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28 Dec, 2018 by Diana
Recently used New Hope Divorce Mediation, in particular Mindey Elgart, to handle my no contest divorce. It was a very pleasant process, given the situation, and went smoothly from the beginning to the end. After the initial meeting where we discussed all the details, we met one more time to finalize the settlement agreement. After that there was a 90 day waiting period. During all that time, Mindey and her office was very diligent at sending us all the paperwork and explaining everything step by step, when and how to properly sign and mail all the documents to the court. After the 90 day waiting period, it just took another 2 months to receive the divorce decree from the judge. I would highly recommend Mindey and New Hope Divorce Mediation to others to handle their divorce case.
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15 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Lenore about 18 months ago after firing 3 other attorneys....the last of which nearly bankrupted me when he failed to file an appeal of an outrageous child support award. There are many attributes of Lenore that are really rare in divorce attorneys: * non-confrontational * high attention-to-detail * outgoing and friendly * reasonably rate given her high quality of service She handled my case with high level of professionalism. Lenore represented me at both a master's level and then a judge's level for equitable distribution. In both cases, she was well prepared and very convincing in these hearings...especially the latter where there were nearly 10,000 pages of documentation. She arrived at the court house with a luggage carrier holding nearly 4 FEET of documents ! Her performance was exemplary thanks to careful preparation. When the hearing was over, we walked out of the courthouse and she gave me a big hug as we said goodbye ! Now how often does that happen ?
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05 Jul, 2014 by Joe
Lenore has been responsive and empathetic to my case. She's both knowledgeable and thorough.
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05 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
Has helped me with legal marriage issue when all others failed . Thanks so much
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31 May, 2017 by Sally
Kate was highly recommended to me by a friend. She came into my life when I was as low as an ant's little belly. She became my backbone and kept me upright during the darkest days of my life. She gave me the strength and courage to make it to the other side of divorce after 37 years of marriage. Our meetings were only as long as they needed to be. Kate was fair but firm and worked and fought on my behalf to ensure for me the brightest and easiest of futures. My unfaithful, errant x-husband was shocked that I had actually found the best lawyer of all. I highly recommend Kate Vetrano - her future clients will be blessed to have her in their corner.
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21 Aug, 2016 by Margaret
My divorce was complex and painful, requiring competence, sound judgment and a learned pragmatism on the part of my attorney. After interviewing over ten attorneys, the decision to engage with Kate Vetrano was the wisest choice I could have made. Kate kept me grounded and focused on the end game. She also had a view towards settling things amicably and she had the skill and savvy to navigate a complicated set of circumstances.She also advocated for my children and helped me to make sure that their interests were served fully as well as mine. I would refer any one I know to seek out Kate's counsel. I couldn't be more pleased with the relationship of trust and respect that we built together. I am very grateful to Kate Vetrano and I will never forget how she helped me to get through what has to be one of the most difficult experiences of my life with feeling like I had a top rate advocate who provided extremely valuable counsel.
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05 Dec, 2014 by Hans
She is a no nonsense, experienced divorce lawyer I appreciated and would highly recommend. After years of unsuccessfully trying to resolve marital differences on our own, I selected Kate Vetrano to help me initiate and navigate thru an 'Amicable Divorce' involving several million dollars in assets, so my ex and I could better enjoy my few remaining years. She did exactly that. I received to-the-point pre-declaration advice, detailed post declaration 'to do's' and 'don't do's'. We/she negotiated a settlement that my now ex and I are both as comfortable with as can be. My 'ex' and I are still friends. Kate certainly helped me start a new chapter in my life, and all was accomplished within 6 months. Again, I appreciated her no nonsense, to-the-point approach, her belief in amicable divorces, and her ability to deliver.
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30 Sep, 2020 by Leonor
I retained Michael Kleiman after my divorce was deemed ineligible for mediation. Naturally, I was devastated. Litigation, I was told, was my only option. I was fortunate to happen upon Michael Kleiman. From the start, Michael was calm and patient. He put me at ease right away. He explained every step of the process, so I always felt prepared and informed. He remembered every single detail, no matter how small. When necessary, which was often, he defended my case professionally and calmly. I felt like I never had to worry. Whatever advice he gave me, I accepted, even if it was hard. Looking back now, I realize his advice was always wise and thoughtful. He made an otherwise terrible process, manageable. I wholeheartedly recommend Michael Kleiman.
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04 Sep, 2020 by Stephanie
Michael was professional, efficient and compassionate in guiding me through the divorce process. He explained things to me in layman’s terms so I had a clear understanding of all documents I signed and decisions I needed to make. He genuinely cares about his clients and I was fortunate to have him represent me.
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30 Aug, 2020 by Kate
I met Michael in the midst of a family crisis that was not related to completing the divorce process for which I hired him. Under my very difficult personal circumstances, I found him to be, first and foremost, extremely compassionate and understanding. His calm and patient approach was exactly what I needed during a tumultuous time, and he consistently enabled a somewhat contentious legal process to unfold as smoothly as possible. He was knowledgable, thorough, extremely trustworthy and responsive. I could absolutely count on him to have my best interests in mind at all times, allowing me to safely lean on him more than I would have anticipated. Under any circumstances I would highly recommend Michael. His expertise, demeanor, and genuine care for his clients make him one of the best I’ve met in his profession.
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21 Jun, 2011 by Patty
Mark has been an incredible lawyer. He always puts my kids first; when I am not sure what is best for them, he gently spells out the probable outcomes of all of the choices in front of me and almost always comes up with one or two others that I did not see. Mark gives me all the information I need to make decisions and points me in the direction he believes will be best, but he always makes sure to tell me that all decisions are mine to make in the end. One of my favorite things about Mark is that he urges me to grow in my dealings with court and with my ex. For example, he recently saved me over $600 by convincing me that I could successfully argue my case in front of the master without him. Obviously, this is in my best interest, not his. This is just one example of why Mark rates so high on the scale of trustworthiness. I would recommend Mark without hesitation. In fact, I would say that you would be foolish to choose another attorney.
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14 Jun, 2011 by Michael
Mark is everything that you want in a divorce lawyer. He has a deep understanding of divorce law and counseled on all aspects of the proceedings. He was responsive, forthright, and always accessible.
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13 Jun, 2011 by Amy
Mark is the best out there! Honest, calm, experienced, and easy to work with. The divorce process can be emotional and difficult---with Mark on my side the process was smooth, straighforward, and my best interests were protected!
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30 Aug, 2010 by Kelly
From the day I met Sarinia I was pleased with her level of professionalism, knowledge and experience. Her phone and email communication was direct and concise but she was happy to go into detail when I needed it. I was please when she was able to settle my divorce, child support and child custody agreements out of court, it seemed very efficient. Well, you don't know the real Sarinia Feinman until you see her in court! A few months after our agreements were signed Sarinia accompanied me to court when my ex-husband was trying to decrease his child support. Sarinia blew me away in front of the judge, she is so intelligent, quick on her feet and uses the least amount of words to pack the biggest punch. I was so impressed and felt blessed to have her at my side to argue for my children's needs. Thank You!
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19 Dec, 2024 by Jenny andres-wilder
Ms. Feinman helped me set realistic expectations for my case, explained everything to me, billed me fairly and cared about my outcome.
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13 Aug, 2024 by Emma nordgren
Jeremy helped me with a car accident case. I’m very satisfied after working with him. His communication was well and made me feel at ease during the entire process. Would recommend to family or friend if they are ever in need of an attorney.
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28 Sep, 2023 by Alissa hunter
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15 Oct, 2022 by Michael j. mosley
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07 Apr, 2022 by Harold v. shockley
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20 Dec, 2024 by Debbie sandler
Michael Kleiman has been everything I wanted and needed in a divorce attorney. He is knowledgeable in every aspect of the law, practical in all things, patient, funny - and against all odds still has faith in humanity. I recommend him without reservation.
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19 Dec, 2024 by Betsy massaro
I would highly recommend Michael Kleiman. He is knowledgeable, attentive and supportive.
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18 Mar, 2024 by John gambone jr
Outstanding firm.Greg DiPippo and Bob Reily are amazing Attorneys. Amy and the staff are great.Been using this firm for many years.Solid Attorneys that know how to win.5 Stars all the way!.
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09 Feb, 2024 by Tracey tarquinio
Very helpful and professional law firm. Can handle most legal issues. I have been dealing with this firm for over 30 years n they helped me in business and personally with legal advice.
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31 Jan, 2024 by Allison baldoni
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09 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
she is horrible lawyer and some time does not have ethics in billing . Her argument at court is not valuable we need to provide and tell her to dicuss the same at court. and impatient person
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26 Jun, 2023 by Maryann
Don’t let any of Carolyn’s so called credentials fool you. She is downright dirty and completely and utterly money hungry, at all costs to you and your child. I had her as an attorney in a very contentious and dangerous custody situation, and she absolutely never stood up for me or my very young child, and was more interested in taking advantage of me at my most vulnerable times when my son was being hurt, as well as trying to further her so called status within the courts by placating judges at every turn. Carolyn would literally bill me for hours, when I would call her while my child was being hurt and I was desperate for help. She would never actually offer any help but instead bill me for hours of time for calls while I was in dire need of help and then write petitions and bill me thousands more to do so. She overbilled me by 10s of thousands of dollars and my case went nowhere but south with her representation. My child has suffered immensely due to her disgusting greediness, and has had multiple diagnoses given the terrible situation he remained in for 2 years while she ‘mis’reaprsented me. It’s unreal that as a mother herself, she disgustingly chooses money over all else, and will never fight for you or your child. Disbar her.
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05 Apr, 2019 by Richelle
On a professional level, Carolyn was always very thorough, would respond either via email or by phone promptly and was very proactive.. On a personal level, Carolyn would listen to my concerns and we would work together to address them. I consider her not only one of the most professional people I've been involved with but also a very caring &compassionate person who I have been very fortunate to have worked with for over 3 years.
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16 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Called him as the sole surviving relative to someone who passed away and he handeled her Will. I had questions about the Will that she left behind. Simply do to the fact that the unconfirmed executor who just happened to have the Will refuses let anyone see it and has disapeared. There are no assets, just had questions to see what she wanted for a service since the this person who claims to be the Executor is not reachable after the initial contact. He told me that I needed to Contact the courts to get it released publicly. He refused to say anymore than that or even confirm what my mother requested for a service. I went to ask him to consult on a legal matter regarding her care on her care, he shut me down before I could even get the question out. He said he would refuse to represent me, And I asked if he had recommendations for attornies on this seperate matter. He said to contact my local bar association. He said that he would not recommend anyone to me before I could even get out what it was for. When it comes to someone you represent for their last Will and there's issue with verification on the type of service, not even an asset question, you should at least be able to provide that information. Regardless if it is enforcible or not, the service is coming out of someone else's pocket. If you have taken the time to document what a person wanted. You should be able to at least provide someone information to be able to lay that person to rest in a respectful manner that they requested. It was also the tone and hostility in his voice and demeanor that made his rudeness even more disrespectful.
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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.

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