Filter by

Nanette L. Karls, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Madison, WI with 7 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
20,11
star star star star star
3.8/5
Avvo
3.8
7 Reviews
star star star star star
17 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
Ms. Karls did not seem skilled in estate/probate matters. She was our attorney for over two years on what should have been an open-and-shut probate case. She did a poor job advising on estate matters, often giving conflicting advice to the executor and beneficiaries. No one was clear on what approximate timelines were, what next steps were, and whether Ms. Karls was advising the executor. Her fees mounted and the probate deadlines got pushed back further and further until it was necessary to hire a different estate attorney. I would not hire Ms. Karls for any future legal matters, specifically anything probate related.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
11 Jan, 2017 by Rebecca s.
I met with a few other divorce lawyers around the Madison area but ended up choosing Nanette as my attorney. She was wonderful and treated me with care and compassion during a very difficult time in my life. Her knowledge and understanding of the ins and outs of divorce helped me feel confident in the outcome and I knew she was working hard for the best interests of me and my children. I would recommend Nanette and her office to anyone looking for an attorney and I would definitely hire her again for legal help in the future.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
06 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
I hired Nanette Karls to handle my divorce proceedings in 2016. She is pleasant to talk to, but I had multiple issues with attention to detail, lack of communication and privacy issues. Multiple times, Atty Karls selected the wrong person in her email contacts when exchanging very private and confidential documents about my divorce proceedings with my ex-husband and his attorney. The incorrect contact was a former client of hers, and he continued to receive information such as my social security number, name and address, financial information, etc. I brought these errors to her attention each time, but it continued to happen throughout the entire process. I would not return to Atty Karls for additional work.
Read more Avvo
See more
Tiffany L. Highstrom, experienced Family Law, Litigation attorney in Madison, WI with 3 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
19,50
star star star star star
3.7/5
Avvo
3.7
3 Reviews
star star star star star
03 Oct, 2024 by Mike
I retained Tiffany on the advice that my estranged spouse had hired an attorney known to be difficult to negotiate with. Divorce is never easy, but she was able to help me navigate a settlement that I believe is very fair to me. She was proactive in her communication and I really appreciate the way she kept my expectations managed and she never over-promised along the way. For me the end was very fair to me and fair to my ex, neither of us were taken advantage of and that's all I ever wanted when I hired Tiffany.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
13 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
I had a post divorce judgement case going on 3 years. Tiffany came in and gave me great advice and my case settled before trial. I would highly recommend her - she knows the law and my ex is an attorney and she didn’t back down to him or his lawyers. She was the third attorney I had hired on my case.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
26 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
Tiffany was good to start with (about 3 months) but when my ex's lawyer got aggressive she backed down and led me to believe it was in my best interest to give him what he wanted. I ended up paying a huge amount of marital support AND child support. She also told me I had to pay support before I had orders. By the time I switched lawyers we were 1.5 years into the process and I had spent $10,000 for nothing. She was always on vacation and didn't return my calls near the end. Come to find out she was shopping for a new job. Once I got a new lawyer my case was done in a month and my bill was reduced by half because all she had done was print off my emails and save them in a binder. I recommend you get someone else!
Read more Avvo
See more
Chad E. Kemp, experienced Car Accident, Estate Planning attorney in Madison, WI with 3 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
19,04
star star star star star
3.6/5
Avvo
3.6
3 Reviews
star star star star star
30 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
I was referred to Chad by a friend. I texted him to see if he was interested and was given a response to call him. I tried like 4 times, left detailed messages, no response. In my opinion, another attorney looking to bask in a $25,000 cookie cutter divorce. DO NOT USE THIS GUY!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
31 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Chad responded promptly to my phone calls and went out of his way to talk me through the process of my divorce. He listened to my concerns and did his very best to be sure my needs were met. I would recommend Chad Kemp to anyone going through a divorce.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
28 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
I hired Attorney Kemp to represent me with my bankrutpcy. He was knowledgable and assisted me through the process. I would recommend Mr. Kemp to anyone that is going through this difficult time.
Read more Avvo
See more
Daniel Musser, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Madison, WI with 12 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,84
star star star star star
3.7/5
Google Maps
3.7
12 Reviews
star star star star star
26 Nov, 2023 by Bron snow
Bill saved my life. Would recommend him to 10 out of 10 people I meet. A law firm you van trust with a winning history.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
10 Mar, 2023 by The staff
Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Jul, 2020 by David mandell
Google Maps
See more
Gricel Santiago-Rivera, experienced Child Support, Domestic Violence attorney in Madison, WI with 3 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,44
star star star star star
3.6/5
Avvo
3.6
3 Reviews
star star star star star
04 Nov, 2014 by Anonymous
Gricel was my lawyer for my divorce. I am so grateful to have had her help me, I had met with other lawyers but they didn't understand how to handle international divorce. Gricel had tons of experience with international clients and was very honest and effective in court. She explained everything to me, helped me to prioritize what I wanted in the divorce and understand what I could reasonably expect from the judge. We were able to come to an agreement on our home and other important items and Gricel fought to help me have full time with my children. She understood what I was going through, was sympathetic and very professional. Gricel went through all the questions she anticipated which made the actual court less intimidating. She was efficient and didn't waste a lot of lawyer time making a huge bill like my friends have had happen to them. I hope you do not have a divorce, but if you have one you should hire Gricel. I highly recommend her for any divorce or child support case especially if there are international issues.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
05 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
This attorney did my divorce, and I had worst experience in my life. If you thinking to hair her as your lawyer, please wast your money for something else. Do not even approach her office, if you do, you will regret about that rest of your life.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
17 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
Ms. Santiago-Rivera was prompt and helpful she listened to find out my goals for the case and helped me achieve them.
Read more Avvo
See more
John P. Louderman III, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Madison, WI with 4 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,33
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
4 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Attorney Louderman was very prompt in replying to any questions or problems I had in my case. His fees were very low compared to the amount of money my ex paid her atttorney. He solved problems and did not make problems. Very satisfied.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
25 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Let's face it. Divorces stink. You're feeling at your worst and the issues get personal very quickly. John helped me through some really tough times and fairly and equitably resolved my case. Highly recommended.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
08 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
He is the worst attorney for divorce. He's extremely hard to get a hold of since he doesn't do email and all correspondence is done through his assistant. I would not recommend him for anything,
Read more Avvo
See more
Daniel J. Schlichting, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Madison, WI with 2 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
16,29
star star star star star
3.0/5
Avvo
3.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
30 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
Incredibly rude and unwilling to clarify basic questions on a contract. Was supposed to get a 30 minute conversation, instead got a sales pitch and a very pushy attitude. Do your job next time Dan
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
16 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
Dan Schlichting was recommended from a good friend, and I was very happy with the lawyer that I choose. I was scared and nervous and he was so understanding. He was also very trustworthy, knowledgeable and dependable. I definitely recommend him....I plan on hiring him if I need a lawyer again and if he can't help me I will ask him for a recommendation.
Read more Avvo
See more
Reed W Cornia, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Madison, WI with 17 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
15,77
star star star star star
3.1/5
Avvo
1.8
5 Reviews
Google Maps
3.7
12 Reviews
star star star star star
26 Nov, 2023 by Bron snow
Bill saved my life. Would recommend him to 10 out of 10 people I meet. A law firm you van trust with a winning history.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
19 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
He is not organized and his office isn't organized either, and he doesn't have a secretary to make copies or invoices for you... I had to file 3 or 4 complaints with the State Bar of Wisconsin in order to get him moving with a appeal case which he missed the deadline date for that... and with the lawsuit that he hasn't started like he said he would!? He wouldn't text me or return phone calls unless you file with the State Bar of Wisconsin.. I got the impression from him he was always worrying about his reputation not for his clients...
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
10 Mar, 2023 by The staff
Google Maps
See more
Gregory J. Fumelle, experienced Family Law, Real Estate attorney in Madison, WI with 5 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
14,53
star star star star star
2.6/5
Avvo
2.6
5 Reviews
star star star star star
04 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
If you want a lawyer that will not fight for you at all, hire Greg. Every step of the way in my divorce, all he did was take the easiest route to ensure an easy $30,000 in his pocket. He did nothing to fight for my assets or my child. If it wasn’t for the fact that I already had $30,000 invested I would have fired him and went with an attorney that would fight for my rights, not my exes rights.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
27 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
He’s a 9-5 er lawyer who has is assistant do the work. Never did much but watch the clock spin for payment. Don’t waste your time or money.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
24 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
I believe I had one of the more contentious divorces for Greg's firm and I can attest to his above and beyond stance. He spent many a long hour into the night emailing or talking with me on the phone to ease my anxiety from all that was being thrown at me by a very vengeful Ex. The Divorce lasted a very long time with numerous calls back to court by the Ex for years after. Greg stood firmly beside me and protected me, esp. when leaving the court...as I had a retraining order and my Ex was very volatile. I Highly Recommend Greg and his firm. They helped me more than I could have ever imagined I would need.
Read more Avvo
See more
Korey C. Lundin, experienced Appeals, Family Law attorney in Madison, WI with 12 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
14,44
star star star star star
2.6/5
Google Maps
2.6
12 Reviews
star star star star star
10 Dec, 2024 by Michelle castile
Contacted multiple times for different reasons, all legit, complex reasons that requires legal help to navigate effectively. Was turned away every single time and claimed this was due to "a lack of resources." If these lawyers are swamped with cases and cannot feasibly take on anymore, perhaps there should be something done about that. Due to this, individuals and families like mine go without this much needed legal advocacy. Agencies like this are put in place to protect us and are failing to do this. Falling through the cracks is an understatement. It is a terrible fact and one that should not continue to happen upon resources like this being available in Wisconsin.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
21 May, 2024 by Patrick w
Called for help with an unemployment appeal, went through the intake checklist with the receptionist, then didn't hear from them for a month. They finally called me back a week after my hearing had already happened.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Aug, 2023 by Vivian allen
to who this concern need remove legal action of business map they are turning citizens away without option to move forward with option legal help they are useless now .
Read more Google Maps
See more
Andrew G. Mueller, experienced Consumer Protection, Domestic Violence attorney in Madison, WI with 12 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
14,44
star star star star star
2.6/5
Google Maps
2.6
12 Reviews
star star star star star
10 Dec, 2024 by Michelle castile
Contacted multiple times for different reasons, all legit, complex reasons that requires legal help to navigate effectively. Was turned away every single time and claimed this was due to "a lack of resources." If these lawyers are swamped with cases and cannot feasibly take on anymore, perhaps there should be something done about that. Due to this, individuals and families like mine go without this much needed legal advocacy. Agencies like this are put in place to protect us and are failing to do this. Falling through the cracks is an understatement. It is a terrible fact and one that should not continue to happen upon resources like this being available in Wisconsin.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
21 May, 2024 by Patrick w
Called for help with an unemployment appeal, went through the intake checklist with the receptionist, then didn't hear from them for a month. They finally called me back a week after my hearing had already happened.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Aug, 2023 by Vivian allen
to who this concern need remove legal action of business map they are turning citizens away without option to move forward with option legal help they are useless now .
Read more Google Maps
See more
Lauri Roman, experienced Appeals, Family Law attorney in Madison, WI with 2 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
13,65
star star star star star
3.0/5
Google Maps
3.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Jul, 2023 by Anna carlson
Atty. Roman did not represent me competently and diligently and did not earn her fee. Atty. Roman committed a criminal act in my presence; I rode with her to my first court hearing and she hit a parked car while she was parking then proceeded to say as we were walking away “I’m going to Pretend like I didn’t do that” I would never have assumed a lawyer could be capable of such disregard and shameless conduct. She said things to me such as “Please just sign the document and stop trying to add or change language” I never received a thank you, any inquires if was satisfied with services rendered etc. At no point in time did I feel like Attorney Roman negotiated in my name or on my behalf, advise or represent me efficiently in court, and before the GAL, communicate effetely, proficiently, or professionally, conduct research into the information provided to her and analyze provided information, nor did she interpret laws, rulings, and regulations for me to understand or advocate for me whatsoever. Attorney Roman certainly had no problem taking my money and, in my opinion, charging me for the same thing over and over i.e., going over the same emails and attached documents she had previously charged me for going over, she also had no problem charging me for all the "work" she had to do after her self-admitted mistake when she mis informed me during our settlement discussions. I had to pay Attorney Roman thousands of dollars, depleting my savings for email correspondences, phone calls and mistakes.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
01 Jul, 2019 by Tommy lancaster
Google Maps
See more
Donald W. Becker, experienced Family Law, Juvenile Law attorney in Madison, WI with 3 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
13,13
star star star star star
2.3/5
Avvo
2.3
3 Reviews
star star star star star
02 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Becker and everything seemed to be going well until the day of my hearing. 20 minutes before my hearing Mr. Becker decided to tell me that I was 'getting better' so should only seek back pay and not disability going forward. We had met 2 weeks prior and this should have been brought up at that pre-hearing meeting, not 20 minutes before my hearing where I now have to make a very important decision on the fly. It was and extremely unprofessional and inappropriate thing to do to a client.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
13 Sep, 2017 by Harry
Don is very straight forward. He knows what to ask and though his demeanor is different, he knows his job. I went through hell and he and his staff were there for me. I would recommend him to anyone. My case file was 4 inches thick and i know he read every page. If your case can be won, he will win. Isnt this the outcome we fight for?
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
21 Jan, 2015 by Jodi
First, I need to say he WON my disability case. For my initial meeting with him, He called and asked me to come an hour early. When we arrived, I waited 50 min. in the waiting room to see him for 15 min consultation. On the date of the hearing, He told me he wasn't feeling well and in a hurry to go to the DR. after our hearing. He also stated that now he decided to move my disability date to 2 yrs instead of 4 to make things go quickly and insure a win since " winning is how he gets paid" so this " ensures he also receives a paycheck as well" I don't think Mr. Becker had my best interest at heart and I was just another check in the bank to him. Im sad, he seemed like a nice guy on TV.
Read more Avvo
See more
Kristen Elizabeth Lehker, experienced Bankruptcy, Criminal Defense attorney in Madison, WI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
12,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Kristi Baker, experienced Divorce, Family Law attorney in Madison, WI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Sara Vanden Brook, experienced Divorce, Family Law attorney in Madison, WI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
8,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Christopher D. Pape, experienced Family Law attorney in Madison, WI with 4 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,82
star star star star star
1.7/5
Avvo
1.7
4 Reviews
star star star star star
03 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
I hired Christopher over 10 years ago for my divorce and had it completed in 4 months with my ex-wife paying me child support . Through out the last 10 years I have re-hired him twice and proved his excellent in knowing the law. He is a little slow at responding but is will worth it. Be patient he has a very busy schedule and is the only one in his office.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
10 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
this attorney is not prepared.. he sits in the hearings and does not defend me in any way. Tells me to not say anything. yet he dont either. I give him information and he sweeps it under the rug so to speak. Not a good lawyer. All he cares about is money. not the client.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
10 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
Never updated me on my case. Never even filed a retainer with the court informing them that he is representing me. Cashed my check, and then forgot about me.
Read more Avvo
See more
Brad C. Schweiger, experienced Divorce, Domestic Violence attorney in Madison, WI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Emily L.R. Wilson, experienced Divorce, Domestic Violence attorney in Madison, WI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
7,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Gina Frances Bosben, experienced Family Law attorney in Madison, WI with 2 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
6,87
star star star star star
1.5/5
Avvo
1.5
2 Reviews
star star star star star
23 May, 2014 by Anonymous
She was assigned to me through the court. She doe not have time for you, although she listens she can't be bothered to say what you want known and latches on to something you sort of wanted. She then tries to explain the way things work when she knows nothing about it putting you in a worse position. She will not do anything on her own and if you ask her to do it she will give an explanation as to why she won't.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
15 Aug, 2013 by Jesse
Buyer beware of Gina Bosben. On first impression, Attorney Bosben seems competent and ready to help. She does make sure you understand the CPS process and the likelihood of success at any particular stage in the court process. Unfortunately, you will soon learn that she utilizes none of her legal skills to protect your rights, but rather, assists the State in expediating the process of having your rights violated and taken away. I told another social worker who my attorney was and the FIRST words out of her mouth were, "Get rid of her." I didn't have to ask what she knew about Gina Bosben? I am a product of her sad version of representation.
Read more Avvo
See more
Margaret M. Anderson, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Madison, WI with 3 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,61
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
3 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
Gave rights to a man who sexually assaulted me and got me pregnant! Changed her last name,gave him rights to choose my kids school and he ended up sexually assaulting my child!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
05 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
This woman failed my children miserably. When she actually showed up to meetings on time, she was unkempt and full of cat fur. She ended up granting joint custody of young children to a known and proven abusive parent. She even ENCOURAGED the parent to ask for more custody time with the children than the parent even wanted. That's what killed me the most. It's an absolute shame what this lawyer did, and now my children continue to pay every single time they have forced custody time with this abusive parent. Please: find someone else to do this job because this woman is an incapable fool.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
25 May, 2017 by Anonymous
this atty will favor the women in any case and will pull out all tricks to share cases with other attys
Read more Avvo
See more
Kevin O'Flaherty, experienced Criminal Defense, Estate Planning attorney in Madison, WI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Janice N. Bensky, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Madison, WI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Erin Margaret Hahn, experienced Criminal Defense, Family Law attorney in Madison, WI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Kari Kastenholz, experienced Family Law attorney in Madison, WI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Lori A. Hickman, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Madison, WI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Jodi Shields Yin, experienced Family Law, Insurance attorney in Madison, WI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Chad R. Gendreau, experienced Family Law, Litigation attorney in Madison, WI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Steven Craig Helland, experienced Business, Estate Planning attorney in Madison, WI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See more
Susan M. DeGroot, experienced Estate Planning, Family Law attorney in Madison, WI with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
See 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

Scroll to top