Lawyers map
>876
experienced lawyers
Filter by
10 Nov, 2020 by Alex wu
06 Nov, 2020 by Daniel kim
Awesome attorneys and great service!
Read more
06 Nov, 2020 by Samantha yoon
5.0
5 Reviews
3.7
11 Reviews
31 May, 2023 by Derek crownover
10 Feb, 2023 by Martin mulvihill
Applied for a paralegal position here. Great group of people. Shout out to Paul & Alyse.
Read more
26 Jan, 2022 by Quantum leap
Michelle LaMar is the most knowledgeable, intuitive, upfront, ten steps ahead attorney I've met in my 48 years in business. I literally would just say "HERE ARE THE REINS, you lead the way" if I ever were to need an attorney of her caliber. I sat in with a colleague and I almost asked her for an autograph as she just oozed superstar attorney..just my opinion and she did win his case.
Read more
5.0
1 Reviews
3.7
11 Reviews
31 May, 2023 by Derek crownover
10 Feb, 2023 by Martin mulvihill
Applied for a paralegal position here. Great group of people. Shout out to Paul & Alyse.
Read more
26 Jan, 2022 by Quantum leap
Michelle LaMar is the most knowledgeable, intuitive, upfront, ten steps ahead attorney I've met in my 48 years in business. I literally would just say "HERE ARE THE REINS, you lead the way" if I ever were to need an attorney of her caliber. I sat in with a colleague and I almost asked her for an autograph as she just oozed superstar attorney..just my opinion and she did win his case.
Read more
09 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
I consulted Alex re a family matter, and he was unprofessional, in a rush, and disrespectful. Family matters are sensitive topics, and to have some lawyer -- whom you'd like to hire! -- rudely downplaying your concerns is far from the type of lawyer you should retain. Don't waste your time. I've since hired another lawyer and my concerns have been addressed.
Read more
03 Apr, 2023 by Calvin
Alex and his team are the best attorneys I have ever worked with. Alex is straight forward, no nonsense, and realistic. He and his team explain everything and leave no stone unturned.
I got referred to Alex after spending a year and a half with a fraudulent attorney, who got nothing done and was milking me for money. Alex and his team came in fixed the mess my former attorney left. They even got better result than we we going after.
Alex was available and invested in my outcome throughout the whole process. Any time I would email him he responded swiftly.
My ex works for the most powerful attorneys in Los Angeles so having someone I could trust was very important.
I could not have gone through this process without Alex. I am very grateful to have met him!
Read more
30 Sep, 2022 by Lisa
Very grateful to have Alex and his team represent my divorce case. He was direct, efficient and made this very difficult time as easy as possible for me.
Read more
28 Jun, 2023 by Cory r
I would never hire Ms. Gordon again. Lack of follow through, excuses, and hides behind her e-mail and direct phone calls. In my opinion but very unprofessional as an attorney. Something was really wrong here........ for such a small case. Next time will look for more reviews than 5. No thank you.
Read more
27 Nov, 2020 by Donna
I am so grateful for Amber. She assisted me with a restraining order that was filed against me. It was stressful, but she made it easy to deal with. Aside from legal advice, she was an emotional support and gave great techniques when coping with stress. She was attentive to detail, responsive around the clock. From the time she picked up the first phone call to the moment we won the trial, she has been caring, passionate, personable, calm, cool, and just overall an amazing person and lawyer. She's got jokes too! It's nice to work with someone who can lighten up the mood even during a totally stressed out situation. She is a blessing.
Read more
20 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
Amber Gordon, represented me in Federal Court and was able to help me get a year on a ankle monitor, instead of 18 months in prison. Gordon, was amazing in handling negotiations and court representation. Her cool, calm manner makes her easy to talk to and she was amazingly emotionally supportive throughout the whole process. She was able to help me understand what was going on and in finding clear affective ways that resulted in a reduced sentence, ankle monitor, and probation. Amber Gordon is my go to lawyer in any case!
Read more
26 Aug, 2022 by Richard johnston
Nydia Loya is a fantastic family law attorney in Los Angeles. She's part of the Korol and Velen team in Encino (Los Angeles). She's smart, experienced, and knows how to handle complex family law matters with ease. She is 100% recommended. Thank you Nydia!
Read more
20 Feb, 2020 by Barry
Nydia Loya is a professional and responsive attorney who helped me navigate through my divorce.
My divorce should not have been complicated, but my ex and her caustic, opposing counsel tried every dirty playbook trick to attempt to extend, delay and run up the legal bills. Using legal strategy and tactics Nydia was able to mitigate the delay, create leverage for my position and drive closure to the final judgment while keeping my legal bills down. I highly recommned her legal services to anyone going through a divorce. Experienced, strategic, thoughtful and responsive.
Read more
14 Feb, 2020 by David
After mediation with my ex hit a brick wall, I hired Nydia for my divorce. She was thorough and responsive throughout the whole process. My desired custody schedule was an unorthodox arrangement, and she fought hard for it before the judge. Her clarity and doggedness in court showed that this schedule was best for my son and we won completely. I couldn’t have had a better outcome and would recommend Nydia to anyone.
Read more
10 Feb, 2020 by Ed nicoletti
16 Dec, 2019 by Halima crenshaw
He was just too busy
Read more
23 Aug, 2018 by Timothy leatherby
Puts you on hold then just asks you to leave a message
Read more
10 Feb, 2020 by Ed nicoletti
16 Dec, 2019 by Halima crenshaw
He was just too busy
Read more
23 Aug, 2018 by Timothy leatherby
Puts you on hold then just asks you to leave a message
Read more
10 Feb, 2020 by Ed nicoletti
16 Dec, 2019 by Halima crenshaw
He was just too busy
Read more
23 Aug, 2018 by Timothy leatherby
Puts you on hold then just asks you to leave a message
Read more
10 Feb, 2020 by Ed nicoletti
16 Dec, 2019 by Halima crenshaw
He was just too busy
Read more
23 Aug, 2018 by Timothy leatherby
Puts you on hold then just asks you to leave a message
Read more
10 Feb, 2020 by Ed nicoletti
16 Dec, 2019 by Halima crenshaw
He was just too busy
Read more
23 Aug, 2018 by Timothy leatherby
Puts you on hold then just asks you to leave a message
Read more
10 Feb, 2020 by Ed nicoletti
16 Dec, 2019 by Halima crenshaw
He was just too busy
Read more
23 Aug, 2018 by Timothy leatherby
Puts you on hold then just asks you to leave a message
Read more
02 Aug, 2023 by Dongkyu kim
26 May, 2023 by R k
The phone call service is horrible, treating you like a scammer for no reason
Read more
13 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
A few months ago i had a bogus dvro case, i was naturally terrified as I 1.) did not have much money to fight 2.) Had never experienced any legal situations in my life, and did not know what to do. After another Attorney led me along and tried to get 12k from me, i was given the name of Stuart Faber. He was exceptionally quick and reliable, we were able to meet same day as our first call. He informed me that i needed to make a response to the accusations, and walked me through what preponderance meant and that this may be a difficult case as my ex had somewhat of a name for herself. All while reassuring that we had a strong case and he believed we could win. We did! Stuart is exceptionally good at communicating and was able to talk my ex into admitting that she was abusive, it was amazing to watch and i am relieved to have hired him. If i had lost she could've used her platform to get me fired the dvro would've been on my record for atleast 5 years. Every lawyer I spoke with said that my ex's lawyer was one of the best, and Mr. Faber made an extremely difficult situation look very easy. I appreciate his work and would definitely go to him again.
Read more
3.6
3 Reviews
4.9
10 Reviews
08 Jul, 2024 by Karina bejarano
Couldn’t have chose a better law firm. Since day one the communication was Amazing, Sergio and Rebeca answered all my questions and concerns thru out the process. I hired the firm to represent my husband who was facing attempted murder, before hiring them I called many law firms and they wouldn’t take the case or the price was extremely high with no hopes.
Sergio and Ed were amazing they were able to reduce charges with minimal time sentence.
Thank you for bringing happiness back to my family.
Thank you to all the staff at Castañeda law firm !
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Deni mendoza
08 Jul, 2024 by Lisa clapperton
I spoke to Sergio a few mos ago, he represented my friend Eleana and took the time for her so I discussed my Harley case with him. I have a sleu of hard evidence and this includes emails from the sgt. At Van nuys LAPD and the sticker that came to my address when I paid 21 registration I will sign the retainer and let's do this please call me Eleana will be home 11-7
Read more
06 Mar, 2023 by Christiane
This guy was so mean horrible person he hates women and he was abused to me I have all the e mails unbelievable Iam calling the board and he should never ever be able to practice the law anymore please do the same he got me sick destroy my health mentally and physically I’m sorry I ever met him horrible monster please let’s stop him to do this anymore please I am begging all no more abuse from a lawyer so mentally sick! He is sick please don’t hire him ever call me please 310 707 6441 Chris callil
Read more
29 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Hired Aaron to represent me for helping me with Child Support. We agreed to pay via retainer. I did this only because I didn't want to be hit with a huge bill at the end of my case. He agreed. Hyped up what he was going to do. We're going to file this and do this. Making it sound like he was going fight for me and really help. Dragged it on and on to only charge me almost 9k for filling a form. He had charged us for a company to look into where my court documents were sent to show that Child Services used an address I was no longer living at only to then have my wife call to find out but still charged us almost $300 for that "service". He ended up doing nothing but filling out a form and I think only talking to Child Support services once. I don't know where he is getting these great reviews from.
Read more
27 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
I was incredibly fortunate to have found Arran Scott Treadway, Esq. to represent me in my divorce and custody case. Not only did Arran get me the custody orders I wanted because he flushed out the truth for the Court, but he fought like a Spartan against the other side for almost 2 years with victory after victory after victory. The other side hired a Beverly Hills Law Firm with tons of staff and secretarial support. This did not help them. It only cost them more money and Arran made them pay a significant portion of my attorney's fees. My ex spent hundreds of thousands of dollars with the other side only to have to pay my amazing attorney a good part of my own fees. From start to finish, Arran explained everything to me down to the tee. It was truly an amazing experience. It was even educational. Arran is a specialist. I came out of all of it knowing that I had won because of Arran's immeasurable efforts and the results I personally experienced. Arran talked and walked me through every step of the way, every day. I look back on it and I feel blessed. I not only got all of that to which I was legally entitled, but even more due to Arran's tireless efforts. Arran literally beat the other side. The guy is nothing short of an intelligent, warrior. If you need someone to kill it and win decisively, hire Mr. Treadway. If you want a shoulder to cry on, call your mother. This guy is a serious winner. Anybody who would say otherwise, doesn't get what it takes to win or is just upset with their own circumstances. Arran Scott Treadway is THE MAN. I would highly recommend calling THE TREADWAY LAW FIRM, to seek out aggressive representation in the area of Family Law with Mr. Treadway and his team. He truly is the best.
Read more
21 Jun, 2024 by Channel_ 3
Did not represent me, but gave me great legal advice and resources that he did not have to do Thsnk you again and best of luck to everyone out there!😁
Read more
19 Jun, 2024 by A c
FREE KAREN READ!
Read more
18 Jun, 2024 by T glaspie
Mr. Jackson is an extraordinarily phenomenal defense attorney! Extremely professional, poised, tenacious and outright brilliant! Watching him litigate is a sight to see!
Read more
02 Aug, 2023 by Dongkyu kim
26 May, 2023 by R k
The phone call service is horrible, treating you like a scammer for no reason
Read more
10 Oct, 2021 by Peter park
02 Aug, 2023 by Dongkyu kim
26 May, 2023 by R k
The phone call service is horrible, treating you like a scammer for no reason
Read more
10 Oct, 2021 by Peter park
02 Aug, 2023 by Dongkyu kim
26 May, 2023 by R k
The phone call service is horrible, treating you like a scammer for no reason
Read more
10 Oct, 2021 by Peter park
13 Jun, 2024 by Renee
Diane was my attorney for over three years as she handled my divorce. She was available, responsive, and answered my emails and calls in a timely manner. In addition, she put up with my frustrations and has a great sense of humor. Her many years of experience put me at ease as she knows family law well and can manage complex matters. She understood my priorities and worked to settle my case as diligently as possible. I would recommend her highly.
Read more
22 May, 2024 by Michael
In late 2023, after speaking to a number of family law attorneys, I hired Diane to prepare my premarital agreement. The agreement was complex, given the various businesses I owned and my desire to keep them as my separate property. My fiancee also had a business she wanted to keep as her separate property. Diane understood our wishes and intentions, knew the law and put our agreement together in a way that perfectly reflected those intentions. She was sensitive to our desire not to upset our relationship during the process and to have an agreement with which we would both be comfortable once married. I highly recommend Diane to anyone needing a premarital agreement - she is a superb attorney.
Read more
28 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
I've worked with dozens of attorneys over the course of my career and Diane was by far the most incompetent.
She made careless mistakes in critical areas of my prenuptial agreement and couldn't even get the name of my business right, let alone crucial details like alimony terms. She mixed up who owned what assets and charged me for phone calls where she fumbled around trying to start up her computer.
To make matters worse, when she made mistakes she got incredibly rude and defensive rather than owning it and making corrections.
She clearly uses a template for all her prenuptial agreements and was over her head when asked to do any sort of customization. She had the nerve to actually ask me to write part of the draft!
I was patient in working with Diane after some early red flags but she proved to be absolutely clueless and incredibly rude.
I switched to another lawyer after firing Diane and it's been absolutely night and day.
Stay away from Diane if you're looking for a competent lawyer.
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Zahra dowlatabadi
Reached out to SmartLaw for a referral and was responded to in less 24 hrs.
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Erik stroman
SD went above and beyond to help me over the course of 3 days to provide me the proper information I needed resulting in my ability to screen, communicate and ultimately engage with legal representation, which I was in a real hurry to secure. She is truly a person that anyone would want on their team. A++
Read more
27 Aug, 2024 by J
MIGUEL AND HIS TEAM ARE TOP-NOTCH EXPERT PROFESSIONALS... MIGUEL QUICKLY GAVE MEE AN EXCELLENT LEAD TO AN ATTORNEY THAT DOES ELEVATOR INJURY CASES... THANKS TO SMARTLAW, I'VE BEEN ABLE TO GET THE BALL ROLLING! GRACIAS MIGUEL AND CREW...
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Zahra dowlatabadi
Reached out to SmartLaw for a referral and was responded to in less 24 hrs.
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Erik stroman
SD went above and beyond to help me over the course of 3 days to provide me the proper information I needed resulting in my ability to screen, communicate and ultimately engage with legal representation, which I was in a real hurry to secure. She is truly a person that anyone would want on their team. A++
Read more
27 Aug, 2024 by J
MIGUEL AND HIS TEAM ARE TOP-NOTCH EXPERT PROFESSIONALS... MIGUEL QUICKLY GAVE MEE AN EXCELLENT LEAD TO AN ATTORNEY THAT DOES ELEVATOR INJURY CASES... THANKS TO SMARTLAW, I'VE BEEN ABLE TO GET THE BALL ROLLING! GRACIAS MIGUEL AND CREW...
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Zahra dowlatabadi
Reached out to SmartLaw for a referral and was responded to in less 24 hrs.
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Erik stroman
SD went above and beyond to help me over the course of 3 days to provide me the proper information I needed resulting in my ability to screen, communicate and ultimately engage with legal representation, which I was in a real hurry to secure. She is truly a person that anyone would want on their team. A++
Read more
27 Aug, 2024 by J
MIGUEL AND HIS TEAM ARE TOP-NOTCH EXPERT PROFESSIONALS... MIGUEL QUICKLY GAVE MEE AN EXCELLENT LEAD TO AN ATTORNEY THAT DOES ELEVATOR INJURY CASES... THANKS TO SMARTLAW, I'VE BEEN ABLE TO GET THE BALL ROLLING! GRACIAS MIGUEL AND CREW...
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Zahra dowlatabadi
Reached out to SmartLaw for a referral and was responded to in less 24 hrs.
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Erik stroman
SD went above and beyond to help me over the course of 3 days to provide me the proper information I needed resulting in my ability to screen, communicate and ultimately engage with legal representation, which I was in a real hurry to secure. She is truly a person that anyone would want on their team. A++
Read more
27 Aug, 2024 by J
MIGUEL AND HIS TEAM ARE TOP-NOTCH EXPERT PROFESSIONALS... MIGUEL QUICKLY GAVE MEE AN EXCELLENT LEAD TO AN ATTORNEY THAT DOES ELEVATOR INJURY CASES... THANKS TO SMARTLAW, I'VE BEEN ABLE TO GET THE BALL ROLLING! GRACIAS MIGUEL AND CREW...
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Zahra dowlatabadi
Reached out to SmartLaw for a referral and was responded to in less 24 hrs.
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Erik stroman
SD went above and beyond to help me over the course of 3 days to provide me the proper information I needed resulting in my ability to screen, communicate and ultimately engage with legal representation, which I was in a real hurry to secure. She is truly a person that anyone would want on their team. A++
Read more
27 Aug, 2024 by J
MIGUEL AND HIS TEAM ARE TOP-NOTCH EXPERT PROFESSIONALS... MIGUEL QUICKLY GAVE MEE AN EXCELLENT LEAD TO AN ATTORNEY THAT DOES ELEVATOR INJURY CASES... THANKS TO SMARTLAW, I'VE BEEN ABLE TO GET THE BALL ROLLING! GRACIAS MIGUEL AND CREW...
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Zahra dowlatabadi
Reached out to SmartLaw for a referral and was responded to in less 24 hrs.
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Erik stroman
SD went above and beyond to help me over the course of 3 days to provide me the proper information I needed resulting in my ability to screen, communicate and ultimately engage with legal representation, which I was in a real hurry to secure. She is truly a person that anyone would want on their team. A++
Read more
27 Aug, 2024 by J
MIGUEL AND HIS TEAM ARE TOP-NOTCH EXPERT PROFESSIONALS... MIGUEL QUICKLY GAVE MEE AN EXCELLENT LEAD TO AN ATTORNEY THAT DOES ELEVATOR INJURY CASES... THANKS TO SMARTLAW, I'VE BEEN ABLE TO GET THE BALL ROLLING! GRACIAS MIGUEL AND CREW...
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Zahra dowlatabadi
Reached out to SmartLaw for a referral and was responded to in less 24 hrs.
Read more
28 Aug, 2024 by Erik stroman
SD went above and beyond to help me over the course of 3 days to provide me the proper information I needed resulting in my ability to screen, communicate and ultimately engage with legal representation, which I was in a real hurry to secure. She is truly a person that anyone would want on their team. A++
Read more
27 Aug, 2024 by J
MIGUEL AND HIS TEAM ARE TOP-NOTCH EXPERT PROFESSIONALS... MIGUEL QUICKLY GAVE MEE AN EXCELLENT LEAD TO AN ATTORNEY THAT DOES ELEVATOR INJURY CASES... THANKS TO SMARTLAW, I'VE BEEN ABLE TO GET THE BALL ROLLING! GRACIAS MIGUEL AND CREW...
Read more
15 Feb, 2022 by Suzanne raina
I've been referring cases to Merino Yebri since 2016, to both Alex and Sam. They are prompt at communication, thorough in their analyses, and fight hard for their clients. My clients, friends, and contacts whom I've referred have been happy with their representation, and they honorably pay referral fees. Highly recommend.
Read more
07 Dec, 2017 by Brett
So I hire Daniel Pierson to be my attorney in my divorce…huge mistake! This guy is so lazy and scared to fight for you it is ridiculous. To start he forgets to tell opposing counsel that he was hired so she files the default. Of course he charges me to file the motion to set aside the default. He then calls me and basically tells me all my ex wants is what she asked for before I hired him (the kids, huge child support, for me to pay for her to go to school, etc.). So, I tell him no deal and he responds with “well what do you expect her to do?” I said get a job. And he said “she can’t do that.” I asked why not and he responded that she would only make minimum wage. I said welcome to reality. Then I asked him if he worked for me or her. Of course he said “I work for you…oh and if you want to say no we can do that.” I said that is why I hired you in the first place.
After that he tells me that I should let my daughter go with my wife even when it is my time to spend with her and my son. I said absolutely not and he responded hysterically saying that he just couldn’t represent me and that I should look for a new attorney. I said not a chance (I went to law school and know that you cannot get out of a case unless there is a good reason…and not wanting to fight for your clients rights is definitely not a good reason and could get him sanctioned if he even tried). Thereafter he made an agreement with my ex’s attorney that my daughter could go with my ex on my weekends without my knowledge or consent. I found out when my ex took my daughter and forward me Daniel’s email stating the arrangement. When I confronted Daniel and told him he needed to fix his mistake, he said he didn’t make any mistake and argued with me via email (after he said that he couldn’t represent me any longer I wanted to make sure I had all communications in writing so I told him that I would no longer talk to him on the phone). He repeatedly told me to call him and that he could no longer represent me. There was no chance I was going to call him and have him say something not on record. After nearly a day and a half of arguing with him, I finally said “I wonder what the bar would think.” He then responded that he will send a letter to my ex’s attorney. Why did it take a mention of the bar…why not just fix it in the first place? Why argue with your client, who according to the ethics rules is entitled to make those decisions?
I would conclude that I don’t think Daniel lacks the knowledge to be a good attorney…I think he is truly just lazy and has no back bone to fight for his client. I personally would not hire Daniel again and if I knew then what I know now, I would have stayed away from this lazy attorney.
Read more
04 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
If tou every want some to fight for you it would be Mr Pierson. He has been my lawyer for more than 10 years and he also helped all of my family . I dont even live in Los Angeles but i would driver anywhere this man is he is the best . Thank my friend
Read more
16 Aug, 2024 by Vilma. medina
Gracias a Dios hoy tengo que agrader a Dios y despues ami abogado Edwin Castellanos por ver puesto tanto enpeño en mi caso Gracias a su experiencia pudo ganar mi caso estaban mis hijos en juego por demandas injustas el pudo comprobar mi inocencia Gracias señor Edwin estoy muy agradesida por fin boy a poder Seguir mi vida normal . Le day un 10 al buffet Castellanos & associated
Read more
29 Apr, 2024 by J
Great lawyer and great office. Very knowledgeable of the laws and always stays truthful.
Read more
01 Apr, 2024 by Isaac flores
Where do I start castellanos & associates thank you so much for all the time and dedication with our case from beginning to end you guys are a great team highly recommend to anyone looking for a good attorney you won’t be disappointed
Read more
16 Apr, 2023 by Furat mumin
05 Jan, 2022 by Manal haroon
05 Jan, 2022 by Jack
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.
