Lawyers map
>451
experienced lawyers
Filter by
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
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 Sep, 2024 by Mark nicholas
When results are required and time is of the essence, this is who you call. Our company needed assistance prior to getting into a legal battle that no one wanted to start. Kerry and the staff here were on top of it and prevented us from having to take this matter to court! Results are not always quick but in our case it was super quick and saved our company 10's of thousands of dollars be getting this matter resolved before it could escalate! Highly recommend calling Kerry Mann and his team before you think you need their services!
Read more
06 Jan, 2024 by Steve davis
26 Sep, 2023 by Keith hicks
Really good people, it took a little time, but everything has been settled. And I think you Jennifer Aldridge.
Read more
08 Feb, 2024 by Andrea
Mr. Ralph Tambasco is an exceptional lawyer who exemplifies professionalism, expertise, and dedication in his practice. He provided invaluable guidance and support throughout my legal matter, demonstrating a deep understanding of the intricacies of the law. Mr. Tambasco's clear communication, strategic approach, and unwavering commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for his clients make him a highly recommended attorney. I am grateful for his representation and would not hesitate to enlist his services again in the future.
Read more
28 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Knowledgeable, explained the process every step of the way and provided great results.
Read more
28 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Had representations on different types of cases over the years. Always there, always on top of things, and always getting a great result.
No nonsense and straight forward.
Read more
07 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Giving Jane 2 stars as she has the potential to be a good lawyer however when she represented me in 2022 as a Keffer-Hirschauer attorney I was disappointed on many occasions . Jane completed a lot of work last minute, which might have been the result of Keffer-Hirschauer overloading their attorneys with too many cases. Regarding spousal maintenance, Jane wasted months before asking the court for a hearing on spousal maintenance, and Jane did not follow through with the request once filed. Jane recommended signing certain financial agreements without communicating the possibility that future hearing dates may be rescheduled or extended, which lead to me being left without funding for many months. Lastly, a few weeks before a scheduled mediation and final hearing date Jane was either fired from Keffer-Hirschauer or left Keffer-Hirschauer on her own, (I have not been given a reason for her departure from either side) which then extended my mediation and final hearing, left me in a desperate financial situation and resulted in an exorbitant amount of legal fee's as I had to start over with a new lawyer.
Read more
02 Mar, 2019 by Stephanie rettig
Ms. DeBrota's services were invaluable to me in my particular situation. I was very satisfied with the affordable fees and professional attention she gave to my case. I highly recommend her for her knowledge in gender law cases.
Read more
06 Nov, 2017 by Frank julian
When lawyers need advice about employment and discrimination cases, they trust Amy DeBrota to have the answer. Highly recommended.
Read more
27 Aug, 2024 by Kelly gardner
16 Mar, 2024 by Shay ann
Very professional.
Read more
12 Feb, 2024 by Tony
Worst 5500 I've ever highly recommend you do not pay this man a dime extremely arrogant and does not care about your case only how he appears on the news dealt with him over a year told him repeatedly to get me in front of a judge immediately for my custody battle a year later he tells me he is trying to mediate between my children's mother and she stated in the beginning she wanted we needed a she was not going to come to any agreement....save your money get a real lawyer...
Read more
16 Jan, 2025 by Katie ball
11 Jan, 2025 by Franklin g
Shame on you, Terrance. Your day will come. Your. Day. Will. Come.
Read more
26 Nov, 2024 by Keith cooper
Setting up a consultation was quick and simple. We were able to review the clauses in the contract that I had questions about and get feedback on how to interpret then we walked through the risks associated with each option. I was able to get all of my questions answered to then make an informed decision.
Read more
16 Jan, 2025 by Katie ball
11 Jan, 2025 by Franklin g
Shame on you, Terrance. Your day will come. Your. Day. Will. Come.
Read more
26 Nov, 2024 by Keith cooper
Setting up a consultation was quick and simple. We were able to review the clauses in the contract that I had questions about and get feedback on how to interpret then we walked through the risks associated with each option. I was able to get all of my questions answered to then make an informed decision.
Read more
02 Dec, 2024 by Je s
Lauren Harpold, it's not often I have spoke to an attorney that is this knowledgeable and has morals. Lauren in my opinion is very honest and trustworthy. I had a consultation with her and I wanted to hire her but she advised me why I shouldn't at this point. Other attorneys I've met would have just said sign here and here is your invoice. She thankfully is not like that at all. She has given me some faith back in attorneys. If you want a good honest and affordable attorney then just stop looking, you found her. She didn't sugar coat things but she was also not cruel. Just very honest and that rarely happens. Thank you Lauren.
Read more
28 Jun, 2024 by Mattie1095
24 Jun, 2024 by Tammy rickenbach
After a previous horrible experience with an attorney, 20 years ago, working with this firm was such a breath of fresh air. I felt caring, respect, and compassion through every step. Thank you to the entire team.
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Rebecca k.
Rude and short with me. Call lasted less than a minute and doesn’t really grasp the understanding of sensitive matters with empathy.
Read more
23 Aug, 2024 by Traci remmo
Great experience so far, and I will be using Steven for more services later. Great response time and very knowledgeable!
Read more
12 Jun, 2024 by Joel cramer
Experienced attorney with strong ethical foundation. Very responsive and communicates effectively. Strong advocate. Highly recommend.
Read more
10 Jul, 2024 by Brooke walters-schmidt
Update 9/2024 - I'm increasing my review to 5 stars. It did take them about 7 months to contact me, which was frustrating. (I know they must have an insanely high case load and are running low on staff...so I do get that.) Ultimately they followed through and when I met with an attorney I was treated with the upmost kindness and respect. That meant everything to me. Truly, thank you so so much!
Update 8/2024 - I did hear back from them so I am deeply grateful for that. I'm increasing my stars based upon the fact that they did follow through. I will increase my stars further once paperwork is filed. I totally empathize with how inundated they must be - I just wish communication was better during the process.
They sent me a letter in January 2024 stating they would take my case. I turned in everything they asked of me. It's now July 2024, and I still haven't heard anything back despite 20+ calls to them. They have not returned a single phone call of mine in 6 months. Not one.
I'm happy to increase my stars if I ever hear back from them and they actually do what they said they would do.
Read more
13 May, 2024 by Don frayser
Very poor Service,not willing to help the people it who need the Help! I will never ask them for Help again ! 😡
Read more
12 May, 2024 by Soni cordova
Según veo cada caso es diferente desde texas estoy muy agradecido con esta oficina en menos de un año le arreglaron ami hijo llego su permiso de trabajo y social
Lo recomiendo no todos los casos son iguales debemos entender q aveces las cosas no son como queremos 🤷 si yo no pude arreglar al menos mi hijo si pudo hay q agradecer por todo bendiciones
Read more
10 Jul, 2024 by Brooke walters-schmidt
Update 9/2024 - I'm increasing my review to 5 stars. It did take them about 7 months to contact me, which was frustrating. (I know they must have an insanely high case load and are running low on staff...so I do get that.) Ultimately they followed through and when I met with an attorney I was treated with the upmost kindness and respect. That meant everything to me. Truly, thank you so so much!
Update 8/2024 - I did hear back from them so I am deeply grateful for that. I'm increasing my stars based upon the fact that they did follow through. I will increase my stars further once paperwork is filed. I totally empathize with how inundated they must be - I just wish communication was better during the process.
They sent me a letter in January 2024 stating they would take my case. I turned in everything they asked of me. It's now July 2024, and I still haven't heard anything back despite 20+ calls to them. They have not returned a single phone call of mine in 6 months. Not one.
I'm happy to increase my stars if I ever hear back from them and they actually do what they said they would do.
Read more
13 May, 2024 by Don frayser
Very poor Service,not willing to help the people it who need the Help! I will never ask them for Help again ! 😡
Read more
12 May, 2024 by Soni cordova
Según veo cada caso es diferente desde texas estoy muy agradecido con esta oficina en menos de un año le arreglaron ami hijo llego su permiso de trabajo y social
Lo recomiendo no todos los casos son iguales debemos entender q aveces las cosas no son como queremos 🤷 si yo no pude arreglar al menos mi hijo si pudo hay q agradecer por todo bendiciones
Read more
10 Jul, 2024 by Brooke walters-schmidt
Update 9/2024 - I'm increasing my review to 5 stars. It did take them about 7 months to contact me, which was frustrating. (I know they must have an insanely high case load and are running low on staff...so I do get that.) Ultimately they followed through and when I met with an attorney I was treated with the upmost kindness and respect. That meant everything to me. Truly, thank you so so much!
Update 8/2024 - I did hear back from them so I am deeply grateful for that. I'm increasing my stars based upon the fact that they did follow through. I will increase my stars further once paperwork is filed. I totally empathize with how inundated they must be - I just wish communication was better during the process.
They sent me a letter in January 2024 stating they would take my case. I turned in everything they asked of me. It's now July 2024, and I still haven't heard anything back despite 20+ calls to them. They have not returned a single phone call of mine in 6 months. Not one.
I'm happy to increase my stars if I ever hear back from them and they actually do what they said they would do.
Read more
13 May, 2024 by Don frayser
Very poor Service,not willing to help the people it who need the Help! I will never ask them for Help again ! 😡
Read more
12 May, 2024 by Soni cordova
Según veo cada caso es diferente desde texas estoy muy agradecido con esta oficina en menos de un año le arreglaron ami hijo llego su permiso de trabajo y social
Lo recomiendo no todos los casos son iguales debemos entender q aveces las cosas no son como queremos 🤷 si yo no pude arreglar al menos mi hijo si pudo hay q agradecer por todo bendiciones
Read more
01 Mar, 2012 by Andrew
Christine was referred to me by a friend in the legal environment. From day one, I knew I was in good hands. She answered any questions I had and gave me great advice throughout the whole process. Her drive to help her clients and get a quick resolution was phenomenal.
Read more
01 Feb, 2012 by Keith
If you are looking for a diligent, responsive, trustworthy attorney, look no further than Christine Stolle. I am very satisfied with how Christine worked toward a fair resolution and successfully litigated issues I had concerning a divorce settlement. Christine was very thorough while working my case and kept me well informed. I felt very comfortable having such a zealous advocate with me in court. I would hire Christine again, no questions asked.
Read more
30 Jan, 2012 by Candy
Christine was very efficient for me. My ex did everything he could to make things difficult but she was somehow able to get him to come to the final result that I was happy with. She was truthful with me-both positive and negative (when I needed it). She promptly (quicker than I expected) responded to my questions and issues about the divorce and helped me through this difficult time. When I worked with her face to face I was absolutely amazed at how quickly she was able to work and figure things out. Our financial situation was complicated and she sure knew how to work those numbers and FAST. My money was well spent and I have even had to hire her again a few months ago because my ex was in contempt of court. She is absolutely fabulous. I would hire her again. I first hired her in January of 2010.
Read more
12 Aug, 2024 by Josh moreira
I would use Jay’s services again in the future.
Read more
12 Jul, 2024 by Samuel stewart
Very good Attorney won my case highly recommended his firm
Read more
02 Jul, 2024 by We the people first
Jay is a outstanding attorney very informative of
the process he doesn’t mess around an gets the job done to all you haters on here your probably same people who are getting sued lol any
Ways thankyou Jay your the best !
Read more
31 Jul, 2024 by Larry ivy
Very unprofessional. Was trying to give a short explanation on the reason for my call. She replies, “ got to go, take care” and proceeds to hang up. Literally a 45 second call
Read more
25 Jun, 2024 by John reeves
In one word, "Excellence". Attorney Stacey M. Davis comes with my highest recommendation. Her and her staff handled my case in the most professional and timely way possible. Very reasonable rates. I'm extremely pleased with my experience.
Read more
25 Jun, 2024 by Evict your disease
Not a good experience. She kept mentioning about how long she was on call with me and how much her fees were. When asked questions about bankruptcy.
Read more
31 Jul, 2024 by Larry ivy
Very unprofessional. Was trying to give a short explanation on the reason for my call. She replies, “ got to go, take care” and proceeds to hang up. Literally a 45 second call
Read more
25 Jun, 2024 by John reeves
In one word, "Excellence". Attorney Stacey M. Davis comes with my highest recommendation. Her and her staff handled my case in the most professional and timely way possible. Very reasonable rates. I'm extremely pleased with my experience.
Read more
25 Jun, 2024 by Evict your disease
Not a good experience. She kept mentioning about how long she was on call with me and how much her fees were. When asked questions about bankruptcy.
Read more
22 Nov, 2024 by Del demao
Amazing group of attorneys as well as great people!
Read more
26 Aug, 2023 by Habibi fazed
05 Mar, 2023 by D m
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
Read more
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by David apple
Unresponsive, unhelpful, not answering phone calls, emails and voicemails.
Read more
16 Jul, 2024 by Elijah
Submits data to the Human Rights Campaign.
Read more
19 Jul, 2022 by Duane daringer
03 Oct, 2024 by David apple
Unresponsive, unhelpful, not answering phone calls, emails and voicemails.
Read more
16 Jul, 2024 by Elijah
Submits data to the Human Rights Campaign.
Read more
19 Jul, 2022 by Duane daringer
22 Nov, 2024 by Del demao
Amazing group of attorneys as well as great people!
Read more
05 Mar, 2023 by D m
12 Feb, 2023 by Angel c
08 Jan, 2025 by Jayla s
Absolutely disappointed in this law firm. Been a year since my accident and still nothing has happened. They don’t call to update you or nothing. YOU HAVE TO CALL THEM FIRST. Then the attorney doesn’t even answer the phone, just voicemails.
Read more
28 Nov, 2024 by Jay dogg
Great Team handled my case very well!!! Will use in future again if needed.
Read more
26 Nov, 2024 by Elizabeth greene
When my son left here unexpectedly this law firm stepped in and helped me even tho mentally I was traumatized and was in able to cope they did all they could to help me. I give them 5 stars for their compassion and all the help they did for me it was like it was my own family the level of compassion and comfort they game me. I recommend this law firm to anyone going through digress that needs a lawyer. Back than my mind was all over the place and I’m in a better space now. I never got a chance to say thank you!
Read more
27 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Very bad service I was not happy and she gave in didn’t even fight at all …seems like it was all about the money
Read more
05 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Nicole to help with family law matter. She showed up for important dates but was unresponsive to emails, calls and texts any other time. Sometimes I wouldn't hear from her for a month. She seems extremely busy with her personal life which is fine but she shouldn't be practicing if she doesn't have the availability to help her clients
Read more
11 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Nicole to represent me in a legal matter. I am very dissatisfied with her services because of her lack of knowledge & experience. On multiple occasions it took Nicole days & sometimes weeks just to respond to a text, email, or phone call. She works a full time job & tries to practice law on the side which interfered on the time she could work on my case. She caused unnecessary stress on me & my family because at times she really didn’t know what she was doing & got in way over her head. I would definitely recommend anybody to do your research & hire a knowledgeable attorney with years of experience. Overall i think Nicole was a nice person & tried, but I my only intentions was to hire a knowledgeable attorney that can get the job done with minimum stress which she did not do.
Read more
23 Sep, 2024 by Beth frye
31 May, 2024 by Brian torres
12 May, 2024 by Ksu 007
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.
Read more
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
Read more
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
Read more
31 Jul, 2024 by Dan marciniak
We were so pleased how quickly and efficiently this firm helped us with our issue!
Read more
19 Jul, 2024 by Life adventure
I had 2 sperate phone consultations scheduled received email and text confirmations. And received no call.
They couldn't even keep their scheduled consultation.
Read more
01 Jul, 2024 by Kendra
This law firm is one of the best there is! They truly do care about your case and make it their #1 priority. Ms Rachelle, Ms Sharon, Ryan and their team are amazing. They worked with me and got my case handled very quickly. Thank you guys again!
Read more
18 Oct, 2024 by Kathy burner
Great at stalling, empty promises and ignoring emails.
Read more
10 Sep, 2024 by Miles morales
Everyone be careful with this law firm. A bunch of false promises. Especially made by Isaac Peterson. Would never go back to them and I suggest you don’t use them for your needs or you’ll be let down. He couldnt even simply reply to my email. Such a shame, that when you need help a place you thought could help just lets you down. If Isaac is representing, just know, things won’t go well. Find better and this law firm needs to DO BETTER.
Read more
09 May, 2024 by Johnny wilson
"I'm exhausted from being mistreated and bullied because of my lack of education. It feels like those in positions of power are trained to take advantage of and silence marginalized individuals like me. I'm fed up with being disrespected and undervalued. All I've ever wanted is for someone to be held accountable for their actions and to be treated with dignity and respect. Unfortunately, I was denied fair compensation for my work and wasn't given a chance to thrive.
I'm at a breaking point, feeling like I'm not good enough in this society. I've even considered harming myself in a desperate cry for help. But I want to make it clear that I hold those who have wronged me accountable. I will speak out against the injustices I've faced and make sure that the names and companies responsible are known.
I hope that someday, I'll receive the fair chance I deserve. Until then, I'll keep seeking justice and support. May peace be with those who truly care about the well-being of others."
Read more
23 Sep, 2024 by Beth frye
31 May, 2024 by Brian torres
12 May, 2024 by Ksu 007
26 Oct, 2023 by Richard rodriguez
Nunca responden el teléfono
Read more
15 Mar, 2023 by H d
Honestly I really wish I found someone else. I had a very simple child support case and it still cost me $3000. I highly doubt she actually spent 17 hours working on my case. We didn't even go to court, we came to an agreement. And Vanessa nor her employees were much help when my case was over. You have a question? Be careful if you send an email that gets a one sentence response, it will cost you $82 for something that took 2 minutes. As a single mom, I asked if I could take partial payments and got charged $82. Overall very disappointed. I am not getting back pay like I was supposed to be and now it is all up to me to figure it out on my own. Missing out on $600 because this lady didn't pay attention to what she was doing FOR MY CHILD. Also I was never told that I should sign up for direct deposit with the child support office, I thought after paying 3 grand there would be some guidance. I was wrong. Will never recommend this office. Please go elsewhere.
Read more
16 Oct, 2022 by Ashley plath
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.
