Lawyers map
>778
experienced lawyers
Filter by
07 Nov, 2024 by Neila donovan
I strongly recommend Wilson Elder Law, LLC. Stephanie was extremely knowledgeable in all aspects of of estate planning I needed to consider and establishing my Living Trust. I am confident, now, that my estate and health wishes will be administered according to my wishes. I enjoyed each of our meetings as she put me at ease and explained things in "user-friendly" language, not legalese. The highlight of the experience for me (this is my 3rd Living Trust) was that she HELPED me ensure my Living Trust was funded properly, by supplying me with letters to banks and other financial institutions, as well as handling the changes for the deed to my home. I have already recommended her to my family members and a few close friends.
Read more
15 Oct, 2024 by Scott taylor
Stephanie really knows her stuff! It’s one thing to be generally familiar with estate planning law. It’s something else entirely to know the specifics of special needs law and how trusts must work to avoid causing problems with government benefits, but she has that covered too.
She helped us determine what fit us and our family best and wrote our documents very carefully in a way that prevents many potential pitfalls. Her knowledge of who can carry out some of our requirements (trustees, care managers, guardians, etc.) was also of great assistance.
Most of all, she truly cared about making sure we had everything set up just right to take care of our adult special needs children long after we’re gone. We have peace of mind knowing that Stephanie wrote our legal documents as if they were for her own child.
Read more
25 May, 2024 by D b
Very knowledgeable patient and clear. Walked us successfully through our trust process
Read more
17 Aug, 2024 by Geiger farm
A beautiful place in the Flinthills
Read more
03 Apr, 2023 by Eduard c hanganu
Beautiful old courthouse. The oldest still in operation in Kansas.
Read more
31 Dec, 2022 by Guy daley
This is the OLDEST county courthouse in Kansas built in 1871 at a cost of $41,000. It is a MAGNIFICENT historical structure and I got to wander around without hindrance. More details are offered in other reviews but it is, without a doubt, worth visiting if you are in the vicinity. The old jail cells that were in use up to the 70s are like human bird cages. Kudos to everyone across the decades that was involved in the preservation of this architectural treasure.
Read more
16 Aug, 2024 by Richard abbott
Absolutely outstanding firm through and through. Explains very much in detail what your paying for, whats going to happen and when as well as handling your case with speed and efficency. I am so amazed my fiancee found RJ and Amy and was able to get everything handled swiftly!!! If ever in need of a KS law firm DONT LOOK anywhere else.
Read more
15 Jul, 2024 by Mann wyatt tanksley injury attorneys
When it comes to our firm recommending a great Kansas real estate attorney, Arlyn Miller is who we send them to. His knowledge and professionalism are top-notch.
Read more
25 Aug, 2023 by Florence galloway
04 Jan, 2023 by William “vasilyzaitsev” warren
01 Mar, 2020 by Haley maas
Questions answered quickly and in a way I could understand
Read more
27 Nov, 2018 by Chris rowe
Jennifer Hagg has been an absolute pleasure to work with. If you want an attorney that's going to tell you the truth, whether good or bad, as well as fight for you and what is important to you and your child, I highly recommend her. She helped me get my child support modified as well as adjustments made to our parenting plan. She has gone over and above for me and I'll never forget it!
Read more
10 Feb, 2025 by Lisa pritchard
We hired Mr. Martin with a one week deadline to have our paperwork filed. He got it done, and the outcome was what we wanted! The paralegal, Brooke, was quick to answer my questions and emails, and was very pleasant. They helped us in a crunch, and I would recommend them to others. Thanks Martin Law Group!
Read more
03 Feb, 2025 by Mind hayz
Wonderful lawyers you won't be disappointed
Read more
15 Nov, 2024 by Laura gagnon
Going through a divorce was the hardest and most difficult thing I have ever had to do. In going through this process, I really appreciate how Beth and Jennifer communicated with me. They were very professional, and Beth Walsh was pivotal in not only getting me to the other side of divorce but also getting me what I deserved. I had total peace of mind and absolute trust in Beth and Jennifer. I highly recommend Beth as she is an outstanding attorney to work with.
Read more
20 Oct, 2024 by Zach anderson
Very experienced, professional, and knows all the in and outs. If the need arises will hire again without question!
Read more
20 Oct, 2024 by Christi frederick
Nels is a great attorney when ever I hired him for my brother he did an excellent job nels is a committed lawyer I never had any question on where and how my case was being handled
Read more
18 Oct, 2024 by Jody hartley
Very rude and disrespectful. This attorney represented my mother. Not me.
Read more
4.7
15 Reviews
4.0
4 Reviews
25 Feb, 2024 by P walton
05 Sep, 2023 by John
Kevin was the only one that called me back on a matter that was borderline small claims court. He took the time to walk through my case with me considering all aspects. I'll definitely be using him in the future should the need to rise. He's definitely worth a phone call!
Read more
11 Apr, 2021 by Richard “rick” barry
30 Apr, 2021 by John rea
Great law office there really nice
Read more
30 Apr, 2021 by Stormie farmer
Susan is amazing as well as her staff
Read more
30 Apr, 2021 by Darold longhofer
Someone in this office has done our taxes for the last 55 years, following us in three different states and one foreign country. Started with Roger, then Bob and now Susan. We wouldn't think of going anywhere else.
Read more
06 Dec, 2023 by Gregory smith
28 Jul, 2022 by Sarah may
I had an old case with Mr Duckers. Decades later a sticky situation came up and Mr Duckers had since retired. Mr Horner spent plenty of his personal time(days really) to help me get answers and get the situation figured out. He could’ve charged me, but did it out of the goodness of his own heart. If I ever need representation in the future (hope not) I would call him.
Read more
07 Jun, 2020 by Nancee fratzel
15 Jan, 2025 by C nightingale
Brian Bina and his team did a great job preparing our trust documents. They communicated very well and were very helpful with answering our questions and acknowledging our remarks as we went through the whole process.
Read more
21 Aug, 2024 by Landon smutz
Didn’t hire them, just came to say they told me day after day they’d get into contact with me and they never did.
Read more
21 Aug, 2024 by Landon smutz
Didn’t even hire them, just came on here to say their communication is horrible. Was told three times someone would give me a call back this day and that day and so on…never happened.
Read more
03 Dec, 2024 by Vanes robertson
She is the worst. Withdrew from our family's case and used an excuse as an escapegoat to drop out completely.
Read more
15 Mar, 2024 by Steph l (nanny)
He helped me with 2 cases while still battling a family case it's going on a year don't get me wrong I appreciate him John Paul Washburn helping me with those cases but the important case he seems to be struggling with and my children lives and mental health from trauma depends on if he wants to truly help with this case
Read more
09 Feb, 2024 by J. munoz
Even though my case has been very complicated Mr. Washburn has been with me every step of the way. I am very satisfied with his legal representation.
Read more
27 Aug, 2024 by Jessica armer
She is simply amazing to work with!
Read more
26 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Tish Morrical, and her paralegal, are absolutely amazing. She was recommended to me by several coworkers for a difficult situation. After hearing my side of the situation, she immediately stated exactly what she planned to do, and she did it. Our county has a long process, and throughout, she was very reassuring and responded to all of my emails quickly. She would call just to keep me informed and to make sure I didn't have additional needs or concerns. Not only would I recommend her, but I have recommended her to others.
Read more
16 Feb, 2024 by Eric johnson
Having Tish representing me was such a great choice! Her professionalism and knowledge of my matters were above and beyond my expectations! She was to the point and resolved my situation in a timely matter.
Read more
06 Dec, 2024 by Erica berry
Mr.Wellman is absolutely wonderful ! He helped me with my bankruptcy and was very patient and supportive of me and everything I was going through . He always responded to me and communicated well . He never treated me like he was too busy like some attorneys do . One of the biggest things I’m grateful for was his ability to communicate and clarify things in a way where I could understand . I will always recommend him and use him for all future legal matters . Best attorney in KC !!!
Read more
18 Sep, 2024 by Peter cabell
Mr Perelmuter has provided me with good advice and suggestions to approach the arduous process of legal immigration my daughter and her husband have faced. I have so much appreciated his straightforward and honest guidance.
Read more
10 Sep, 2024 by Barbara baker
3.4
5 Reviews
5.0
12 Reviews
03 Jan, 2024 by Mary zion
Very professional and helpful with their knowledge of information you need to know about trusts over wills.
Read more
03 Jan, 2024 by Jo ann clement
03 Jan, 2024 by Ed dale
Paths Law Firm, without question, is the wisest choice for help with my Family's Elder Law Legal needs.
From the initial informational meeting, I knew paths Law Firm was going to be an asset in developing a "Path" that my Family could follow to meet our Trust, and Power of Attorney needs.
Russell's understanding and care about our Family's situation and his unprecedented knowledge of the correct legal requirements were only the beginning. He was so kind that he even made a house call.
Read more
12 Nov, 2024 by Christian bowen
I had a good time working with them and had great results.
Read more
09 Nov, 2024 by Connie larcom
Your assistants are great and easy to work with.
Read more
09 Nov, 2024 by Stephanie singer
A reliable option for those seeking experienced legal guidance in the Wichita area.
Read more
19 Dec, 2019 by Paul
Very professional, courteous and down to earth. Very helpful staff. Highly recommend
Read more
31 Aug, 2015 by Anonymous
Ms Baker handled my divorce in 2007 and all the dealings with my ex regarding our children for the next 7 years. She has been my business and estate attorney since 2007 as well. I have been very pleased with her professionalism and, most of all, the results she has produced. I would VERY highly recommend her and her office's services.
Read more
15 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Cami Baker has been our family's lawyer for over 15 years and has handled matters for us in the areas of family law, estate planning, business law, real estate transactions, and probate. She is a compassionate and highly knowledgeable problem solver. If you ask around, I believe you will find many others that agree with me. Also, I believe her office has a list of references available at consultation appointments if requested.
Read more
05 Jun, 2019 by Lisa
Rick Hadel is a highly ethical and forward-thinking attorney who provides tenacious representation with outstanding results. Rick is extremely versed in family law and his business acumen and responsiveness is most impressive. I found Rick’s counsel was more than any client could ask for in a skilled attorney. Rick’s personable approach was invaluable to my family because he literally outlined all the steps with us, went through all the details until our desired results were achieved. Overall, Rick will remain a trusted legal advisor of our family in the years to come.
Read more
01 May, 2019 by Rob
Rick helped me out with a ticket. He explained the whole process to me. He was sympathetic to my circumstance. He was friendly and professional along the way. He resolved my problem very quickly.
Read more
28 Jul, 2016 by Kimberly
Richard P Hadel has held the position as my legal support for many years and has acted as a trusted consigliere in every situation. Whether it be centered around family and volatile emotion, or as simple as preparing a will, he has always maintained open, honest communication and professionalism. In every interaction, it is always apparent that the client is priority one and that he cares about, not only the job that he does, but the results that he achieves. He has had to play "devil's advocate" at times to help me take the emotion out of situations in order to deal with the facts. He has helped me achieve the needed outcome and lessen the collateral damage, every time. Whenever anyone that I know has been in a situation where they have had to "lawyer up", Richard P Hadel has always been and will always be the person I recommend. Even if it is not something that he handles, he always provides direction and light at the end of the tunnel. He's the person you want in your corner.
Read more
17 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
Jeff Dehon was my first experience working with a lawyer. I was surprised at how approachable he was and how responsive he was to my questions. When calling his office, he answers the phone. He helped me with my divorce with compassion and thoughtfulness. He explained every step along the way and worked swiftly for resolution. During the same time period, we were selling our house and there was a cash settlement issue that needed immediate attention and he stepped up to the plate. If I ever need a lawyer again, I would definitely hire him!
Read more
16 Sep, 2018 by Julie
Jeff is one of the best attorneys I have met. He helped us with a very high conflict custody case, that involved multiple states. He is highly ethical and even when the other attorney seemed to do some unethical things, always stood above and followed the law. He was reachable whenever we needed to talk to him. Our case took a year and a half to resolve. Sometimes things take a while to work it's way through the court system. During that entire year and a half he always replied to emails and calls promptly, and often calmed us down when we got worked up about the case. I would recommend Mr. Dehon to anyone looking for a great attorney, that will work hard and is there for his clients.
Read more
11 Dec, 2017 by Angela
Mr. Dehon was extremely diligent and supportive during the entire process of divorce. He worked tirelessly to make sure that my interests were protected. I was able to reach him even for emergencies which is a rarity today. My case was very complicated and he made sure that the best possible outcome was reached for myself and my children. He is completely honest and will give you a fair assessment of what the outcome might be so that you are able to make decisions based on fact. I consider myself extremely fortunate that I was able to find him and will forever be thankful that I did.
Read more
03 Dec, 2024 by Vanes robertson
She is the worst. Withdrew from our family's case and used an excuse as an escapegoat to drop out completely.
Read more
15 Mar, 2024 by Steph l (nanny)
He helped me with 2 cases while still battling a family case it's going on a year don't get me wrong I appreciate him John Paul Washburn helping me with those cases but the important case he seems to be struggling with and my children lives and mental health from trauma depends on if he wants to truly help with this case
Read more
09 Feb, 2024 by J. munoz
Even though my case has been very complicated Mr. Washburn has been with me every step of the way. I am very satisfied with his legal representation.
Read more
04 Nov, 2024 by Tanisha ejairu
Shannon did a adoption for me, and was on time even came to hospital 3 times
Read more
24 Apr, 2024 by Roy w mcgonigal iii
I left a message for Shannon to call me back because I was wanting to hire an attorney for a court date I had coming up next month but never received that call.
Read more
14 Nov, 2023 by Candice wade
Shannon and Her people are amazing. Kind, respectful, and a breath of fresh air in this world.
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
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
13 Dec, 2024 by Brandon griffith
Best Lawyers in the K.C. Metro!!
Read more
07 Feb, 2024 by Thomas gennarelli
David Fairbanks has been amazing leading and guiding me on my divorce journey! I highly recommended him and his firm. I actually provided his information just an hour ago to a personal friend who is just starting his own process!
Read more
22 Jan, 2024 by Salbol11
I hired John DeMarco to represent my interests involved in a meritless elder abuse case, which ended up being dismissed for lack of finding. John did the legwork behind the scenes to find out if this was going down the road of prosecution, and leveraged his relationships to discover charges weren't going to be filed - and not to communicate with repeated requests from state agencies and police. I appreciated his aggressive approach at protecting my interests, and how candid and straight forward he handled my work. I've recommended others to him as well.
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
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
30 Jul, 2021 by Amanda
She is the best, at least in Lawrence for family court issues. She's confident and competent and advocates for her clients. If ANYONE in lawrence EVER asks about a good family court attorney, I say she's the only one.
Read more
04 Feb, 2019 by Denni renea
Bill goes above and beyond for his clients. He moves mountains and has compassion and is highly motivated to do what is best for his clients. He is one of the good attorneys that will fight for his client even when no one else seems to care. He treats you like family and never gives up. The most professional man I have ever met with a great way explaining things in a way you can understand. Goes the extra mile for his clients and never did I have to run him down or ask for items I needed. Best Family Lawyer in KS/MO. Also, not afraid to take on a Criminal Case and win. I will never hire another attorney for anything other than Bill Shoeb. Hands down the best Attorney I have ever had.
Read more
Browse lawyers
Cities in Kansas - Find a Lawyer Near Me
-
Wichita
-
Overland Park
-
Topeka
-
Lawrence
-
Olathe
-
Leawood
-
Kansas City
-
Lenexa
-
Manhattan
-
Salina
-
Prairie Village
-
Shawnee
-
Hutchinson
-
Hays
-
Mission
-
Leavenworth
-
Dodge City
-
Garden City
-
Pittsburg
-
Emporia
-
Junction City
-
El Dorado
-
Newton
-
Ottawa
-
Great Bend
-
Mcpherson
-
Westwood
-
Chanute
-
Fort Leavenworth
-
Liberal
-
Shawnee Mission
-
Pratt
-
Fort Riley
-
Independence
-
Fairway
-
Mission Woods
-
Winfield
-
Arkansas City
-
Coffeyville
-
Columbus
-
Andover
-
Atchison
-
Derby
-
Mission Hills
-
Bonner Springs
-
Ellsworth
-
Iola
-
Paola
-
Beloit
-
Clay Center
-
Merriam
-
Norton
-
Parsons
-
Colby
-
Fort Scott
-
Hiawatha
-
Sterling
-
Wellington
-
Abilene
-
Burlington
-
Gardner
-
Lyndon
-
Lyons
-
Marion
-
Roeland Park
-
Russell
-
Seneca
-
Tonganoxie
-
Baxter Springs
-
Council Grove
-
Holton
-
Hugoton
-
Kingman
-
Sedan
-
Spring Hill
-
Stilwell
-
Wamego
-
Ashland
-
Baldwin City
-
Basehor
-
Concordia
-
Girard
-
Goodland
-
Lansing
-
Marysville
-
Minneapolis
-
Mound City
-
Neodesha
Browse lawyers
Practice Areas in Kansas
-
Business
-
Real Estate
-
Family Law
-
Criminal Defense
-
Estate Planning
-
Litigation
-
Personal Injury
-
Government
-
Probate
-
Trusts
-
Appeals
-
Insurance
-
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
-
DUI / DWI
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Discrimination
-
Foreclosure
-
Class Action
-
Sex Crime
-
Employment / Labor
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
Federal Crime
-
Wrongful Termination
-
Entertainment
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Landlord & Tenant
-
Copyright Application
-
Drug Crime
-
Environmental Law
-
Education 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.
