Lawyers map
>48
experienced lawyers
Filter by
19 Jul, 2021 by Clayvon
Attorney Bradbury takes time to make sure that you are involved in your case. She makes sure you understand what is happening and why the action plan that she has very thoroughly put together. Attorney Bradbury is best Lawyer I have ever worked with. Mostly because she takes pride in the representation she gives on your behalf.
Read more
27 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
AWESOME CONSULTATION! Often the person giving the consultation is evasive and tries to manipulate with fear... NOT STACEY! we had a detailed consultation in which we received the good, the bad and the ugly. There was no pressure.
Read more
25 Oct, 2015 by Charlie
Stacey Bradbury listens. I have hired 4 other attorneys in the past 10 years to help with tenant and business issues.
Stacey Takes the time to hear your challenge and offers a suggested plan to solve your issues. I like that she discusses options with professionalism but never talks over your head.
She shows how much she cares rather than showing how much she knows. .... and she knows a lot.
I have recommended her to several business colleagues in the past year.
Read more
18 Nov, 2021 by Juli
Patty is a brilliant, knowledgeable lawyer with years of experience under her belt. She will fight for you and support you every step of the way. She's tough with a heart of gold. 5 stars, would definitely recommend!
Read more
07 Apr, 2019 by Lourdes falcón
The best lawyer! Patty wasn’t just my lawyer, she became my friend and gave me so much support and today I can said that I’m a strong woman. Thank you Patty.. Fly with the wind...
Read more
24 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
My husband and I recently worked with Patty and were thoroughly impressed. She was very honest with us and informed us of possible issues as they arose. We felt secure knowing that we were given a realistic view of our chance of success so that we could prepare ourselves for all potential outcomes.
We also felt very confident in Patty's abilities. She is clearly knowledgeable, listens well, has valuable connections, and is compassionate. She has great response time as well!
Patty Tumarkin is a an excellent choice for a family law lawyer! We would definitely work with her again. Thank you, Patty!
Read more
31 Jul, 2017 by Sabrina
Nicole Burns was my divorce attorney. I was scared and unsure as how to proceed during that difficult time. From the initial meeting through the final steps she was competent and caring. She was extremely knowledgeable regarding what I was and was not entitled to and explained them until I understood everything clearly. She was patient and answered every question I had. Nicole made me feel empowered and helped me maintain a positive attitude during a time of uncertainty and sadness.
She never once made me feel like a budren even when I asked a million questions, emailed or even called her. She was professional, kept in constant contact with me and was always punctual.
Mediation was a breeze with Nicole by my side. She was kind to my ex husband, yet fair, and made sure I received what we had previously discussed.
During the court process she was there early to make sure I was prepared by answering any last minute questions and by explaining in detail, what was to come. I felt very reassured and confident entering the final hearing.
I would HIGHLY recommend her to anyone needing a superior attorney. She was phenomenal!
Read more
07 Jun, 2017 by Sasha
In search for a divorce lawyer I contacted several in my local area. They all quoted me a flat rate and none invited me to their office for a free consultation. That was until I called Nicole Burns. She listened to my situation on the phone and asked me if I had time that very day to come in for a free consultation!!! She was even more compassionate in person and we started the process right away. Within a month I was divorced and ready to start my new life. Nicole Burns was efficient, understanding, and by far the best divorce lawyer I could have ever hired.
Read more
26 May, 2017 by Flavia
I highly recommend Ms.Burns;she took over my case after two other attorneys didn't represent me and my child best interests.
She has been honest, patient, easy to talk with, knowledgeable of the law and always return calls,emails,etc... she is great listener and gives excellent advice. After 1 year and 1/2 struggle in every sense,this issue was the worse time in my life but despite that, she calmed me down and made me feel confident that in this world, there are still honest professionals with much integrity.
Read more
05 Mar, 2020 by Carol
Marie really helped me through a tough divorce and child support case. At times I did not think it would end but she helped me every step of the way. Her staff is amazing and always answered my emails or calls. It was an emotional time but she did everything it took to help me and my kids.
Read more
31 Jan, 2020 by Leann
I had a difficult case and she helped me through it. She kept me informed during the entire process. She was honest and extremely knowledgeable. I also liked how she was aggressive and fought for me.
Read more
30 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
Morgan has hands down been the best family attorney I have had the pleasure of working with. Divorce can be ugly, messy & just down right unpleasant to deal with.
I have been fortunate enough In this difficult time to find such a diligent, amazing attorney within this practice.
Morgan has always put my children first & went above in beyond in making sure things continue to flow smoothly within the process.
She always communicates in a timely professional manner, I’m never left with unanswered questions.
Morgan is very knowledgeable In her areas of practice & fights for what is right.
Iam writing this review, knowing someone out there is looking for an attorney such as Morgan. I’m here to let you know, this is the right choice.
If you’re looking for the best, look no further you’ve found it right here.
Read more
20 Oct, 2015 by Ruben ramos
By far the best firm in Oceloa County, very professional caring and helpful, if you need an excellent attorney you found her in Mrs Weinberger!!!
Read more
25 May, 2021 by Migueld’angelo
Thank you for taking the time toreview my case and help me win my case I will always recommend you to anybody who needs a good lawyer and an honest lawyer Lina thank you very much for your help and your time to explain everything to me
Read more
02 Jul, 2017 by Johnny
Suggested reviewing and updating my moms outdated will. Very attentive and shows that he cares about helping. Was able to speak to my spanish speaking elderly mother which made her comfortable when dealing with these issues.
Read more
30 Oct, 2021 by David
She always on time even before me I came frim Connecticut to Florida and she resulted one of my problems and for the other problem I have she won't charge more money.
Thanks from David vazquez and Wilma Ortiz
Read more
24 Sep, 2014 by Al
She was amazing! Made me feel secure since the beginning and made a miracle happen with my case.
Thank you Mrs. DeFlora!
Read more
19 Oct, 2021 by Christopher
My lawyer filed a I-130 and a I-485 petition and everything was a success and she was well prepared.
Read more
07 Jan, 2017 by Raj
He really knew his stuff, paid attention to detail and put me first. I ended up not having to go forward with my case, so I only spoke with him for a consultation, but he was impressive. I'd definitely hire him.
Read more
14 Aug, 2024 by Aida medina
07 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Very amazing at his work. The best at his work! I would definitely refer him for Osceola County related issues as that is where our lawyer/client relationship was involved. He'll pull rabbits out of a hat like magicians. Like that kind of legal service.
Read more
27 Jun, 2024 by Mary eldridge
Was so pleased with the service from day one. Appreciated their patience and commitment to be of help. I will highly recommend them in the future. Thanks to everyone on staff that contributed to making my experience a good one.
Read more
29 Jan, 2024 by Napoleon galit
Atty Shawn has been very courteous on helping me on my divorce. Especialy he gave me some educational advice that will help me for my divorce. Thank you very much Atty Shawn
Read more
20 Jan, 2024 by Tay
Wow! Where do I start? When life hits you with unexpected obstacles and challenges have to navigate and maneuver through them! Mine came when I went through an unexpected Divorce! With being so young, I didn’t know what to do or how to do it, but with a quick Google Search, I found Shawn! An AMAZING, PROFESSIONAL and TALENTED guy! He made this scary process easy, quick and comfortable. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!! Our whole process only took 2 months because he hit the ground running and got everything done so efficiently!! It’s amazing to see how talented some people are in their field of work. If you’re looking for a lawyer that’s passionate, dedicated and committed? Shawn is the GUY!
Thank you, Shawn!
Read more
05 Dec, 2023 by Brian bouta
Another law office recommended Mr. Hungate. He navigated communications with the State Attorney, knowing when and how to push and not to push, until finally the charges were dropped. It was a glorious day when Shawn called to deliver the news. And we’re very grateful to him.
Read more
09 Sep, 2024 by Esmeralda cruz
17 Aug, 2023 by Shena carty
The best attorney, ever!!
Read more
11 Jul, 2023 by Joseline ayala calix
Amazing service 100% recommended
Read more
23 Sep, 2024 by Ted nass
Carlos is authentic and dedicated to helping his people. He is always there to answer my questions and help me out. To have someone who always has your back is invaluable. Thank you so much Carlos.
Read more
03 Sep, 2024 by Manuel reyes
Knowledgeable attorney, awsome customer service, accessible and quick response time. Highly recommended.
Read more
17 Jul, 2024 by Dariana conesa
On behalf of Felix Casillas, my experience with Melendez Law office has been the most comfortable process and there are not enough words to express my gratitude. I would recommend this office to anybody no matter what case you are facing. Mr Melendez made everything easy for me to understand and brought me outstanding information in a matter of days. The outcome of my case was better than what I was expecting. The cost was very competitive they beat every other quote I received while continuing to raise the bar above other competitors I am truly grateful for everything their law office has done for me. 1000% Highly recommended
Read more
23 Sep, 2024 by Ted nass
Carlos is authentic and dedicated to helping his people. He is always there to answer my questions and help me out. To have someone who always has your back is invaluable. Thank you so much Carlos.
Read more
03 Sep, 2024 by Manuel reyes
Knowledgeable attorney, awsome customer service, accessible and quick response time. Highly recommended.
Read more
17 Jul, 2024 by Dariana conesa
On behalf of Felix Casillas, my experience with Melendez Law office has been the most comfortable process and there are not enough words to express my gratitude. I would recommend this office to anybody no matter what case you are facing. Mr Melendez made everything easy for me to understand and brought me outstanding information in a matter of days. The outcome of my case was better than what I was expecting. The cost was very competitive they beat every other quote I received while continuing to raise the bar above other competitors I am truly grateful for everything their law office has done for me. 1000% Highly recommended
Read more
28 Jul, 2024 by Sylvia laboy
Mr.Blanco takes the time to explain and will call you when ever is necessary to keep moving with the case, thank you Mr.Blanco
Read more
20 May, 2024 by Brian schramm
14 May, 2024 by Painkiller
BELIEVE THE REVIEWS ON THIS GENTLEMAN! I have had the pleasure of utilizing one of the top Attorney's in the world, the famous Donald A. Lykkebak, for the past 33 years. He is retired and I never felt really comfortable with other Attorney's because after having one of the very best, top 100 Attorney's in the nation ~~ well let me just say that others just do not meet the high standard... So I know exactly what excellency looks like in this type of practice in law.
Mr. Blanco is one of the rare Attorney's that meet this very high standard. From the very beginning I could tell right away that this guy means business in the Court of Law. The communication on the case was always prompt. Discovery material was quickly relayed to me and Mr. Blanco strongly requested feedback. What really impressed me was the skills this gentleman displays in the courtroom. His political skills were astounding as you could easily recognize that this Man was very well favored and respected by Judges and Prosecutors. I cannot express how important that particular aspect goes hand-in-hand with law technical skills.
Here I am gearing-up for a full blown, stressful trial and when you least expect it, Mr. Blanco had all my charges dropped by skillfully negotiating with the Prosecutor as to why it would be in the best interest for the State not to proceed and save Judicial Resources.
Mr. Blanco is seems to live for this type of work and environment. You can see the passion at every level. And this is exactly the type of skilled professional you want in your corner fighting for you when when your liberty and life is at stake.
Everything from the skills I mentioned above to the way Mr. Blanco set up his website has his pedigree of professionalism.
Thank you Lazaro Blanco and may your life and Family be abundantly blessed the way you have blessed my Family and I.
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by Marisol albino
I’m very pleased with the service I got not only from the lawyer Mr Draper but the office staff is awesome the communication I got all the time from this office and lawyer was awesome they are very thorough with ur case and they keep u updated with ur case I definitely recommend the lawyer they are all great at this office thank u again to all
Read more
24 Sep, 2024 by Kadesha frett
The staff at the practice are very nice and helpful. Mr. Draper is very knowledgeable, and genuinely cares about his clients
Read more
19 Sep, 2024 by Teresa johnson
20 Feb, 2024 by Wynna lugtu
After being referred to this agency by the Florida Bar Lawyer Referral Agency I connected with Attorney Carpenter and he did a fantastic job at addressing my concerns and answering my questions regarding my case. I have yet to retain his services due to the circumstances of my case, but will happily do so considering that he was knowledgeable and confident in review of my case.
Additionally, I will add, his rates seem very fair.
Read more
28 Jan, 2024 by Ashley andrews
28 Jan, 2024 by Jacob odell
18 May, 2024 by David anaya
06 Nov, 2023 by Chey
Great law firm!!! From the greetings to the defense. Salazar is awesome. Sharp lawyer with years of experience and a great report with the court system. Just hire them you won’t regret it!
Read more
25 Jun, 2023 by Lourdes rodriguez
No me contestaron
Read more
07 Nov, 2024 by Jenna jones
I heard good things from a former client but have not had a good experience recently. It has been over 3 months and still waiting on getting a judges order filed. There has also been a huge lack of communication since the hearing and I have called several times to follow up as well as sent messages asking for updates that were not responded to. (Jenna Powell is my current name as a client with them)
Read more
06 Nov, 2024 by Manny kaccino
Hands down the best!!!
10🫡J🫡Q🫡K🫡A🫡
Read more
28 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Dependable and Professional Family Lawyer
I cannot speak highly enough of Mrs.Michele A. Lebron and their exceptional legal services. From the moment I sought their assistance, they demonstrated unwavering professionalism and dedication to my case Mrs.Michele A. Lebron Exhibited a profound understanding of family law, providing insightful guidance and clear explanations throughout the entire legal process. Their expertise instilled confidence in me during what could have been a daunting experience.Communication was seamless and efficient, with Mrs.Michele A. Lebron promptly addressing any concerns or questions I had. They were always accessible, ensuring I felt supported and informed every step of the way.Not only did Mrs.Michele A. Lebron handle my case with expertise, but they also showed genuine compassion and empathy, understanding the sensitive nature of family matters. Their ability to navigate complex emotions while remaining focused on legal strategies was truly commendable.
Thanks to Mrs.Michele A. Lebron, I achieved a favorable outcome that exceeded my expectations. I wholeheartedly recommend Mrs.Michele A. Lebron and staff to anyone in need of a reliable and compassionate family lawyer. They are truly a standout professional in their field.
Read more
30 May, 2018 by Josette
MY FIANCÉ AND I HIRED ATTORNEY SANCHEZ AFTER BEING REFERRED TO HER FROM A FORMER CLIENT. I MUST SAY ATTY SANCHEZ STAYED TRUE TO HER WORD AND SHE FOUGHT FOR US. SHE WAS EASY TO COMMUNICATE WITH AND RESPONDED IMMEDIATELY TO ANY QUESTION OR CONCERNS WE HAD. I WOULD REFER TO ANYONE BECAUSE SHE IS WORTH IT. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICES ATTY SANCHEZ
Read more
30 Dec, 2016 by Joel
She helped me with my case and I was extremely happy with her professionalism.
Always had a smile and reassured me that she will do everything in her power to help me. I recommend her to anyone that asks for help with "special" divorce cases.
Read more
09 Nov, 2015 by Stacie
Kristin did a amazing job!! I was very impressed with the amount of homework she does on the person your going against. We won our case but every step of the way she would call or email me whenever I needed anything. She was very honest and well organized. During the time we worked on my case she even emailed me back late at night or the weekends to get us thought to our victory!! If I ever need a lawyer again, I would call her first!!!
Read more
09 Oct, 2024 by Rochio acat
Lack of honesty, knowledge, experience and ethics, just to mention a few. It’s interesting how some friends and employees post good reviews for him, and my previous review was deleted. Abandoned my paternity case after filed many wrong pleadings and motions, presented frivolous demands, lied in court and didn’t follow and comply with the due process in my divorce. I hope He will be investigated and sanctioned for misconducts and neglect behavior by the Florida Bar.
Read more
04 Oct, 2024 by Tyler spence
Joe and his staff are great, friendly, fight for their clients and go above and beyond. I highly recommend this firm
Read more
04 Oct, 2024 by Meuris cuenca
Don't spend your money on this very irresponsible terrible lawyer. He is been reported many times for malpractice and unethical behavior in the Florida bar, and now may be under investigation for some illegal practices. You will lose your deposit and will end up with no representation in court. Do not hire him. this is an attorney you CAN'T TRUST.
Read more
06 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Honestly, I am very disappointed in this lawyer would never recommend her to anyone. She never answer the phone. return message or phone call and email she did immigration work for me and my husband and did not fill the paper out correct and we paid her….now we’re calling her for help no respond …. We have to go pay someone else more money . She’s not a nice person…..
Read more
17 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Excellent lawyer !! Would definitely recommend her to anyone..thank you so much!
Read more
14 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Krystal was a great advocate in my divorce. She listened and was clear with me on my options, even if I did not like some of the possible outcomes.
Read more
03 May, 2023 by V
Promesas nada mas. Despues de dos años no saque nada. No pienso que sea un desastre sino que no hace bien su trabajo
Read more
11 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
I will write reviews everyday until this loses attorney withdraws. You can't call this attorney. Or he will block you. You can't ask questions or he will block you. And he refuses to communicate. He needs a new profession. In all my years I've never seen such a distasteful attorney. He should be disbarred. Beware! He will not work for you. He's known to be appointed counsel from the court. He takes the money from the state to represent cases and will do nothing for you. He is representing several court appointed cases in orange county and one in specific he has sat on the case for 7 months and never has seen his client or filed on motion or a bond hearing. His clients are sitting in jail and he's refusing to do anything for them. He should be disbarred for being so incompetent!
Read more
22 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
En mayo del 2020 comencé un caso de divorcio con este señor, tuvo mi caso por 2 años y tres meses, y lo único que hizo por mi fue; tomar mi dinero, ignorar mis llamadas, y hacer que yo me sintiera la persona más impotente del mundo. Si estás buscando un abogado que te represente y haga valer tus derechos, créeme q este no es el indicado, la comunicación con el es una pesadilla, yo lo llamaba de mi número y no respondía, lo llamaba con otro número y contestaba, era siempre una excusa tras otra, al final que estuvo manipulando mi caso como quiso sin darme resultados, me renunció al caso y muy poco profesional; lo hizo por mensaje de texto, dando razones muy poco válidas, se lavo las manos como Pilato, se quedó con mi dinero y me hizo perder 2 años y 3 meses de mi tiempo. Ahora estoy buscando abogado, gastando más dinero y èl como si no hubiera pasado nada. Estás son las cosas que hacen a uno dudar de la justicia y las q Florida Bar debería auditar.
Read more
06 May, 2022 by Ihab
Mrs Weinberger is a great person and a great lawyer. She got me out of a nasty divorce, she is very professional, honest and weighs a lot in court, she is a tiger in front of judges and is also very diplomatic. Mrs Weinberger is very trustworthy and better than any lawyer I dealt with. I strongly recommend her, she has a lot of experience and can be trusted with your case, she knows the sequence of events and takes very balanced decisions, which saves your guesses. She is very understanding and a pleasure to work with. I also appreciate Theresa and Kathy, overall a great team
Read more
08 May, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Julie for my divorce, but after repeated issues, I decided to fire her. She had memory problems swearing we'd never discussed something that we talked about at length two days before. Very hard to get appointments. Very slow. Doesn't use a computer at all. (When I used her around 2013, she literally had her staff print her emails and put them in a stack on her desk!). You can imagine how these cause things to slip through the cracks, communication errors, dropping the ball on issues, etc).
Read more
01 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Excellent service from start to finish.
Very knowledgeable and very kind.
Always kept me updated with progress of the case.
Five stars to Julie and the Weinberger Law Firm!!!
Read more
15 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired her to handle my case. It was the worst decision in lawyers ever. This was a first divorce for me and a long time marriage ending. It was supposed to be easy as we were in agreement as we split. The ex was told to get his own lawyer because the paralegal suggested he was getting screwed over. This led to a giant fight and legal expenses that she benefitted from. I was overbilled for emails that were never answered and an hour minimum to just ask a question. The The entire staff was rude and refused to answer questions. I was belittled and scolded for asking anything. I was told we were going to trial then told I needed to settle and my expectations were outrageous. The terms were the ones she designed in the beginning. I didn't suggest anything. I was left to defend myself during mediation and it was the most stressful process I have ever been through. Worst service, and the follow up paperwork was so messed up that the child support stopped due to a typo in her forms filed which lead to more fighting and unnecessary conflict by all parties. FIND SOMEONE ELSE
Read more
03 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
Was the rudest woman i have ever encountered. Very sexist towards men and very unprofessional when it comes to asking for advise.
Read 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:
-
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.
