Lawyers map
>123
experienced lawyers
Filter by
29 Nov, 2023 by Elijah mcfarland
Publicly I have know shame but there is a child in question and I firmly believe that our Lord put me in the direction of Mrs. Hutton for a reason. She was straight forward about it but at the same time listened to my concern and was willing to go above and beyond. I feel she was honest and caring. She doesn't seem focused on the financial side of things but more so the care and building her clients up the right way. I am not in a position at the moment to swing this hammer but as soon as my ducks are in a row this amazing attorney is who I will be choosing. Sometimes our prayers our answered in ways we never expect even if it takes 12 years. Genesis 12:3 "I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed". What she is capable of doing and will do for many is a blessing and I pray you many blessings so you may continue to help and guide others as it is needed. Ma'am, I am pleased to have met you. I look forward to working with you in the very near future.
I did not read reviews on Mrs. Hutton, it felt right. After speaking with her, I know it is right. If you need an attorney and a friend, you are looking in the right pace. She believes in me and I believe in her.
Read more
16 Oct, 2023 by Michelle
All I have to say is wow....just wow. Obviously, attorneys can be intimidating, but that's their job, right? We hire an attorney to do take care of our stressful situation...and that is indeed what Ms. Hutton did! She clearly went step by step on building up my child custody case these past several years and at first I was frustrated and had no idea why. But then it all started to make sense when she had explained EXACTLY what needed to be done. It's a process. It's a day-by-day basis. It's life. Ms. Hutton and her wonderful staff works extremely hard in taking in our stress to make our lives smoother. 100% kuddos to you all! My family and I are beyond blessed to have a wonderful, caring AND VERY stern attorney who works, lives and breathes our lives to make things happen in the direction that they should. God Bless You Tempie Hutton, Hannah and Ashley for EVERYTHING! Love you ladies!
You need an attorney...Tempie Hutton is definitely your gal!!
Read more
29 Aug, 2023 by Terri
Tempie and her associates completed my personal estate paperwork in a very timely manner. Actually she got it all completed before promised. I felt comfortable that my legal affairs were in the right hands and she confirmed it with her efficiency and attention to details.
Read more
11 May, 2018 by Kevin
When I speak with Maritza, I see her passion for what she does and the knowledge and expertise she brings to the table. I recommend you put her in your contacts and utilize her for Criminal Defense, Family and Immigration Law. In some cases all 3 of those areas affect a single person and Maritza is the Attorney to have in your corner.
Read more
06 May, 2018 by Toni
Maritza is excellent! I consulted with her when I needed advice and she helped me tremendously! She is compassionate, but tough! I highly recommend her!
Read more
04 May, 2018 by Bill
Ms. Gamboa is a true professional. Very knowledgeable and helpful. She pointed me in the right direction because I really didn't need a lawyer to accomplish my goals.
Read more
18 Jun, 2024 by Katie quackenbush
The absolute best.
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Alesha walker
Ben is a great attorney! Very knowledgeable and level-headed. He is great to work with!
Read more
10 Apr, 2024 by Ruthie grisby
Ben Garcia is one of the absolute best Public Defender Attorney's that I have yet to meet! His dedication and compassion, not to mention his intelligence, makes him the top of the list, in my humble opinion! Awesome! He is knowledgeable, kind and courteous. My husband was facing 2-20 years and a fine for a felony charge, Ben got it reduced to 1 year of house arrest with NO FINE!! He's a great judge of character and gives Honor to the ONE in whom Honor is due....our Father in Heaven, the One True God. God bless him and his family and his firm🙏🏾🙏🏾❤️
Read more
29 Apr, 2021 by Les
Mr. Peck represented me for a child custody hearing and did a wonderful job. This is the second time that I’ve had to use Mr. Peck for this unfortunate circumstance. Mr. Peck was professional, aggressive, and fought for what’s right. I could not have asked for a better outcome. I hope that this matter is finished but would use him again in a heartbeat if needed. Thank you for your strong work Mr. Peck and I would strongly recommend you to help anyone in need.
Read more
11 Feb, 2020 by Anita
Mr. Peck represented our grandson in a criminal case. He was very professional and thorough. He was fast and efficient and got our grandson the best outcome for his future. We were very pleased. He was awesome . Thanks .
Read more
06 Nov, 2019 by Martha
Mr. Peck was very knowledgeable and helpful during my first conversation with him regarding our case. He took time for questions and kept us informed as needed. He did a great job and worked toward our best interests regarding our case.
Read more
25 Apr, 2023 by Amanda
5 Stars truly isn't enough to rate Melissa as an attorney, and as a person in general. I had a three year long, in two different counties, hell fire of a court case that ended with becoming a jury trial for termination of rights. Melissa fought tooth and nail for my case from the first meeting till the very end. After some of our hearings I would have people call me asking who my attorney was because they heard she was REMARKABLE in court. Remarkable is an understatement! My case ended with a HUGE victory, and that is because I had an attorney that was extremely thorough, fought like a dog but was also graceful and charismatic, she knows her stuff and if she doesn't know it she will go research and learn it, and she fights with integrity and compassion every step of the way! Being a family law attorney is undoubtably her CALLING and I urge you to stop the search for an attorney, and get THIS ONE! I contacted many attorneys, and have dealt with many others because of my ex husband and none compare to Melissa and her team. She has made such an impact on our lives and helped us achieve things we didn't think were possible in this case, and I am forever grateful that I had her as my attorney.
Read more
30 Nov, 2017 by Megan norwood
I have used Melissa on 2 extremely complicated custody cases and would recommend her to anyone. She is organized and compassionate. Her staff is competent and both of their communication is excellent (which is something I've had huge issues with, with previous attorneys). She is as tough as it gets in the courtroom and does not take ANY BS but has a heart of gold when it comes to her clients. You get what you pay for and Melissa Simpson is worth every penny!
Read more
06 Apr, 2016 by Stephanie
After losing my first trial with my daughter,it was beyond overwhelming! Before I decided to appeal ,I was looking for another family lawyer....and boy I tell you I'm sooo glad I hired Melissa Simpson.Melissa fought like a beast in court for me! She is freakin awesome!!She stood by me to the very end and always kept me informed on what was going on with my case !!If your looking for a top family law attorney,I highly recommend Melissa Simpson.Melissa won my case and now my daughter is back home with me and now continue moving forward with my life!
Read more
17 Jan, 2020 by Mary
I have to thank God for putting Mr. Martinez in our path, he help my husband to make it back to our home, I will always be thankful for everything he did for us.
Read more
11 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
David Martinez helped me with my children's case and he was very aggressive to the other party. He was very honest with us from the beginning. He had an answer for all the question we asked. I have been trying to get my 3 kids for many years now! He was my last hope and now I have full custody.
David and his staff did a excellent job. He is the BEST LAWYER in Lubbock! DAVID I CAN'T THANK YOU ENOUGH.
Read more
27 Sep, 2018 by Greg
Help get my son out of a bad home and now is living with me and seems much happier. Thanks David.
Read more
08 Aug, 2019 by Crystal
All I can say is you get what you pay for!!!! Of course we all think and believe that nothing is more extreme or as important as the crisis we're experiencing... and Lopez Law Firm always made me feel like a top priority and handled each concern and problem that arised with immediate attention. I was reading previous reviews and some complaints about price... however, I feel there is no dollar amount that could justify the wonderful job Mr. Lopez (and Mrs. Lopez) completed throughout my stressful process. Complete professionalism and organization and constant reassurance. I'm so very pleased with my experience and the outcome of an unfortunate situation. I can not thank Mr. Lopez enough for allowing me to sit so confidently during my hearings and watching him gracefully put a compulsive liar in his place and get me everything I needed and deserved. Thank you so much Lopez Law Firm!
Read more
14 Feb, 2013 by Carrie
My son was in a very bad situation. I called many attorneys who gave me no hope. Lopez was my last hope and even though my case was full of twist and turns he faced them with ease. My son is now home with me and doing well. It could not have happened without Jaime and Cathy (his paralegal).
It was a lot easier to face with you at my side. I am glad you explained to me everything going on step by step.
Read more
10 Jul, 2011 by Jeannette
I have interview many lawyers and Jaime O. Lopez was the only one who gave me hope in my case.Together we built a strong case. He kept me informed. He was quick to defended me and was not bully by the other party attoney. Mr Lopez return all my calls and emails. He answer all my questions and sent me information requested by me.
Read more
12 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
I first heard about Travis Ware while overhearing a fellow coworker discussing her divorce. From all appearances, she wound up getting the raw end of the deal. When she was asked who her ex husband had for an attorney, I kept my face buried in my cellphone, but I was all ears. When she said "Travis Ware," I made a mental note to remember that name. And boy am I glad I did!
At that time I was in an abusive marriage that I needed to get out of, and I needed an attorney who would be able to circumvent all the tricks that the ex had up his sleeve. Not only did Travis deliver, he delivered in spades. In addition, his staff was awesome. Everyone was very supportive and made me feel as though I was the only client!
Without reservation, I recommend Travis Ware to be on your side when going through a difficult divorce!
Read more
18 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
I could not have been happier with the result of my divorce case. Mr. Ware and his staff always went above and beyond to listen, advise, and keep me informed about the status of my case. His knowledge and efficacy in and out of the courtroom is unmatched. He is definitely the only lawyer I would trust to handle any legal issue that may arise.
Read more
16 Jun, 2009 by Anonymous
after my husband was restricted visitation due to a mental case as an exwife Mr Ware and his assistant Suzy won every single thing asked on my husbands behalf. So many fathers alienated and to this day although she has moved to Dallas she continues the vicious cycle. If your in Lubbock or a few hrs. away you will not be disappointed in this man.
Read more
25 Jan, 2020 by Meaghan
I had her court appointed at one point and she handled everything much better than I had anticipated. So year later when I had legal issue I hired her. Not only was she affordable, but she worked her tail off and was available any time I needed her. She was worth more money then the 12500 I had spent on lawyers to handle the same case and She DIDN'T DISAPPOINT ME!
Read more
26 Aug, 2019 by Sean
Mrs. Conn was a life saver, I ended up landing myself in a rough spot for a white collar crime and was getting the book thrown at me for it. Tanya came in a really was able to get the prosecutor to loosen up and see fit to bless me with probation when I wasn’t even initially eligible for it. I will be forever grateful for everything she did for my family and I.
Read more
10 May, 2016 by Richard
I hired Mike to represent a family member on a ticket in Lubbock. He got a great result and was very diligent in following through to make sure everything worked out. I would definitely hire him again.
Read more
19 Apr, 2022 by David
Matt Chandler met with me and was upfront and honest about the uphill battled I had before me. He delivered more than expected and tackled my legal issue faster than I ever imagined. Best attorney in the courtroom... by far.
Read more
22 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
Ms. Johnson did a wonderful job with a case in which I was involved. She kept in constant contact and was very thorough and knowledgable in her advice. I had dealings with her in both family and criminal law cases and in both she was able to get favorable outcomes. I would highly recommend her for her positive attitude and grasp of the law.
Read more
14 Aug, 2014 by Julie b
I was in jail. I couldn't get out to hire attorney. I was court appointed Sara. Scared because never heard of her. But she came in and went way over her head and well I'm on here today and not spending. Years in prison. She's greeat and used her for other things since. She's great.
Read more
05 Jul, 2015 by Sharlie
Was victim of car accident, which left me in need of surgery, therapy, etc. Insurance refused to help even stating, "If you think you're getting a real payment from us, you're out of your mind." (and then laughed about it). Celeste had that case handled and settled within about 2 weeks and I had a $50,000 settlement check received within a week or 2 after that. She made the entire process seamless and took all of the stress from my shoulders. Absolutely love her! We refer EVERYONE to her now!!!
Read more
25 Mar, 2020 by Lanette
Mr. Manning assisted me with a restraining order, and a complicated and complex divorce. He was very knowledgeable, thorough and professional. I had two other attorneys before hiring Mr. Manning. He accomplished what no other could. I am very grateful to him. For those that need an attorney, I would absolutely hire him.
Read more
04 Oct, 2024 by James mayer
They were quick to connect me with people that specialized in my specific situation
Read more
10 Sep, 2024 by Grace reglin
05 Sep, 2024 by Basin patrol llc
Matt Powell and his team are a blessing to work with! Very knowledgeable, professional, and quick to a resolution. No where else I’d take my business.
Read more
04 Oct, 2024 by James mayer
They were quick to connect me with people that specialized in my specific situation
Read more
10 Sep, 2024 by Grace reglin
05 Sep, 2024 by Basin patrol llc
Matt Powell and his team are a blessing to work with! Very knowledgeable, professional, and quick to a resolution. No where else I’d take my business.
Read more
04 Oct, 2024 by James mayer
They were quick to connect me with people that specialized in my specific situation
Read more
10 Sep, 2024 by Grace reglin
05 Sep, 2024 by Basin patrol llc
Matt Powell and his team are a blessing to work with! Very knowledgeable, professional, and quick to a resolution. No where else I’d take my business.
Read more
02 Oct, 2024 by Daniel sarabia
Mr. Harris is very knowledgeable about the cases in his field and his paralegals are top-notch. I have never had a problem when contacting Mr. Harris’s law firm and getting what I need to know we’re getting things done. I recommend Mr. Harris to all of my friends in the Lubbock area who needs his assistance.
Read more
08 Sep, 2024 by John hamilton
This gentleman gives out advice as a professional in areas he is not specialized in.
Read more
06 Aug, 2024 by Sarah turner
Where do I start... Matthew and Emily have been my rock, though the last 7 years. They both put there heart and soul into there work. I would highly recommend them to anyone dealing with child custody. He is very honest and will guide you in the right direction. He honestly cares, about you and your family. He is genuine and has the best intentions for you. He is by far the best attorney in LUBBOCK TEXAS. He is also a super lawyer.
Thank you again Matthew and your team, for everything you have done and continue to do for my family.
Read more
14 Jul, 2024 by Julian moss
06 Dec, 2023 by Matt mcclure
If you're looking for an attorney that will trade you and not listen to what you tell him this is the guy for you. $10,000 gone bc he won't refund me for something he didn't complete!
Read more
02 Dec, 2023 by Roberto luz
10 Jul, 2024 by Shenaide berquin
I am beyond impressed and fortunate to have come across Sanders Law Firm on Google. Ron is truly one-of-a-kind. He has provided my boyfriend and me with more advice than anyone else we spoke to regarding a child custody issue. Remarkably, Ron was the only lawyer who answered over 20 calls I made during a holiday weekend for an emergency.
Ron is thorough, concise, and very understanding. He offered a plethora of resources to help get us started in the right direction. I am confident that hiring Ron or his daughter for your case will significantly increase your chances of winning.
We feel incredibly fortunate to have found Ron. His great advice, willingness to help, and consistent follow-up make you feel like your case is his top priority. He is exceptionally dedicated, and I highly recommend Sanders Law Firm.
Read more
09 Jul, 2024 by Kim barrera
When you usually call a business and they do not answer and you hang up, they won’t callback unless you leave a voicemail. But Mr. Sanders did. He called me back and QUICK. He thoughtfully listened to my problem and gave me amazing FREE legal advice. The respect he gave me as a client was amazing to me. Definitely recommend him if you are in a situation where you would need legal help of knowing what to do about a field of situation you know nothing about.
Read more
08 Feb, 2024 by Ashley kinnaman
Mr. Sanders is the man!!! He is very helpful and such an easy person to talk to. It is easy to have conversations and great to have someone that will take the time to talk to you about your family law issues! I recommend 100 percent!
Read more
12 Sep, 2024 by Mary jane
Helped with my divorce and even a little afterwards. Great friendly ladies. Would use em again if I was to get married but one and done 😂
Read more
04 Aug, 2024 by Anallency ramirez
When we encountered a family issue that seemed like an elephant was sitting on our chest, Lindsay and Lezlie stepped up to help in a major way. These ladies are absolutely amazing and kept us informed every step of the way until our problem was resolved. Their office staff was super courteous and professional, as well. I would highly recommend them for any family issue. We appreciate them so much!
Read more
19 Jul, 2024 by Juan jose villa
Bueno, antes que todo quiero agradecer al gran equipo de Olibas Law Firm, en especial a mi abogada Leslie Olibas y su asistente Edna, por haberme representado con éxito durante este largo tiempo de mi divorcio, en realidad las recomiendo, por que, no solo es una relación legal entre abogado y cliente si no que están siempre dispuestos a escuchar y tener empatía con las personas, gracias por todo, se les va a EXTRAÑAR!!!
Read more
12 Sep, 2024 by Mary jane
Helped with my divorce and even a little afterwards. Great friendly ladies. Would use em again if I was to get married but one and done 😂
Read more
04 Aug, 2024 by Anallency ramirez
When we encountered a family issue that seemed like an elephant was sitting on our chest, Lindsay and Lezlie stepped up to help in a major way. These ladies are absolutely amazing and kept us informed every step of the way until our problem was resolved. Their office staff was super courteous and professional, as well. I would highly recommend them for any family issue. We appreciate them so much!
Read more
19 Jul, 2024 by Juan jose villa
Bueno, antes que todo quiero agradecer al gran equipo de Olibas Law Firm, en especial a mi abogada Leslie Olibas y su asistente Edna, por haberme representado con éxito durante este largo tiempo de mi divorcio, en realidad las recomiendo, por que, no solo es una relación legal entre abogado y cliente si no que están siempre dispuestos a escuchar y tener empatía con las personas, gracias por todo, se les va a EXTRAÑAR!!!
Read more
09 Oct, 2024 by Elijah stewart
When my baby mother passed away in Lubbock Tx she conspired against me getting custody for my kids. Then turned around and representing the Grandmother who kidnapped them for a civil suite. Very unethical and I would not recommend her
Read more
29 Aug, 2024 by Deanna edwards
Kyra and her staff were very helpful and knowledgeable. She did not stop pushing for me until a reasonable settlement was made!
Read more
30 Jul, 2024 by Nancy saenz
16 May, 2024 by Tywan johnson
I hired him and so far he has been honest and gave me his game plan on how he is going to handle my case
Read more
17 Dec, 2023 by Charles “chuck” pierson
07 Feb, 2023 by Kassidi jones
04 Jun, 2024 by Sandra turner
If you are reading the reviews, more than likely you are wanting to know how good they are. Christina was court appointed to represent me in my cps case so I did the same and looked at these same reviews and did my own research. My experience with Christina at first, I felt like I was just another case and she didn't have time to hear me. Of course my world was turning upside down as I was all over the place, and told her all the details even the ones that didn't seem to matter to anyone but me. And it may seem like that but I realized that Christina is a Beast at what she does which makes her busy. If you feel like she doesn't hear you , she does but it might just be best to write her an email with all those points you want made and I promise she will read it and pick out the ones that really matter not to just your case but you as well. She is like that honest aunt you know you can count on lol.
Ps. TO CHRISTINA ,
EVER SINCE I HAD TO MEMORIZE "INVICTUS" FOR 8TH GRADE ENGLISH, IT HAS BEEN MY #1 FAV. WE REALLY ARE THE MASTERS OF OUR FATE BUT WHEN I WAS UNSURE OF MINE, I WAS ABLE TO STAY ON COURSE WITH MY BOYS BC OF YOU AND YOUR TEAM!!
WITH THE UTMOST GRATITUDE, THANK YOU ALL...
Sandra, J & M
Read more
28 May, 2024 by Cheri lujan
16 May, 2024 by Deric c.
My name is Deric. I was personally not impressed by this firm. They say they will get back to you within 48 hours and that rarely happened. At one point I really needed to get in contact with Kaylee so I kept calling and calling and sending messages through the app for a few days with no response. When I finally got a hold of someone I was told she was on vacation. I just really wished someone would’ve let me know sooner. I know everyone deserves a vacation of course, but back when I was a manager at my job and had so many people that depended on me, I would always send out an email and change my voicemail so that it would say that I would be on vacation from this date to this date and to please contact a designated person while I’m gone. Also if you were to complain to them about anything, they would get angry or rude with you and talk down to you like you were an idiot and were always quick to let you know that you're always free to find another attorney after you’ve been paying them. I left a similar review previously on here while my case was still pending and Christina called me extremely upset and extremely rude and said she’s removing herself from my case and I need to find another attorney. Christina didn’t want my honest review of her law firm posted and pretty much forced me to delete the review. Instead of Christina calling me and asking what her firm could do better for me she called and threatened me instead. This is after I had already paid them a couple thousand dollars and she knew I couldn’t afford another attorney. So I agreed to take the review down. Christina and Kaylee are very condescending when they speak to you. I would not recommend this law firm to anyone for any reason.
Read more
17 May, 2022 by Max hinojos
Awesome group of people!
Read more
11 Mar, 2022 by Nancee wynn
14 Oct, 2021 by Maggie holland
09 Apr, 2024 by Emily busse
My Nebb got an assault charge against me dismissed, I will give him that. However, now I would like to get the dismissed charge properly expunged off of my record, which he initially seemed happy to do. I had a consultation with him about the expungement and never heard from him again. After numerous emails and phone calls I know he is aware of over the last two years, I give up. He could have just said he isn't interested and have saved me two years of wasting my time. Would not recommend Mr. Nebb over his rudeness and unprofessionalism. He also mentioned doing meth throughout law school, maybe that's why he doesn't know how to fill out a simple expungement form available for free to the public on the Texas Bar's website. Your guess is as good as mine.
Read more
02 May, 2023 by Mike bowlin
26 Apr, 2023 by Chris deleon
Great lawyer!! Thanks for your help! Very caring and takes care of business!
Read more
06 Jun, 2024 by Aaron
06 Oct, 2023 by Jessica zell
Been dealing with my case for over 5 years don't hear anything nothing has been done just the same thing every time I call I get told that they will give me a call and never return my calls hogan is great but been waiting for 5 years time for something to be done
Read more
23 Aug, 2023 by Anytime towing towing/ roadside
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.
