Lawyers map
>1.9k
experienced lawyers
Filter by
13 Dec, 2024 by Zachary pendleton
Got to be one of the worst attorney officers i have every used and for the money they charge you think they would return your call going on a year with my case and still got nothing done
Read more
22 Aug, 2024 by Melissa ketner
Tracey has been an amazing card in my back pocket for many years. When I need her help, she is prompt, explains what I need to know, and lays the hammer down. I appreciate her so much.
Read more
22 May, 2024 by Frank willis
13 Dec, 2024 by Zachary pendleton
Got to be one of the worst attorney officers i have every used and for the money they charge you think they would return your call going on a year with my case and still got nothing done
Read more
22 Aug, 2024 by Melissa ketner
Tracey has been an amazing card in my back pocket for many years. When I need her help, she is prompt, explains what I need to know, and lays the hammer down. I appreciate her so much.
Read more
22 May, 2024 by Frank willis
03 Sep, 2023 by Brent van winkle
Knowledgeable. Pleasant to talk to.
Read more
16 Jul, 2023 by Bethany walker
08 Jul, 2023 by Mya felton
07 Jun, 2024 by Carmona
I give a 5 star review because this firm has gave me something nobody else could have, respect, patience, and the ability to work through anything I recommend this firm to anyone you needs serious help, tim coriden fought hard for me Evan when i was ready to be done with everything, tim pushed to get what I was entitled to and deserved
Read more
14 Nov, 2023 by Nicholas chaney
Tim helped my family and I during an extremely stressful time. For a while we managed with the nurses and doctors and work comp. After a while it became a headache with trying to raise a family and recover and go back to a normal life for my family. I could thank Tim or Emily enough. It was almost a year and a half process and Tim helped walk me through every question and outcome before we faced it. Thank you Coriden and Coriden.
Read more
18 Oct, 2023 by Collin sexton
I look forward to seeing what they can do for my girlfriend and I!
Read more
23 May, 2024 by Eric ruane
The lady who was called a "scheduler" was so old and ignorant she doesn't understand the difference between fired and put on unpaid medical leave. She listened to about 1/3 of what I said and said she agrees with Cummins decision that I should be homeless and starve.
Read more
22 Jan, 2024 by Jake miller
30 Aug, 2023 by Gary reynolds
09 Nov, 2023 by Benjamin oviedo
Really knowledgeable to Indiana law
Read more
01 Jul, 2022 by Corey johnson
11 Aug, 2019 by Samantha rindfield
Easy to find out how much I still owe, but when my house caught fire and I called to see about possibly putting my payments on hold they never called me back or worked with me or anything. Very inconsiderate unless they're getting paid.
Read more
19 Jan, 2024 by Tyler defelice
Great attorney that is both professional and responsive. It was a pleasure having him represent me.
Read more
23 Oct, 2023 by Jill
Never returned my phone call.
Read more
10 May, 2023 by April fletcher
12 Sep, 2024 by Brenda roberts
Charged way too much and Shane’s assistant needs to be fired! She was terrible to me and my family.
Read more
12 Sep, 2024 by Brenda r
HORRIBLE CUSTOMER SERVICE! Maricel was very rude she yelled at me and wanted to argue with me when all we wanted were answers after they told us wrong things. Don’t recommend!
Read more
12 Sep, 2024 by Bren roberts
DON’T GO HERE!! If I could give 0 stars I would. Shane’s assistant Maricel was very rude and unprofessional. She called me with an attitude because I missed an appointment because I had a family death and my head was elsewhere. She had an awful attitude towards me, got smart with me, yelled at me, then hung up on me like a child.
Read more
09 Feb, 2025 by Emilie riggs
21 Sep, 2024 by Chubby retic
Comes highly recommended… Mrs. Conner is hands down the best attorney in Indiana and that’s to put it lightly. Amazing, courageous, attentive, honest and willing to fight until the very end . She is definitely someone you want in the fight of your life
Read more
21 Sep, 2024 by Lakisha hall
I can’t express my gratitude enough for this beautiful attorney. She is compassionate patient and met every need we had. Hands down she is the best attorney i have seen and i would recommend you speak with her if you are worried about a great attorney and one who goes the extra mile thanks ms Kerry you are awesome !!!!
Read more
11 May, 2020 by Ricky
I have utilized the services and expertise of Mr. Ezell for nearly 20 years. He is current in practice and training, very intelligent and extremely effective. Above all this a man of integrity and honesty who has served our state and community on a level only a few can claim. I would let him guide or lead me into any battle.
Read more
11 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
Nice man but didnt feel he was interested enough in my case to remember important specifics. I felt as though I did most of the preparing of documents on my own and had to defend myself in front of the other attorney.
Read more
19 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Ladona was slow to start, had several things going on at once. Did not answer calls at first. However, outcome was great and she is very fair. I will recommend her to others.
Read more
03 Sep, 2019 by Christina double
03 Sep, 2019 by Christina double
27 Feb, 2025 by Tanya
Thank you Mr. Risk. I appreciate your hard work. I hope I dont need an attorney again but if I do, I know where to go!
Read more
02 Jan, 2025 by Jenny kennedy
I recently hired Mr. Risk as an attorney for my son who has a drug addiction. He has struggled for many years with a drug addiction, and I have fought right alongside him. It has been a long journey, and he has been through many court proceedings. I have hired many attorneys over the years for my son, and I have to say that Mr. Risk is the best most caring, genuine man you can have on your side! I have nothing but respect and high regards for Mr. Risk and his dedication to helping give people a second chance. I highly recommend Mr. Risk for any legal needs. He is by far the best attorney I have ever had the opportunity to actually watch him in action is very impressive. Also, with his extremely long law experience has enabled him to have a very large network that he is very highly regarded in. I gave him a 10 out of 10! I wouldn’t want anyone else by my side in a court room.
Read more
14 Nov, 2024 by Nicole woodruff
Joe is a great lawyer. He's smart, composed, and as a former prosuctor he know the both side of the game.
Read more
11 Jan, 2025 by Tim o'brien
Scott was very easy to work with. Punctual on getting back to me with questions I had. Explained the legal terms in a way that I could understand them. I definitely appreciate his help.
Read more
08 Dec, 2024 by Burcak suchovsky
07 Nov, 2024 by Roger riggs
Mike was great! Took time to understand the issues for me and he explained the process all along the way.
Very informative and helpful.
Read more
20 Feb, 2024 by Amilee fugate
Very honest with u and genuinely act like they care!
Read more
26 Nov, 2023 by Cathy endris
21 Nov, 2023 by Erica gunn
Jennifer and Stephanie are very skilled, experienced, kind, timely, and detail-oriented attorneys, who participate in the Greensburg community. The office location is very convenient being on the downtown square, with angled parking accessible just outside the front door.
Read more
25 Sep, 2024 by Mariam
It’s not the win that makes him outstanding, it’s the fact that he even cares enough to try helping someone such as myself. What he will do is take all the interest g and positive things about you and he will display them all beautifully. He is the type of attorney who thinks outside of the box, goes against the grain, and doesn’t give up when things look really impossible. I don’t know what the judge will decide but Jeremy Gooch truely gave it his all in my court hearing this week. I appreciate his efforts and if you are ever lucky enough to be his client then you are in great hands. You will be okay with Jeremy. He will fight for you even when no one else will.
Read more
24 May, 2024 by Amanda helen wyneken
Mr. Kenninger was very kind and compassionate. He helped me significantly! Highly recommend.
Read more
18 Jun, 2023 by Log jam
Response time is crucial. Very helpful indeed
Read more
21 Mar, 2024 by Terry long
Maria matters represented my X-wife in divorce proceedings. I almost felt sorry for my x with her choice of attorney. Notice I said ALMOST. She’s incompetent at practicing law and loves to tell you what you want to hear.
I wouldn’t recommend her to represent anyone in traffic court much less anything of substance. Do your research on her, you’ll thank me later!
Read more
20 Dec, 2023 by Robin lynn
Just had so questions.
Read more
06 Aug, 2022 by Mohammed rajabi
Great Attorney .... Thanks
Read more
21 Mar, 2024 by Terry long
Maria matters represented my X-wife in divorce proceedings. I almost felt sorry for my x with her choice of attorney. Notice I said ALMOST. She’s incompetent at practicing law and loves to tell you what you want to hear.
I wouldn’t recommend her to represent anyone in traffic court much less anything of substance. Do your research on her, you’ll thank me later!
Read more
20 Dec, 2023 by Robin lynn
Just had so questions.
Read more
06 Aug, 2022 by Mohammed rajabi
Great Attorney .... Thanks
Read more
21 Jan, 2025 by Christine byrne
21 Jan, 2025 by Alex thompson
The services provided by Stuart Branigin LLP did not meet my expectations. They charged many hidden fees without clearly disclosing them upfront, which made me feel that the process lacked transparency and professionalism.
Read more
08 Nov, 2024 by Rene guerrero
This has to be the worst law experts group, if you could call it that. Horrible negotiation skills, Save yourself the hassle and find yourself a more professional law expert group.
Read more
06 Jun, 2024 by Ryan time
Dale has helped my family,friends, and myself over the years for a variety of different reasons.
If you need assistance
I highly recommend Dale Coffee
Read more
06 Mar, 2024 by Ryan ogden
He's great, all around. Knows his stuff. Highly recommend him
Read more
21 Nov, 2023 by Crystal edwards
14 Feb, 2025 by Tom doan
I was in a real bind but attorney Andrew Martin came thru for me, he’s very knowledgeable, professional, and responds and gets the job done fast. Highly recommend him.
Read more
18 Aug, 2024 by Araeh green
17 Jul, 2024 by Nicholas gaik
My hat is off to Attorney Andrew Martin. Going through a divorce wasn’t easy but Andy definitely helped make me feel better about the whole process and made me feel very comfortable with the choice I had to make to get the ball rolling…which was hiring a attorney to defend me along the way. Not only did he walk me through everything step by step and gave me all the possible scenario’s I might be up against, he handled everything vigorously and extremely professionally. This gentleman is very well spoken. His confidence and knowledge of law made me feel at ease and kept my stress to a minimum and spirit lifted. I highly recommend you consider Andrew Martin to represent you, I’m really glad I did. Thank you so much Andy!!!
Read more
17 Dec, 2024 by Joseph ash
Was the utmost professional in representing my legal defense case. I requested options to him regarding my case and he ended up getting me settled at an even better judgement than I had expected. Would highly recommend Mr. Deprez!
Read more
14 Nov, 2024 by Jean carlos guzman
Excelente persona, muy buena su atención
Read more
08 Nov, 2024 by Elias vallejo
If you’re looking for a kind, hard-working individual that is going to take care of you and your case in an effective and timely manner then look no further than Tyler Brant. I’ve worked with Tyler for over a decade now and cannot recommend him enough. 10/10
Read more
18 Dec, 2024 by Amber sullivan
12 Dec, 2024 by Mckenzie vibbert
Incredible experience and a very kind person. He definitely cares about his clients.
Read more
27 Aug, 2024 by Dawn sorenson
Tara was a famtastic lawyer for us in family court. We went to her on a recommendation so I'm paying it forward... Tara is easy & straightforward to work with and a top notch lawyer in the courtroom.
Read more
15 May, 2023 by Alan
I highly recommend Mr. Eric Risk for your legal representation needs. He's simplified the process for you from start to finish, putting you at ease from start to finish. I will continue to use Mr. Risk for future representation and put my faith in him completely. A+++++
Read more
28 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
A wonderful experience. Very painless and Eric was awesome to work with. I have never been in this situation before and he made sure I understood everything, as well as staying on me to get what I needed to get done! Would very highly recommend!!!!
Read more
11 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Highly satisfied with the work that Attorney Eric L. Risk did for my case. He was very knowledgeable and worked with me to understand what my options were and what the best outcome would be. I do not think that my outcome would have been as good as it was if I didn't hire him. I would highly recommend him.
Read more
25 Dec, 2024 by Tina magee
Trampas Whalen has represented me and my family a few times. He is an excellent attorney! He has a kind heart and is a GREAT man. If you are looking for the best attorney to hire no need to look. He is the one you want to hire to represent you.
Read more
30 Sep, 2024 by Bankk franklin
Great Attorney.
Read more
11 Sep, 2024 by Dorothy curtis-jones
25 Dec, 2024 by Tina magee
Trampas Whalen has represented me and my family a few times. He is an excellent attorney! He has a kind heart and is a GREAT man. If you are looking for the best attorney to hire no need to look. He is the one you want to hire to represent you.
Read more
30 Sep, 2024 by Bankk franklin
Great Attorney.
Read more
18 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
We used this attorney for a divorce, and I would not recommend him. He is not timely, not responsive, and wordy to not answer questions directly.
Later, he was contacted after my father died about the divorce decree and what it states and how his ex-wife was not abiding by the decree... he simply shrugged it off and said, "Take her to small claims court." And an insensitive "I'm sorry to hear that. "
Please do your research, and I wish there were more reviews because I'm sure there are positives, just not in this case.
Read more
14 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Well I initially had a sit down talk with Roland to see about my case. I decided to pay him in full. A little over $2,800. It was to cover two hearings. He canceled two of my hearings and did not inform me. I showed up to these court dates because of this. Left confused. He had canceled so late at night the night before my hearings that I was still on the paper list of people to have hearings that day so everyone at the court house was confused and eventually my lawyer finally got back to my message of why I’m here and no one else is. He failed to contact me at all. Never met with me to collect evidence or go through my case. Never did his own research for my case. I have messages upon messages between us where I would try to contact him and he would say “I’ll call you in 3 days.” Yet to be met with no contact for a month. I asked him to file a petition to take my daughter to Texas on vacation. Signed the documents for him to never file the petition as supposed to. Then met with “I’m sorry, I dropped the ball on that one.” She was extremely upset she couldn’t go. We all were. Since he kept not doing his job he decided to give me a free hearing in all of this. Via phone convo sadly so no proof on that one. But our gmail convo speaks for itself on how awful he was to deal with the ENTIRE time. Now my case is over. He was supposed to send me a document to sign and also send the fathers and I’s agreements made in court to me and also give me the information I need to pay child support. I emailed him on this topic and he told me to wait 10 days. I received a letter a week ago telling me he is dropping me as a client. Yet, never got me ANY of the information I need. For anything. Now I’m left not knowing how to pay my child support or exactly all the details on my agreement. Now I’m left not knowing what holidays I get my daughter or anything at all. He refuses to answer my calls or texts with questions about this information that I need. I have filed a formal complaint.
Read more
09 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous
Excellent service highly recommend him. Got things done no other attorney could
Read more
26 Feb, 2021 by Kyle
Roland answers his own phone calls, and for me, was available, with very little notice to be able to represent me in court. I also called him after business hours on christmas eve and he answered the phone and offered help and advice.
Read more
18 Mar, 2023 by Werner
My heartfelt gratitude goes to PINNACLE CREDIT SPECIALIST. I went through divorce recently and let my wife and kids stay in our marital home for a year before we sold it. A guy named Hinds spoke well about a good credit expert that helped him remove medical bills and raised his score to 801 in less than 6 days. I emailed him on
Read more
14 Dec, 2019 by Sarah
I have only had one experience with a lawyer in my life and it was absolutely HORRIBLE. Randy Godshalk is the most unprofessional, unreliable, careless person I have ever dealt with. Upon receiving a recommendation, I hired Randy for my Child Support/Custody Case. He told me everything could be handled over the phone or via e-mail. Phone calls were never returned, e-mails never answered. I was advised not to show up for Mediation (after double checking that it was ok THREE times) and found out that the entire case could have been settled in that Mediation. I had e-mailed Randy 20 pages of required documents and documentation of other issues I wanted addressed, and Randy called me the MORNING of mediation while I was AT WORK, asking me to send him my most recent check stub which was already sent to him ALONG WITH 20 OTHER PAGES OF DOCUMENTATION. Randy proceeded to FAIL to show up for my first court date, causing me to lose a day off work AND miss another one to attend the rescheduled court date. THEN, Randy failed to show up for a SECOND court date despite my calling every day the week prior to the court date and FINALLY receiving an answer that he would be there- and he DID NOT SHOW! By that time, I had come to an agreement with the other party ON MY OWN. I wrote up the agreement ON MY OWN and e-mailed it to Randy. ALL he had to do was get the other party in his office to sign. A couple weeks later, I called to confirm he got the signature, was told yes he did. And then, the DAY BEFORE COURT, was informed by his secretary that the other party, in fact, never came in and signed. Overall, I have missed four days of work and will have to miss another one in 2020, all because of the negligence of this so-called “attorney”. After calling him and letting him know I no longer needed or wanted his services and I wanted my retainer back, he had the audacity to tell me that he was entitled to compensation for the work he did. He charged me for my “Free Consultation”. He charged me for determining child support amount (never did), and for reading my emails (which there’s no proof of since I NEVER got a response or saw any evidence that he saw the 20 pages of documentation I spent MY TIME putting together), and speaking to me on the phone (hardly EVER returned my phone calls, and when he did, it was days later after me repeatedly calling, and the phone calls consisted of him stating his numerous excuses for screwing me over). Needless to say, I would NEVER recommend anyone uses this attorney. I am an educated, respectable woman and I could have (and DID) do this man’s job 100000% better than he did. I will be reporting him to the bar and shouting it from the rooftops to anyone who will listen that you should NEVER hire this “attorney”.
Read more
07 Feb, 2019 by John
Randy was awesome! He helped me with a case without hesitation. I walked in his office he took time to meet with me, and took on my case. I recommend Randy if you need legal help. Thank you Randy.
Read more
09 Jan, 2025 by M “mm1112” m
Took over 2 years and still never went to court. Took thousands of dollars and did absolutely nothing.
Read more
23 Dec, 2024 by Justin krillenberger
Rex and his team are extremely professional and easy to work with. I will most definitely be using them in the future for my legal needs.
Read more
11 Nov, 2024 by Colin gibb
I hired Grant Stupek to help with a child support case after another attorney (at another firm) wasn't handling it very well at all. Grant took over the case, and was absolutely wonderful to work with! He was both understanding of the issues, while not only being very firm, but also advising me of the best actions on the case.
We were able to bring the case to a favorable conclusion. I would highly recommend Patterson Law for any legal needs based on this experience.
Read more
Browse lawyers
Cities in Indiana - Find a Lawyer Near Me
-
Indianapolis
-
Fort Wayne
-
Carmel
-
Evansville
-
South Bend
-
Bloomington
-
Indianapolis City (Balance)
-
Merrillville
-
Valparaiso
-
Lafayette
-
Crown Point
-
Fishers
-
Noblesville
-
New Albany
-
Terre Haute
-
Elkhart
-
Jeffersonville
-
Zionsville
-
Greenwood
-
Muncie
-
Hammond
-
Columbus
-
Anderson
-
Mishawaka
-
Highland
-
Schererville
-
Greenfield
-
Kokomo
-
Warsaw
-
Franklin
-
Shelbyville
-
Gary
-
Munster
-
Goshen
-
Chesterton
-
Lawrenceburg
-
Michigan City
-
Marion
-
Danville
-
Richmond
-
Dyer
-
Martinsville
-
Brownsburg
-
Plymouth
-
West Lafayette
-
Westfield
-
Logansport
-
Portage
-
Jasper
-
Crawfordsville
-
Angola
-
Lebanon
-
Plainfield
-
La Porte
-
Notre Dame
-
Seymour
-
Newburgh
-
Auburn
-
Bedford
-
Granger
-
Madison
-
Vincennes
-
Boonville
-
Huntington
-
Corydon
-
Avon
-
Laporte
-
Batesville
-
Columbia City
-
LaGrange
-
Salem
-
Greensburg
-
New Castle
-
Frankfort
-
Greencastle
-
Hobart
-
Washington
-
Decatur
-
Peru
-
Rochester
-
Princeton
-
Rensselaer
-
Beech Grove
-
Kendallville
-
Rushville
-
Bluffton
-
Delphi
-
Mooresville
Browse lawyers
Practice Areas in Indiana
-
Business
-
Litigation
-
Family Law
-
Criminal Defense
-
Probate
-
Personal Injury
-
Real Estate
-
Estate Planning
-
Government
-
Appeals
-
Elder Law
-
Intellectual Property
-
Insurance
-
Tax
-
Civil Rights
-
Medical Malpractice
-
Lawsuit / Dispute
-
Car Accident
-
Wrongful Death
-
Consumer Protection
-
Mediation
-
Child Custody
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Bankruptcy
-
Child Support
-
Adoption
-
Workers Compensation
-
Divorce
-
Trusts
-
Immigration
-
Debt Collection
-
Juvenile Law
-
DUI / DWI
-
Domestic Violence
-
Class Action
-
Foreclosure
-
Employment / Labor
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
Discrimination
-
Federal Crime
-
Sex Crime
-
Entertainment
-
Landlord & Tenant
-
Copyright Application
-
Wrongful Termination
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Drug Crime
-
Debt Settlement
-
Cannabis Law
-
Construction
-
Environmental Law
-
Education Law
-
Credit Repair
-
Life Insurance
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.
