Lawyers map
>45
experienced lawyers
Filter by
03 Oct, 2019 by Anna
I could not have asked for a better attorney. She was on top of everything, yet she was so compassionate and kind when I was going through this tough time. You can tell she truly cares about people. I felt confident having her at my side through this excruciating event in my life. I’m thankful for her and I recommend this powerhouse of a person and attorney!
Read more
22 May, 2019 by Chris
Leanne Cooper and entire staff made our adoption process seem so easy. With the thoroughness and ease of the Clio program, our adoption was seamless. Thank you Leanne and Amanda for making the adoption possible. Highly recommended!
Read more
13 Dec, 2018 by Petra
Thank You LeAnne and your office for getting me thru a complex divorce .... I tell ppl she's a pit bull with lipstick .. I look back 6-7 years now and Iam still grateful. I read back thru my files recently and had read your response and I was saying to myself . I had a great attorney ...Thank You so much
Read more
13 Dec, 2018 by Tim
Richard is a calm, cool, and thoughtful attorney. He not only handled the matter effectively but he kept me grounded through the ups and downs. He knows his stuff, anticipated “next steps”, and guided me through the process.
Read more
08 Nov, 2018 by Ms. w
I was in the middle of a terrible litigation storm with my sons father and it seemed like it would never end. We had been going back and forth to court for well over a year and I could not see the light at the end of the tunnel. I had been through over 4 attorneys...yes, I said 4!!! In February of 2018 a family friend suggested I meet with Mr.Schrade to see what options there were for me to move forward and possibly even wrap up the litigation altogether. I was nervous and I assumed Mr. Schrade would be like all the others but boy was I wrong. For started Mr. Schrade is an extremely kind and respectful person. Every attorney I had prior was somewhat rude or too aggressive towards me when I asked questions or for undertaking. Mr.Schrade was the total opposite... it makes a huge difference when someone treats you like a person instead of job or simply another case number. Mr. Schrade was able to close a case that had been lingering for over two years in just 2 short months! It is the best feeling in the world knowing that someone can no longer hold the threat of taking custody over your head. Mr. Schrade was an angel towards me but a fighter in the courtroom.
After spending over $8,000 on different attorneys and feeling like I was wasting time and money, I now know who to choose if I ever find myself in a familiar situation.
Read more
07 Nov, 2018 by Joan
This is the second time I’ve used Mr. Schrade’s services. The first was for a civil matter, which he negotiated expertly to my benefit, and more recently for a minor criminal matter.
From our first meeting until the disposition of my case, Mr. Schrade demonstrated complete professionalism and a thorough determination to have my case either dismissed or to proceed with as little damage to me as possible. He knows the legal system expertly, and worked diligently to strategize, present a strong defense, and negotiate a fair penalty.
Mr. Schrade made to feel confident but realistic about potential outcomes and always answered my questions and addressed my concerns promptly.
Simply put, Mr. Schrade showed a commitment to my case that I likely would not have received from most attorneys, and as a result, I received what I believe is the best possible outcomes in both instances. Mr. Schrade is incredibly talented and effective and I highly recommend him to anyone in need of an attorney.
Read more
28 Dec, 2018 by Gwendolyn
I cannot say enough about how pleased I am with Pandora Palmer and her amazing team of professionals! My divorce was a long, drawn out, grueling two year process. When I first met with Pandora, she immediately showed compassion for me and my situation. She and her paralegal, Tiffany, got right on my case, being thorough in researching all aspects of it. Pandora presented me with the facts of what I was facing and gave it to me straight--no sugar coating. She was honest...but with compassion. My case was handled with the utmost importance and professionalism. Phone calls, faxes, and emails were promptly returned. Meetings and correspondence was very detailed. My ex-husband had the worst attitude and behavior throughout the entire process and his attorney/team was less than professional. However, Pandora and Tiffany were firm--countered swiftly, and remained poised and professional at all times. They showed genuine care and concern for me and my minor child, and even showed the same level of care and concern for my oldest child, who is a young adult and was not being represented in the divorce for that reason. My divorce has been final for a few months now. My ex-husband and I had to be back in court just recently to address attorney's fees---Pandora got great results on that too! Should you ever be in need of an awesome attorney, who will fight for you and follow through with great results, I highly recommend Pandora Palmer and her team of professionals as your attorney...you won't regret it!
Read more
01 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
If you are looking for a divorce attorney, you are making a mistake if you do not choose Pandora. I never once had any doubts about my case, because I knew she was the best. I high recommend Pandora!
Read more
14 Sep, 2018 by Wayne powers
I would highly recommend Pandora Palmer. She has help me on more than one ocassion. Pandora was very thorough and prepared to help. Her team does great work!
Read more
01 Aug, 2023 by Nicola
Great attorney. She helped my family and I with a contract that we need handled.
Read more
07 Apr, 2020 by Juan
I needed a music business contract and April got me a professional contract which helped the business a get a deal, great job!
Read more
21 Feb, 2019 by Junie
Ms. Lash was a guide of hope to my family at a time of need. There were so many unexpected twists and turns; however, Ms. Lash remained professional and on top of everything!
Read more
15 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
I could not have asked for a better attorney in my recent divorce case. Barbara worked diligently on my divorce with a tough, experienced attitude, never backing down when negotiating. She was amazing in obtaining a settlement far better than I ever anticipated. I recommend Barbara Moon wholeheartedly and am I so grateful she was there for me.
Read more
30 Jan, 2014 by David
Barbara Moon is an outstanding and gifted professional. When I have faced legal delima, Barbara Moon has restored my confidence by providing exceptional legal advice and representation. She takes her clients and cases seriously and her results prove it.
Read more
23 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
Ms. Moon is currently handling a case for me. I was served with court papers, at my office, completely out of the blue for contempt. Ms. Moon immediately put me at ease on my first office visit. She wanted every last detail I could give her about the incident. During the time that we were waiting to go to court, she has kept me informed of every movement she has made on the case. Ms. Moon, as well as her assistant Ronni, were always accessible to me anytime I needed them. All phone calls and emails were always answered.
Ms. Moon represented me in court last week and did an excellent job. Because of the complexity of the case, we are still waiting for a ruling from the Judge. Ms. Moon has continued to study all cases that are pertinent to my case and has forwarded them to the Judge. She spent a whole day with me preparing for my case and stayed after hours at her office to make sure I was comfortable and informed of the court proceedings.
Ms. Moon came highly recommended to me and I did my research before I hired her. I was impressed with her resume of experience and the cases she had tried in the past. No matter what the outcome of my court experience, I felt that Ms. Moon gave 100% to my case. When I was with her I felt that I was the only client she had. I would recommend her with no hesitation......
Read more
09 Dec, 2018 by Michael
I hired Amanda to probate the will for both parents which passed within 4 months of each other, I found her and the staff to be professional and courteous through the whole process.
Read more
17 Sep, 2018 by Genie
I needed an attorney to walk me through the process of probating a will. I knew from previous experience with this law firm that I would be taken care of again, and it was close to home! Amanda made things so easy for me. She explained everything perfectly and was very patient, professional and courteous. The whole team with Pandora Palmer law firm is GREAT! Thanks Amanda for all your help!
Read more
26 Apr, 2018 by Carol
Amanda Flora is fantastic! She did great job in letting us know the status of our case and advocating diligently for a reduction. We were ultimately very pleased with result. I would high recommend her to be your attorney in your time of need.
Read more
10 Nov, 2018 by Deborah
I recently lost my husband unexpectedly after 44 years of marriage. Following his death was the painful process of probating his will. Allison Crain helped me during this time in so many ways. Always professional, she answered questions in a way that, even in the confused state that I found myself in, was clear and concise as she helped me through this process. Her professionalism and dedication went beyond my expectations. Allison has a heart of gold; always kind and very compassionate. Understanding the stress I was feeling, she reached out to assist me in any way she could. She is one of those individuals you feel you have known all of your life as a friend. I can’t speak more highly than that of Ms. Crain, both professionally and personally.
Read more
08 Nov, 2018 by William
She helped me fight a TPO that my wife put
on me and was able to get the TPO dropped! She will also be my divorce lawyer and I see good thing to come!
Read more
14 Aug, 2015 by James and melissa
We were in desperate need of legal representation and by the grace of God found Mr McCord. He handled the court room and the evidence with grace and diligence and we won! We highly recommend him to represent you and your family. We will hire for all of our future legal needs.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Lauren
I called to inquire about a consultation and it took a days to get a call back to find out that a consult is $350 and you can't ask a single simple question without one. Yes, I've done consults before as an interview for both parties to determine if the situation is a good fit to work together. I've also worked in a law office and knew the basic retainer fees and legal expenses without being a lawyer. But to pay $350 before we can even get a ballpark price quote for a specific issue is crazy. Spending $350 to find out whether we can or can't afford to hire someone is a waste of resources that most frankly don't have an abundance of. I'm sure she's great.
Read more
25 Jul, 2024 by Korin galster
Nichole Reynolds was a blessing to me and my kids. I had many consults before choosing her and her firm for my divorce and custody of my children. I am glad I waited to find her. She helped me get my kids back and the best outcome possible! They are back with me where they belong! I would recommend her for anyone who wants a professional, hard working and compassionate lawyer. Thank you!
Read more
07 May, 2024 by Chris phillips
Awesome lawyer, always seems to have a plan and executes it to a tee in the courtroom. Highly recommend
Read more
26 Sep, 2024 by Navin tandon
My case was handled professionally and the staff was very courteous and easy to work with.
Read more
26 Sep, 2024 by David hardy
I Retained this Firm to write a Quit Claim Deed not knowing that they were the same Firm that Bungled my Closing 8 years ago and had to be re-done (Nightmare) It's taken them almost a month and the Document had so many errors and misspellings in it, (Like a 5th grader had written it.) Unfortunately they made me pay up front. I had to take the Document and have it Corrected at another Firm. Avoid this Firm.
Read more
05 May, 2024 by Sheila
Attorney Bullard, Attorney Ward, Trina, Kim and Angel represent a powerhouse of women who are professional, proficient and prepared to get the job done. As I was going through a tough and abusive divorce the ladies made me feel safe and protected, which relieved me of the stress that emerged with my divorce. The team shouldered the brunt of the stress which enabled me to focus on my medical issues and healing. Ladies…you are appreciated!
Read more
11 Sep, 2024 by Julia hightower
Excellent attorneys. Cannot recommend enough. As an attorney who found myself needing an attorney, Suesan Miller came highly recommended and lived up to the hype! She is exactly the sort of attorney you want representing you. When you interview attorneys, familiarity with the court you are in front of is key. She not only knows the law, she knows Henry County because she is in court all the time. I expect she has similar familiarity with the surrounding counties and if she doesn't I'd expect her to be honest and upfront about it. That is just the sort of professional she is. Her level of experience means she knows the best way to resolve your case and can give you a realistic expectation of how you will fair at trial or plea negotiations.
Suesan Miller was also on my side from the start. She was clear and communicative and easy to get in touch with. Her office responded quickly to any message I left and kept me fully updated on the status of my case. They called and texted and emailed to ensure I was where I needed to be when I needed to be there. Her office treated me with respect, explained what was going on, and did what they said they would do in a timely manner. I know a lot of attorneys and Miller, North & Brill are some of the most professional I have ever encountered.
Hopefully I won't be back, but if I ever need another defense attorney they will be my first call.
Read more
14 Aug, 2024 by Ramon toribio
Suesan Miller has handled several cases for me & advised me on others & her professionalism & knowledge of the legal system are second to none. I trust her with all my legal matters & highly recommend her to my family & friends.
Read more
13 Aug, 2024 by Rebecca holland
I cannot express enough gratitude for the exceptional legal representation I received from Suesan Miller. From our first consultation, it was clear that I was in capable hands. She is incredibly knowledgeable, dedicated, and was always available to answer my questions. She has worked tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome. I'm very grateful for her support and would trust her with any future legal matters.
Read more
03 Apr, 2024 by Ashley
Y'all were a lifesaver for me during my child custody battle. They are professional, knowledgeable, and truly cared about my case. I had been burned by other attorneys in the past, but the whole team exceeded all my expectations. Thank you for your outstanding service.
Read more
24 Jan, 2024 by Venkata chaganti
23 Jan, 2024 by Rana madubuike
This law firm handled my Divorce fast considering the circumstances, in less than a year. I recommend anyone who wants to get a Divorce to go with them!
Read more
08 Jun, 2024 by Erica basham
Thank you for all your help!!! Mr Smith was very helpful always on top of answering any question I had with quick responses,never done anything without my approval . I would definitely recommend him to anyone.
Read more
14 May, 2024 by Dishay
Iuhlkll
Read more
27 Apr, 2024 by Linda pernice
08 Jun, 2024 by Erica basham
Thank you for all your help!!! Mr Smith was very helpful always on top of answering any question I had with quick responses,never done anything without my approval . I would definitely recommend him to anyone.
Read more
14 May, 2024 by Dishay
Iuhlkll
Read more
27 Apr, 2024 by Linda pernice
08 Oct, 2024 by Kirk capt
Please beware!!...this not what you want!!!
...I found this attorney on a flyer and should have known then he was desperate and a scam artist. Despite the suggestion to look into this attorney before hiring. I paid a heavy price for not taking that suggestion. This person I don't even feel comfortable calling an attorney was never actually acting on my behalf. His customer service sucks, so if your expecting a response to phone calls, texts or emails forget it. I got a DUI while inside my home sleep...that's right sleep not in a vehicle and on private property. Too add I also received a failure to maintain lane charge and I was never driving. When I asked what I should expect for his fee .. never got an answer. Please do yourself a favor and look elsewhere for representation. Don't end up like me. My only hope at this point is to seek " real " council to plead with the court on my behalf.Please beware!!...this not what you want!!!
...I found this attorney on a flyer and should have known then he was desperate and a scam artist. Despite the suggestion to look into this attorney before hiring. I paid a heavy price for not taking that suggestion. This person I don't even feel comfortable calling an attorney was never actually acting on my behalf. His customer service sucks, so if your expecting a response to phone calls, texts or emails forget it. I got a DUI while inside my home sleep...that's right sleep not in a vehicle and on private property. Too add I also received a failure to maintain lane charge and I was never driving. When I asked what I should expect for his fee .. never got an answer. Please do yourself a favor and look elsewhere for representation. Don't end up like me. My only hope at this point is to seek " real " council to plead with the court on my behalf.
Read more
01 Oct, 2024 by Barbara st jean
03 Sep, 2024 by Steve folds
Good place
Read more
01 Oct, 2024 by Raptor jesus
30 Sep, 2024 by Bill kidd
A friend of mine went through trial with Brad moody a few years back and he was an absolute joke. He refused to hire experts. He refused to listen. Did not do any pretrial investigation. After all these years my friend is now suing the DA in his case and it turns out the DA lied about evidence claiming they had evidence they didn't even have. Turns out witnesses were lying and the state is doing their level best to conceal facts now in post conviction appeals. This guy Brad moody is horrible. If you are facing serious charges you best look else where. Or go ahead and call prison and make reservations. In other words my friend was setup by people who wanted him gone and the state likely knew it all along.
Read more
25 Jul, 2024 by Missy howard
26 Jul, 2024 by Amanda tuggle
I had a consultation with Andria a few weeks ago. Connected with her through a company I got through my job. I appreciated her time and the legal advice she offered. Unfortunately her comments about my life were unacceptable. I asked for a professional opinion on my custody case. I know I’m not unreasonable and she mentioned she could see that my ex just wants to attempt to take custody to try to hurt me. The comment “well you had a baby with him” was unnecessary. Anyone who has ever been in a custody battle knows… you didn’t expect certain behaviors but obviously it’s impossible to turn back the hands of time. I guess she considered it being real, but honestly it was just ignorant. Her advice didn’t really make sense to me, I wanted what was best for my child. No one wanted to kick my daughter’s dad out her life and I felt like she stereotyped me but assuming that. But I needed a lawyer that understood that and any one, male or female, that purposely miscommunicates about their child isn’t a good fit. You hurt the child at the end of the day. No one is the same. She stereotyped my wants. I needed someone who was going to understand custody battles are suppose to be about the child and NOT mom vs dad. Though I appreciated her time, she’s not the lawyer for me. Idk if all the bad reviews on here are fake.
Read more
18 Mar, 2024 by William monsalve
I had a great experience with attorney Andrea Boyd. At first, when I called in January, it was hard to reach someone and was advised by the staff that they were fully booked until a few months later. I then called in February and attorney Boyd answered the call and took my case on the spot. Very professional and at the end I received a positive outcome in my case. Attorney Boyd was quick to response and I really enjoyed their online portal. I would highly recommend Attorney Andrea Boyd. Thank you!
Read more
23 Feb, 2024 by Alex serrano
I reached out to Attorney Boyd's office on November 15, 2023, to discuss adopting my stepchildren, as her services are covered by my employer-provided legal plan. Initially, I was informed by her paralegal, Andrea R., that Attorney Boyd could not assist me until January, but a consultation could be arranged before then. We had our consultation on December 8, 2023, which was productive; Attorney Boyd outlined what I could expect from the process, and we agreed on the steps forward—including me providing completed paperwork for her office to file, with me covering the filing fees.
However, as of February 22, 2024, despite fulfilling my obligations and submitting all required documents promptly, my case has seen no progress. Communication has been a significant issue; I've attempted to use the recommended 'mycase' platform and made several phone calls, often only being able to leave messages that are slowly returned by Andrea. Despite my clear request for the paperwork to be filed and for an invoice to be issued, I've received no response, and my access to 'mycase' has recently been revoked.
This lack of communication and action is deeply frustrating and falls short of what one would expect from a legal professional. If my case was not a priority due to the financials involved with my legal plan, it would have been preferable to be informed upfront rather than being left in this prolonged state of inaction. This experience has forced me to seek legal assistance elsewhere, echoing the sentiment of another reviewer: "don't waste your time."
Read more
24 Oct, 2015 by Matt
This lawyer gave me advice he knew to be erroneous. I do not, nor did I, believe in my guilt and Mr. Roberts seemed to share my sentiment. After putting in a not guilty plea in, I had a phone conversation in preparation for our first day in court. After telling me how we were going to beat this case we said goodbye. I had the phone on speaker as my parents were also giving me guidance. He did not hang up and proceeded to go over why it was a stupid plea and going over damning details in my case with whom I can only assume was a friend, since it was after hours. He did not know we were still there. I called him back and told him to change the plea and was forcefed a conviction. Do not hire Mr. Roberts if you value your freedom, employability, and reputation.
Read more
30 May, 2014 by Tabitha
He listened and he contacted me often and he cared about my case he even helped me with other issues.he was straight foward and i would recommend him to others He was the best lawyer ever.
Read more
02 May, 2014 by Anonymous
I was totally impressed with Matt. He was truly concerned with my case. He contacted me often. He gave me all my options and went above and beyond for the money. I mean an attorney can only do so much with what they are given. They make the best out of a typically bad situation. I feel like I got the best representation. I would definitely call him again if I needed to and recommend him to anyone. He is a graduate of Georgia State, law clerk to the judge in Henry county, assistant to Gov Barnes, volunteers for the high school and was recommended by another law firm. He was great!
Read more
06 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
She is terrible! I heard she has been doing this for a while and it might be time to retire. She is my sons public defender and her professionalism is non existent. I can't say she handles all her clients in this manner but her dislike for my son shows every time we encounter her. Seems the prosecution does more for my son than she does.
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
-
What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases. -
Who will be handling my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.
How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
- Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
- List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
- Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
- Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.
Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.
