Lawyers map
>778
experienced lawyers
Filter by
22 May, 2021 by Mya clark
22 Jul, 2017 by Genece wheeler beadle
Richard Becker handled a family matter case for me. I found him to be a brilliant, skilled, efficient, concise lawyer. He did exactly what I had asked him to do, more efficiently and painlessly than I could have imagined, and thus saving me money, time, and stress. I have recommended him to friends and family.
Read more
31 Oct, 2014 by Scott
Rich handled my divorce and always went the extra mile under very difficult circumstances. He represented me for about 18 months regarding my child custody/visitation and against very long odds won the case for me. I would HIGHLY recomend Rich for whatever your legal needs might be.
Read more
10 Feb, 2016 by Hobie
I have not used Mark personally but I have had several dealings with clients we work with together. I am in real estate so our paths cross. Mark is a very professional and thorough lawyer and I would highly recommend his services - he takes care of his clients.
Read more
14 Jan, 2016 by Ivan k.
Mr. Rohrbaugh helped me with my very difficult divorce case that included property division, enforcing divorce decree, child custody and child support issues. I'm always impressed by Mark's professionalism, honesty, ability to find solutions even in most difficult situations and willingness to help on a short notice. I had several emergency situations and Mark was always helped me in timely manner. I'm very thankful to Mark for his dedication and support. His rate is very reasonable, billing is always accurate and payment schedule is flexible. Based on my experience Mr. Rohrbaugh and Fletcher, Rohrbaugh & Chahine, LLP set an example in professionalism and honesty
Read more
28 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Mark Rohrbaugh was knowledgeable with respect the legal matters that I brought to him. He provided sound advice and followed through doing exactly what he said he would do. I really appreciated his efforts to respond to my questions. I would highly recommend Mark to others.
Read more
17 Jul, 2015 by Bev
We came to Julia with an emergency grandchild custody/guardian situation that been totally botched by another attorney. This was our last chance so this time we were very careful and got a lot of advice from people who knew the field and knew the attorneys who was available. Unfailingly, Julia's name kept coming up as a recommendation. We were able to get in to her quickly. The fees are expensive but hers were not out of line with what we were expecting. You get what you pay for! She was knowledgeable and personable at our first meeting. Our case went on for close to a year. I felt like she only had us meet with her when it was necessary so she didn't waste our money. She was prompt at all court appearances and was obviously well respected by her peers and the 2 judges we went before. If we had any complaints, and it was only me because I was so emotional, it would have been that she spend a little more time explaining the process and what to expect. In retrospect, she didn't give us false hope. She can be a little blunt but when we were in court I was glad she was. Coming from the medical field, I compared her to a heart surgeon...a little over my head and all business. She was great in the courtroom, in control and she meticulously presented our case in a manner that was professional and convincing. We got the end results we wanted and she saved us a lot of money by working with the other attorney to get an agreement that saved us from another court hearing. Her office was gracious about allowing us to finish paying our bill in monthly installments. I have recommended her to others and if we ever have need of an attorney for something like this again we will be at her door immediately.
Read more
28 Jun, 2015 by Abby
I was referred to Julia after I had an attorney, whom did nothing for me. Julia stepped right in and got the ball rolling. She is very informative, fair, prompt and won't nickel and dime you. I highly recommend Julia Craft to all of my family and friends.
Read more
14 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Julia helped me with my child custody battle. She was very informative and helpful during my case. It almost took a year for my case to finalize and I was happy with the end result. I would recommend her to anyone seeking help in family law.
Read more
12 Jan, 2017 by Jennifer
Lynnette is an OUTSTANDING attorney! She was able to do what other attorneys were not! She helped me get my kids back after going through a long stressful, ugly custody battle. She is caring, determined, straight to the point and very hard working once on your case! Even with me living out of state she has been great! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND HER to anyone going through a tuff custody issue or any other family issue.
Read more
25 Dec, 2016 by Brian
I contacted Lynnette Herrman when my daughter's mother met a new guy and suddenly decided to take my daughter out of state. Obviously I was no longer necessary.
We never had a legal custody agreement and my name was not on the birth certificate because I didn't know she was mine until after she was born. Also, we live in a conservative state that leans heavily towards the mother's rights.
Needless to say, Lynnette was fighting an uphill battle from the very beginning. And she told me during the initial consult that this may not be a winnable case. No talking up the sure win just to get hired.
Fortunately for me, she seemed to take the wrongness of the situation personally and fought like a bulldog for my daughter and me. Lynnette was constantly in contact asking for small details during her case research, always digging for the slightest advantage. This paid off enormously when her absolute understanding if our situation aloud her to catch my ex in numerous exaggerations and out right lies. And in court, she argued our case almost as if she was fighting for her own kid.
By the time she was done, I not only got 50/50 time with my daughter but the judge actually made me primary custodian.
Surprisingly, Lynnette was able to do all this with minimal mud slinging in court. I now have a much better relationship with my ex than ever before and that allows us to be much better parents for our daughter.
I would absolutely hire Lynnette Herrman for any legal matters I run into in the future. This lady almost single handedly gave me my family back. There is no amount if thanks that will ever cover that. Hopefully this review well help pay it back a little.
Read more
29 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
She really knew her stuff and looked at my case from different angles than other attorneys I had talked to. After consultations with two other attorneys before her, I was worried I wouldn't find anyone I liked, but within minutes of meeting her I knew she was the right choice. She was confident but still forthcoming and honest when she answered my questions and I felt very comfortable hiring her. Throughout my case, she stayed in touch whenever needed and worked diligently to uncover all the facts and details about the situation surrounding my case. Ultimately we did win, with what I can only assume was a rather embarrassing defeat for the other side, who thought they had me beat hands down and probably would have with any other attorney on the job.
Read more
15 Aug, 2022 by Eric gamble
The best most compassionate lawyer in her field. La mejor abogada!
Read more
07 Jan, 2022 by Amayrany galvez
Friendly and professional experience. Have worked with her for years now and I would highly recommend.
Read more
27 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
I go to court this week I have been very nervous about everything and so far she seems very positive and actually when she talks to you it's to you and not at you. Which is a major positive I think. We go to court on Tuesday and I'm keeping my fingers crossed. But so far I would definitely recommend her.
Read more
29 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Ms. Barnett was very attentive in my case, when it was the littlest thing I was concerned with, she still listened and gave great advice. I will only ever use Barnett Law Firm. I have been a repeat client and love the feel of the smaller office, very welcoming and you feel like family when you are there.
Read more
17 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
I retained her to help us with an adoption. Very caring, compassionate attorney, who communicates clearly with us. Was there each step of the way. Would use her again if I needed an attorney.
Read more
08 Aug, 2018 by Aaron
Amy took the time to look over my case prior to our first consultation. She has continuously shown a personal care throughout that I have not seen before. Most impressive is her meticulous attention to detail. She truly has her clients' interests and wishes in mind and works to that end. I can't praise her highly enough. If you are looking for an attorney that cares about you and wants to truly help, look no further!!
Read more
07 May, 2018 by Diana
Ms Elliott represented us in a probate matter and she was excellent. She educated us and navigated us through the delicate process of resolving our parents' estate. She was dedicated, consistent, and timely in getting us through the court process. I would recommend Ms. Elliott for all your legal needs.
Read more
10 Jun, 2024 by Stefania caracioni
13 Sep, 2022 by Erika
Very professional.
Read more
05 Jan, 2022 by Brandy smith
We have retained Mrs Brassel on several occasions, she diffently knows her way around a court room and shes worth every dollar charges.
She always returns your calls or has her another attorney in the office follow up with you.
Her clients become part of her family, and she put the children's needs first. She is easy to work with, very perfessional and get the job done.
Read more
15 Mar, 2021 by Tamaron
love tis lady she puts all she has into her work and cares about the kids truly!!! best person in the whole state!!
Read more
05 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous
Ms. Wingfield worked hard on my case and we has a very sucessful outcome.
Read more
13 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous
Kyle worked hard on my case and told me what was going on every step of the way. Very friendly and easy to talk with. She did not charge me and arm and a leg either!
Read more
03 Feb, 2017 by Anila
Beth is by far the best attorney I have worked with. She has answered all my questions in a timely manner and with patience. She was always available to support me which has made the divorce process much easier for me and helped me settle the issues with good results. She has done a fantastic job and I would definitely recommend her.
Read more
16 Nov, 2016 by Alyssa
Beth was the best attorney I could've hired to protect my son and myself and always put our best interests first. She responds to all emails and calls in a timely fashion, she represents you and will fight for you in court. Never once did she fail at meeting any of my expectations, and was always able to answer all of my questions, no matter how little they were. I would recommended her or anyone from the Boothe Law firm. That practice has become family to me.
Read more
10 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
Connie was sympathetic, calm & understanding and very capable. She kept things on track & moving forward. She respected my wishes on the overall approach & tone for this process. She recommended a financial resource who helped with the splitting of assets. At the end, she did several tasks for me & my ex because his attorney was slow & often confused. I requested the quickest, leanest approach & she did that while still ensuring my rights were protected. I highly recommend Connie as a divorce attorney.
Read more
17 Jul, 2014 by Denise
I hired Connie as my attorney for my divorce. I was more than pleased with her complete knowledge of the law and the procedures involved. She was helpful, reliable and in the know at all times. It was something I really appreciated at such a difficult point in my life.
Read more
23 Sep, 2023 by Ed z
Great Job!
Read more
18 Jul, 2022 by Rebecca gross
09 Mar, 2015 by Katie
In most situations where a lawyer is required one is generally left with many questions and concerns on top of high levels of anxiety and stress. Rand helped address each of my worries not just in the courtroom but during face to face meetings, phone calls, and quick e-mails. I felt well prepared as his client. His advice and suggestions were honest and fair, with examples and suggestions to back them up. His timeliness was second to none. Anytime he received word or documents from the other party, I had an email waiting for me. With Rand I was confident, well educated, and extremely happy about my outcome. I would recommend him to anyone needing assistance with Child Custody.
Read more
24 Feb, 2015 by Jessica & cody
Rand was very helpful along every step of our case. He went above and beyond several times throughout the entire process.
Read more
16 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
Barry is one of the smartest people I have met. He is driven, focused and confident. I recommend him with the highest confidence. While intense, when you need someone on your side, he will not disappoint you. The law is non-logical and he will guide you through the confusion.
I would definitely use him again. Great integrity and knowledgeable.
Read more
27 Aug, 2015 by Tim
Attorney Albin Provided 5 star legal expertise and advices related to a DCF case. I would recommend his expertise and knowledge in this area. He has a high sense of what is right and wrong and better moral instincts than many judges.
Read more
28 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
HIGHLY RECOMMEND HER!!! She was very professional. She fought on my behalf and helped me get custody of my son back. She never sugar coated anything, but with that being said - she has a backbone and she is very good at her profession.
Read more
10 Apr, 2019 by Christian
Ive had plenty of lawyers in the past, but none as outstanding as Angela Meyer! She does everything she can to make contact and to make everything go as smooth as possible. She only gives 100% and even pushes you to do and be better then you once were. She does everything in her power to make sure everything works out in your favor as best possible.
Read more
14 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
I had an ex who was less than pleased that I had moved on. He made multiple calls to DCF with lies and fabrications. As soon as I was contacted by someone at DCF, I called Mr. Mitchell's office and got an appointment right away. He took my case and within 2 weeks I had full custody of my children. I now tell all of my friends about Mr. MItchell for any of their legal needs.
Read more
08 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous
I had an ex that kept threatening to take my kids from me because she would get mad at me. She also has a few issues she needs to get right with herself. As a dad in Kansas you always hear how it is impossible to gain custody of your kids over their mom. Mr. Mitchell got me custody of my girls and their mom has to be supervised around them until she can get herself right.
Read more
29 Jan, 2018 by Beatrice
Mr.Luttrell is one of the most competent and honest men I have ever worked with. His advice was always measured and he helped me avoid court without further legal recourse (which served to my monetary benefit rather than his). I would recommend him to anyone.
Read more
29 Jan, 2018 by Daniel
Saw to that I was treated fairly by oferring a personalized and humanizing perspective to my case.
Read more
12 Aug, 2015 by Scott
Chad did my frivolous PFA as well as been my family lawyer sense 06. The PFA. I really enjoyed watching Chad getting my ex to admit to her bad parenting on the stand. No only was it tossed out, but she was order to pay Chad's fee's. Loved it! When you have a case he will go after it with plenty of salt. When you don't have a case; he will tell you to save your money. He is on the ball with family court! My ex-wife hates him if that tells you anything! Very smart, and well worth his salt! Honest and trustworthy!
Read more
19 May, 2017 by Kristy
Professional. Compassionate. Personal. All of these qualities define our experience with Rachel this past year as she helped walk us through probate and estate management.
Read more
01 Dec, 2015 by Mike
Dean Ryan handled my bankruptcy smoothly and without any problems. During the free consultation he explained the bankruptcy process and all my options. I have to say he was very organized as we went through all the allowances and paperwork. There were no problems and the bankruptcy went through without a hitch. A year later, I was sued by a previous landlord for past rent because I forgot to list them on the bankruptcy. Dean took care of it immediately and this debt was discharged too. If you want an attorney who is not only friendly and understanding, but dedicated and professional, then I recommend Dean Ryan highly!
Read more
11 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Let's just combine the team of Grace Hussey and her Paralegal Lori Mckinney and review this dynamic duo. My divorce was frightening with domestic (intimate )violence and much more after 32 years of marriage. Grace and Lori worked in tandem to get me safe, wrote up and delivered a protection order quickly and started on the process to breaking me free. I often wasn't sure of what to do and thought I was in charge of my case, but Grace held my feet to the fire and would not let me make very poor and unsafe decisions. Lori, her paralegal was like no one else under these circumstances. Cool and commanding, she would not allow me to slip into despair and depression. She kept my spirits up through the year long process. Her lifetime and professional experience was exceptional. I could not, I repeat, couid not have gotten this Divorce over with in DIGNITY and strength without this team. Then if any of you have watched Legally Blonde, the movie? At Mediation and at the end, Grace pulled out her color coded spread sheets and dazzled the mediator, who was a lawyer, as well as my husband's lawyer...their eyes bugged out at all the figures and columns that showed my finances and my needs. It was truly amazing and my divorce was over right then and there. No one was as prepared. No I was not a good client, I wanted to run the show and spoke out several times in frustration and mainly abject fear of the process and the timetable. But Grace and Lori kept me focused on the prize of my new life. I am trying to wean myself from this team as my divorce is over and Grace/ Lori, saved my retirement because at age 70,I had nothing else left to live on. I'm sure I'd be up a creek without this team. They kept me alive. Thank you Grace!! Thank you Lori for not letting go of me when I was at my lowest.
Read more
03 Mar, 2010 by Shawn
I have used Ms. Crozier for 2 years now on a few different cases. I have never been so pleased with an attorney before. Ms. Crozier is very knowledgeable in many different areas. She is very honest, and speaks with a clear, fair mind. I have referred friends and family to her, and everyone speaks very highly of her. We always hope that we will never need an attorney for any reason in life, but if you do need one at some point, I highly suggest giving her the case. As far as I'm concerned, she is the best attorney in the midwest.
Read more
30 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
Sarah was able to pick my case up in only 1 day and represent the next. I had just been served papers as defendant for the case taking place in two days. Sarah became very familiar with the case, came prepared to fight, and was able to save us a ridiculous amount of time and money by talking sense into the petitioner about what exactly would happen if they proceeded. 10/10. Hopefully I don’t need her again, but if something happens, she’s my first call.
Read more
04 Nov, 2011 by Anonymous
He has been my attorney for several years now, seeing me through several cases providing excellent advice, service, and results on all cases. As far as I am concerned he will remain my attorney of choice for all of my legal needs within his scope of counsel. I couldn't have asked for a more upright, straitforward, respectable, and knowledgable attorney. He is a wonderful person to have as legal counsel who has handled my complex Divorce, Child Custody, and Bancruptcy. I look forward to working with him on estate planing needs.
Read more
12 Jul, 2013 by Tom
Chris is very good at explaining the law so you understand it. He will do everything he can to win your case. Trust me this is the guy you want in your corner if you are a dad who wants to be part of your kids lives.
Read more
24 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
Bob handled my custody and divorce case with true professionalism and guidance. If he promised me anything, I got it. His staff, especially Susan (paralegal) was very considerate and helped any time he was not available. Once we were in court, his professionalism transferred into "professional" aggressive representation! When our case was done, I was satisfied with his work and pleased with the outcome. He was hired to represent me in a Child in Need or Case Case and divorce.
Read more
08 Apr, 2021 by Caden
He got me from a felony to a misdemeanor. He was fast, informative and friendly he is a really good lawyer
Read more
21 Jul, 2017 by Jeanette
With everything that was taken from me in an abusive marriage and all that was attempted in a prior custody battle, he came through... with intelligence, heart, toughness, and a type of resolve that isn't common among his professional peers.
He does it out of the kindness of his heart through Legal Services and according to his internal moral compass. If he were to go into private practice, he would quickly gain the type of wealth that matches his ability. But there are those of us who benefit during the time being, the disenfranchised, railroaded, and/or abused, whom he saves the day for.
He is a champion for children above all else. My boys owe their security, comfort, and happiness to Paul Shipp and I owe him a debt of gratitude for it I can never repay. He is humorous and down to earth... knows his business and looks out for his clients even if it means having to sternly realign them.
You are lucky if you ever get him in your corner.
Read more
13 Nov, 2022 by George soriano
Samuel is a great person
Read more
Browse lawyers
Cities in Kansas - Find a Lawyer Near Me
-
Wichita
-
Overland Park
-
Topeka
-
Lawrence
-
Olathe
-
Leawood
-
Kansas City
-
Manhattan
-
Lenexa
-
Salina
-
Prairie Village
-
Hutchinson
-
Shawnee
-
Hays
-
Dodge City
-
Pittsburg
-
Emporia
-
Ottawa
-
Garden City
-
Mission
-
Great Bend
-
Mcpherson
-
Leavenworth
-
El Dorado
-
Junction City
-
Newton
-
Westwood
-
Liberal
-
Columbus
-
Pratt
-
Chanute
-
Shawnee Mission
-
Coffeyville
-
Mission Woods
-
Atchison
-
Independence
-
Winfield
-
Andover
-
Clay Center
-
Ellsworth
-
Bonner Springs
-
Colby
-
Fairway
-
Lyndon
-
Sterling
-
Beloit
-
Derby
-
Fort Leavenworth
-
Gardner
-
Hugoton
-
Iola
-
Kingman
-
Marion
-
Paola
-
Parsons
-
Stockton
-
Tonganoxie
-
Wellington
-
Arkansas City
-
Burlington
-
Clearwater
-
Council Grove
-
Fort Scott
-
Girard
-
Lyons
-
Marysville
-
Merriam
-
Neodesha
-
Roeland Park
-
Russell
-
Seneca
-
Yates Center
-
Ashland
-
Baldwin City
-
Baxter Springs
-
Belleville
-
Concordia
-
Elkhart
-
Fort Riley
-
Goodland
-
Lindsborg
-
Mound City
-
Osborne
-
Sedan
-
Smith Center
-
Wamego
-
Bel Aire
-
Benton
Browse lawyers
Practice Areas in Kansas
-
Business
-
Real Estate
-
Family Law
-
Criminal Defense
-
Estate Planning
-
Litigation
-
Personal Injury
-
Government
-
Probate
-
Trusts
-
Insurance
-
Appeals
-
Tax
-
Elder Law
-
Workers Compensation
-
Civil Rights
-
Debt Collection
-
Intellectual Property
-
Child Custody
-
Car Accident
-
Consumer Protection
-
Child Support
-
Medical Malpractice
-
Juvenile Law
-
Lawsuit / Dispute
-
Mediation
-
Wrongful Death
-
Immigration
-
Adoption
-
Bankruptcy
-
Domestic Violence
-
Divorce
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Discrimination
-
DUI / DWI
-
Class Action
-
Foreclosure
-
Sex Crime
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
Federal Crime
-
Wrongful Termination
-
Employment / Labor
-
Entertainment
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Landlord & Tenant
-
Copyright Application
-
Drug Crime
-
Environmental Law
-
Debt Settlement
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
-
What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases. -
Who will be handling my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.
How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
- Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
- List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
- Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
- Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.
Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.
