Filter by

star star star star star
27 Oct, 2015 by Lisa
Mr. Forbes is an awesome attorney who actually listens to his clients and their families. He is professional in court and is familiar with the current presiding judges and referees within the Queens Family Court located in Jamaica. My case is child custody. With Mr. Forbes' help, I have been able to keep full custody for the past 5 years even with the other side fighting constantly.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
22 Oct, 2015 by Anthony morales
Based upon my personal experience, not only is Mr. Steven Forbes a highly qualified attorney, he is also an awesome person that cares alot about his work and truly making a difference in this world. I am forever grateful and honored to have him as my attorney.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
14 Oct, 2014 by Mary c
had a complicated contested divorce, she fought vigorously for me and really worked at giving me a break on legal fees with a payment plan she was unlike most of the attorneys who all wanted huge retainer fees and only billed without doing the work. She spent lots of time on my case and i got a very good settlement at the end of the matter.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
07 Oct, 2013 by J
Ralph provided me with several concise and solid answers. He hit the nail on head when he answered questions while other lawyers tap danced around the question, simply answered them in legal jargon or completely missed the point.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
28 Dec, 2014 by Fran - atlanta, ga
Attorney Bolaji was recommended to me by a business associate. From our initial telephonic contact he proved to be experienced, knowledgeable, patient, kind and a good communicator. Attorney Bolaji ensured that I understood every aspect of the legal process and explained all document requirements as needed. Our lawyer-client relationship was maintained though I was out of State and Attorney Bolaji was always prompt and accessible via phone, email and text. My inability to have regular face-to-face encounters was a source of anxiety for me. However, Mr. Bolaji's kindness and availability lessened those feelings and made my house selling experience a smooth and pleasant one. His fees were also very reasonable to boot. I highly recommend Attorney Bolaji and would use him again in a heartbeat.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
06 Jun, 2019 by Rustam
I won in court with Ray. Ray is an amazing attorney. On the first communication he spent about 25 minutes with me on,the phone, giving me enough time to express the matter and the concerns. I was perfectly satisfied with his answers and the willingness to provide care for my issue. I immediately felt a great sense of relief, and was able to relax that night, as it felt that I found someone who will guide and be by my side me through the upcoming court battle. In the following weeks Ray, again gave me an additional hour and a half of free consultation, wherein I was perfectly settled in my quest as soneone who found a knowledgeable and caring attorney. Ray forgave me some payments, my final expenses were actually lower than initially we agreed. It was clear he was not a greedy person, as unfortunately is oftentimes the care with other attorneys. I went through a few attourneys before finding Ray. As we worked on the hearings preparations , Ray welcomed my information and various arguments that I desired be expressed and addressed in the courtroom. I was able to submit a packet of various notes to Ray, which he clearly read and took into account, provided feedback on, discussed and modified for the best of advantages in the courtroom. Ray trully worked with me, and the result was amazing we won in court! I recommend Ray, he is a good person, a great attorney, and he got me through tough times with the ultimate outcome - a victory in court. Thank you, dear Ray, for being there for me!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
20 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
Meryl Halpern was the best attorney ever...she is extremely knowledge, friendly, helpful and always, always took my calls.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
15 Dec, 2019 by George b
Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Apr, 2019 by Emmanuel charlot
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
02 Sep, 2024 by Mayra
David Schnall is an excellent lawyer. There has three occasions that I needed his help and I won three times. He is professional, he hears you out and he is very intentional with his clients needs. There’s been moments when I would feel nervous in court but he would reassure me that everything would be ok. I highly recommend him.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
25 Aug, 2024 by Patel krishna
My experience with Adrienne D. Edward Law Office was appalling. I felt always in the dark regarding my situation because of the inadequate communication. The level of service was subpar, and it appeared that they were more concerned with collecting money than assisting me. I wouldn't suggest this business to anyone looking for capable legal representation since the entire process was stressful and disappointing. Considering my experience, all the glowing reviews seem dubious. Look elsewhere and spare yourself the headache.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
12 Aug, 2024 by Clint
Not only is David a very great lawyer, he is a great person. Answered every question honestly and was always there to help me with questions. I highly recommend him.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
24 Aug, 2024 by Lo mor
Good lawyer
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
23 Aug, 2024 by Seck mahaly
Habib hassan immigration lawyer in Jamaica, queens New York is the best very knowledgeable.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
23 Aug, 2024 by Francis opoku
Best quality service i have ever seen.i recommend Ah Law Firm Pllc for everyone Infact they will never let you down.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
02 Oct, 2024 by Oliver mclean
Ryan and the team helped me close on my apartment in September. Being an international client, communication was seamless and they did an amazing job representing me when I encountered roadbumps with the coop board and buyer. I will definitely use the firm again for my next property.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
17 Sep, 2024 by Flor valdez
Google Maps
star star star star star
31 Aug, 2024 by Edwin colon
This law office has some of the best lawyers I’ve ever dealt with. They respond very quickly and are always working on your case. They consistently follow up on email questions with phone calls and stayed involved throughout both my selling and buying process. I highly recommend Ryan, Lee, and all their associates. Great law firm, great price, and fantastic work.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
25 Aug, 2024 by Patel krishna
My experience with Adrienne D. Edward Law Office was appalling. I felt always in the dark regarding my situation because of the inadequate communication. The level of service was subpar, and it appeared that they were more concerned with collecting money than assisting me. I wouldn't suggest this business to anyone looking for capable legal representation since the entire process was stressful and disappointing. Considering my experience, all the glowing reviews seem dubious. Look elsewhere and spare yourself the headache.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
15 Mar, 2022 by Eduardo
Eric helped me through the worst time of my life. He is knowledgeable and knows what he is doing, but most importantly, he is kind, a gentleman with professionalism.....he took his time to explain how things work in court, helping me to navigate the process in an appropriate way....Another great thing about Eric is that he listens. He was patient and he made it important for him to understand my particular situation and make the best of it. As a result I was able to protect the custody of my daughter...and ensure that she will be well after all. As I said before, he is a true gentleman....and I couldn't be happier with his legal representation...I would recommend Eric to anyone.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
08 Oct, 2020 by Jorge benavides
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
03 Sep, 2024 by Alexandro mora cepeda
Google Maps
star star star star star
30 Aug, 2024 by Alexa collado
Google Maps
star star star star star
27 Aug, 2024 by Tariq malik
Very bad experience, way too expensive, tell you something else & you wind up paying more. They told me $7500. For my case so far I paid them $10.000 & they still are asking me $3500. More I Won’t sugges to anyone 😡😡😡
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
24 Nov, 2023 by Anthony
This man cause me to delayed my visitation process to see my kids , here I was thinking a brother will have the best interests in mind to another brother he collected my money didn't show up to court and blame it on me aging that he showed up to court and because I wasn't present they dismissed my case . Can I point out he told me that my presence wasn't required due to the fact that he'll be there . What he didn't know is that I always always make my own research went back to the court ask to see the records and see why my case got dismissed. Guess what the record show that he never showed up not the petitioner (that will be me ) or his lawyer that will be him . This was March 2023 my case could have been resolved since then . When I confront him he said he showed up not knowing that I already had seek help from LYFT they help me to get my case back in the calendar . I then notify him this he proceeds to ignores my calls and message mind you he took my money already . Due to the fact he was ignoring all my calls I contacted one of my family members in Texas they are part of a law firm but not family services I made them do a 3 way call Guess what the guy answered I spoke my mind he then send me a email that I still have saying he could not represent me no more due to load cases . The court contacted him on my next court date he could never answer why he didn't show up and he never apologies to that day it was 3 years without seeing my children that day if he would have showed up my case could have been resolved I'm talking about an old man that could be my father playing games with my emotions and my life because my kids are my life . Due to covid everything is been a mess they claimed being backed up and have more severe cases but something has to happen with this type of people and to you Mr Austin let's hope God forgives you you could have been a man and tell me sorry I messed up let's keep working instead you choose to ignore me I'm not sure how much this will do but I have to let it be known this old man took my money and didn't do what he was supposed to do he sold me hope . God forgive you hope your kids see this .
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
02 Mar, 2018 by Catherine
I was very pleased with Mr. Idehen's representation and I was very satisfied with the outcome of my custody case. Mr. Idehen promised to deliver in a very honest and fair way and he did. He's fair and he cares about the best interest of his client. I sought the representation of numerous lawyers before Mr. Idehen and their outlook of my case was very negative not to mention their outrageous fees. I thank God for Mr. Idehen's fair yet competitive approach.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
31 Mar, 2017 by Susan
He is simply a great lawyer. He is responsive, professional, and has a positive attitude no mater how bad your situation is. He won't disappoint. Thank you for your service. God Bless you Mr. Idehen.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
25 Aug, 2024 by Patel krishna
My experience with Adrienne D. Edward Law Office was appalling. I felt always in the dark regarding my situation because of the inadequate communication. The level of service was subpar, and it appeared that they were more concerned with collecting money than assisting me. I wouldn't suggest this business to anyone looking for capable legal representation since the entire process was stressful and disappointing. Considering my experience, all the glowing reviews seem dubious. Look elsewhere and spare yourself the headache.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Oct, 2020 by Jorge benavides
Google Maps
star star star star star
04 Oct, 2020 by John rodriguez
Such a great lawyer motivated me a lot, and put me in a whole better path.💙
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
23 Jan, 2024 by Nini
My Attorney Sadatu Salami is a leader of distinction. She is a lawyer who interacts with her clients with respect and kindness. She represents her clients in the legal field with accuracy, excellent timing and with the proper sense of urgency and concern your case requires. I never feel I have to remind her of the legal needs I have. She pays attention constantly to what is needed to help me, my family and my business succeed. I would recommend her to anyone at anytime. And I recommend her to whoever is reading this review right now.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
16 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
She is very straight forward and stern wonderful at every corner of her job Gets to the bottom of all her work Doesn't drag the court session for a long period of time Great Outcome I am well Pleased I will recommend everyone I know to her she is the best
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
04 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
This attorney will take your money and never respond to you at all. Then they also refused to return your money when they have done no work. Please run as fast as you can and don’t waste your money. This attorney is also extremely incompetent and laughable. She talks nice to just sign the contract and after they take your money THEY WILL NOT RESPOND period. ONLY ANSWER YOU WILL GET IS “we will get back tomorrow”
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
25 Aug, 2024 by Patel krishna
My experience with Adrienne D. Edward Law Office was appalling. I felt always in the dark regarding my situation because of the inadequate communication. The level of service was subpar, and it appeared that they were more concerned with collecting money than assisting me. I wouldn't suggest this business to anyone looking for capable legal representation since the entire process was stressful and disappointing. Considering my experience, all the glowing reviews seem dubious. Look elsewhere and spare yourself the headache.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Oct, 2020 by Jorge benavides
Google Maps
star star star star star
04 Oct, 2020 by John rodriguez
Such a great lawyer motivated me a lot, and put me in a whole better path.💙
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
02 Nov, 2023 by Tanisha walters
Every case I had in family court he won it with me no bad complains from me … This man gets the job done!!!!!!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
29 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Makes you want to slap the s***t out of him, all his clients are in jail I bet
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
15 Dec, 2019 by George b
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
18 Jun, 2024 by Rajin bahadur
Worst lawyer ever. Her and her partner work together to drain every single penny possible from their clients. Please save yourself financially and mentally from going to her place of practice. It’s all about the money for her
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
12 Jun, 2024 by Ara ahmed
I was looking for a job, and a friend referred me to work at her law office. Came in, showed her my resume and she told me to start working. After two weeks, she told me that she wasn't hiring me to be permanent but she refused to pay me for the two weeks and never even acknowledged what she did. This woman is a scammer. Stay away. Don't let the smart talking fool you. There are too many options on Sutphin to choose this place for your legal services.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
04 Nov, 2023 by Tyson max
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
20 Oct, 2022 by Maria r
Very rude assistant answered the phone. She hung up on me and lacked basic etiquette. Retrain your staff on how to properly speak to people!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Feb, 2022 by Stella walker
Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Feb, 2022 by Rosalind spencer
Mr. Minc was incredibly helpful as well as compassionate with me. He provided me with an amazing 30 minute consultation that not only gave me guidance as to how to proceed, but offered me support and compassion for the situation I was in.Thumbs up for this law firm!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
05 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
I retained Mr Ugo a year ago to help me file immigration docs. A year later I learned through USCIS that he has not followed up with proper filing. Sadly Mr Ugo lacks the professionalism to follow up with the services he offers. Now a year later I had to hire another group of lawyers so they can finish the job this guy " forgot" to do. He barely answer his phone or email. Be aware.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
21 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
Do not believe all this five stars reviews. They are all fake. Super unprofessional, I hired him for a hearing and he was late for several hours. When he came finally, he was unprepared and screwed up case. Always asked for more and more money. Regret to hire him.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
08 May, 2019 by Maria a
I was in removal proceedings and Ugo helped me get my green card through my husband. The judge granted me relief last month. I’m grateful to have had a lawyer that was very easy to contact. Hopefully we wouldn’t need an immigration lawyer again but if we do we’ll definitely work with him again.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
25 Aug, 2024 by Patel krishna
My experience with Adrienne D. Edward Law Office was appalling. I felt always in the dark regarding my situation because of the inadequate communication. The level of service was subpar, and it appeared that they were more concerned with collecting money than assisting me. I wouldn't suggest this business to anyone looking for capable legal representation since the entire process was stressful and disappointing. Considering my experience, all the glowing reviews seem dubious. Look elsewhere and spare yourself the headache.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Oct, 2020 by Jorge benavides
Google Maps
star star star star star
04 Oct, 2020 by John rodriguez
Such a great lawyer motivated me a lot, and put me in a whole better path.💙
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
25 Aug, 2024 by Patel krishna
My experience with Adrienne D. Edward Law Office was appalling. I felt always in the dark regarding my situation because of the inadequate communication. The level of service was subpar, and it appeared that they were more concerned with collecting money than assisting me. I wouldn't suggest this business to anyone looking for capable legal representation since the entire process was stressful and disappointing. Considering my experience, all the glowing reviews seem dubious. Look elsewhere and spare yourself the headache.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Oct, 2020 by Jorge benavides
Google Maps
star star star star star
04 Oct, 2020 by John rodriguez
Such a great lawyer motivated me a lot, and put me in a whole better path.💙
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
25 Aug, 2024 by Patel krishna
My experience with Adrienne D. Edward Law Office was appalling. I felt always in the dark regarding my situation because of the inadequate communication. The level of service was subpar, and it appeared that they were more concerned with collecting money than assisting me. I wouldn't suggest this business to anyone looking for capable legal representation since the entire process was stressful and disappointing. Considering my experience, all the glowing reviews seem dubious. Look elsewhere and spare yourself the headache.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Oct, 2020 by Jorge benavides
Google Maps
star star star star star
04 Oct, 2020 by John rodriguez
Such a great lawyer motivated me a lot, and put me in a whole better path.💙
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
20 Feb, 2021 by Anne
I hired her several years ago when I was going through a custody issue with my ex. I was young, vulnerable and needed help. She was only nice until I actually hired her. After that, she was impatient, and rude. I am a woman so I think she is just unprofessional and it doesn't matter what your sex is. She made me feel horrible, really made a hard situation worse. It's been years and I still haven't forgotten how she made me feel.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
11 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
I am having more or less the same issues with Ms. Stutz as the previous commenter She does not return telephone calls or emails. She has an unpleasant demeanor and I would not recommend her to anyone.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
09 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
She’s really nasty and unprofessional, when I tried to raise my concerns about the well-being of my daughter living arrangements and the people kept around her she tells me stuff like that doesn’t matter. I seen her making side deals with my child’s mothers attorney with out consulting me then when I ask her about it, I’m attacking her and treating her like the enemy. She’s late to all her appointments as well as her source of communication is only through email which that’s where a lot of her nastiest takes place also her main concern is only about getting paid. I would not recommend her to anyone and that was $1,250 wasted for two court appearances and and one meeting in which two of these events she was both late and a dozen meaningless emails she seems to work in the other parties interest rather then her own clients I don’t know if it’s a feministic thing or it has something to do with my ethencity but as I stated here I would never recommend her services
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
12 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Anthony Agustus is one of the WORST lawyers I have ever come in contact with. Anthony Agustus does not even deserve the one-star. He is entirely unresponsive to my emails, text messages, and phone calls. And when he does answer, it seems like I'm interrupting HIS day. He is supposed to be helping me fight my case but he has done absolutely nothing to fight for me. All my evidence is clear and straight to the point. He is always unprepared to go to court and shuffles through papers during the court proceedings. He calls me the day before a court appearance or a half hour before court begins to gather information and he was putting me in a bad situation where I could lose custody of my kids. I am a single mother who left an abusive relationship and now, my kids are caught in the middle of this madness. He does not care at all about your needs or the facts of the case. I am so glad that I did not have to pay for him. And honestly, he does not have his client's best interests at heart. He served absolutely no purpose for me during my case hearing. I'm still fighting my case with a new lawyer and I will be getting my kids back. I'm glad I got a new lawyer before it was too late. NEVER HIRE ANTHONY AGUSTUS AS YOUR LAWYER.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
07 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
Anthony Augustus was hired as the representation for a child in the courtroom. He was never prepared when he came to court. He strolled in late and missing paperwork. He never asks many questions. He truly does not do his job in investigating. He, as the representation for child, is supposed to be unbiased and treat both sides equally. However, from the beginning of his job on the case, he treated one side favorably, laughing and joking with them when he arrived at the court house, and ignoring and not fully giving the other side a chance to present. Although in my case, we did not lose our battle, I think it is disastrous to give this type of representation and to put him in a position where he is being paid for no work. He was appointed by the court and as such only served to continuously delay the case and did nothing to properly investigate or help the child, who just wanted all of this to be over. Unfortunately, he will continue to get work, because the court assigns cases to him.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
31 Aug, 2011 by Anonymous
Never prepared. Does not ever return phone calls. DOES NOT FIGHT. I believe Mr. Agustus is just interested in keeping cases open rather than keeping families together. Unresponsive, unprepared, and doesn't follow my directions. I would never hire or recommend him.
Read more Avvo
See more
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:

  1. What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
    Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption.
  2. How will you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved.
  3. What are the possible outcomes of my case?
    An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case.
  4. What is your approach to resolving disputes?
    Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals.
  5. How long do you expect my case to take?
    While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases.
  6. Who will be handling my case?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.

How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer

To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:

  • Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
  • Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
  • Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
  • Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
  • List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
  • Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
  • Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
  • Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.

Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.

Scroll to top