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15 Nov, 2024 by Yvette castillo
Great experience with The Sexton Law Firm. I wanted a trust. Initially, I had a zoom meeting with Andrew, he answered all the questions I had at that time and was very friendly and patient. He then provided me with a packet I needed to complete. A few weeks later, I scheduled an in person appointment to sign off on all the documents. He told me in advance the cost of the processing fees, which was accurate. The office staff were friendly, welcoming and kind. Britni, the notary, also explained to me what I would be signing and provided me with instructions regarding who should be informed of the trust such as the bank etc… She was informative and answered all my questions. Both Andrew and Britni availed themselves should i have follow up questions. Overall it was a good, considering i was new to this experience. I’m not familiar with legal terms so they explained in layman’s terms. I would use this office again.
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14 Nov, 2024 by Daisy varbanova
I had an exceptional experience with East County Estate Planning, PC, and I can’t recommend them highly enough! The customer service was fantastic from start to finish, and I felt genuinely valued as a client. Andrew Sexton, one of the firm's partners, assisted me with my legal matters, and he exceeded all my expectations. He was incredibly knowledgeable and provided excellent advice that really showed his expertise and experience in estate planning.
Andrew is someone you can trust, which is so important in matters like these. He took the time to understand my situation, patiently answered all my questions, and always acted with my best interest in mind. It was clear to me that he truly cares about his clients and wants to make sure they feel secure and informed. I walked away feeling confident and well taken care of. If you need someone who is both professional and genuinely compassionate, I highly recommend East County Estate Planning, PC, and especially Andrew Sexton.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Donna luna de la fuente
06 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
Mrs James is an awesome person and excellent professional. Helped me with the dependency case . So trusting and understanding.
Thanks for all you did for me and my family
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03 Aug, 2023 by Emilio bravo
Excellent Service.
Thank you for all the great service, help & support with our family needs .
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22 Jan, 2022 by Bryce kittson
Kelley and her team are unmatched in knowledge, experience and professionalism!
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08 Jun, 2024 by Bridget gonzalez
Great job
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06 Jun, 2024 by J g
What could easily have been the most challenging times of my life wasn’t thanks to services provided by Eric and Blanca.
I was 3 months into a separation that led to a child custody case when I suffered an injury at work. Initially I was diagnosed with a contusion by Concentra, the clinic working for my employer, I was given Tylenol and released back to work. Anxiety took hold of me like never before. In one hand, the only thing in life I knew to do was work, thinking I have no choice but to return due to the expenses of my child custody case. On the other hand, I knew there was something wrong, so much more than a “contusion,” and I have a responsibility to keep myself healthy for my son/daughter. Days after I was referred to Eric Gritz, I made the call and kept my appointment. Soon after (one week or so) I began to receive temporary disability payouts from my employers insurance company and was referred to doctors who had my best interest in mind (turns out I had fractures in my lumbar). Thanks to Eric and Blanca I was able to focus on my recovery and remained financially stable to support my family and child custody case (in which I was granted custody of my children).
Needless to say, I recommend you call.
I did, nothing went wrong and there could have been no better outcome for my situation. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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16 May, 2024 by Glenn burton
Eric and his team were absolutely terrific to work with. I found them all to be very responsive to my questions and concerns. They reached out when appropriate and did a great job of managing my expectations throughout the process. I would highly recommend Eric and his team!
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15 May, 2024 by Dylan benke
31 Jan, 2024 by Julieta ramirez
I called other law office no help .garmo&garmo help me over the phone they where so helpful. Highly so happy i called them i recommend great service. Thank you.
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15 Dec, 2023 by Jakleen khammo
I was very happy with the services I received from Freddy Garmo and Matt Sheena. They helped me create my estate plan and protect my family for the future. I would highly recommend these lawyers to anyone who needs these types of services.
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15 Nov, 2024 by Yvette castillo
Great experience with The Sexton Law Firm. I wanted a trust. Initially, I had a zoom meeting with Andrew, he answered all the questions I had at that time and was very friendly and patient. He then provided me with a packet I needed to complete. A few weeks later, I scheduled an in person appointment to sign off on all the documents. He told me in advance the cost of the processing fees, which was accurate. The office staff were friendly, welcoming and kind. Britni, the notary, also explained to me what I would be signing and provided me with instructions regarding who should be informed of the trust such as the bank etc… She was informative and answered all my questions. Both Andrew and Britni availed themselves should i have follow up questions. Overall it was a good, considering i was new to this experience. I’m not familiar with legal terms so they explained in layman’s terms. I would use this office again.
Read more
14 Nov, 2024 by Daisy varbanova
I had an exceptional experience with East County Estate Planning, PC, and I can’t recommend them highly enough! The customer service was fantastic from start to finish, and I felt genuinely valued as a client. Andrew Sexton, one of the firm's partners, assisted me with my legal matters, and he exceeded all my expectations. He was incredibly knowledgeable and provided excellent advice that really showed his expertise and experience in estate planning.
Andrew is someone you can trust, which is so important in matters like these. He took the time to understand my situation, patiently answered all my questions, and always acted with my best interest in mind. It was clear to me that he truly cares about his clients and wants to make sure they feel secure and informed. I walked away feeling confident and well taken care of. If you need someone who is both professional and genuinely compassionate, I highly recommend East County Estate Planning, PC, and especially Andrew Sexton.
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08 Oct, 2024 by Donna luna de la fuente
03 Oct, 2024 by Surya mackenna
Lauren Fair has been an incredible advocate for my children and I as my attorney. Having her representation gave me immediate peace of mind and security during the most difficult times. Lauren is so very experienced and knowledgeable in her work and also the realities of the flawed family court system. She always took time to explain and respond to me and made me feel supported and understood while giving me valuable information and expectations for the outcome. Additionally, she is incredibly compassionate, understanding and patient too. In Lauren Fair I found an ally and a super intelligent, calm, honest, and ultra competent representative. Additionally, her office is full of genuinely kind, whip smart and helpful people; Alex, Jorah, and Samantha are amazing. Divorce, custody and support issues are very stressful and difficult to navigate and Lauren Fair and her team are truly the best and I highly recommend.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Max deplorable
My experience with Mr. Cadora was about 10 years ago but I am still smarting . On a positive note when I needed a copy of the divorce that I got during my time with him his receptionist sent it to me. This was about 2 years ago. Thanks to that kind receptionist.
That was nice! How good is Kevin Cadora? Well I've never used a divorce attorney before but the experience was a six month nightmare due more to my wife's attorney who lied like a rug than Mr. Cadora . My ex lied on the declaration. I remember his paralegal at the time Heather said "Kevin is great on dealing with lies of the opposition" and my wife's lie's ruled the day.
I got keel hauled I feel in the end It might have been the pre nup before I got married. Pay up and get a killer one. Because Mr. Cadora might have done his best with a horrible pre-nup. I'd say this review is more about the prenup than anything. If you have assets pay $5,000 or whatever it takes to keep the Roman Legions from breaking it down.
My pre-nup was done by some guy named Courtney in Springfield Mo and it turned out to be worthless. Yes my wife lied but shouldn't a prenup protect you against lies? And if you are divorcing someone and want blood use a ruthless brutal lying attorney like my wife used. I may be juding Fair Cadora too harshly. I mean if your wife lies, she's poor and you have money you're in real jeoprady. In short GO OVERBOARD ON THE PRE-NUP.
Kevin Cadora seems honest and if anything he's got a lot of clients because he must be good and well recommended. If you get married PROTECT YOURSELF because your spouse can lie like a rug. Mine did and I paid for it. Even if you have a GREAT attorney ( Maybe Cadora is great) dont be cheap on the Pre-nup
ADDENDUM. If you get married in a state like Missouri where I got married, DO NOT TAKE YOUR SPOUSE TO CALIFORNIA IF YOUR MARRIAGE IS NOT HEALTHY. The California legal system is horrible. The whole system stinks like a cess pool. Again I am NOT saying terrible things about Mr. Cadora. He did his best. But in California, at least in San Diego, they don't seem to care a rat's butt about the truth. I can NOT figure out why they don't use polygraph tests there?? I mean had my wife had one she would have gone down like the Titanic. I think had I been in Missouri (where I got married) and NOT in California (where I got divorced) I would have been OK. But heaven help you if YOU have assets in Cali and your spouse doesn't. You could be in for a torturous procedure.
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25 Jun, 2024 by Elisa rodriquez
Attorney Smolina was extremely helpful and so knowledgeable about what to expect and how to proceed in Family Court. Elena helped me defend against a restraining order and custody situation. She helped me every step of the way, and we prevailed. I highly recommend Attorney Elena Smolina for your family court needs
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02 Nov, 2024 by Anonymous
Elena was an amazing lawyer and helped finally bring my divorce to an end. She was thorough, very patient knowledgeable.
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17 Oct, 2024 by Maja
Elena was professional, knowledgeable and very helpful. She is a strong attorney that will help you fight your hardest battle.
I highly recommend Elena Smolina
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25 Jun, 2024 by Elisa
Elena was extremely helpful and so knowledgeable about what to expect and how to proceed. Elena helped me defend against a restraining order and custody situation. She helped me every step of the way, and we prevailed. I highly recommend Attorney Elena Smolina for your family court needs.
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01 Apr, 2022 by Erika
6 Year Divorce War… I could only afford Mr. Freed for a couple of years. He would probably kill me for saying this… He continued to support me when I had a questions for the following 3 years while I went to trial. I won! I would not have won without his help. Over the course of the last 6 years The attorneys I have opposed have been some of the most vial human beings. He would have taken them all. The best part is that he’s got tremendous heart. He wins with the heart of a lion instead of the trickery of a jackal. Although I’m sure if needed, he could muster up plenty of the latter as well.
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26 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
I endorse the Law Offices of Richard G. Freed, based on the excellent legal representation they provided me in a
very contentious divorce case in 2019. This attorney did everything possible to avoid protracted litigation, but
when it was not possible, he was able to achieve extremely favorable results for me on all disputed issue. I am
extremely grateful and impressed with this Firm and will recommend Mr. Freed to colleagues, friends and family
members in need of a tiger who can walk each client safely thru the jungle of family court proceedings.
My case could have easily ended with disastrous results regarding child custody (involving our special needs
infant); business valuation, income assessment, alleged breach of fiduciary duties, attorney fees and sanction
requests, child and spousal support, against the backdrop of exhaustive discovery demands. Even before the
divorce case began, there were restraining orders filed by both sides on the same day. Before hiring Mr. Freed,
my family was denied access to my son, and I was not allowed to have him overnight or bring him to my home. It
took months to get to the bottom of the false claims against me, and today he spends every weekend with me and a
large loving family.
Mr. Freed knew how to handle the false allegations against me and I have the exact custody and visitation
schedule that works best for my son. Mr. Freed advised me through every stage of the court case. He made
helpful suggestions on parenting and the things I needed to do as a new Dad. Mr. Freed helped me set goals that
would prove useful at trial, and demonstrate that I was a fit and proper parent to be awarded or share custody of
our toddler. Mr. Freed disposed of the restraining orders, he filed my divorce and moved the case along with
confidence. This attorney and his terrific staff were there for me every step of the way, instilling confidence, trust
and sound advice always encouraging me to do the right thing to best protect my interests and ensuring my ex
and her attorneys were not able to bully me no matter how much they tried.
New clients know right away that this attorney is a very capable advocate. He brings nearly three decades of
experience to the courtroom, along with an organized, well reasoned, logical, and effective oral argument when
in court and during negotiation skills out of court. The Law Offices of Richard G. Freed offer serious, no-
nonsense, result oriented family law support on all types of cases in San Diego County for select clientele. If
your case demands the services of a proven winner, equipped with all the tools needed to get the job done, why
take chances? For me, it was one of the most stressful events in my life, and I could have easily lost everything I
worked so hard for all these years. I suggest you strongly call the Law Offices of Richard G. Freed to find out
why this Firm seems to be different from the rest.
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15 Jun, 2018 by Karen
Richard G. Freed was my divorce lawyer in 2010. He did a great job and I couldn't have been more satisfied with his work!!
Richard was calm, well prepared and a gentleman in the office. His legal skills are cutting edge and his demeanor is confident but not arrogant. He cut through the red tape in court like a surgeon. I always felt like he was looking after my best interests. The case ended and I said thank you. Seven years later it became necessary for me to hire Richard again. My ex had not removed my name from our house loan or paid his half of our bills. Richard filed paperwork to enforce the Judgment but never had to argue the case in court because he was able to negotiate with my ex who agreed to sign an Agreement in Richard's office. Despite the divorce I get along with my ex and did not want to fight him in court. Our family were all watching and they worried about us. I never wanted any problems with my ex but was willing to go to court if necessary.
I was grateful and relieved the case was settled and I would not hesitate to hire Richard in the future if the need arises.
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31 May, 2012 by Sherijoy
Finding Patrick McCrary was like hitting a home run for me. There is no one better to represent you in court, and guide you to the best outcome possible. Attorney McCrary is passionate about his work and goes above and beyond for his clients. I was blessed to work with him in an extremely difficult, high conflict case. Mr. McCrary was well versed in the Court system, and very effective in the courtroom. I cannot thank him and his staff enough for everything they did for me and my son.
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12 Feb, 2011 by Jackie
I've been trying to get child support for 8 years through the California courts. I was recommended to Pat McCrary and he succeeded very quickly to an order for all the back plus getting current payment obligations set up. I am so grateful and I highly recommend him. Very courteous and professional and extremely smart.
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27 Sep, 2013 by Kat bert
I found this attorney to be very helpful. I didn't know how to navigate the system after being in a car crash and everybody told me it would take months to a year to settle and he took care of my needs in a very timely and satisfactory manner. The letter he wrote was clear and concise and did the trick! The advise he gave was spot on and he never made me feel stupid because I didn't know the lingo. I highly recommend Alan. Hopefully, I will never have to, but if I needed a lawyer again, it would be him.
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08 Jun, 2024 by Bridget gonzalez
Great job
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06 Jun, 2024 by J g
What could easily have been the most challenging times of my life wasn’t thanks to services provided by Eric and Blanca.
I was 3 months into a separation that led to a child custody case when I suffered an injury at work. Initially I was diagnosed with a contusion by Concentra, the clinic working for my employer, I was given Tylenol and released back to work. Anxiety took hold of me like never before. In one hand, the only thing in life I knew to do was work, thinking I have no choice but to return due to the expenses of my child custody case. On the other hand, I knew there was something wrong, so much more than a “contusion,” and I have a responsibility to keep myself healthy for my son/daughter. Days after I was referred to Eric Gritz, I made the call and kept my appointment. Soon after (one week or so) I began to receive temporary disability payouts from my employers insurance company and was referred to doctors who had my best interest in mind (turns out I had fractures in my lumbar). Thanks to Eric and Blanca I was able to focus on my recovery and remained financially stable to support my family and child custody case (in which I was granted custody of my children).
Needless to say, I recommend you call.
I did, nothing went wrong and there could have been no better outcome for my situation. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Read more
16 May, 2024 by Glenn burton
Eric and his team were absolutely terrific to work with. I found them all to be very responsive to my questions and concerns. They reached out when appropriate and did a great job of managing my expectations throughout the process. I would highly recommend Eric and his team!
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02 Dec, 2016 by Michael
Attorney Rogelio Lopez has been my lawyer of choice since about 2006. I have retained his firm and his representation on various family law matter. When other lawyers failed me, Mr. Lopez was there to clean the mess up and prevail on the issues and properly represent the facts. Superb, outstanding, ethical, and friendly! I can go on and on as to how much I trust Mr. Lopez to fully represent my and my children's interests. I most strongly recommend his legal expertise and representation should you are shopping around for an excellent family law attorney!
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15 May, 2024 by Dylan benke
31 Jan, 2024 by Julieta ramirez
I called other law office no help .garmo&garmo help me over the phone they where so helpful. Highly so happy i called them i recommend great service. Thank you.
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15 Dec, 2023 by Jakleen khammo
I was very happy with the services I received from Freddy Garmo and Matt Sheena. They helped me create my estate plan and protect my family for the future. I would highly recommend these lawyers to anyone who needs these types of services.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Marysonn batolina
Attorney Suzuki was phenomenal in assisting us through an extensive process! She had the utmost positive attitude and was very gracious in meeting our needs! She went above and beyond to find a solution to make things happen as this was a unique case.
The law office personnel always showed professionalism and was very responsive when we had any question's or needs.
She should definitely be the first to call if you ever need any help with family law matters!
Thank you, Gen for everything you have done!
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15 Jul, 2024 by Jackson cardenas
Genevieve is a true professional and handled my case firmly but fairly. She set realistic expectations and was always brutally honest with me, even if it wasn’t going in my favor. I hope I don’t need to, but I would 100% use Genevieve again!
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15 Jul, 2024 by Christina nelson
Genevieve is a very compassionate lawyer. She fights tirelessly for her clients. Always taking calls past business hours. Taking calls phone calls on her cell while on vacation even though she gave all her clients a heads up that she was on vacation.
I worked for her and she tirelessly worked for everyone one of her clients even while she cared for her sick mother.
She even helped me personally with my own small claims case even though that’s not in her area of practice.
She is a great lawyer and great person.
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10 Jun, 2024 by Georgie boy
Scott McMillan is generous in the sharing of his knowledge and expertise concerning bankruptcy. He helped to clarify some misconceptions I had about the potential outcome, which alleviated a heavy weight I carried. After speaking with him, I feel I have options despite my circumstances. I'm grateful for his assistance and feel optimistic about my future. I recommend The McMillan Law Firm to anyone undergoing trying financial times.
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10 Jun, 2024 by Elizabeth freebird
Makes no promises but got the job done with minimal expense, under 75k. I understood all the processes and he walked out of court a winner like he said. I'll refer him to anyone any day, great service, nice office, hell get you the results, thank you.
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10 Jun, 2024 by Josh martin
29 May, 2024 by Anonymous
When you are going through divorce hell, having a professional, ethical and compassionate legal team really helps.
Sandra, Jamie and Nicole did their job with extreme professionalism, surgical precision, meticulous organization, empathy and punctuality.
All my questions got answered, concerns understood and addressed and options provided and explained.
Sandra’s services seem pricey, yet it takes her less time to complete tasks and her experience and expertise are second to none. Plus she works with an excellent team, so you don’t always pay Sandra’s rate.
Sandra is calm and collected even under pressure, which helped me to navigate my own emotional turmoil.
Knowing that I was in good hands that I could trust really made a difference when my world was upside down.
Sandra helped me not just to see the light at the end of the tunnel, but also get there in one piece, while she took best care of my interests during the legal battle.
I’m eternally grateful and highly recommend Sandra’s services to everyone looking for a legal expert with a heart, who is well equipped to provide you with the best advice and representation.
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24 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
I worked with Ms Mayberry and was very dissatisfied with her representation. I would highly suggest you look elsewhere. Look at her review on Yelp - that I did not write, but wish I had read prior to retaining her.
Do your homework, it's worth it.
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23 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
I discovered this awesome attorney after being very frustrated by the ineptitude of my initially hired, then fired, attorney. She is a great listener. She was able to take in a plethora of complex issues that my former spouse and I were facing and then methodically and intelligently formulate an excellent plan or approach. She was available on occasion for phone consultation, her location is convenient, her office very comfortable, and her staff is professional. Her billing was timely and accurate. She was also very thoughtful and kind in working with my disability. Absolutely a fabulous person and attorney. I could not have been more pleased.
Any criticism or suggestions? She's very hard-working and often very serious. I did get her to laugh (a little) on occasion--- You'll certainly get your "money's worth" and more than likely accomplish your goals.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Melissa b
Just wanted to share this Family Law attorney's viewpoint about femicide.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Kelsey blanchard
09 Aug, 2024 by Rick parker
20 Dec, 2024 by Melissa b
Just wanted to share this Family Law attorney's viewpoint about femicide.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Kelsey blanchard
09 Aug, 2024 by Rick parker
20 Dec, 2024 by Melissa b
Just wanted to share this Family Law attorney's viewpoint about femicide.
Read more
20 Dec, 2024 by Kelsey blanchard
09 Aug, 2024 by Rick parker
20 Dec, 2024 by Melissa b
Just wanted to share this Family Law attorney's viewpoint about femicide.
Read more
20 Dec, 2024 by Kelsey blanchard
09 Aug, 2024 by Rick parker
20 Dec, 2024 by Melissa b
Just wanted to share this Family Law attorney's viewpoint about femicide.
Read more
20 Dec, 2024 by Kelsey blanchard
09 Aug, 2024 by Rick parker
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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.
