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18 Oct, 2023 by Richard
He was great and helped me answer all my questions. and kept me well informed through out the whole thing
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28 Mar, 2019 by Sheree
I Met him and he is the most compassionate and wonderful person I ever met and I’m not just saying that he has a heart of gold and to pick a lawyer he would be the best I would give him 50 stars thank you for everything
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20 Aug, 2018 by Cynthia
I'M HAPPY TO SAY I hired Brett Pritchard after a Free Consultation in March of this year regarding a SAPCR Suit in which I filed. During that consultation I felt that he felt my pain and trusted Brett and his firm to do the best job that they could do for my case, which I understood could have been very lengthy and very costly.
I cared for a child for over 11 years that I had no legal rights too. After the biological parent decided she wanted her child to live with her, and after the child told me they didn't want to go, I had to do something, so I filed a SAPCR (Suit Affecting the Parent-Child Relationship) afterwards I needed an Attorney!!! Everyone in his office felt my pain, well at least that's how I felt, from the Receptionist, to the paralegals to the Attorneys, everyone was warm, kind, polite and extremely Professional. Brent Sykora was my Attorney from the law firm, he was very helpful, always available if I needed to speak with him, keeping me advised with important information regarding my case. The paralegals are the best in responding to your messages and uploading any and all documentation. I could log into the portal anytime of the day or night to check my case information, which included everything from documents to billing. Whenever I would visit the office, the most wonderful stylish lady greeted me with a smile and kinds words. Without making my story into a book, I am now Joint Conservator Manager of my Sweetheart. We are now able to see each other again without anyone saying otherwise. Through Mediation the opposing party finally agreed to Joint Custody to avoid Trial, we were indeed ready for Trial!!
I know who will have my business should I need to seek legal counsel again. In the best interest of the child is the part that most adults forget, it's not about us, it's about that precious child and keeping those he loves in their life. Do your research if this happens to you, clearly you have rights in the State of Texas if you cared for a child for a six month period regardless if you're related to the child or not, but you have a 60 day window to file paperwork or you'll forfeit your rights and lose any chance you have to remain in the child's life. You MUST Seek good/excellent Counsel to ensure that you are Represented accordingly.
Thank you Attorneys, Brett Pritchard and Brent Sykora and the total Pritchard Law Firm. You guys took a lot of stress out of my life, and I will surely hire you again, should the need arise!!
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31 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Gregory Simmons was appointed for my husband's case recently. Luckily the case was dropped about as quick as it was charged. This attorney is definitely on top of his stuff though. When he went to visit my husband he had paperwork for my husband to fill out so he could talk to me. Also he had a plan as to what the next steps of action he was taking would be. He was well prepared. When I contacted his office they were very helpful and let me know what was being requested and the status. When I called back as requested a few days later, we were advised that because the case was dropped before the request was completed there was nothing more available. I have no doubt that if we would have needed to proceed further with more time that this attorney would have been great representation for my husband.
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10 Oct, 2013 by Marygomez-perez
MR.SIMMONS IS REALLY AN OUTSTANDING LAWYER. HE WILL ANSWER ALL CALLS, MEET WITH YOU AT YOUR CONVENIENCE ,ALWAYS HAS THE ANSWERS TO YOUR QUESTIONS, AND IS WILLING TO WORK WITH YOU ON ALL CASES.HE HAS ALWAYS DONE RIGHT BY ME AND I HIGHLY RECOMMEND HIM.
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04 Jan, 2013 by Denise
Mr. Simmons is a hard working, dedicated lawyer who gets the job done! He is so detail oriented! Every time I had a question about my case he knew the answer! He took the time to follow up with me every step of the way! His professionalism and skill in the court room is unmatched ! I am extremely satisfied with the job he has done for me. I have recommend him to several people & will continue to! So if you need a lawyer that gets the job done he is Definitely the lawyer to hire.
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21 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I approve of Chareka Gadson 1000%. Chareka was extremely helpful throughout the entire process. My family law- custody case took a few months to resolve. Chareka was NEVER hard to reach when I had a question or need some reassurance. Chareka and I had plenty of conversations after her business hours. There were times in which we exchanged documents at 9 pm. She goes above and beyond to make sure her clients are as comfortable as possible. When my daughter is old enough, I will be proud to show her how hard I fought for equal rights... with the help of Chareka of course
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02 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
Attorney Gadson is truly a breath of fresh air for the legal field. With so many "crooked lawyers" and individuals seeking to make a dollar- it is easy to get discouraged when seeking legal counsel. She was just the opposite. Ms. Gadson is highly intelligent and professional. She is definitely great to work with...as she works for you.
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22 Aug, 2018 by Cynthia
Mr Sykora and I were faced with the challenge of obtaining Full or Joint Managing Conservatorship following a SAPCR case in which I filed. My grandson had lived with me since he was a 1 year old, because I had no problems with his mom, I didn't feel the need to have anything Court ordered (my mistake) to ensure that no one would be able to separate us.., Right before he turn 12, WALLA!! He was forced to live with his mom. The worst of times began. It was time for me to do something because he wanted to be home and to see me as well as the rest of his family. After hiring and meeting Mr Sykora, I felt at ease, I know I drove him crazy with keeping him informed of Everything, I wasn't missing a beat, he was kind as well as compassionate and totally understanding of what I was going through, whenever I needed to see him, he was a visit/call away! He advised me of everything to expect at the FH/Trial, the good as well as the bad, he was upfront and didn't cut any corners.. We were ready!! Fortunately, due to a delicate issue which I certainly didn't want my grandson exposed too, the opposing party reluctantly agreed in order to avoid Trial. I was awarded Joint Managing Conservatorship. It means the world to me as well as my grandson that I now have legal rights to him. I can legally remain in his life, regardless. It's in his best interest. Mr Sykora wasn't worried at all, matter of fact before the agreement, his Confidence level of me winning Full Custody was at an all time High. Sometimes when a Childs heart is involved, you have to come to an agreement, TO PROTECT THE CHILD!!! Thank you Mr Sykora, you were so nice to me and my family and I'll never forget what you made possible, I hope to bring my grandson to meet you all in person in the near future... To all whom may feel that you're being torn out of a child's life, don't let it happen, no matter what the situation is, FIGHT for whom you love, never just give up, seek legal counsel, and Mr Sykora knows his stuff!! I highly recommend Attorney Brent T Sykora in getting the Job done....
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09 Aug, 2015 by Matthew
I was dealing with an older situation. Mr Sykora was more then reasonable. Everything worked out 99.9% better then I had hoped for. Super realibe, very professional, & just an outstanding understanding human being who works for YOU. Other lawyers I consulted with were not worth my time or effort. This man knows & practices the law & is darn great at what he did for my family & myself. Hands down best lawyer I have ever dealt with. Would give him my business again & refer him.
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01 Jun, 2023 by Reed
I retained Ms. Clapper for a custody/divorce case and tasked her with the unenviable chore of attempting to get myself, the father of the child, primary guardianship. She was successful in this endeavor and I was granted all that I asked for. HIGHLY recommend.
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12 May, 2022 by Michael
Before anything, take notice that this is a 5-star review...
Being a thinking man, the process of dealing with Mr. Gaunt as a quick-thinking, aggressively impatient person (under consideration of his profession) was a bit difficult. I want time to think; he wants quick responses. This can be frustrating. However, the beauty of this personality-type (or professional approach if you'd like) can be seen clearly when he is on your side and fighting for your family. Going through the actual court process (paperwork, talking to paralegals, setting up consultations, court delays, and just time), there were times I was anxious, discouraged, confident, doubtful, excited, impatient, and frustrated, but when all was finished, Mr. Gaunt was an Oscar winner in the theater of the courtroom.
I hope that when my time is done I will be viewed as a genuinely great father above all else I do in life. Nonetheless, walking into the courtroom, my apprehension was high due to me being a male and my ignorance of being in a courtroom. All apprehension was gradually dissolved as Mr. Gaunt's dialogue in the courtroom unfolded. Mr. Gaunt achieved a comfort for me before the judge even made her ruling. Sometimes I view what was my case as a genuine good versus evil story. Mr. Gaunt was Aragorn. Through Mr. Gaunt's expertise, I obtained sole custody of my favorite person in the world, my little girl.
As long as there are thoughts running through my mind and air coming into my lungs, Mr. Gaunt will be a man held in high reverence. Playing a pivotal role in a major journey in my life, he closed a chapter that was long overdue with savvy and precision. I understand that a lawyer-client relationship is much more business in nature, but I definitely welcome Mr. Gaunt as a lifelong friend. I genuinely and deeply thank Mr. Gaunt. I feel strongly confident in the art and ability to use words well, but in an unusual result of circumstance, I do not even know how to express the deep gratitude I have.
But...yeah, NJ Gaunt is a phenomenal lawyer. If you need help, do not hesitate to hire the guy. I would suggest that if you have any internal conflicts while your case is going through the motions of the court's processes, relieve yourself of these notions because you are in good hands. The quick-thinking, aggressively impatient person is one you definitely want to have in your corner.
P.S. I may be mistaken but I feel I recall seeing a doctorate hanging on Mr. Gaunt's wall in his office. If this is the case, scratch all the "Mr." references and place "Dr." where appropriate.
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05 May, 2021 by Yolanda cortez
He helped us very much with my husbands case. He knew how to get us through all this, very professional.. if I would to have a problem again I would of course come to him again
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06 Nov, 2019 by Jose
In previous occasions I was not able to get positive results out of my child support order until I hired NJ to represent ne in court. Nothing but positive things to say about NJ, he showed compassion and represented extremely well and thanks to him I finally got the results I was looking for. Highly recommend!
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5.0
20 Reviews
4.0
120 Reviews
01 Mar, 2024 by Cavteam1
Mr. Walden has represented me twice and both times he was successful. Like others I made the mistake of hiring a second hand lawyer and it was time and money lost. I have seen Mr. Walden work and I would highly recommend him to anyone who is in need of legal representation. Experience, Knowledge, Dedication, Honor, Commitment, Integrity, and Care is what you get with Mr.Walden.
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15 Aug, 2022 by James
Steve represented me in-reference to my military case. I didn't know where to turn. Then, one day I was determined to find an attorney who would fight for my rights after 36 years of service to this nation. Steve went to work on this once he gathered all the facts.
He's truly cares about his clients, and he is an amazing person. I was always well informed. His team did a wonderful job on my case. At the end of the day, I know who's got my back.
In the end, Victory!
Thanks Steve.
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20 Sep, 2019 by Thomas washimgton
I want to thank Carlson Law Firm
For doing a professional and are diligent
My Paralegal gave me easier advice on certain things like how the case works
And were I go to get certain documents. Thank You
Washington U.S. Army Retired
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30 Apr, 2021 by Lance
Mr Stapler, handled my case in the most expedient manner even though the virus pandemic lock downs were in the progress of ramping up. His confidence and professional knowledge dealing with the courts at law resulted in a satisfactory out come; I will defiantly recommend, and if needed will use his law firm again.
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13 Jan, 2020 by Fierra
Frankly this guy was off the charts, in my specific case. Whether or not I got criminal charges wouldn't be the only factor in deciding whether or not I would ever rehire J.Stappler. To be honest, I wish I would have gotten a better deal on my day of sentencing. Of course in the end, I thought, "what would have happened had I pursued taking my case to trial". - At any rate, Mr.Stappler actually allowed me to hire him late in my case, After two different attorneys weren't going to take my case. Plus many attorneys don't practice federal law. I was/am incredibly lucky to have hired a highly punctual lawyer, respondent , also with extensive experience. James was supportive in and out of the courtroom, and it was a pleasure to have him represent me.
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24 Apr, 2019 by Quinton
Very pleased with out comes of my case. Mr. stapler was there from beginning to end and helped me through my long legal process. But I’m very pleased to say that after today it is all over.
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30 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
You will regret it. They literally caused my sister to lose her home! They failed to fight for her in court. They stopped paying for her home in the bankruptcy the main reason she got in the bankruptcy. Then he shows up to court, no paperwork in hand, late, wrinkled, no fight no purpose.RUN!
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04 Aug, 2015 by Mary
Mr. Tisdale helped me when it seemed like I was about to lose everything. I had to file for bankruptcy but he explained how this would help me and made me feel so much better about the whole situation. I have my home and now I'm getting back on track. Thank you Joshua Tisdale!!!
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27 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Josh was really helpful in helping me file for bankruptcy. He even got me my tax refund back after it was taken to pay one of my debts. He always kept me in the loop and was very understanding. I would I highly recommend him to anyone that's behind on their bills.
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07 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
He accepted money for a case and then before it even went to trial he moved offices and withdrew from the case. Why would you even take a case if you know you wont be able to represent your client?
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27 Aug, 2015 by Todd
He did my divorce case and I had a really good experience. I don't like lawyers in general but Mr. Micco gave it to me straight. I was very satisfied with his work.
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02 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
After a really bad divorce, I had to file for bankruptcy. It wasn't my first choice, but my deadbeat ex left me with a lot of bills and no money. I felt really bad about the whole situation, but they made me feel alot better. They assured me that I was not alone and they helped me through every step of the way. The staff was really friendly and I always enjoyed going in to see them. It was a lot of paperwork to fill out, but they helped me get it right and my bankruptcy case went smooth. I wish would have seen them for my divorce case.
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08 Nov, 2023 by Douglas
Hired Chet to represent me in in a family law matter. My case changed once I received the pleadings. After getting the pleadings, Chet agreed to represent me at an additional cost. I PAID, The week before the hearing I was ghosted him and his firm. My call was accidently picked up, but I was quickly hung up on. The night before the hearing he filed a motion (without my knowledge) causing a delay in the outcome. Chet was utterly un-prepared for the hearing. (Something a 30 minute call would have prevented). When it came time to finish his work, he withdrew.
If you are looking for a (-D) Attorney Hire Chet.
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20 Apr, 2022 by Anthony
I have not encountered many lawyers in my life, but I would say that Chet Southworth, J.D., is the best one, by far, among those I have met. My case took over two years to complete, and Dr. Southworth represented me in this case from start to finish. Dr. Southworth diligently reviewed the available evidence presented to him by me and the opposing party in my case. He did his due diligence in knowing me as a client and empathized with my case and my situation. Chet was very organized, and he presented the available evidence to me clearly and concisely. He conscientiously answered all of my correspondence and followed up with my text messages. Dr. Southworth was a true professional who got the job done while making me feel like one of his most valuable clients. His tenacity and attention to detail resulted in our win in the district court and the continued pursuit of my JP case without further hindrance. I highly recommend Dr. Southworth for your legal matter needs. You will not be disappointed!
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16 Feb, 2019 by Susan
Chet and the staff communicated with me throughout the divorce process, explained every possible outcome and advised me on the best course of action. Not only did he gets my divorce finalized in under 60 days, but he also got me everything that I was asking for I would recommend him to anyone looking for a great attorney.
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02 Oct, 2023 by C riv
Run far far away. Worst lawyer I have ever worked with. She handled a adoption for my family and we had a terrible experience. Poor communication, Sara the paralegal and the lawyer Carmen are terrible at communicating and completing the tasks they were hired and paid to do. I'll be reporting to the BBB also.
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02 Oct, 2023 by Carlos rivera
Horrible experience they aren't professional she has a garbage attitude 😤
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19 Jun, 2023 by Jacqueline bavier
Would not recommend from our experience. We also had a friend who had a very similar experience to ours. We switched attorneys half way through the case to HSR and had Brittany Darby; who is absolutely amazing. I cannot recommend a Brittany enough!
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01 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
If you are any type of contractor please don't waste your time with this firm , especially if you are an overseas contractor , they didn't even try to fight the fact that my ex wanted spousal support and Corbin himself told me I made enough money I can afford it !!!!! I should have got another lawyer at that point.
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07 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
I sadly did not. Overpriced incompetent and in general useless. The staff is pleasant enough but many young and inexperienced and I bet that is to save on the salaries. That is most positive thing I can say. They are horrible at keeping you up to date on your case or returning any phone call. They will draw a case out as long as they can, billing you all the while, by only responding to the opposition attorney The senior partner is more concerned withe his political activities and his retirement than managing or supervising any case. He makes a big deal about his military service and how much he military helps out when in fact the only 6 he has is his wallet. You would be better off representing yourself.
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14 Oct, 2014 by Adam
Do not hire this firm. This firm was suppose to take care of a criminal case that i was no billed for as well as two civil cases. Once they had my money (for all matters) i could not get a call back and was not informed of anything ever. When I let them know i was unhappy with the fact that he paid closer attention to my facebook account than my case (which is absolutely true) and the fact that it took him six months to get me an answer from the DA on an expunction when all he had to do was pick up the phone but couldnt bc he had smarted off to them the time bf, he raised his voice and cursed at me, also calling me names. He then took out all of my money from another retainer i paid for another civil matter and withdrew. I will definitely be reporting this unethical behavior to the bar with the help of another attorney.
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03 Jul, 2022 by Angela
It sure would be nice if I could be leaving a five-star rating here today. Unfortunately, not in my case. Instead, one star is one too many. I want to start by saying that I have nothing against Lane personally. He's probably a great person. For some people he may have represented them properly and kept them informed with the right amount of professionalism and due diligence we all expect to get from our attorney. He might have put forth the right amount of push forwardness that you needed him to give. He may have kept on top of things. He may have put in the due diligence to bring forth a fair outcome for them. They may be satisfied with his quality of performance. However, he didn't give me that level of professionalism. After 1 1/2 I had no choice but to accept the facts and seek counsel elsewhere. I hired Lane Heginbotham to represent me with my divorce. And of course, when he gave the consultation It all sounded great. If only I had known what a mistake, I was getting myself into. My divorce went nowhere. I was left feeling alone, misinformed, deceived and improperly represented. I trusted that I would be given a fair and equal representation by Lane. I was very wrong, and my time and money was wasted. As we all know those are rather important in everyone's lives. It became clear that my case wasn't important enough to him. Why file motions against the opposing side and then not follow through with them. Why were the temporary orders never followed through with? My "someday" ex-husband was allowed to disobey the standing order multiple times, make up his own rules, his counsel was allowed to be as leisure as they wanted with every request asked from them and nothing was done about it. I can't help but think that if I had behaved like such, I could rest assure the opposing counsel would have done something about it. That is most certain. Why make excuses for the opposing side and allow them to stall and drag out a divorce that should have been done and over with even with COVID, within a year or even much less. It's not like were Hollywood stars here. Lane would say he's working on this and that and I would wait and wait and wait... Just to find out that no progress had been made. "We're waiting to hear back from the opposing counsel" became an in every conversation sort of thing. I felt like asking if he was representing me or my husband. Then finally after hearing every excuse one can be told by their attorney as to why nothing was happening, it became obvious that my case didn't really matter. I was as transparent as I could be with Lane. I wanted to move forward with my divorce so I could move on with my life. I expected to be treated with dignity and respect. He didn't need to lead me along by telling me that the opposing counsel had dropped the ball when the truth be known he (Lane) dropped the ball! I trusted Lane to give my case as much effort and attention as he would any other case. Yet again the joke was on me just like in my marriage. Ha, Ha. This was not good attorney ethical standards by a long shot. I guess if you don't really understand or care about what your client is going through, how their whole life is hanging by a thread, then I guess it just doesn't really matter to you. Therefor you don't put in what's needed to get good reviews. How can a 50/50, non-contested, no minor children divorce be dragged out like this? Shouldn't there be a timeline of some kind. Can you just stall a divorce for as long as you so choose? Has our JUSTICE system turned into a JUST "US" system? Where's the justice here where's the humaneness in this. You may not be going through what I'm going through, but I hired you to be mindful and act like you are. That's what makes the difference between an attorney/lawyer who will represent you to the best of their ability and one who puts your case on the back burner for over a year.
Good luck to those who choose to move forward with Lane Heginbotham @ Harris Law Office.
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29 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Do not hire this attorney. This attorney was hired by a friend and I have never seen an attorney work so hard against their own client to HELP the attorney on the other side. Run as fast as you can from this firm. Most positive reviews come from when Mr. Harris was alive, he has since passed. The office staff is rude and not very helpful.
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30 Dec, 2020 by Jennifer
Lane did not fight for me at all. Lynn Libersky out argued him and Lane seemed scared of the other attorney. He got what he asked as far as payment, but did nothing to help me. Worthless.
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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.
