Best Family Law lawyers in Iowa

882 Family Law Lawyers in Iowa

>882

experienced lawyers

Allison Rose Abbott

700 2nd Ave, Des Moines, IA

Family Law Insurance Litigation +3

4.5/5

4.5

47 Reviews

11 Sep, 2024 by Dare say

22 May, 2024 by Jan mcclelland

Both Attorney Jankins and Attorney Janssen were very efficient, well informed, and very professional. They put us at ease and did an exceptional job for us.

29 Apr, 2024 by Sue sundal

The Jansen Law Firm will be great help for you in handling your sensitive issues with confidentiality and provide excellent on time services for your needs. I'm glad I chose them and I recommend you do too.

Alexander Gabriel Cardenas Cruz

1212 McCormick Ave. Ste. 100, Ames, IA

Criminal Defense Family Law Immigration +3

4.5/5

4.5

37 Reviews

21 Feb, 2024 by Renukha ram

22 Nov, 2023 by Moitee smith

The worst immigration law firm i have ever went too for help on my case, i was charged over 5,000 dollars just to find out my case wasn't send in. Every time i call to speak to the owner about the saturation the receptionist always give an excuse. Never got my refund and my case wasn't send in.

30 Oct, 2023 by Prasada reddy

My experience: Got referral to them from LinkedIn. Called them to set up appointment and scheduled a date. I did not get the call on the scheduled date and when I returned call. They said I did not pay for the appointment and hence got cancelled. Then I paid 150 $ for a zoom call and scheduled another date a month later. They explicitly mentioned they would call on the scheduled day before 15 min before the appointment and send instructions for the zoom call. They did not call and when I called back today they are stating that I was responsible for the call. Call with the receptionist also keeps dropping all the time. I had to call thrice to set up one single appointment. Each appointment date was a month apart and wasted 2 months of time for nothing. I atleast got my refund back!

Jeffrey Morgan Lipman

1454 30th St Ste 205, West Des Moines, IA

Civil Rights Class Action Criminal Defense +7 +10

4.5/5

4.5

23 Reviews

26 Jan, 2024 by Steve hopkin

09 Aug, 2023 by Carrie brugger

Thank you!

24 Aug, 2022 by Jay

The Law Offices of Charles W. Hendricks is highly recommended for any Des Moines Real Estate matter. Chuck is very proficient and reliable when it comes to Iowa real estate law.

Mark Henry Rettig

150 1st Ave. N.E., Suite 415, Cedar Rapids, IA

Estate Planning Family Law Government +3 +6

4.5/5

4.5

11 Reviews

30 Oct, 2022 by Shaun nelson

Best attorneys I have ever worked with ever with my business of having Bank issues with payments not being credited to the account and they're taken care of the problem with the bank to get them on the correct page

03 Feb, 2022 by James sinnott

27 Aug, 2021 by H tinia

I have my business with them because the Google review is 4.9 out of 5. But my experience is pretty bad . my husband sent email to them for what's going on with our case , never got answer for short time , alway have to wait over 15 days . Obviously they DON'T care about SMALL case's customers. Answer to the office: YES, It's Day Rettig Martin,P.C. You could not find my name in your list because my husband is the only one who contacting you. I already said MY HUSBEND send emails to you. you should read MORE carfully. Good law worker always notice the details that 's necessary.

Breanne Marie Schadt

1111 E River Dr, Davenport, IA

Child Custody Child Support Family Law +3

4.5/5

4.5

10 Reviews

07 Apr, 2024 by Sm

Very strategic, knows the law better than most, keeps expectations grounded, fights hard for her clients, impeccable ability to overcome the odds. Very mindful and considerate, and makes time to grasp your case history to ensure positive outcomes in Court. Breanne commands respect in the Court Room, and I cannot say enough good things about how she has represented me. I considered myself extremely fortunate to have an attorney of such extraordinary caliber. I highly recommend Breanne, no attorney in the Quad Cities that can match her expertise in Family Law,

27 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous

She explained everything that was going to happen, she went into detail about everything, she made sure I was comfortable with everything...I recommend her to everyone I know

08 May, 2020 by Anonymous

I had contacted the office for a consult with her. I had a quick overview with her and she asked for what information I had on case. I spent a considerable amount of time sending an email and attaching files to get her familiar with my case. She stated if sent soon enough she would contact same day back or the next. Weeks later I sent a touch base email to make sure I didn’t get overlooked honestly. I stated I understand not every case is for every lawyer and an appropriate we are not interested would be appreciated if so. I never even got a follow up email. That is poor practice in a firm. I think that’s a great indication of how things would have gone if I had retained her.I provided the foundation for an honesty police and nothing. Chose wisely on someone who is true to their words.

Timothy A. Casperson

102 N 2nd Ave W, Lake Mills, IA

Family Law Probate Real Estate +3

4.5/5

4.5

9 Reviews

10 Jan, 2023 by Kerry loge

nice friendly helpful staff

02 Aug, 2022 by Emilee casperson

13 Apr, 2022 by Julie turvold

Stella J. Roederer

1515 Linden St, Des Moines, IA

Estate Planning Family Law Immigration +3

4.5/5

4.5

2 Reviews

03 Dec, 2023 by Irving gilbert

09 Jan, 2023 by John wells

Peter Glenn Gierut

3870 Middle Rd, Bettendorf, IA

Criminal Defense Estate Planning Family Law +1 +4

4.5/5

4.5

2 Reviews

21 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous

I should start by saying our best case scenario going into court was to have the case dismissed, and Peter got that done for us on the first day (when another lawyer said the court would meet with us for a few minutes, and set a future trial date). The amazing thing is that getting the case dismissed wasn't even the best thing that Peter did. My fiancee had been separated for a long time, but had not filed anything with the courts. The Monday before Thanksgiving, her ex didn't show up for the meet-up to hand off the kids to her. He said they were sick, and then stopped answering calls. After driving to his house and a hospital, thinking there was some emergency, it was the middle of the night before we found a police officer who was able to tell us he had filed a temporary order of protection. They gave us a paper with some information, and told us documents would be served in the next day or two. I mention this so anyone reading this understands how I ended up spending Friday after Thanksgiving calling every lawyer I could find, hoping one would be available for a hearing at 8:00 AM the following Monday. I hired Peter, not because I knew anything about his qualifications, but because he was the only lawyer I could find who was willing to show up to court the Monday after Thanksgiving, presumably after cramming for the case all weekend. Peter showed up for the hearing early. He knew all the pertinent details, and he was professional. More importantly, he won the case. When I say winning the case was not the best thing he did for us, that's not hyperbole. Neither my fiancee, nor her children, live in Illinois. We hadn't discussed her filing for divorce, but it had obviously become inevitable. I don't think either of us considered where the divorce would happen. (When they were married, they lived in Iowa. We still lived in IA, and the children spent the majority of their time with us.) After winning our case, Peter told us my fiancee should file for divorce ASAP. We said we would. Peter said he wanted to be clear he wasn't talking about filing before too many days passed by. He was talking about filing before too many minutes passed by. He told us that he couldn't represent my fiancee, because it would be prohibitively expensive to hire a lawyer two hours away, but he offered to file the divorce papers. He explained that, if my fiancee's ex filed first, he would file in IL. Eventually, we would probably succeed in convincing the courts the divorce belonged in IA, but we would spend thousands doing that. If we filed first, we would file in IA, and probably wouldn't have to fight that battle. He drafted the divorce papers, and filed them in less than 1 hour. Throughout the 2 years of divorce that followed, my fiancee and I talked about how important that advice was. When you have 3 lawyers and 2 paralegals copied on dozens of e-mails about things as trivial as a missing lunchbox, you realize divorces are almost as much about how much you are willing to spend as they are the fact that you're actually the better parent. Saving thousands fighting about which state the divorce should happen in was huge, given what little money we had left after 2 years. Peter's rate was $25 higher than our IA lawyer, but his billing was less for calls they were both on, because he didn't overstate his billing like the other lawyer.

21 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous

He fixed all the damage that a less experienced lawyer created on my divorce/ custody case. I went from supervised visits to joint custody. He's not very prompt with returning urgent phone calls.. But when it matters in court he is well prepared and knowledgeable. Very respectful and honest to clients as well. Definitely worth the money!

Brian E. Buckmeier

701 Pierce St Ste 404, Sioux City, IA

Criminal Defense Family Law Juvenile Law +3 +6

4.5/5

4.5

2 Reviews

25 Sep, 2017 by James

Brian and his paralegal, Chris are caring and wonderful! He defended me on a criminal matter that I didn't do and Brian took the matter to trial. He believed in me the whole way and the jury came back with a not guilty verdict and proved my innocence.

24 Aug, 2017 by David

I was in a jam at one point in my life. I contacted Brian. He instantly jumped to my defense and handled the difficult matter with discretion and poise. If you are ever in a jam and need help, Brian Buckmeier would be a good choice.

Maxine Mary Buckmeier

600 4th St Ste 304, Sioux City, IA

Adoption Family Law +2

+1 (712) 823-9910

4.5/5

4.5

2 Reviews

18 Mar, 2021 by Jolene

I have been involved with Department of Human Services a total of four times now. With having experience in a juvenile system I am aware there's not much I nor an attorney can do. I requested a different attorney for this case and was selected Maxine buckmeier. I was hesitant at first that I would be stigmatized and stereotype but Maxine did neither of those things. I was impressed with her courage her knowledge and the responsibility that she takes on for other parents that are trapped in the juvenile system. She is helpful with sharing great advice, knowledge and Common Sense. Not to mention she is a state-appointed attorney home I do not pay. She has been respondent quick to the point and Abel to communicate my needs effectively with the DHS worker in the other attorneys. Being involved with DHS on four different occasions Maxine buckmeier has proven to be the best court appointed attorney the state has to offer. Thanks for everything you do.

06 Nov, 2019 by Michelle dinkel

Maxine Buckmeier facilitated three adoptions for us. One in particular was extremely complicated and required extra attention. All three required extensive experience involving ICWA. Maxine was able to address all the issues with each. The respect and care she showed for each of the birth parents and babies was admirable. We wouldn’t consider working with another attorney in the event we decide on another adoption.

James Henry Sayre

4201 Westown Parkway, Ste 250, West Des Moines, IA

Business Child Custody Child Support +6 +9

+1 (515) 416-5676

4.5/5

4.5

127 Reviews

20 Sep, 2024 by Travis lenig

Professional and thoughtful and made home closing for first time buyers easy

21 May, 2024 by Karter smith

16 May, 2024 by Rich curry

Fred is a very good lawyer and goes the extra mile he has even helped when I ran out of money but knew I was treated wrong to help me in my case. Very Grateful for him and his firm. I recommend him to everyone I know looking for a good no great lawyer.

Andrew James Dunn

2910 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA

Appeals Criminal Defense Family Law +3

4.5/5

4.5

111 Reviews

04 Sep, 2024 by Jose gomez

24 Aug, 2024 by Keonna webster

Very good law firm , Gets straight to the point and helps you best they can

15 Aug, 2024 by Andeson franco

Heidi Marie Young

2910 Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA

Criminal Defense Family Law +2

4.5/5

4.5

111 Reviews

04 Sep, 2024 by Jose gomez

24 Aug, 2024 by Keonna webster

Very good law firm , Gets straight to the point and helps you best they can

15 Aug, 2024 by Andeson franco

Lana L. Luhring

Po Box 177, Waverly, IA

Criminal Defense Family Law +2

4.5/5

4.5

29 Reviews

18 Jun, 2024 by - smith

Shanna Chevalier is a tenacious lawyer in the courtroom. She has zero tolerance for dishonesty and will zealously advocate for her clients. In my experience the opposing side repeatedly lied, but Shanna meticulously exposed her falsehoods with factual evidence. Her unparalleled attention to detail makes her one of the most exceptional attorneys I've had the pleasure of working with. She is EXCELLENT.

18 Jun, 2024 by Dee smith

Shanna Chevalier is meticulous, dependable, and gets results. She is HIGHLY organized, detail-oriented, and punctual. She goes above and beyond to ensure every aspect of your case is handled meticulously. Her dedication to her clients is evident in her pursuit of the best possible outcome. In my husband's recent trial, where the opposing client lied repeatedly under oath, Shanna's keen eye for detail exposed every lie. She knew our case inside and out and countered with evidence and facts, leaving no room for doubt. She's a tenacious fighter who won't back down. My husband and I have extensive professional experience in court settings, and we can confidently say that Shanna is among the most impressive lawyers we've encountered. If you're looking for a lawyer who will truly fight for you and uncover the truth contact Shanna. You won't be disappointed.

22 Mar, 2024 by Allison

Abigail Mary Becker

87 16th Ave SW, Cedar Rapids, IA

Estate Planning Family Law Personal Injury +3

4.5/5

4.5

27 Reviews

26 Aug, 2024 by Always peace

I requested a consult last week using the submission form. I used the BBB site to email them, it has been three business days and no response. I called once and received a recording, did not leave a message due to privacy. Are they out of business or just don't need or want the work ? I will move on. When I see that CLO responds to another reviewer with "Our attorneys unfortunately cannot contact everyone who believes they have a case" is unprofessional. The web site makes it appear they are well staffed, every request for a consult deserves a response even if it is not a lawyer. Bad customer service and I am a member of their community.

18 Dec, 2023 by Sarah foley

I’d highly recommend the Community Law Office in Cedar Rapids. Ben is an incredible lawyer. He has been a huge help in guiding us through the process, answering our questions and explaining things so that they make sense. Ben is very knowledgeable, approachable and experienced as a lawyer and gave us great peace of mind going through each step in the process. Thank you Ben and team at CLO for all your support!

17 Dec, 2023 by Shane fuller

Wonderful experienced curious and kind attorneys! Great people who will work for you!

Mark Ryan Hinshaw

1200 Valley West Drive, West Des Moines, IA

Family Law +1

4.4/5

5.0

11 Reviews

4.4

196 Reviews

26 Sep, 2024 by Misty feespatrick

Jeremy was extremely honest with me. When I've needed him to advocate on my behalf he was extremely helpful in that matter. I am very pleased with his service

27 Jul, 2024 by Timothy ellis

I was charged with a OWI in Newton, IA. For sitting in my commercial truck and Mr. Duffy had it reduced to a public intox! Great work Mr. Duffy! Awsome man!

25 Jul, 2024 by Karen mccoy

Great Attorney. Knows the law.

Kevin E. Hobbs

1200 Valley West Drive., West Des Moines, IA

Criminal Defense Family Law Personal Injury +3

4.4/5

4.4

5 Reviews

4.4

196 Reviews

26 Sep, 2024 by Misty feespatrick

Jeremy was extremely honest with me. When I've needed him to advocate on my behalf he was extremely helpful in that matter. I am very pleased with his service

27 Jul, 2024 by Timothy ellis

I was charged with a OWI in Newton, IA. For sitting in my commercial truck and Mr. Duffy had it reduced to a public intox! Great work Mr. Duffy! Awsome man!

25 Jul, 2024 by Karen mccoy

Great Attorney. Knows the law.

David D. Burbidge

373 Scott Court, Suite B, Iowa City, IA

Criminal Defense Family Law Juvenile Law +1 +4

4.4/5

4.2

5 Reviews

4.4

56 Reviews

02 Aug, 2024 by Cubing_phish

Tried calling to get in contact with someone for 2 weeks, took my name and number and what I needed each time I called with “ you’ll be called back later this morning so and so is busy right now”

19 Jun, 2024 by Jennifer geers

I knew Shawn Fitzgerald was a respected lawyer with a reputation for being knowledgeable, prepared, and fair. When I reached out to him about a question, his expertise and empathy was evident. In addition to Shawn’s legal acumen, he is a strategic thinker. He was adept at identifying the best course of action and addressed my concerns with surprising efficiency. I highly recommend Shawn. He provided a level of service that went above and beyond my expectations.

15 May, 2024 by Vickie manning

I needed an attorney recently to file bankruptcy. If I could give Steven and his staff a million stars I would. They were VERY professional and very friendly. It was a stressful procedure for me to complete, but they helped me get through it. I couldn't have asked for a better crew. You can't go wrong by hiring this attorney !

Mary Leanne Tyler

3285 Utica Ridge Rd, Bettendorf, IA

Criminal Defense Family Law Personal Injury +1 +4

4.4/5

5.0

2 Reviews

4.4

45 Reviews

06 Sep, 2024 by Kim hazen

150 for consultation free which is normally free . Why would someone pay that if you didn’t have any answers or even know the case . And want 20,000-30,000 down for a case you know nothing about . Would think for a triple or more lawsuit case you would want the 30% of winnings like most . Must have tons of rewards for that price . Next time just tell them you don’t want the case !!!

05 Mar, 2024 by Mitchell brown

These gal's are real pro's! Very efficient at their profession!

08 Feb, 2024 by Ethan jakubsen

Absolutely wonderful to work with. Came into this having no idea anything about law and they did a great job explaining how everything works and why I’m doing everything. Worried about my health above all else. Would absolutely go back if needed!

Jonathan Marshall Causey

505 5th Avenue, Suite 535, Des Moines, IA

Criminal Defense Family Law Immigration +1 +4

4.4/5

5.0

2 Reviews

4.4

40 Reviews

16 Aug, 2024 by Renee sedlacek lee

Pat Waldron provided excellent service and walked alongside us through the entire process of what otherwise would have been a very stressful experience. Thank you to the entire team at Patterson Law Firm!

20 Mar, 2024 by Tori ashman

Excellent law firm!

10 Dec, 2023 by Michael carson

Scott handled my case exactly how I asked. He got what I needed done a lot easier than I expected. I absolutely reccomend him!

Noelle Raelyn Murray

222 3rd Ave SE Ste 501 #8, Cedar Rapids, IA

Child Custody Child Support Debt Collection +1 +4

4.4/5

4.1

9 Reviews

4.4

32 Reviews

09 Jul, 2024 by Al austin

Mr. Moriarty Has Been A Wonderful Help with my Life In General,,, I Am Not A Easy Person To Work With But He Has Seen His Way To Laugh And Keep Giving A Helping Hand,,, 10 Stars To This Awesome Person...

27 Mar, 2024 by Jennifer miller

Mr Moriarty helped my family remove a problem tenant who refused to pay rent and was harassing us. His service was prompt, professional and worth every cent. If you want a good lawyer that has your best interest at heart then you won't find one better then James.

31 Dec, 2023 by Brad varner

Mr Moriarty is an excellent lawyer. I would recommend him for any legal process that you're currently facing I guarantee you he'll have your back.

Brett Patrick Hall

Francis Building, Sioux City, IA

Criminal Defense Estate Planning Family Law +3

4.4/5

5.0

4 Reviews

3.8

32 Reviews

16 Mar, 2024 by Tracy wooten

Mr. Widdison is the nicest lawyer I have ever met. He did an amazing job for me. I definitely would recommend him to anyone that needs help.

07 Jun, 2023 by Kyle geveshausen

Couldn't have asked for a better Lawyer. Was great to work with through a child custody case several years ago.

08 Jan, 2023 by Friday “‫‏فريدي مبروك‬‎” ayaj

Roger J. Hudson II

2600 Westown Parkway, West Des Moines, IA

Criminal Defense Family Law Litigation +3

4.4/5

5.0

1 Reviews

3.8

31 Reviews

04 Jul, 2024 by Crystalv1980

RJ, is definately the lawyer to have by your side in any court or legal matter. He is very knowledgeable, experienced, and he was OUTSTANDING in court. I would highly recommend him to anyone. He is well worth every penny.

15 Mar, 2024 by Dave brown

25 Feb, 2024 by Elijah blackshear

I genuinely appreciate the service I received from RJ Hudson Law! I didn't interact with my actual attorney much but his assistant Brenda was definitely the cream of the crop!! She was patient and understanding in every aspect. She held a professional demeanor throughout the entire process and never once flinched at the thought of how much it would take to get my divorce finalized even though we couldn't locate my ex-wife for the life of us. She was a pleasure to speak to and most assuredly not a novice in her field! Made my situation a hundred times simpler than if I would have gone elsewhere (or have done it myself); Not to mention all the paperwork on her desk that DIDN'T have my name on it. I recommend RJ Hudson 100%!!! 10 out of 10 every time! *As long as he keeps Brenda on the payroll 😉*

Andrew Larry Hope

1055 Jordan Creek Pkwy, West Des Moines, IA

Car Accident Child Custody Family Law +3 +6

4.4/5

3.7

12 Reviews

4.5

355 Reviews

08 Oct, 2024 by Dave 2bdcy4d

I reached out for help with a simple divorce and I'm glad I did when it went sour. Scott and Bronwyn were awesome and understood the unique situation. The attentive teamwork was a relief multiple times.

07 Oct, 2024 by Honest reviewer

You better have a LOT of $ or they won’t help!

27 Sep, 2024 by Raymond lovell

I won't go into too many details (there's a lot) but my experience with Adam Naset has been terrible. During our initial phone call he was so verbally aggressive with me I almost started to cry. But I was in desperate need of a lawyer. My temporary court hearing was a few days away and he told me on the phone that because it was so close that he would charge me a $5000 retainer fee. I then by myself filed a motion for continuance and got the temporary hearing pushed back by a month. He still charged me the $5000 retainer fee. I provided him with about 22 pages (single spaced) of information for my affidavit and also had text message screenshots to provide support for my affidavit. Then I provided him with my YouTube channel (Ray's Boring Life) and SoundCloud page (Raymond John Lovell) and also I sent him like 15 poems I have written in the last ten years as a way to show him who I was and for him to include some as support for my affidavit to show my emotional depth. My official affidavit was about 3-4 pages long and he ignored every other piece of information I gave him. But I trusted in his decision on what to put in the affidavit and signed it for the court, a big mistake on my part. During the temporary custody hearing Adam did not do a single thing to advocate for me and when the opposing lawyer brought up a questionable assumption that I had a whole section written about in my information Adam had, when given the opportunity to speak Adam had nothing to say to the court. The ruling did not go in my favor and I have Adam to thank for that. After a few angry emails to him Adam decided to withdraw. I have asked for a full refund that I more than likely won't receive. I had a conversation with ChatGPT and provided all the same information as I did to Adam except the text message screenshots (ChatGPT is not able to analyze text through images) and provided all of the affidavits from the respondent that were provided to the court. ChatGPT rated Adam's work on my affidavit a 4/10. Maybe this is just a one off experience, but I trusted him and he threw me under the bus.

Charlotte Ellen Keul

1055 Jordan Creek Pkwy Ste 200, West Des Moines, IA

Child Custody Child Support Domestic Violence +1 +4

4.4/5

3.0

4 Reviews

4.5

355 Reviews

08 Oct, 2024 by Dave 2bdcy4d

07 Oct, 2024 by Honest reviewer

You better have a LOT of $ or they won’t help!

27 Sep, 2024 by Raymond lovell

James M. Meade

1200 Valley West Dr Ste 206 02, West Des Moines, IA

Family Law Probate Real Estate +3

4.4/5

4.4

196 Reviews

26 Sep, 2024 by Misty feespatrick

Jeremy was extremely honest with me. When I've needed him to advocate on my behalf he was extremely helpful in that matter. I am very pleased with his service

27 Jul, 2024 by Timothy ellis

I was charged with a OWI in Newton, IA. For sitting in my commercial truck and Mr. Duffy had it reduced to a public intox! Great work Mr. Duffy! Awsome man!

25 Jul, 2024 by Karen mccoy

Great Attorney. Knows the law.

Shannon Marie Henson

1200 Valley West Dr Ste 204, West Des Moines, IA

Child Custody Family Law Insurance +1 +4

4.4/5

4.4

196 Reviews

26 Sep, 2024 by Misty feespatrick

Jeremy was extremely honest with me. When I've needed him to advocate on my behalf he was extremely helpful in that matter. I am very pleased with his service

27 Jul, 2024 by Timothy ellis

I was charged with a OWI in Newton, IA. For sitting in my commercial truck and Mr. Duffy had it reduced to a public intox! Great work Mr. Duffy! Awsome man!

25 Jul, 2024 by Karen mccoy

Great Attorney. Knows the law.

Constance Peschang Stannard

373 Scott Ct., Suite B, Iowa City, IA

Child Custody Criminal Defense Estate Planning +1 +4

4.4/5

4.4

56 Reviews

02 Aug, 2024 by Cubing_phish

19 Jun, 2024 by Jennifer geers

15 May, 2024 by Vickie manning

Dana Ann Judas

615 2nd Street SW, Cedar Rapids, IA

Child Custody Family Law Juvenile Law +1 +4

4.4/5

5.0

20 Reviews

4.0

30 Reviews

31 Jul, 2024 by Kelly tomkins

08 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous

In my mind, Dana handles your case like she would if she was representing her own family. She works tirelessly to help you work towards your desired outcome. She has been my lawyer through several cases and I have always been impressed. You can visit with her for a very short period of time and then when in court she is able to convey your messages flawlessly. I couldn't be more impressed with her. If you hire her you will be in good hands.

07 May, 2024 by Patrick madison

Men, steer clear of this place...Here's the reasons why. ...It's exactly how all of these other reviews are. Dana Judas is one of the worst attorneys we have ever hired. We have hired numerous real estate and family law lawyers throughout the years. Hands down doesn't have any fight, sided with other counsel numerous times just to get a tentative decision without going to court. Would go as far as to begin deals without consulting us. WE created all the exhibits, and she billed us for that. We would ask a question about the case and wouldn't receive a call back for weeks. When she did call back she wouldn't have anything prepped from our exhibits, emails. Prepping for court we went in and she wouldn't have anything figured out as she was trying to ask questions about all the info we had already sent her, which means no review at all. We put down a retainer for court and our first visit with her things starting going south. She started getting frustrated by us having an opinion of how we wanted the problem handled. Save your money, They conveniently billed out the retainer to the max without going to court . My belief it was to keep our money (BTW). Just shows distrust. She stated the retainer would be for review, prep, and hearing. You know most of the retainer is when you sit in court all day. Didn't end up in court because i was feeling she wasn't qualified to handle my case. Either she was getting fired or withdrawing from the case. She didn't even file all of our exhibits. Once again conveniently billed it all the way up to our full retainer. What a joke! If you're a guy it's tough already. Having an attorney that doesn't fight makes it even worse. She just laughed and said my wife sent her a thank you email saying "sorry it ended up like this". I mean what else is someone suppose to say "with class" to part ways with someone who doesn't perform their job correctly.

Amber Lee Markham

505 5th Ave Ste 630, Des Moines, IA

Criminal Defense Family Law Government +1 +4

4.4/5

4.4

40 Reviews

16 Aug, 2024 by Renee sedlacek lee

20 Mar, 2024 by Tori ashman

Excellent law firm!

10 Dec, 2023 by Michael carson

Scott handled my case exactly how I asked. He got what I needed done a lot easier than I expected. I absolutely reccomend him!

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FAQs

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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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