Lawyers map
>65
experienced lawyers
Filter by
11 Dec, 2024 by Javier ortiz
I can’t recommend Mr. Guzman highly enough! I was facing DWI/Felony charges and felt completely overwhelmed, but Mr. Guzman and his staff turned everything around for me. From our first meeting, they were professional, knowledgeable, and empathetic. Mr. Guzman carefully explained all my options, kept me updated throughout the process, and fought tirelessly on my behalf. Thanks to their expertise, my charges were reduced/dismissed, and I can finally move forward with my life. If you’re looking for a skilled and compassionate attorney, Guzman Law Firm is the one to call!
Read more
03 Dec, 2024 by Randy guerra
Highly recommend Javier Guzman hes a great Lawyer. Lylu one of his paralegal was very professional and helpful with everything in my case.
Read more
27 Nov, 2024 by Servando castillo
Highly recommend this law firm. Mr. Guzman and his paralegal Lexi did amazing work. They were very attentive to our needs. Very professional and great customer service skills.
Read more
5.0
9 Reviews
4.9
90 Reviews
22 Oct, 2024 by Yulissa medina
I highly recommend George Altgelt! We are blessed to have chosen Mr. Altgelt as our lawyer. Wonderful staff! A huge thank you to Miss Belen.
Thank you all for your dedication and perseverance with our case.
I’m am so happy with the outcome thanks to you all.
May God bless you all always. ❤️
Read more
09 Oct, 2024 by Brev binas
09 Oct, 2024 by Thomas roberts
Great Atorny overall, with a great team to assist him. Reach out to him if you need a good lawyer that is willing to fight for you. Highly recommend him.
Read more
08 Dec, 2024 by Sandra medeles
The Team at Gonzalez Druker Law Firm is amazing. They handled my case with professionalism and kept me informed every step of the way. I felt supported and valued throughout the entire process. I couldn’t have asked for a better outcome. I am truly grateful! Highly recommend!
Read more
19 Nov, 2024 by Yasmani rodriguez
Una atencion exelente. Escuchan tu situacion, te tratan con mucho respeto y te ayudan en todo lo necesario. La verdad es un exelente equipo
Read more
19 Nov, 2024 by Alberto t munoz
Great service, very professional and courteous staff and attorneys, my wife and I are very satisfied with service rendered to us by Atty. Fernando Garza, thank you all and God bless you.
Read more
12 Feb, 2010 by Roberto
As President of a local law enforcement union, I have had the privilege of working with Mr. Villarreal on many cases involving employment/labor issues. Mr. Villarreal has been very knowledgeable and forthcoming with his opinions and strategies that have resulted in favorable decisions for me and my members. His attention to detail and his quick responsiveness has led us to keep him as our primary attorney for all our needs this including professional and personal matters.
Read more
11 Feb, 2010 by Sergio
Always available; always dependable. Mr. Villareal has been a consumate professional and has co-founded a clearly an up and coming firm in Laredo and South Texas. It should surprise no-one to see the firm as the future leader in Laredo legal services. With my constant travel and multiple interests, I depend on Mr. Villareal for all my activities from personal legal issues to real estate and contractual advise.
Victor is more than my attorney, he is my confidante, adviser and friend.
Read more
11 Feb, 2010 by Jesse
Mr. Villarreal is one of a few rising young lawyers in Laredo. Mr.Villarreal is well organized and does his research and goes above and beyond to find answers to your questions. I trust Mr.Villarreal with my affairs 100%.
Read more
05 Oct, 2015 by Eduard
This firm took my case and went to court. I was happy with the settlement, especially after two other lawyers told me that I didn't have a case because of coverage issues. Mr. Monahan is a great lawyer and his firm is very professional.
Read more
20 Jun, 2022 by Rossy g
20 Sep, 2024 by Maria ramos
Ms. Cindy and Mr. Santos were very helpful during our telephone call. I appreciate their time in providing good legal advice and the deep knowledge that Mr. Santos possesses in his field. Their follow-up, care and professionalism is what makes this review a 5! I know that I would go with them for any of my legal needs in the future! Thank you Ms. Cindy and Mr. Santos! =)
Read more
03 Jul, 2024 by Ab garcia
I recently had the pleasure of working with the Law Offices of Rudy Santos, and I couldn't be more pleased with the services I received. From the moment I reached out to inquire about their legal expertise, I was met with professionalism, courtesy, and a genuine willingness to help.
One of the things that impressed me most about Rudy Santos and staff was their attention to detail. Rudy Santos and his staff took the time to thoroughly explain the legal process to me, ensuring that I had a clear understanding of what to expect. This level of communication was incredibly reassuring and put my mind at ease during what was an incredibly difficult and stressful time for me.
Not only did Rudy Santos have a deep understanding of the law, but he also had a compassionate and empathetic approach to working with me. He and his staff listened attentively to my concerns, answered all of my questions with patience, and offered wise counsel that ultimately led to a successful resolution of my case.
In addition to his legal expertise, Rudy Santos and his staff were also highly responsive. They promptly returned my calls and emails, keeping me informed every step of the way. This level of responsiveness made me feel valued as a client and demonstrated their commitment to providing top-notch service.
Overall, my experience working with the Law Offices of Rudy Santos was nothing short of exceptional. I would highly recommend these services to anyone in need of legal representation. The professionalism, attention to detail, and compassionate approach set them apart from other attorneys, and I am truly grateful for the positive outcome they helped me achieve.
If you are searching for a skilled and dedicated attorney, look no further. His commitment to his clients, expertise in the law, and overall professionalism make this law office a standout choice for legal representation. I am confident that anyone who chooses to work with Rudy Santos will be as satisfied with their services as I was.
Read more
18 Jun, 2024 by Juan aguirre
Rudy, Jessica, and the entire office have been a massive blessing to my family over the course of the last year. They are passionate, motivated, honest, and extremely knowledgeable. I am proud to call Mr. Santos our lawyer, and recommend him to anyone who requires his services. He is not the cheapest, but from my experience, he is the best and most reasonably priced for the caliber of individuals in his office. They have made this entire process run smoothly, with not only a goal but a plan and mission mentality. If you have to fight someone in the courts. Get someone with teeth and brains. Get Rudy Santos if you want the best. 👍 👌
Read more
23 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
THIS LAWYER IS VERY TRUSTWORTHY, SHE HAVE MY IMMIGRATION CASE, I HAVE RESULTS VERY, VERY FAST, ALSO YOU CAN COUNT WITH HER ANYTIME, NOT LIKE OTHERS THAT NEVER ANSWER THE PHONE OR HAVE AN EXTRA FEE FOR A TINY QUESTION.
Read more
06 Nov, 2024 by Juan
Guy fb high by guy huh he guy g g g fb I g hi guy g fb gf go if g h gov guy yuu guy tu tu ur guygg
Read more
20 May, 2024 by Pablo noralez
08 Apr, 2024 by Cecilia guzman
Mr. Arce helped me out with a difficult child support custody matter. He listened and gave me advice to all the options available I could have. He is trustworthy and sincere. Highly recommend him!
Read more
06 Apr, 2024 by Ignacio valverde iii
Mr. Arce is by far the best Attorney I have ever worked with. He treated me with the utmost respect, kindness and he listened to everything I had to say. I never felt rushed through any part of the process and his attention to detail is unlike any I’ve ever seen. The naturally stressful situations that occur with any part of any legal process are very difficult for most people to deal with, but Mr. Arce greatly helped to keep me informed and gave me peace of mind throughout the entire process. If you’re looking for a genuinely great attorney who keeps integrity and your best interests as top priorities on their list, look no further than Mr. Arce.
Read more
20 May, 2024 by Pablo noralez
08 Apr, 2024 by Cecilia guzman
Mr. Arce helped me out with a difficult child support custody matter. He listened and gave me advice to all the options available I could have. He is trustworthy and sincere. Highly recommend him!
Read more
06 Apr, 2024 by Ignacio valverde iii
Mr. Arce is by far the best Attorney I have ever worked with. He treated me with the utmost respect, kindness and he listened to everything I had to say. I never felt rushed through any part of the process and his attention to detail is unlike any I’ve ever seen. The naturally stressful situations that occur with any part of any legal process are very difficult for most people to deal with, but Mr. Arce greatly helped to keep me informed and gave me peace of mind throughout the entire process. If you’re looking for a genuinely great attorney who keeps integrity and your best interests as top priorities on their list, look no further than Mr. Arce.
Read more
12 Jan, 2022 by Liza jaramillo
13 Dec, 2019 by Hector esquivel
Exelente persona y servicio ella fue abogada de mis hijos tiempo atras y fue muy buen servicio al colaborar con mi abogado
Read more
28 Aug, 2017 by Jesse mattox
I've used this firm twice. Each time I've had productive conversations with Edward about how he could help me with my current legal situations. He is reasonable with his fees, and he is willing to have a conversation with you about his services without charging an arm and a leg. He is affordable, fair and knowledgeable. I highly recommend this firm as an option in your legal fights.
Read more
22 Oct, 2024 by Yulissa medina
I highly recommend George Altgelt! We are blessed to have chosen Mr. Altgelt as our lawyer. Wonderful staff! A huge thank you to Miss Belen.
Thank you all for your dedication and perseverance with our case.
I’m am so happy with the outcome thanks to you all.
May God bless you all always. ❤️
Read more
09 Oct, 2024 by Brev binas
09 Oct, 2024 by Thomas roberts
Great Atorny overall, with a great team to assist him. Reach out to him if you need a good lawyer that is willing to fight for you. Highly recommend him.
Read more
06 Aug, 2024 by Dora renteria
Buen servicio, buena atención a el cliente, buen abogado
Read more
26 Jun, 2024 by Ruth mora
08 Oct, 2022 by Fernando ayala
24 Jun, 2023 by Franci rabago
02 May, 2023 by Jr app
12 Apr, 2022 by Noely marquez
Ok
Read more
19 May, 2024 by Jose gonzalez
Has no ethics whatsoever
Read more
09 Apr, 2021 by Joy toworld
There was no contact unless I called her. Every time I called her I had to explain EVERYTHING all over, I guess she doesn’t keep a file or folder with case info. If you need someone to advocate for you ,She IS NOT THE ONE to hire, don’t waste Your money . .... I wish I had someone tell me this before I paid..
She just sits and waits to see what the other party’s attorney will request and she just takes it from there. Does not advocate! When it was all finalized she didn’t provide divorce decree, no attorney general case. I just kind-a have to figure it out on my own as I go ....
I DO NOT RECOMMEND YOU WASTE YOUR MONEY HERE 😏
I am giving her a star because if not it won’t let me post this ...
Read more
01 Aug, 2019 by Eva eagle
The first consultation with this lawyer made me uncomfortable.She was very arrogant judgmental and thinks she is above anyone.To any lawyer that wants to get a client dont be rude and be more welcoming so you wont loose a client. Terrible experience.
Read more
19 Oct, 2023 by Jose rodriguez
06 Apr, 2023 by Josephad gutierrez
Del RÃo law Firm has out performed my expiations. I received the best customer service and felt very included in my case. Overall, I will always choose Del RÃo Law Firm for all my future needs.
Read more
13 Nov, 2021 by Fanny cisneros
They never have info
Read more
04 Jul, 2021 by Joe mata (electrician)
Great service and great Lawyer.
Read more
29 Nov, 2019 by Frank manfredi
I would give zero stars if possible. Chris Peterson only took 15 minutes to find a way to stop the plastic bag ban. Single use plastic is sooooo bad for our planet and our IMMEDIATE environment. Thanks Chris, for taking a big check from the big plastic industry. “I was paid by my clients” but his ethical obligation was not with this case. This big piece of excrement is helping the plastic industry.
This little charade is what allowed fracking and oil drilling to continue. So great job Chris! You’ll be held responsible for future environmental calamities. Also, I hope all your plastic bag handles break every time you put your hot pockets and frozen tater tots in your car. You’re a terrible person and I would never, ever, ever want your representation. Keep taking that money from Houston and keep selling out your own people. Strong work Chris.
Read more
29 Jul, 2019 by Cynthia bell
31 Oct, 2024 by Gabriela gonzalez
01 Oct, 2022 by Monica flores
I have been wanting to do this review for a while, because Mr. Balli and his law firm deserve it. I don't know how much it will help Mr. Balli, but I hope it helps you. If you ever find yourself in a tough situation Mr. Balli is the best in Laredo and like my husband says he's a beast. That is what you need a beast; not scared to go up in front of the judge or jury. He will do everything he can legally to defend you as much as viable. You have to be patient and mentally strong. Just know that he can not give you updates every week, but when the time comes to represent you he will. My husband was initially looking at forty years and was sentenced to two years. I would definitely rehire Mr. Balli and his law firm to represent us, because he has great knowledge in the law and knows how to apply it to his client's needs.
Read more
14 Jun, 2022 by Jorge gomez
13 Jan, 2016 by Georgina
I hired Mrs. Vielma services to renew my DACA which I received before my initial DACA expired. The renewal process was explained in a very professional manner. Her staff was always professional & courteous and the case manager kept me post it about the status of my case. I am very happy with Mrs. Vielma and her staff's services. I highly recommend her for any legal services.
Read more
16 Feb, 2015 by Isabel a.
FUE UNA ESPERANZA DE VIDA PARA MI Y LES RECOMIENDO QUE VAYAN CON ELLA CON SUS DUDAS O PREGUNTAS. ELLA ME AYUDO MUCHO CON MI CASO Y AHORA YA SOY RESIDENTE GRACIAS A LA ABOGADA VIELMA .
Read more
06 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
My case was a very complex case however i was able to obtain my residency thanks to Mrs. Norma Nelly Vielma and her staff.
Read more
19 May, 2024 by Jose gonzalez
Has no ethics whatsoever
Read more
09 Apr, 2021 by Joy toworld
There was no contact unless I called her. Every time I called her I had to explain EVERYTHING all over, I guess she doesn’t keep a file or folder with case info. If you need someone to advocate for you ,She IS NOT THE ONE to hire, don’t waste Your money . .... I wish I had someone tell me this before I paid..
She just sits and waits to see what the other party’s attorney will request and she just takes it from there. Does not advocate! When it was all finalized she didn’t provide divorce decree, no attorney general case. I just kind-a have to figure it out on my own as I go ....
I DO NOT RECOMMEND YOU WASTE YOUR MONEY HERE 😏
I am giving her a star because if not it won’t let me post this ...
Read more
01 Aug, 2019 by Eva eagle
The first consultation with this lawyer made me uncomfortable.She was very arrogant judgmental and thinks she is above anyone.To any lawyer that wants to get a client dont be rude and be more welcoming so you wont loose a client. Terrible experience.
Read more
17 Jun, 2024 by Barrett muhlenbruch
Everyone who saw my last post, which was negative, please disregard. I spoke to victor and he made it right. I know the post was old but it seems I cannot edit it
Read more
08 Nov, 2023 by David rangel
On April 27th 2023 I visited Mr. Villafrancas office. He was representing my aunt martha cantu who was selling a family home with a unrecorded power of attorney (required by texas law 751.151). I tried to tell him about this law and that another power of attorney was recorded. He yelled and screamed at me to get off of his home property (which I thought was his place of business). Now Stewart title has admitted this was a mistake on their part. Mr. Villafranca withheld this information leading to a title dispute. He was determined to sell my dying grandfather's home!
Read more
24 Aug, 2023 by Lori akakpo
I had the privilege of working with Victor as my attorney and I can confidently say that he exemplifies the pinnacle of professionalism and compassion in his field. Throughout our engagement, Victor’s unwavering dedication to my case coupled with his consistent and transparent communication left an indelible impression on me. His profound knowledge and unwavering confidence and his capabilities were instrumental in achieving the remarkable results he delivered. From the outside, Victor’s commitment to my legal matter was evident, even without any explicit promises made. His proactive approach, coupled with his adeptness and navigating complex legal nuances, solidified my decision, and choosing him as my attorney. Victor’s honesty and his ability to create a comfortable environment, further underscored his exceptional qualities. Without reservation, I wholeheartedly, recommend Victor to anyone, seeking legal representation, that combines expertise, integrity, and a client centric approach. Victor’s contribution to my case was invaluable, and I am truly grateful for his efforts. Thank you, Victor, for your remarkable service and for making a positive difference in my experience with the legal process.
Read more
03 Dec, 2019 by Cesar
Eduardo Romero did the absolute least he could for my custody case. All I asked if he couldn't get me custody is more time with my son. After a year since my court date, reading and rereading my custody paperwork, it's easy to see were he could have done more for the 2k I gave him. They call it being ushered through the system and that is exactly what he did. WALKED ME INTO THE GALLOWS. In his office, he talked about the plan of attack and when we got to the court house, he folded. I GOT THE SAME CUSTODY TIME I WOULD'VE IF I DIDN'TGO IN WITH A LAWYER. To top it all off the mother of my child and I had agreed to certain modification in front of him, he signed it off the order. When I told him he did wrong he said he would fix it and never did. HE TOOK MY MONEY AND STABBED ME IN THE BACK.
Read more
15 Feb, 2010 by Michelle holguin
I was very happy with the services I was provided.
Read more
14 Feb, 2010 by Jesse
Eduardo is an up and coming young lawyer and a rising star among the Law community.Eduardo and his partner Victor Villarreal are always up for the challenge and do their homework before going to the court.I trust Eduardo and Victor with my affairs 100%.
Besides being my Lawyers they are also my confidants,advisers, and friends. You will not find better Lawyers than Villarreal and Romero.
Read more
04 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
hired Attorney Christian Davila ,i trusted him but i was wrong he didnt help me, he even did negligence and wrong on my own case when his job was to defend me ,i personally dont recommend him,
Read more
03 Apr, 2019 by Mary
I hired Attorney Christian Davila ,i trusted him but i was wrong he didnt help me, he even did negligence and wrong on my own case when his job was to defend me ,i personally dont recommend him .
Read more
01 Feb, 2019 by Mary
"If you have a legitimate claim and you want the best then Chris is your guy. Why settle for less when you can have the best.""Now I can see why there are so many positive testimonials about his effort and work. I highly recommend Christian Davila." He has helped us every step of the way with our case. I am glad to have him on my side thru this case has. Make everything much easier for us."he took all of the weight off of our shoulders and handled everything that we encountered Great job thank you
Read more
19 Oct, 2023 by Jose rodriguez
06 Apr, 2023 by Josephad gutierrez
Del RÃo law Firm has out performed my expiations. I received the best customer service and felt very included in my case. Overall, I will always choose Del RÃo Law Firm for all my future needs.
Read more
13 Nov, 2021 by Fanny cisneros
They never have info
Read more
30 Nov, 2024 by Murty
Came through for my family in a difficult time a while back!
A wonderful person with a big heart who cares.
Read more
07 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
She has no determination in regards to defending your case; seems she doesn't pick the side that is paying her; seems she helped more the dad rather than whom is really paying for the services. do not hire her!
Read more
04 Aug, 2017 by Theresa
This was the worst experience with a lawyer ever. He was never available to speak with us. He lost our documents. He would ask us to leave items in the mailbox and pick them up from the mailbox because he was never available. We wasted two months of our time only to find out none of the paperwork he had prepared were what was needed for our case.
Read more
05 Apr, 2016 by Lucero alfaro
I had been previously struggling with a different attorney whom i paid and he was the worst Attorney i could have ever hired! I fired him and was out of funds for a new one. I then received a court appointed Attorney whom was Edward P. Dancause and the difference was night and DAY! Mr. Dancause went above and beyond for my case. He has a genuine interest in the outcome for his clients the care that he showed for my case was clear and he DELIVERED the BEST outcome that i could have had!! He under promised and over delivered, he also kept his word on the promises he did make as far as returning calls and providing documents especially since i live states away from Texas where my case was. Mr. Dancause is an attorney you can trust and i am forever greatful to him for helping me and my family through a very difficult time not only for the great outcome but more so for the genuine care that he showed to us. He made the process as easy as he could for us since we had to travel 12 hours for every court. If you want an attorney you can TRUST this is where you can find him!!
Read more
26 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr Dancause was my lawyer in family court.
It was a terrible experience all the way. He will nether return my calls or respond to my emails.
Our first appearance in court was a disaster. He was not prepare at all. He asked me for documents I sent him months prior to the hearing.
When I had the opportunity to talk to him on the phone he will always find excuse not to stay on the phone using excuses like I am at the mechanic for my car, or I am moving offices. I will use the same excuses over and over.
The second court appearance was an other awful experience.
I will not recommend that lawyer.
Read more
20 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
This Attorney is not very knowledged as far as criminal cases, I don't recommend him at all he never returns calls, or keeps in touch.
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.
