Best Family Law lawyers in Indiana

1,927 Family Law Lawyers in Indiana

>1.9k

experienced lawyers

John Gilbert Garman Jr.

1111 Meridian St, Anderson, IN

Family Law Probate +2

3.5/5

3.5

11 Reviews

04 Jan, 2022 by Skylar brown

17 Aug, 2021 by Kelli ford

Bill Davisson is a very hateful, rude, unhappy person for no reason.

22 Jun, 2021 by Beth bryant

Martin A. McCloskey

500 N Nappanee Street, Elkhart, IN

Criminal Defense Family Law Litigation +3

3.4/5

2.2

4 Reviews

4.6

75 Reviews

14 May, 2024 by Anonymous

Martin is personable and professional until you pay a retainer and then loses all interest in the case. I was required to negotiate on my own behalf while Martin sat to the side offering more support to the other party than he did for me. The entire office lacked the ability to relay messages or provide any coherent response to questions. Information or documents provided were filed but were never reviewed or referenced during any meetings. I hired Martin for a Family Law matter and if this is all the effort he puts into his cases I would highly recommend that you represent yourself since you will already be doing alk the work.. It definitely would have turned out much better for myself as the legal result would have been the same and I would have saved the cost of a significant retainer.

13 Feb, 2024 by Shelby king

He and his staff are excellent! He represented me in two cases and handled them beautifully! He answered all my questions and explained everything. I highly recommend Attorney McCloskey for any family law needs you have!

18 Jan, 2024 by George degeeter

Mr.McCloskey is the best attorney in the State. I’ve known him for several years dating back to the EPD. I would recommend him to anyone.

Meredith L. McIntyre

1522 I St, Bedford, IN

Family Law +1

3.4/5

1.8

5 Reviews

5.0

1 Reviews

02 May, 2024 by Anonymous

There is literally nothing positive I can say about Meredith. Her and her staff are incredibly lazy. They want you to do all the work. They will not even look over the information you provide. They will not review your case. Meredith will not take phone calls. She will take forever to call you back, if she does! Most of the time she won't. She will not respond to emails. Even during a scheduled appointment, she was late, and we had to end early and come back the following week. She is always out of the office. She likes easy wins. If you don't have a slam dunk case avoid her at all cost. She's not only a terrible lawyer but an even worse person. She's expensive and literally will not provide you anything. She will hustle you for every penny before you can even go to court just so she can charge you more and threaten to not represent you if you don't pay. She will tell you exactly what you want to hear. All the right things. Up until she gets the retainer. Once she's paid, it's game over. She will not work. She's afraid of the judges in Jackson County. She's afraid of other lawyers, especially Bill Dillon. Bill is an entire piece of crap but he's at least a good lawyer. I cannot say the same about Meredith. She will work with the other lawyer more than she will her own client. She will set you back years!!! Save yourself some money and a headache and go elsewhere!

15 Jan, 2024 by Christina root

Dave Smith is a fantastic attorney. He has helped several of our clients and was most recently able to negotiate an enormous judgment on behalf of our seller down to a fraction of the cost, consequently, saving the sale of his home. He is both prompt and quite helpful along the way. We highly recommend Mr. Smith and he is also multifaceted and able to help in so many different legal areas.

15 Mar, 2023 by Cindyshortsmith

PATRICK SMITH ATTORNEY ....PUBLIC DEFENDER .....IS THE #1 BEST ATTORNEY. ! He.will go to bat.for.you.he will stand.up.andgo all in he will give all he has to win for you...AND HE DID!!! HE WON MY CASE ! CHARGES DISMISSED! !PROBLEM RESOLVED ! GAVE ME MY LIFE BACK ... THANK YOU PATRICK YOU ARE AWSOME .. CYNTHIA SHORT SMITH

Laura Jean Wyatt

425 Sand Creek Dr Ste A, Chesterton, IN

Family Law +1

3.4/5

3.6

5 Reviews

3.4

38 Reviews

26 Aug, 2024 by Sydney weaver

Was very upfront and honest with me. Explained everything very well. Will be coming back in the future if I need a lawyer again.

13 Jun, 2024 by Ryan barch

She's been my lawyer through 2 major events in my life and she was a force to be reconned with each time and helped me come out on top. She and her staff are very attentive and knowledgeable and i have always highly recommended her to anyone I've ever cone across who is seeking a great lawyer. Should i ever need her again, i know she would happily help. Lawyer Laura Wyatt is an excellent lawyer and excellent choice if you're looking for someone trustworthy to fight for you.

12 Jun, 2024 by Lauren theologigal

Highly professional, compassionate, and understanding lawyer and staff. Have utilized their services and referred others as well.

Marge E. Breclaw

735 W Glen Park Ave, Griffith, IN

Family Law +1

3.4/5

3.4

21 Reviews

22 May, 2024 by Scott s

I was very unsure how mediation would go based off all of the reviews I read on here but my attorney recommended her so we went with her. To say my case was difficult would be an understatement. My ex and I could not agree on anything and I thought for sure this would be a waste of time and money. Marge had a way based of all of her personal and professional experiences to settle this and honestly I am still in shock. She was very clear and constantly reminded us that this was about the best interest of our child and not our feeling towards each other. I would highly recommend her if you need mediation.

18 Dec, 2023 by Ryan miraglia

She is a terrible person to talk w in her office. While speaking w the moms attorney She compared me to her serial killer neighbor. Im the primary custodial parent because the mom is not good, didn't show up for 1st meeting and was still given every opportunity to get whatever "Marge" thought she deserved. Terrible.

25 Feb, 2023 by Sandra wilkin

She was the GAL for a case involving our 3 Grandchildren. When we tried setting up our first meeting with her they were very uncooperative to set a time that work with our work schedule. The day that we finally got to meet with her we arrived on time and where keep waiting for almost a half hour past meeting time. She had meet with the other party and had already made up her mind that they would be the best choice as Guardians for our Grandkids with out even meeting us. She made accusations about my husband abusing our oldest daughter when she was younger with no proof of any kind. I could go on and on about this her but I think I’ve proved what an awful person she is!

Gary Lee Wood

Po Box 490, Danville, IN

Family Law +1

3.4/5

3.4

18 Reviews

28 May, 2024 by Seth paddack

19 May, 2024 by Hardy hill

Gary has been an outstanding attorney for me. He took his time and got everything I needed and more. I'm very appreciative of his professionalism and his intellect. Thank you to Gary and his law office!

01 Aug, 2023 by Terry

Horrible communication, gaslighting, bad representation... I fired him and hired a much better lawyer. Run away from this guy.

Laura Katherine Boren

1 Main St Ste 201, Evansville, IN

Appeals Family Law Government +1 +4

3.4/5

3.4

17 Reviews

02 May, 2024 by Paighten blades

Lee was hired for dissolution of marriage and to obtain sole custody of my niece. From September-January there was no progress but it was always the other sides fault…. Upon hiring Stephanie Brinkerhoff through Steven Dieg’s firm, she was able to obtain sole custody of my niece, with all rights signed away by adoptive father, and everything else that was requested. She did this in a matter of 8 hours. After waiting for 4 months with Lee Veazy with nothing accomplished. Lee gave the impression sole custody was impossible with Indiana’s parenting time guidelines and 50/50 was the best possible outcome. He should be ashamed to even charge for his ‘time’. He didn’t take any of this as seriously as it should have been taken. Just another case. Extremely poor communication and he seemed very ill prepared at the initial hearing. Ms. Brinkerhoff came in extremely prepared and even discovered $250k+ in entitled funds that Lee never mentioned. If you need a great attorney to get the job done, get Stephanie at Dieg’s!

15 Apr, 2024 by Ellie m

Conner was my attorney and did a fantastic job! I couldn’t have asked for more from him. From his professionalism, accuracy, and dedication to his craft it showed every day. I would recommend Conner or his firm to anyone! Very satisfied client!

13 Mar, 2024 by Dustin cline

Conner Voegel helped us with a utility easement / eminent domain issue and was able to work out much better terms and compensation than we were originally offered. He was friendly, professional, timely, and easy to understand. I would recommend Conner and SKO to anyone. It'll be an easy choice on who to call if we ever have another issue.

Jean Marie Blanton

1 Main St Ste 201, Evansville, IN

Family Law Litigation +2

3.4/5

3.4

17 Reviews

02 May, 2024 by Paighten blades

15 Apr, 2024 by Ellie m

13 Mar, 2024 by Dustin cline

Trisha Shah Dudlo

1 Main St Ste 600, Evansville, IN

Child Custody Family Law Litigation +3

3.4/5

3.4

17 Reviews

02 May, 2024 by Paighten blades

15 Apr, 2024 by Ellie m

13 Mar, 2024 by Dustin cline

Nathan Kelby Vining

1006 Virginia Avenue, Indianapolis, IN

Business Criminal Defense Estate Planning +1 +4

3.4/5

3.4

12 Reviews

28 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous

Would not return any calls text or emails. Failed to call when scheduled a call. Had not responded to any form of communication for 3 weeks. Says they are very responsive l. But they are not. I know several people who are going through the same thing. So not sure the good reviews are real. I’m going through the same thing as the ones who have posted the lack of communication.

28 May, 2024 by Hoby

He is an awesome attorney. He will go out of his way to help. He doesn't leave any soldiers behind

29 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous

My name is James Poole you promised to contact me and did not regarding my child custody case. The first time I hired Nathan I paid him and I lost my kids and because of this the mother took my children out of state and I have not seen them since 2019 , there is no communication you have promised to call me and speak to me regarding my case and fall through everytime . I need you to withdraw so I can contact another lawyer to take my case this is horrible ive never been treated like this by a lawyer before

April Lee Board

226 S Third Street, Boonville, IN

Family Law +1

3.4/5

3.4

10 Reviews

08 Sep, 2023 by Tyler

I hired April Edwards to represent me in a couple different cases in Vandenberg and warrick county. The retainer agreement that I signed stated that she would resolve both cases and get me a conditional driver's license. I caught a new charge in the middle of the case of which she told me she wanted an additional $500. I had no problem with that however needed a little time to come up with it being that my wife is unemployed and we are a one income family. She then asked if I would sign a bond released agreement which I would not do to the fact that it was not my money which I later talked to my mother whose money it was who gave me the okay to tell them they could have the money which I did. Then I was charged with a felony charge in Vanderburgh county stemming from an alleged incident from over a year ago. When I talk to her office they told me that they would not represent me in that case. I then started calling other attorneys. The next time I spoke to Miss April Edwards office they asked me again for the $150 filing fee for my conditional license and I told them that since they were not going to take the case in Vanderburgh county that I hired someone else to take that case and would just have them file for the license. It wasn't even 8 hours later I received an email stating that she wanted to withdraw from my case. I then requested a partial refund to which I got no response for days. After repeated efforts she finally responded with a refusal saying that she more than earned her money which I totally disagree with because the agreement clearly stated that she would resolve my cases which she did not. She partially completed my case therefore I feel I should only have to partially pay her.

17 Jun, 2016 by Malgosia

April is a great lawyer. She took the time to really get to know our family and the situation we faced. She has a very pleasant demeanor and is very easy to work with before and during court. She is fiercely competitive and fights aggressively for her clients. She smiled a lot during our pre-trial conferences with the opposing party but once we got in the courtroom, she was all business. The other party never knew what hit them. She grabbed the initiative right from the start and never let go. If I need to go back to court on custody or child support issues, you can bet I'll retain her again.

12 Apr, 2016 by Roger

April is a highly qualified attorney. She was recommended to me by my neighbor who used her for his divorce. He could not say enough about her, how she was always prepared and new the laws of Indiana better than most. I met with her several years ago to discuss my possible divorce and she was receptive and genuinely concerned. She met with me for over an hour to discuss my situation. Two years later when I decided to divorce my wife she was there, offering her support and expertise. Divorce is a terrible thing to go through and April acted as my friend- especially through a mediation session. I felt comfortable -like she was my friend as well as my attorney. I would highly recommend April Board to anyone needing a professional and understanding attorney.

Cynthia A. Tilden

130 Lincoln St, Porter, IN

Family Law +1

3.4/5

1.0

2 Reviews

4.0

8 Reviews

06 Jul, 2023 by P g

Service was perfect and nothing went wrong.

25 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous

As a Family atty, doesn’t put the kids first. Doesn’t listen. Doesn’t take the lives of kids seriously. Holds grudges. Very biased. Bullies and Badgers her clients.

10 Mar, 2021 by Marius herman

RIP DREW

Jeffrey David McClarnon

305 N State St, Greenfield, IN

Child Custody Criminal Defense Family Law +3

3.4/5

3.4

7 Reviews

21 Feb, 2024 by Tabitha wemple

28 Oct, 2022 by Dana hodgin

I thought he did a great job.

19 Aug, 2019 by Annmarie rowe

Told my husband that his court was at 2pm today but was at 9:30am for custody of his children (which is very important!) so he missed it. Also told my husband that he would do his full case for a totally of $1,200 and we agreed. He represented him the first time and then wanted another $400 to represent him for his next court date (which wasn’t the deal but we paid him anyway) when he shows up to the next court date he sat us down and asked “so what are we doing today?” Like he didn’t know ?!?! After that, he called and wanted ANOTHER $1,200 !! He didn’t represent my husband but for MAYBE an hour and a half total and didn’t do a good job at it at all ! And he doesn’t communicate at all about your case unless you’re about to go into the court room or unless he calls wanting more money. No way would I ever recommend this lawyer.

Ashley Niccole Hand

201 W Wayne St, Fort Wayne, IN

Adoption Child Custody Child Support +2 +5

3.4/5

3.4

5 Reviews

28 May, 2019 by Anonymous

I had Ashley represent me in a custody case. She did not do a good job. I never felt she was on my side. I felt it was strictly about money and none of my billing was correct, even the dates were wrong. I finally had enough when she more or less called me a liar.

22 Feb, 2018 by Kim

She was my first attorney when going through a contentious divorce. She was also my first mistake. I lost custody of my kids to an abusive spouse with a long paper trail of anger management classes. I would have been better without her.

13 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous

Great communication, never felt just trying to "rack up" time, direct with responses, great guidance, etc. all around great job!

Abby Elizabeth Neely

201 Main St Ste 810, Lafayette, IN

Family Law +1

3.4/5

3.4

5 Reviews

06 Feb, 2024 by James

I hired her to fight for custody of my daughter. It was a messy situation and my daughter was in great danger at her mother's. While looking for an attorney we came across Abby. Abby was willing to fight to win custody. I won with the help of Abby. We did have to do a lot of digging to get what we needed, but in the end we did not have to use most of it.

11 Dec, 2023 by Lisa

I am a mom of a disabled child… I was seeking a lawyer !!! Lawyer!!! I informed Abby with the difficult history with my ex. Who takes me to court every 3 years to not pay for my disabled daughter… she refused to fill out any paperwork or file I was left without child support for 9 months and then she quit!!! She buckled talking to his lawyer during a mediation and couldn’t lawyer up!!! It was horrible to see no representation… her quitting did me a favor!!!

05 Dec, 2023 by Kristena

Abby was very quick to respond and even quicker with getting everything filed through the courts. Abby really cares about the well being of the children and I can not ask for any more than that.

Dale Shireman Coffey

59 N Jefferson St, Martinsville, IN

Criminal Defense Elder Law Estate Planning +3 +6

3.4/5

3.4

5 Reviews

31 May, 2024 by Anonymous

Hired him for probate.He very knowledgeable. I think he is one of the best. Still in the process of probate. I would definitely recommend him.

08 Aug, 2023 by Bill

My divorce was very messy and took 4ever. Dale was just amazing in getting my divorce finalized. Thanks Dale.

24 May, 2023 by Anonymous

Be aware. This attorney will refuse your calls and refuse to let his assistant talk to you a paying client. He cares more about his duties as city attorney where he can walk all over people's rights on a grander scale. I had to fire him because a month went by and he would not talk to me. He does not care about what you are going through once he gets paid.

Francine Martha Rowley

320 N Meridian St Ste 1006, Indianapolis, IN

Family Law +1

3.4/5

3.4

13 Reviews

17 Sep, 2024 by April huffman

This woman should NOT be practicing. She's incredibly unprofessional, lacks empathy, and from the reviews, hasn't improved over the years. It's sad trying to support, when faced with such lack of professionalism! A terrible shame!

19 Jul, 2024 by Alan koch

I recently needed Carman Malone’s expertise and help with a family law matter! She was extremely professional and helped resolve my case without issues! She also is great go getter to have by your side, impressed 100% recommend for your matters!

16 Oct, 2023 by Christine davis

She was totally rude and very unprofessional! She did not do her job for my son. Me him literally at plea deal, not seeing him again since his sentencing. Did not do her job, called nobody to the stand on my son's defense. I wish I would have read the reviews before we paid $7,000. Please never ever ever choose her!

Jennifer Fitzpatrick Perry

320 N Meridian St Ste 1100, Indianapolis, IN

Family Law Litigation +2

3.4/5

3.4

13 Reviews

17 Sep, 2024 by April huffman

19 Jul, 2024 by Alan koch

16 Oct, 2023 by Christine davis

Mary Foley Panszi

95 S. 1st Street, Zionsville, IN

Family Law +1

3.3/5

3.3

10 Reviews

02 Jan, 2024 by Marqueses tipton

20 Mar, 2023 by Mariza freymuth

For me Ms. Mary and her team so helpful, I'm a foreigner, my English it's not strong I have so many things I don't understand about the law here in US and what my Right. She and her team so patiently to me. That's why I'm really thankful for Ms.Mary and her team.

27 Jan, 2023 by Lauren roth

Tara Lynne Cragen

1 Indiana Sq Ste 1400, Indianapolis, IN

Family Law +1

3.3/5

3.3

9 Reviews

26 Aug, 2023 by Habibi fazed

05 Mar, 2023 by D m

18 Mar, 2022 by Daniel

Stephen George Drendall

904 E Jefferson Blvd, South Bend, IN

Consumer Protection Criminal Defense Family Law +1 +4

3.3/5

3.3

3 Reviews

24 Dec, 2019 by Debbie

Mr. Drendall was easy to work with and he resolved my case at a reasonable price. He came recommended from a past client of his. I was overwhelmed and confused by the whole process and he explained everything clearly so that I understood all possible outcomes and challenges to my divorce case. He answered all my questions as well and moved as quickly as he could in the process. I would recommend in the future.

06 Jul, 2018 by Bonnie

Mr. Drendall, helped me with my divorce he did a great job he answered all my questions an explained to me everything I need to know I was very satisfied He's a very good attorney an I would recommend him.

09 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous

I hired Stephen Drendall for a Child Custody and Child Support Case. He talked a good game in the beginning but as time went on he became less responsive and did not file paperwork in a timely fashion as asked. Weeks would go by with no updates. He would send out correspondence concerning my case and did not copy me or update me on the case so I had no idea what was going on. I attempted more than once to try and clarify things and to get him to work my case in a competent manner. After doing so he just became less responsive and more careless. Please do your research before hiring this Attorney.

Brooks Barrett Cole Ledger

216 4th St, Logansport, IN

Family Law +1

3.2/5

3.2

21 Reviews

25 Jul, 2024 by Gregory konrath

Took $3000 and basically did nothing perhaps made a few phone calls. Repeated requests for an itemized bill and perhaps a refund completely ignored!

06 May, 2024 by Brandon wisler

21 Apr, 2024 by Sir dutch

Awesome attorney & very experienced. He will help you if you help yourself in becoming an asset to the community and not a hindrance.

Melanie K Reichert

8250 Haverstick Road, Indianapolis, IN

Estate Planning Family Law Mediation +3

+1 (317) 344-8647

3.2/5

3.2

14 Reviews

07 Jun, 2024 by Drew

This is one of the worst attorneys I’ve had to hire. She WAS a family friend as well! She missed hearings, continued the case for her benefit. Wouldn’t confirm any billing after i had asked for evidence of these “phone calls” to the opposing counsel. Those were never provided to me. On top of that i have videos/pictures of the attorneys hanging out with my ex wife at my daughters gymnastics and school discussing my case, They also never won a case when i was with her. Absolutely horrible! You can easily find someone better than this attorney for $350-450 an hr. She also raised her hourly rate half way through

24 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous

She does not look out for children and is very calculated in how to keep a steady paycheck without doing any work. Her ability to further abuse me in my court process while doing absolutely nothing is astounding. She is clearly invested in kickbacks.

22 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous

Melanie is biased, she will lie on legal documents, then when called out, will blame the client for her error, then eventually will claim to be only human. Her lies are vast, she will claim to meet people and do things as a way of increasing the bill. She doesn’t budge from her way, even when it doesn’t fit the current case, despite the tens of thousands you are paying her. She refers doctors and other “professionals” for kick backs allegedly.

Sadie Leigh Dillon-Baatz

215 E Berry St, Fort Wayne, IN

Adoption Estate Planning Family Law +3

3.2/5

3.2

11 Reviews

26 Jan, 2024 by Benjamin warren

21 Jun, 2023 by Lauren lang

Although the individual we worked with did have some decent feedback for our document revision, we felt that we weren't well-informed on how the firm's process works. By that I mean that we felt ill-informed regarding quotes, incurred costs, and invoicing. At the end of our interactions (which we concluded prematurely), we felt as though we had little tangible improvement to show for our interactions.

22 Feb, 2023 by Ken cook

Tom and Justin were great to work with; they were consistently professional throughout the entire project. There was no better council I could have wished for. Thank you.

Shawn Rountree

608 E. Wabash Street., Frankfort, IN

Criminal Defense Estate Planning Family Law +1 +4

3.2/5

3.2

10 Reviews

03 Apr, 2024 by Brandy smith

Horrible communicator. Like next to none…no return calls, emails or any form whatsoever. I would never recommend this guy to anyone

01 Apr, 2023 by Marilyn k

Attentive, personable and easy to talk with him.

29 Dec, 2021 by Devon stillwell

I gave these guys the proof I didn't commit a crime and they didn't even submit my evidence it was either plea out or go to trial and lose my son by then.. big disappointment

Dylan Robert Mroczek

323 Columbia Street, Suite 100, Lafayette, IN

Criminal Defense Family Law Litigation +1 +4

3.1/5

5.0

6 Reviews

2.9

75 Reviews

09 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous

Not only did he get what was needed done. He went the extra mile.. Got me a diversion program and even got my other appearances called off! Highly competent and has a voice of assertion. A well worth it lawyer if you ask me.

16 Jun, 2024 by Sherry

Expert Legal Defense

31 May, 2024 by Gregg mellady

Hands down the most knowledgeable attorney in lafayette and possibly indiana. Personally watched kirk make the prosecutors tuck their tails and hide! He will fight for you! Worth every single penny!

Thakena Deriess Hogue

9165 Otis Avenue, Suite 231, Indianapolis, IN

Business Estate Planning Family Law +1 +4

3.1/5

3.1

29 Reviews

31 Jul, 2024 by David brownfield

They worked tirelessly on my case. I am greatly satisfied with all that they did for me. I would recommend them and hopefully never need to use them again, but would If I need to.

11 Jul, 2024 by Shelley maynard

05 Jul, 2024 by Thatone person

Kristine Anne Gordon

1 Indiana Sq Ste 3500, Indianapolis, IN

Criminal Defense Family Law Lawsuit / Dispute +1 +4

3.1/5

3.1

8 Reviews

05 Mar, 2023 by D m

18 Mar, 2022 by Daniel

11 Mar, 2022 by T d

Tax attorney not skillful. Misrepresentation of experience.

Michael Murphy Painter

315 E Charles St, Muncie, IN

Estate Planning Family Law +2

3.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

5.0

3 Reviews

22 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous

Terrible..... I paid him and after 3 months he still hadnt even entered an appearance for me let alone set a court date. He was fired and kept 2/3 of the fees anyway I dint not recommend this guy

16 Dec, 2017 by Amy eppard

24 Mar, 2017 by David sadler

Greg is a great attorney. I have always worked well with him over the years.

Christine Ann Desanctis

250 Main St Ste 640, Lafayette, IN

Family Law Lawsuit / Dispute +2

3.0/5

2.3

9 Reviews

3.3

21 Reviews

01 Mar, 2024 by Dr robert thayer

DeSanctis Law is an experienced law firm to represent your best interests.

27 Nov, 2023 by Katie verhoeven

I hired Christine for a highly contentious custody and divorce case. I couldn’t be happier with the results. However, if you are thinking of hiring her, please know beforehand that it is pertinent to listen to and follow whatever advice she gives you. Don’t be like me, save yourself time and money by listening to her from the moment you hire her. She knows what she is doing. Her and Traci are the best! She can come off as stern but it is for your own good and what is best for your case. She has continued to answer any questions that I have had after the agreement was filed and the divorce was finalized. I honestly don’t know where I would be if I hadn’t hired her, but I can assure you it wouldn’t be any place good. As a DV survivor, I want you to know, she will advocate for you. She will defend you. Hire her today, don’t wait.

30 Oct, 2023 by Dan mckay

My experience is very similar to the not-so-good ones! Their motto is just give me money but I won't do what I promised!

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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.

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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