not receiving a call, despite requesting it a few hours earlier, their staff responded with an attitude, spoke down to me, and hung up on me! I waited 5 days for an appointment, which didn't happen. I've since requested additional callback through their website, as their phone staffer will hang up on you, and have heard nothing back. If you want to deal with a gatekeeping headache, this is the law office for you.
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27 Feb, 2023 by Soribel hernandez
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06 Sep, 2018 by Ann
Would not recommend. In my case he did a poor job. Tried to make both sides happy. If an attorney takes money from you he should represent you 100%. Of course he is New to the field and does not need to piss of anyone. Not happy with is legal representation.
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13 Oct, 2017 by James runnels
He is awesome!! Really great guy and will shoot u the truth about anything you ask him. He jumped right on our case.
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22 Jul, 2015 by Amy
I needed legal assistance from a distance and he jumped right in and took care of it for me - keeping me updated along the way. If you need legal help - Darrell is your guy.
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17 Jun, 2024 by Dora graves
Great people.
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26 Jan, 2024 by Graham
While I adore several of these attorneys as friends and people I admire, it does not make up for the worst experience I've ever had with a law office. The first time I called, I was constantly cut off and could not finish a sentence. I was spoken to as if I were a toddler. I still ended up booking a consultation, as I'm bleeding thousands due to fraud that I need legal counsel to fix. I requested it to be conference call due to inclement weather - but they just flat out didn't call me. They did a consultation and declined my case without asking me a question or even showing me the respect of calling me as I requested. I felt completely dismissed and unimportant. When I asked about not receiving a call, despite requesting it a few hours earlier, their staff responded with an attitude, spoke down to me, and hung up on me! I waited 5 days for an appointment, which didn't happen. I've since requested additional callback through their website, as their phone staffer will hang up on you, and have heard nothing back. If you want to deal with a gatekeeping headache, this is the law office for you.
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27 Feb, 2023 by Soribel hernandez
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27 Sep, 2023 by Shannon
Maura was my attorney for my divorce, and she did everything that she said she could do for me. She is honest, hardworking and very reliable. She will go the extra mile to make sure her clients are satisfied. I wanted spousal support, and she got it plus more. She never leaves you in the blind about what's going on with your case. I will use her again as my attorney for any case that will call for an attorney.
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19 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
She was my ex wife’s attorney and she ended up helping me more than her. She is not good at following up and filing important things with the judge. Her incompetency lead to my getting everything I asked for.
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14 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
She was very sympathetic to my situation. I was very satisfied with the out come of my case. I will definitely use her again if I need an attorney in the future.
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22 Oct, 2024 by Karl vander zyl
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30 Mar, 2024 by Linda hodge
No good
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23 Feb, 2024 by Sharon tyler
This place scheduled me a meeting and wasn’t even there. No calls or nothing
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04 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
Brandon is not currently licensed to practice law. He had at least 12 bar complaints filed against him and surrendered his license. He is facing criminal charges. Google his name and learn more.
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05 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
https://www.leader-call.com/news/free_news/embattled-attorney-charged-with-sexual-battery-of-child/article_9c591636-62f2-11ee-98c4-2bcd738af6bc.html
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07 Apr, 2022 by Clair
Attorney or therapist? he did everything he said he was going to do and eased my mind while helping me and my soon to be ex-husband though our divorce case.
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19 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Dukes was hired in a criminal matter based on a recommendation from a non-criminal practicing attorney. He charged $10,000 up front to take the case. He did little or nothing but look at some of the evidence one time, then drug the case out for an eternity with continuances,over two years. He then cut a deal I was unaware of with the District Attorney, apparently while negotiating other deals simultaneously, and told me to plead guilty. I responded that he made me feel as if though I did not have a choice and he responded "ya right, ya don't". I fired Mr. Dukes and hired another attorney, at half what Mr. Dukes was paid, who reached an amicable resolution of the case. Mr. Dukes reputation is based on some successful cases he tried and won in the 60s. I do not believe he has tried a case in years and it is my personal belief he "horse trades" his client's pleas.
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26 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired this attorney and have him my money, never was able to get back in touch with him again then he finally contacted me the day before my trial and said he needed 3500.00 more to stay on my case then resigned without me get a hearing
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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:

  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.

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