Filter by

star star star star star
11 Feb, 2024 by Billie aistrup
Tha lady at tha front is always very nice and Jacob is awesome!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
23 Oct, 2022 by Buddy wooldridge
This man is an excellent advocate for his clients! He understands the nature of the legal system and is very articulate in addressing the issue's that are important. I highly recommend this attorney!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
30 Sep, 2022 by Marisa gutierrez
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
15 Aug, 2022 by Eric gamble
The best most compassionate lawyer in her field. La mejor abogada!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Jan, 2022 by Amayrany galvez
Friendly and professional experience. Have worked with her for years now and I would highly recommend.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
20 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
Cold and emotionless. Did not collaborate on anything, but instead told me what to do. Does not respond for weeks to time sensitive questions, and then acts irritated when you bring it up. Had many attorneys over the years for different things, and she is the worst I can think of. Had a falling out and fired her, and she refuses to give me a copy of my legal documents. Social skills are very poor. Becoming an attorney does not mean you’re intelligent. Don’t say you haven’t been warned.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
15 Apr, 2019 by Peggy payne-narron
Don't like them. Not the friendliest place
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Nov, 2018 by Loretta starns
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
23 May, 2024 by Marty eddy
Larry did everything he said he would. Thank you Larry.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
16 Apr, 2024 by Justin scott
Vashia represented me very well in a long dragged out process. Would recommend to anyone needing assistance with legal issues.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
02 Apr, 2024 by Lauren hug
Michael Wallace was an amazing lawyer for me! He helped save my dog from being euthanized! Very professional and knowledgeable. 5/5 stars!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
16 Feb, 2024 by Mikayla decatur
If I could give this place less than one star I would. Will rack up your bill and then drop you as client. Does NOT take care of court orders. All around just terrible.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Jul, 2023 by Joe
Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Jul, 2023 by Steven
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
19 May, 2023 by Johnnie weigel
His phone is busy 24/7 and I haven't spoken to him once. I've called probably 20 times and it's ALWAYS a busy signal.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
04 Oct, 2022 by Marissa brown
Google Maps
star star star star star
16 Sep, 2022 by Jennifer rourk
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
03 Oct, 2023 by Bonnie bays
This morning at 8 05 he picked up the phone and listened and said bring my paperwork to office and started on paperwork promptly helped and is working on my case
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Jan, 2023 by Scotty lafleur
Never returned call
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Apr, 2022 by Keala jones
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
20 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
Turley is an ambulance chaser, when in court he actually made things up to say about my ex that were not true. I understand that his job was to make me look better but I don't believe in fabricating information, just to win. I ended up having to fire him because I just didn't feel like his behavior was ethical. My ex is not a bad person or a bad mother and I don't feel that it was appropriate to attack her integrity to accomplish my goals. Just stick with the facts, there was no reason to twist things around. No wonder attorney's get a bad wrap, thankfully not all of them act like this.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
21 Mar, 2019 by Ashley
Stephen Turley is a phenomenal attorney. He has been my attorney since 2014 and has represented me in court multiple times. He always has my best interest at heart. He is incredibly smart and fights for what is right. He will continue to be my attorney for as long as I need him. I wouldn't hesitate one second to refer anyone to him!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
05 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Stephen advised me on several legal topics over the past few years, including estate planning and family law. He is very knowledgeable and his advice saved me many headaches. I greatly appreciate his professionalism and his explanation of the process. I trust Stephen and recommend contacting him.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
02 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
I recently hired Scott to assist with my divorce case. Throughout the entire process, I never really felt like he was on my side. It felt like he talked down to me many times, and it seemed as though he would wait for the other attorney to submit something, and then send it to me to review and respond. I found it difficult to navigate this divorce, because it felt like I had nobody on my side. Then came the $10,000 bills from Scott, totalling over $65,000. When I questioned what these bills were for, and what work he had done for me, he fired me about a month before my court date leaving me without counsel during my trial. I felt like my case was just a means to an end for him, and that he was more interested in prolonging the length of my case to generate more money, and the second I started questioning why it was costing so much he bailed on me. I wouldn't recommend this lawyer to anyone seeking a legal representative who truly has their best interests at heart. I believe it's crucial for a lawyer to have a strong client-attorney relationship built on trust and transparency, and in my experience, that simply wasn't the case.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
04 Jan, 2023 by Barbara estevez
If you have a big case and need to clarified your thought, this is the right one. Scott Mann is kind and able to confort you with the right words to remove the anxiety while you are in a process. He reds all and listen very well plus follow your case as if you were his paciente. Thanks Scott and your crow for the excellent service in my difficult case.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
30 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
Scott Mann did as little as possible in my divorce case. Never read my emails fully. Did not respond to the questions in my correspondence. I basically did my divorce myself, got no guidance or direction, and was charged a fortune.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
10 Jul, 2024 by Viren patel
Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Feb, 2024 by Dianna kirchoff
Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Oct, 2023 by Jason woody
Woody Auction LLC has used C&T in the past and again this week. We are always impressed with the speed with which they handle cases. They have integrity in their work and are very responsive! We highly recommend this law firm!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
10 Sep, 2024 by Kimberly compton
They took our case and got us 50/50 custody and then turned around and took a case for my husband's ex that we just got the 50/50 custody If that don't scream conflict of interest I don't know what does
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Aug, 2024 by Angelica martinez
Google Maps
star star star star star
25 Jul, 2024 by Kevin clark
We have been with this firm for over two years. I guess you could say we are glutens for punishment but have had no luck finding other counsel. We began our child custody case with Sara Mills and then she quit and Sara Beezley took over the case and all of the workload. She should not be taking any other cases because she can’t handle the workload she has which leads to all the things you see in the other reviews. Poor communication, not being accessible for counsel, not getting questions and emails answered in a timely manner or at all, not getting paperwork filed correctly nor in a timely manner and not returning calls. This firm is very frustrating and very unprofessional and has made the already stressful custody battle even more stressful. I would steer clear if at all possible.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
30 Apr, 2024 by Michael keiter
Pathetic excuse for a sixth amendment I see it looks like you tried to suppress my last political speech/criticism of you worthless government individuals are "public defender's" are, if you or "anyone" reports my post again I will send a subpoena to Google for you I.P. address and your I.E.M.I and file section 18 title 242 for willfully depriving me of my first amendment right "political speech." Record these people when you're talking to them Federal and Kansas law is a party consent report any signs unethical doing to the Kansas bar and the D.O.J, I'll be pursuing the WPD with civil and criminal audits.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Mar, 2024 by Lilia hernandez
Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Feb, 2024 by Patricia kennon (p.k. or pattie)
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
24 Oct, 2024 by Chandra allen
Marion and Amanda made this process very easy and understandable. We appreciate how we all were treated and everything was handled
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
22 Oct, 2024 by Elaine m
Adam and Kelsy made our estate planning experience easy and stress-free. They were knowledgeable, efficient, and explained everything clearly. Highly recommend!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Oct, 2024 by Prisca asaro
The office staff is excellent and highly efficient. Great to work with and exceptional guidance.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
29 Jun, 2012 by Jeanna
I wish we had found Steve years before we did, he has been the most helpful and informant lawyer we have had in all the years of child visitation and support needs. He is very knowledgeable and helped us numerous times keep our child support down so we did not get screwed over. Also love his honesty and is very upfront and gets straight to the point so it does not cost us even more, like all other attorneys and had meetings for hours and maybe did 15 minutes of work. Will actually will miss working with/needing his help! Highly recommend.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
12 Feb, 2012 by Anonymous
Wow, i wish i have seen this website before, i was trying to lower my child support because i lost my job, but my lawyer did a very terrible job that the judge asked me to pay extra money, I’m glad I have a good job now and I can afford the child support, but I thought I hired a good lawyer turn out the other way. Mr. Popp is a nice person but I would not recommend him for family cases thank you
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
08 Feb, 2012 by Anonymous
Mr. Popp represented me in child visitation custody. I met him only one time in a coffee shop to talk about my needs, most of the time he text me to answer my questions. I’m very disappointed with him for not handling my case properly and not been organized. The case still going on and seems like my x-husband is winning this case. I was just hoping Mr. Popp just take the time to listen than talk and talk and not deliver.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
23 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
She gave wrong advice which caused us to lose our children. Only found that that advice pleased the opposing counsel. We thought she is different, but they are all the same, working out deals with each other for their own good not for the clients. The worse was that we found that she worked for the cause of my ex, just so she could keep good relationship with the opposing counsel. At the crucial moment, she just found a reason to abandon you. I don't recommend this lawyer.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
25 Mar, 2019 by Monique
Undoubtedly, the best service that I have received from an attorney. Kari Nelson was very prompt, courteous and knowledgeable. I definitely recommend her to those in need of a great family attorney!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
26 Jun, 2018 by Aaron
Kari was used to adjust child support and work on a parenting plan I was attempting to get more time with my son. Overall I was not impressed, I constantly had to follow up with her and try and give us a game plan. I did not have confidence in her work to go to court and thus had to settle much more time and money than I was hoping to get with my son.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
01 Jul, 2024 by Melissa ferneau
Google Maps
star star star star star
07 May, 2024 by Abbie
Google Maps
star star star star star
15 Mar, 2024 by Leslie mayer
I don't know who would want to hire an attorney who does not have any Backbone or the Kahuna's to let someone know that they owe a bill as Trummel claimed that I did. I hired Trummel in 2019. I paid her the quoted $$$ amount. I attempted to get ahold of her several times via voicemail and emails. She never returned my calls or emails. I needed my paperwork from the case that she handled so I had no choice but to wait at her office until she returned . Trummel then accused me of still owing her $240. I paid her in pmts. I had to go back and look for the check I wrote to her and when I found it I asked why in the world would you not return a call or email to let me know that I owed money instead of just ignoring me!! The fact that she has No Backbone speaks volumes of what kind of an attorney she is.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
24 Apr, 2024 by Steven finell
Avoid this attorney! Just another "shopping center" attorney. She lied to me more than twice. She misrepresented my position and failed to act as she said she would. She did not have my approval to agree to specific terms and the orders she prepared were loaded with errors causing additional conflict in an already high-conflict environment. Ultimately, she wound up professing her blossoming love for opposing counsel and shared confidential information with him. This one will waste your money and create more aggravation than any divorce is worth.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
05 Apr, 2024 by Steve
Lindsee Acton speaks from both sides of her mouth. Her advice was horrible and she often contradicted bad advice with different bad advice. In the end, I fired her after she exclaimed in a hearing how much she loved opposing counsel. The orders she prepared were inaccurate, using "and" when "or" should have been used. Sloppy work. Too busy. She seemed to forget who her client was. I hired her to eliminate the drama while every step she took only created unbearable additional drama. I decided I couldn't afford to pay for her mistakes and lack of concern for my family's outcomes.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
24 Aug, 2023 by Michael lafosse
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
06 Apr, 2024 by Caleb
Google Maps
star star star star star
03 Oct, 2022 by Mary kimball
Definitely don't recommend, there are way better attorneys in the surrounding areas. I honestly believe he's got Alzheimer's or the beginning stages of it. He couldn't remember conversations, what was discussed, what he said he was going to do, or what he advised me to do. Ended up going with a way better attorney outta Girard.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Aug, 2022 by Courtney wadino
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
03 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Kay will drag your case along until you’re broke. She does not have interest in resolution only personal finance gains.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
18 Mar, 2021 by J per
Called three time was put on hold and then disconnected
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Jan, 2018 by Tanya
I hired Kay to as my divorce attorney. She was always prompt and professional. She supported and assisted me in doing much of the legal work myself to save money, which I appreciated. I did not feel like she was stretching things out to make a buck. I'd definitely hire Kay if I have needs in the future.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
21 Jul, 2022 by Annette king
Zero stars.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 May, 2022 by Chase wylie
Google Maps
star star star star star
15 Mar, 2020 by Michael akins
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
10 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Our case was very time sensitive and i feel like he did nothing but waste our time. We talked to him at the beginning of may. Paid him the money he asked for that day and the next time we heard him was the beginning of July. We called all the time, tried to get a hold of him every chance we could, but he was too busy doing other things. He never called us back never emailed us back never made any attempts to contacts us about what to do. He wasted the time that was precious to us. When we found another lawyer he apologized for being busy and told us he would get us a refund of some of the money he gave us. We waited a week before calling him because the check hadn't come yet. He forgot to send it. My mother in law had to drive and pick up the check personally from him to get it. I think he was a horrible lawyer.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
10 Sep, 2009 by Amanda
Mr. henderson did my bankruptcy and my divorce. He did a good job. I would recommend him to a friend.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
03 Jul, 2024 by Amanda moore
Melissa Schroeder is unethical and lacks integrity.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
20 Jul, 2011 by Kate
My divorce happened in 2001 after a marriage of almost 35 years. My Ex-husband was to voluntarily pay monthly maintenance for a period of ten years. At the end of 2002, I moved out of Kansas. The maintenance arrived, sometimes sporadically, and then stopped. I contacted the original lawyer whose services I used during the divorce. She declined to become involved. There must have been someone watching out for me because when I consulted the Internet for another attorney in Johnson County KS, I liked what I read about Joe Booth and flew to Kansas to meet with him. To say I thought he was excellent in handling my case is an understatement. He was the champion that I needed so much at the time. I will be forever grateful for his expertise and professionalism. He earned and deserves all the accolades I could ever voice.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
03 May, 2023 by Jared zimmerman
My wife and I used Joe to form our estate, and it was a great experience. He was super helpful explaining all of the "legalese" in a way that made sense and we are very glad to work with him and his staff.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Oct, 2018 by Beth beasley
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
16 Dec, 2020 by Randy hogan
He didn't do much before we found a new attorney. Didn't try to get her to a work comp doctor but said just go to the emergency room. We found a Dr but needed a fax to be sent to the Dr and when we called Randy he was rude and was more worried about his own schedule and acted mad that he had to send the info. I do not recommend him. It's been 3 weeks since he took the case and everything that got done we did ourselves. He charges 25%.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Jul, 2019 by Laurie reed
Randy Stalcup is a great lawyer! He helps people who have been involved in an accident.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
15 May, 2022 by Anonymous
This attorney will not return calls. Does not believe her Clients. Will not vigorously fight for your rights. Does not follow up on very important details given to help ones case. Believes the Police rather than her clients. Has staff who try to get you to sign n date something improperly filled out. Did not even know how to obtain Patient information for her client from the VA even when you tell them how. Then they blame they're Inaction on you and the VA? I fired this unmotivated Court Appointed Attorney…Represented myself and won!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
30 Jul, 2021 by Julie
My family is thankful for the role Geri played in a case we needed to present to the judge. It ended up being more of a battle than first anticipated and she was fantastic through the entire case and ongoing! If we ever need an attorney again she is definitely our go to! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
16 Dec, 2020 by Randy hogan
He didn't do much before we found a new attorney. Didn't try to get her to a work comp doctor but said just go to the emergency room. We found a Dr but needed a fax to be sent to the Dr and when we called Randy he was rude and was more worried about his own schedule and acted mad that he had to send the info. I do not recommend him. It's been 3 weeks since he took the case and everything that got done we did ourselves. He charges 25%.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Jul, 2019 by Laurie reed
Randy Stalcup is a great lawyer! He helps people who have been involved in an accident.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
22 Sep, 2023 by Jennifer zamora
My son was a passenger in a roll over accident. The insurance company was not wanting to comply with medical bills. Mark Gunnison was recommended to us. Mark and his paralegal went above and beyond for us. Thank you!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Nov, 2018 by Lynn sitzmier
I hired him for a child custody case he said no problem. He did not return calls or emails. It got postponed 3 times. We lost because some stupid law. He should of know that. It cost me $5500 for nothing. I do Not recommen!!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
17 Feb, 2024 by A s
Worst attorney in Kansas, incompetent, does not advocate for Father's rights. Is a mumbling lost buffoon in the courtroom.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Apr, 2020 by Cheyenne pamp
Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Jul, 2019 by Charles cox
Decent attorneys office nice people
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
16 Aug, 2024 by Taira barnett
Unfortunately, zero isn't an option. The lack of empathy in this world is gone but exceptionally with Timothy Hodge’s CSR as she has been a delight to talk to. I have struggled with an insurance bill from when I switched insurance companies. The bill was originally paid by former insurance until they realized I no longer had insurance with them, they took back there paid amount, new insurance then got the bill but because they noticed it had been paid they refused to pay. I now have a 3rd party company working to resolve my issues while on a payment plan with Adrian & Pankratz because the hospital couldn’t wait any longer (they have new side walks to pay for) which leads me to dealing with the most apathy, unkind aggressive from the start human to the point I feel as if her family might celebrate in joy when she finally leaves this earth. I will move on after expressing my experience but she will continue to take her personal issues out on others every single day. I have not spoken to Timothy Hodge personally but I would not recommend or vote for a man who allows condescending, inconsiderate and hasty behavior to people who don’t deserve it and are doing the best they can. Those who have a reason to hate the world don’t even treat people that poorly, do better.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Aug, 2024 by Teresa
It is interesting this firm does not list debt collection as one on the services they provide. I imagine the Midland Group-associated with Newton Medical Center is one of the their largest clients, and the revenue from medical debt collection pays well. Mr. Hodge is a democrat, whom I have voted for, and regret. Mr. Hodge have you considered legislating to decrease medical cost in this country? Instead your law firm collecting medical debt through garnishments putting low income families in a terrible situation not only financially, but emotionally when parents cannot even afford to feed their family. Shame on you. Shame on Newton Medical Center.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
23 Apr, 2024 by Gregorio leyva
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
29 Apr, 2024 by Stacy hutson
Gave him $3,500 over a PFA. He seemed knowledgeable before hiring. Once hired he didn’t keep in contact never gave a new court date. I had to call the office to get a court date. We eventually dropped the PFA and he agreed with the other parties attorney and went with what they wanted. He then called us and said he can do a Guardian case over kids that are involved but told us he’d have go “study” it since he doesn’t practice it. Be aware he’s in this just for the money and doesn’t represent clients like he should.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
21 Aug, 2023 by Jamy mays
Google Maps
star star star star star
27 Jul, 2023 by Shelby allen
Missed a court date and promised a free service after legal issues were over and now won’t return phone calls about the service.
Read more Google Maps
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