Filter by

star star star star star
09 Jan, 2024 by Joclyn such
Ed Shea is hands down the absolute best attorney in Benton County! He did amazing work for me as my lawyer. He went above and beyond! I recommend Shea to everyone I know. He worked hours on end during the week and even on weekends. 10 out of 10 stars!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
15 Dec, 2023 by Theresa
I hired Ed to take over as my attorney from another divorce attorney that charged me several thousands to get absolutely no where in my divorce. He was compassionate and to the point advising me with no empty promises. He was able to completely resolve the case in a timely manner. I wish I had hired his office first.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
09 Sep, 2023 by Savannah
I do not even know where to start on how fortunate I was to have Ed and Spencer on my side for a brutal divorce proceeding. I will summarize how awesome Ed and his team were, but I really want to highlight his ability to be caring and to listen throughout the two year battle. This was an emotionally draining and a hard two year fight. Ed was extremely honest with me and didn’t play games wasting time. I was always kept informed and knew my options. Ed was relentless and knew the law which ultimately lead to us winning at trial. From the day he took my case I put full trust into him and I feel this was such a success because of that. He knows the law and is phenomenal at trial in front of a judge! Ed was very thorough and was always very forthcoming on what he needed from me. I had to trust him though the process and I’m so glad I did. My ex was a complete liar and fabricated so many lies throughout the two years, there were multiple contempts and hearings while we waited for trial. Ed was always on his A game and was able to shut down the other side without issues. Ultimately, Ed and his team were always very well prepared and he knew my case inside and out. He was able to come out on top of the divorce proceedings and got more than I ever thought possible from trial. This was all due to his due diligence in the case. Do not hesitate hiring him!!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
04 Oct, 2017 by Nicole
Keith and his staff were very helpful and answered all my questions regarding my case. He fought for me in court and explained all the different outcomes that could be offered. He represented me twice, and if need be, I will have him represent me again. I'm very thankful for his expertise.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
04 Oct, 2017 by Andre
Went to Keith and was expecting something else turned out I got a better then most ppl hope thank you so much Keith your the man.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
04 Oct, 2017 by Deanna
I am very thankful that Keith Hilde represented me in a very difficult divorce case.His advice was spot on and he always had my best interest. I would highly recommend Keith for any legal issues one might have. He is very respected here in our community and his ethics are second to none.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
04 Apr, 2024 by Jeremy
Very great experience with the Lacoste Team. They were thorough and helped me out every step of the way. Thank You so much!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
20 Mar, 2024 by Jeymi
Jennifer and her whole team were very helpful through such a stressing process. They always made sure to keep me in the loop and answer every question I had. They make sure to listen to their clients needs and fight to get them the best outcome possible. Jennifer really cares about her clients and goes above and beyond. I would definitely recommend her.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
13 May, 2013 by Crystal
Patrick McBurney was very helpful and trustworthy in my case. His team is well skilled and worked hard to represent me. I believe he did all he could do, to make thing right in my divorce.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
14 Jan, 2011 by Anonymous
Pat, is a really great guy, who helped me and my wife out of our really difficult situation with chase bank.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
02 Nov, 2018 by Tim
After interviewing three other attorneys Karen was my choice. She asked good questions pertaining only to my case, she took good notes (in a note book not a laptop) and I didn't feel as though I was another number in the days quota. I found Karen to be firm but fair in dealing with all that were involved and very helpful in guiding me to make the right decisions for my case to have the outcome that I was happy with. The staff is professional and very friendly and good communication between all parties seems to be a priority. They make the office run flawlessly.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
16 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired John for a traffic infraction, and he was able to get the ticket dismissed. He was available for any questions I had and took charge of the whole process as soon as I hired him. He and/or his office also made sure to update me as progress was made, e.g., when a hearing date was set.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
17 Dec, 2020 by Dennis & carol
We hired Ceth regarding a closed probate issue. He presented our case yesterday. WOW! He certainly did his homework on this case. He promised he would fight as hard as he could. I was very impressed. He didn't miss a beat! Thank you Ceth for giving us hope.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
17 Mar, 2016 by Jackie
Katie was wonderful kind, compassionate, professional she was always willing to help me & answer all !y questions at this difficult time. I'm just grateful for all her work I needed care, protection & support for !y future & my well being & she provided all that & more with her professionalism & hard work. Thank you katie
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
21 Aug, 2024 by Kitty hawk carrier (k-hawk)
Quiroga law was recommended to me by a good friend whose case was successfully finished by an attorney in this law firm. From the beginning of my case a few months ago to the present they have been on top of it and getting expected results and keeping me updated as my case progresses on a timely manner! I would definitely recommend Heberth Zapata who’s been helping me with my case, and Quiroga law .
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
20 Aug, 2024 by Leon de la sierra
Juan gomes muy buena ayuda me a brindado
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
20 Aug, 2024 by Albeiro cabezas sanchez
Quiero darle las gracias a mis asistentes legales por su excelente trabajo ya que han sido un equipo muy eficiente mi equipo legal está conformado, por Juan Rodriguez, Samantha Meron y Jose Gomez feliz tarde
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
30 Sep, 2024 by Michael
She is an amazing lawyer, professional, caring, and she tells you her best opinion with the many years of experience she has. She has helped me on a couple occasions and even though we didn't fully get the result we wanted, it was still way better than I had. Thank you for all your work!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
25 Sep, 2024 by Cristina
Ms.Ouren is not just a lawyer but a beautiful human being. We felt like we truly connected with her and she truly cared not just about our case but about us. It was one of the roughest things my husband and I had to go through but she helped us so much. We can’t thank her enough.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
16 Aug, 2024 by Jazmin
shes the best lawyer I’ve had. I will definitely be coming back to her when I need help with my legal matters. she’s the only lawyer that I have felt actually cared her client and her clients family. I had almost given up trying to find a lawyer to help my case and when I found her, she responded quickly. she’s a great adviser she is worth every dime and time. she gets it done.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
29 Apr, 2022 by Ranee
I write this review today because today is the day 25 years of tyranny and terror with my ex had ended. Matt came into my case in 2014 after 2 of the worst lawyers who had my case. My ex shopped around the 5 top lawyers and received consults which meant these lawyers could not take my case. Yes, the tyranny and terror started at the beginning. When I went to Matt in 2014 he was young and an up and coming lawyer. I had no expectations. But Matt was fair, knowledgeable and was not afraid. It was the first time I had a feeling of peace because he shut the opposing counsel down and did it with respect and integrity. Small win but it was huge for me. I was in awe then. Fast forward to today. Today I signed the last of the legal paperwork nightmare. This means Matt has given me me my life back. Matt was more than generous working with me on my bills. He is definitely results oriented. Thank you Matt. I recommend Matt for all family law cases!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
22 Apr, 2022 by Michelle
Matt represented me fairly, honestly, and with good results. Not only has he been easy to work with, he is FANTASTIC at what he does. He doesn't forget the details and knows what matters in his cases. He is effective, extremely intelligent, and well respected for his work within the legal system. He was my 4th lawyer in my divorce and I wish he was my 1st. I had to deal with so much that shouldn't have happened and I believe Matt would not have let those things happen had he been representing me. He is also fair in his billing practices and genuinely cares about his clients.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
31 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
As an attorney with many years of commercial litigation experience I thought my divorce would look similar to the cases I had handled for years. I quickly realized I was pretty lost in a foreign territory with a very different language and customs; until I hired Matt. While there were no children in our marriage, my divorce was financially complicated. There were multiple professional businesses to be dealt with, widely varying retirement account balances, differences in age and differences in social security payments. Matt was great at giving me an outline of what was to come, what was important and what was not important, how the law applied to the facts of my divorce, and the likely outcomes if we had to go through a trial. He did a great job of dealing with a very difficult opposing counsel, and keeping me sane in the midst of what at times seemed like craziness. When we went to mediation Matt did a great job of presenting to the mediator things that I did not explain very well. We were able to negotiate a very fair settlement during the mediation. Matt's fees were very fair considering the outcome, and based on what my ex- spouse has said about their fees, Matt's fees to me were less than a third of their fees. Matt simply stayed focused on what was going to make a difference and did not get dragged into unnecessary (and expensive) meaningless skirmishes. I think Matt is a great choice for a more-complicated divorce where analysis and detail, and clear communication, are critical.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
30 Apr, 2024 by Richelle davis
Jared Hays absolutely did an amazing job in court for us. He was completely prepared, and argued it perfectly. Him and his team were easy to communicate with, and made it easy. When dealing with custody issues, it’s so important to have an excellent lawyer on your side. I can’t recommend Jared enough.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Apr, 2024 by Dean weber
I hired Jared Hays. I was told all the stuff Jared was going to do for me. $9000,00 dollars later and asking for more money. I realized were it was going so I fired Jared and found a person to help with court papers for far far far less money. If I had stayed with him I would have paid him $30,000 to $40.000 for my divorce. On top of all this I heard thru the grape vine Jared was going thru his own divorce at the time he was representing me, if Jared had informed me he was going thru is own divorce I would not of hired him. If you have to go the route of an attorney I would NOT recommend these guys.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
01 Apr, 2024 by Lindsey dietz
When seeking legal counsel I contacted Stephanie. She was confident in her area of expertise and provided a detail-oriented explanation of what my options were. She was quick to jump on what I needed, the whole experience was seamless and professional.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
19 Sep, 2024 by Maria bueno
Excelente comunicación, excelente trato y muy amables.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
31 Aug, 2024 by Kelly cutler
“I went to Don Schirm a few years ago to help with my divorce. It was an ugly divorce against a very vindictive person. Don was there every step of the way. He offered not only guidance throughout the divorce proceedings but also listened to me when I just needed to vent. I have reached out several times since then, and he is always willing and able to help. If you need an attorney for a family law matter, please put your faith in him.”
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
20 Aug, 2024 by Eric jones
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
28 Oct, 2023 by Siara
I had Christopher Hoxie as my legal aid appointed attorney and what a huge mess it was. I was not fairly represented at all. He never worked on my case, his legal team would literally never get back to me when it was urgent. I have been dealing with my divorce since 2020 and it is still not over yet because of how slow he works. He never did anything I was told he was going to do even when it was detrimental to my case. His paralegals changed ALL THE TIME and no one would ever tell me. All he cared about was that I wasn't paying him and he is very slow. I'm glad to have him off my case and had to hire a competent lawyer to fairly represent me in court and actually show up to hearings because my last hearing, he wasn't even there. Absolutely ridiculous service. Never hire this law firm ever or you will be absolutely wasting your time.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
16 Mar, 2022 by Dora delgado
Mr. Hoxie is very smart man explained to him my issues and right away he knew what needed to be done. Very fair price will definitely recommend. My case was done in less then 5 months.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
14 Jul, 2020 by Kenia
I hired Christopher on a family law case I had a while back & he did wonders for my case!! I am an extremely satisfied client. He is fierce in the court room. He knows exactly what his client wants & he’s not afraid to tell the judge!! Something I really appreciated about Chris and his law firm is that they would give me a call prior to my court date to remind me of it, even when I didn’t have to be present. I felt like I always was in the loop about my case. After the experience I had with Christopher, I’ve made him my go to. His law office practices a lot of different law so it’s definitely my new go to attorney.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
25 Feb, 2024 by Foxyleigh2000
I needed an attorney's advice and his office got me in for an appointment within just a few hours. He looked over my information very thoroughly and gave me sound advice and for a very reasonable fee. I would hire him in a second if I needed to. Very impressed.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
25 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
This lawyer did an excellent job on my employment discrimination /retaliation case. He is very competent and detail oriented. He found the "smoking gun" evidence that the other party tried to hide, and it made all the difference in my case. I highly recommend this lawyer.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
04 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
This lawyer worked very hard for our family, despite an uphill battle with a crooked commissioner and her best buddy the opposing lawyer. Some how after 3 and a half long years it finally ended in our favor. Thank you Mr. Edelblute.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
19 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
Mason and his paralegal did an awesome job on my case. I started out representing myself and my spouses attorney was screwing me over. Mason fixed it all and I got more than I wanted plus more. His paralegal was reliable and was able to answer my questions. If she didn’t have an answer, she would get me one that same day. I almost lost my child in this divorce and I’m SO thankful Mason and his team helped me out.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
23 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
So many things were overlooked in my divorce case that I walked away with next to nothing only because it had taken almost 2 years and I just kept spending money while my ex's lawyer ran circles around Mason. He even showed up late for a mediation at his OWN office. Almost an hour late. and tried to charge me the full price. I would most definitely never use him again and would recommend my ex's lawyer any time I wanted to help somebody because I got royally...well, nothing. And "we" had a lot of assets.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
06 Sep, 2024 by Jennifer
Kari has been an absolute blessing to are family she is an AMAZING attorney and I have recommended 3 people to retain her my first experience with Kari was in my guardianship case mother was refuseing serves Kari without haveing her retained told us to throw the papers at her feet. We were able to get her served mother refused a medical surgery for child and before retaining her she gave legal advice I will never forget that bc in that moment it told me Kari was not in it for the money she was in it for the children and I was sold I new I had to retain her and it was the best thing I ever did she has represented me to the fullest she is very knowledgeable and all around a beautiful human being thank you Kari and her team for everything you do
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
22 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
I wouldn't hire Ms. Davenport to represent my dog. What an absolute waste of money and resources. This was the worst representation out of the entire county and after two court hearings I had to fire Ms. Davenport for her lack of professionalism and incompetence as an attorney. If you need to talk to her you can find her at any of the local bars being a complete booze bag. How did this lady pass the bar?
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
19 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
I was going through some harsh court battles with my ex. Kari showed no interest, concern or care in anything that was occurring. She did not go out of her way to help me or lighten the load of anything. She was not aggressive whatsoever-- opposing counsel wiped the floor with us time and time again. My case should have been a slam dunk-- yet through poor, unprepared, offensive-less & defensive-less representation, she lost court appearance after court appearance. There were multiple times in court where it was more than evident that she had no idea what was going on and had not even bothered to read my position, declaration, response etc. She truly did not care about me, my case or whether we/she won or lost. Communication-wise, she did not respond timely-- if at all to phone calls and emails. The one good thing I can say is that she billed fairly for her time-- but what good is fair billing for your time when your not getting what you're seeking/paying for.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
06 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
!¡!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!¡!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!¡!!!!!!!!‽
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
21 Jul, 2015 by Holly
We hired Jason for family court. His communication level is fair at best. He's not aggressive. He basically just stands in court as decoration. We were awarded court costs and attorney fees to be paid by my ex. After several months of no payment Jason suggested we take him back to court. We said ok. The first hearing my ex asked for a continuance. I asked Jason if I needed to be there the following week as I didn't have a sitter available for my kids. He said no. I found out after the next hearing Jason dropped the matter without ever consulting me. When I called him out on, he said he had other ways of getting the money. Ya his way was to SUE me and my husband instead of my ex to collect his "fee". A fee he didn't earn. I recommend running as far as you can from him and don't look back. He's cheap and you get what you pay for. When dealing with family court you can't afford to waste your time on Jason. He doesn't work for you. He works for himself.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
21 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Not good at all. I would not recommend him. Didn't hardly say three words in court. Was not aggressive in the slightest bit. The single biggest mistake I made was hiring him.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
22 Mar, 2023 by Brad
I met with Rob in early 2020 , paid a $2000.00 retainer for his help with a legal matter. I received a letter when Covid started saying there would be delays for all clients. This was the last I ever heard from him or his office. I have since called dozens of times for a refund of the remainder of my retainer as the matter I hired him for has become irrelevant in the 3 years that have passed. I have never received a call back. I would just like the retainer returned. I cannot fathom taking money from someone and never providing the service or a return of the money paid. Looking at other reviews, I see I am not alone there are plenty of others who describe similar experiences.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
15 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Doing what's best for his pocketbook, not the client. Would not recommend this attorney.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
18 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
This man will take your money and disappear. Don't expect to ever hear from him again after you've paid his retainer. In any other line of work he'd be a criminal.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
02 Nov, 2022 by Marissaa
This attorney was too afraid to go to trial, after being hired and paid decided it was too much for her and said she didn’t want to go to trial! Like ok?? Who does? As an attorney you have an obligation to serve your clients not screw them over because your too old and can’t handle a touch case! She shouldn’t have took me on as a client if she knew she couldn’t handle it! After taking my money and putting me in a worse situation not thinking once how parents go through so much during this whole situation just to be taken advantage of! I would not recommend her ever, she might as well retire at this point!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
14 Apr, 2016 by Jordan
I was faced with a parenting plan case and Kolleen was the first attorney I consulted. She told me if I was to get an attorney, that I would have to pay for an attorney for my ex and that I didn't need legal representation for my case. Both of those claims were undoubtedly false. I felt like she just pocketed my consultation fee and rushed me out her door. I would not advise anyone to consult with this attorney. I hired a much better attorney and my case went well.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
22 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
His man lied to us does not know the law will say anything to get your money we had to send him the wac laws regarding charges in wa state tried to lie to our face about what he said to us and tried to cover his tracks I do not recommend this man at all
Read more Avvo
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You

A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.

Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.

When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?

Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:

  • Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
  • Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
  • Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
  • Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
  • Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
  • Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
  • Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.

Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.

What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?

A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:

  • Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
  • Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
  • Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
  • Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
  • Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
  • Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
  • Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.

How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?

Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:

  • Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
  • Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
  • Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.

The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.

How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:

  • Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
  • Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
  • Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
  • Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.

Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.

Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer

Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:

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

How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer

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

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

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

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

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

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

Scroll to top