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18 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
Ms. Edrington has been very responsible, flexible, and reasonable. She is very nice and works at the client's convenience. She would do her best to solve problems and help her client as well as saving her client's expenses. I strongly recommend her.
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23 Jun, 2018 by Jt
We hired Fenlene to represent us in a child custody battle. Fenlene knew family law very well and helped us win our case. She pays attention to every detail, extremely knowledgeable and patient, fair and doesn’t back down. Working with Fenlene was a wonderful and positive experience. Highly recommended!
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11 Mar, 2013 by Chelsea
I've always paid my bills on time and managed my money so I never thought I would be in bankruptcy. Then I was unemployed for over a year and my tenants moved out six months into that year. I started out by calling a law firm that said it only did bankruptcy but they kept not getting back to me. I called the state bar to complain and the bar referred me to Fenlene. She helped me save my house, car, bank accounts, retirement, etc. and even helped me keep my security clearance through the process. I can't say enough about her. She's wonderful.
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17 Jun, 2021 by Ven
Rachel Fierro is “Pretty good lawyer. she was cheaper too.” When you are in financial distress and physical pain it is difficult to think clearly and make good decisions . That, in addition to not understanding a legal process complicates matters even more. Rachel Fierro explained the law, outlined in clear language the steps in the process that where needed to be done. She was reassuring, articulate, knowable and effective. Rachel Fierro made the process so much easier and gave me peace of mind in a stressful but successful outcome. I not only recommend attorney Rachel Fierro, but I guarantee once you have used her service you too will look no further. She responds in an extreme timely matter, She is a very knowledge, trustworthy person. There is no other attorney that will work as hard for you. She has achieved the outcome I was looking for. She handled my divorce, custody and various other legal matters. I highly recommend her to anyone who needs sound legal advice.
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16 May, 2018 by Mike
I recently engaged Ms Fierro on a serious criminal matter involving my son, which at the outset seemed very bleak. In the first discussion, she presented a number of options that helped reset our whole engagement in the matter. She laid out a set of alternatives, that she diligently pursued and actively involved my son in the decision process all along the way. Her knowledge of the law, and excellent communication skills made the entire process easy to move through. She also recommended the use of an expert witness that proved critical to the outcome. In the courtroom, Ms. Fierro was extremely proactive in advocating for my son's case. She presented such a strong case, that the result was a dismissal. I am an attorney by training, but my specialty is constitutional law. From the vantage point of a person trained in the law, I was very impressed with Ms. Fierro's understanding of the law and procedural aspects of the case. I would strongly recommend her to anyone looking for insightful hard working and extremely competent representation.
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19 Apr, 2018 by Stacy
Listened to my goals and helped me achieve what I wanted. Very generous with his time and focused on my case very intently. He has a great memory, but is constantly double checking, I would be surprised to learn he ever mistapoke and was unprepared. Amazing attorney, not only comparatively speaking - I interviewed many - but as a person he’s amazing as well. He doesn’t run a process shop he runs a people focused business.
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27 Sep, 2023 by Eric
I was surprised by a divorce filing and things weren’t working out with the attorney I hired on short notice. I was in a very difficult situation. Luckily for me, Joe Beale agreed to take over my case. Joe is a knowledgeable and compassionate attorney who has done an excellent job of representing me and my children. I recommend Joe for anyone who needs family law representation.
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03 Mar, 2023 by Ne'kesha hyter
Mr. Weed went above and beyond with assisting me to obtain very important documents. His work ethic and follow up is second to none and he values each of his clients. He will be top of mind for any referrals that come my way!
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25 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Mr. Beale has been assisting me with a very painful, complicated, and unexpected divorce case involving shared tax debt, a co-owned business, and the custodial arrangements for 4 homeschooled children between the ages of 4 and 13. I have found him to be sensitive to my emotional trauma, knowledgable, professional and yet approachable in his demeanor, honest in his assessments, responsive to my calls and texts, and reasonable and transparent in his billing. He helped me find a private investigator who was efficient and effective in confirming the suspected adultery. He was always receptive to, and respectful of, my input. He reviewed written exchanges between myself and my estranged spouse to assess the nature of our relationship and of our disagreements, and to protect me from conveying things that could be misunderstood or misconstrued. He encouraged me to stand up for myself, while helping me keep my focus on the most important aspect of the situation - the wellbeing of our children. Due to the high costs of divorce cases, from the beginning, Mr. Beale encouraged me to pursue mediation before involving the courts. He recommended two different mediation groups, and was open to helping me prepare my position for presentation to those parties, either with or without his attendance. I was warned many times by others I was speaking with that attorneys commonly drive these cases into the courts and bleed you dry. But Mr. Beale never encouraged that, and has always respected and supported my desire to avoid unnecessary formal litigation. I have always felt that he legitimately cared about my wellbeing and my financial security, and that he feels he does not need to take advantage of clients to support himself. I have been pleased with Mr. Beale's service and advice, and would recommend him to friends and family without reservation.
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31 Oct, 2023 by Kenza
This lawyer put me in a worst situation than I was at first. He made me loose all the help I had, became friend with opposite counsel, never answered the calls and did everything he could to make what was supposed to be an unconstested divorce a contested complicated divorce. He allowed discovery for my documents and never provided those of opposite side. And above all, he was trying to sabotage the whole situation and looking for things against my daughters and my own interests! Worst lawyer ever. Please moms and dads don’t waste your time, this guy is just looking for commissions from other parties and will dig a deeper pit if you’re dealing with a narcissist. Next!
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06 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
I retained this lawyer to represent me in a custody trial (which he claimed he specialized in) but I dont think he was very knowledgeable with family law, as he only got me in a worst position there where I started alone. What was supposed to be a quick temporary custody case is still unresolved and going on 2 years I have not seen my children. He refused to subpoena any witnesses, no prep was done, he screamed at me in his office at the top of his lungs, and told me to "shut up" in front of the GAL on my case. The man would not return phone calls or emails, I would have to call multiple times to try to get him on the phone or a call back and it would be over a week or 2 for a response! I asked his to have CASA appointed, he refused, when it is needed and pretty standard in my situation. Every time it was time for my trial, he would find a way to have it continued. I did not see any fight from him for me, basically it was pointless and a huge waste of time and money. Maybe he is a good lawyer in other areas but I would NEVER recommend him for any type of family law case!!!!!!!!!
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01 Feb, 2019 by Chris
Mr. Moreton helped me through an extremely difficult child custody and divorce case. He was prompt, professional and most importantly he was able to deliver the best results possible for my family.
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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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