Lawyers map
>286
experienced lawyers
Filter by
23 May, 2015 by Faye
I have used Ms. Johnson twice, for my divorce and to set visitation for my children. I must say, I was very pleased with the out come of both.
Read more
29 Jan, 2014 by Karen
Handle my divorce; got a great price and everything I wanted in the settlement... My ex-husband and I were very please with the agreed upon terms, and my children did not suffer through the process. Attorney Johnson even helped us set visitation with no additional cost.
Read more
20 Oct, 2020 by Byron
I enlisted the help of Mr. Royal to handle power of attorney, will, and other legal matters. Mr. Royal is engaging, listens well and is highly professional. Costs are reasonable as well. I recommend him without reservation.
Read more
29 Nov, 2017 by Lloyd
Mr. Grinstead shows deep concerns about me being a Viet Nam Era Veteran who served in the United States Army, both overseas and stateside. He is a good listener and shows commitment at all times. Very professional and caring. I believe that he is a Christian God bless you.
Read more
20 Oct, 2015 by Genevieve
Mr. Zdancewicz is handling a probate issue for us. So far I am very pleased with his service! He is very easy to talk to and he is a great listener. He has proven to be thorough and proactive. We have one more court date and are looking for success at this one as we had with the others. I would definately recommend mr. Zdancewicz to anyone in need of his services!
Read more
03 Oct, 2019 by Gemini sister
I want to begin with saying Brandi Heiden is the Best Attorney I could have come across in the most devastating time of my life. In Sept. 2017 I was in a 6 year relationship & we had a 5 1/2 yr old son. We were engaged, but in no rush to get married. My Fiancé had a long time (20yr) drug addiction, that I was aware of when we began our relationship. However, I got pregnant within 3 months of us dating. I thought maybe between myself & the baby he always wanted, he would change. That was hopeful but very naive. We had many ups & downs; arguments and breakdowns. We separated 3-4 times in 6 years. One thing we did love more than anything and always put before “US” was our son. That’s what always kept us coming back together. He made a decision to quit the street drugs (EXTREMELY EXPENSIVE) & get on Methadone. He explained to me it was legal, given to him at a clinic, where he would have to go everyday to take, also have to take drug test to assure he wasn’t taking any other drug, & they also provided counseling. Plus it was $100 a week vs $600-$700 a week. Anyway, it changed him, his moods, his patience, he was always angry & mean. The emotional, mental, & verbal abuse I had gotten used to, got worse & one day the physical began. This had never happened, but to make matters worse my 5 yr old saw the entire thing, & my son was the one who knew to call 911. We were both scared. My fiancé was arrested & after a few weeks, we went to court and I allowed him to continue coaching my sons football team and visit him with my supervision. My In-laws began pushing & pushing for us to get married asap. Saying it be better for our son & look better for my fiancé in court. Well, we did. November 2017 we got married. Not even 3 weeks after, Dec. 2nd 2017 he shoved me through a bedroom door.. my heart broke, police came again & arrested him.
On Dec 7th 2017 I took my son to school & when I went to pick him up I was told he was already picked up & I could no longer come to the school. A world wind hit me. I didn’t know who, what, where my son was. Then I got a text from my mother in law, she was granted temp. guardianship of my son for Dependency & Neglect. I immediately called around & found out about Brandi Heiden. We met the next day & basically went over several false allegations against me that my mother in law had lied about. That’s when it hit me, she needed me to marry her son so she would have rights to try to take my son away, because she couldn’t accept what her son had been doing for so long. I was Lost. Now I wasn’t “innocent until proven guilty, I had to PROVE my innocence. I will NEVER forget the words Ms. Heiden told me that day; “ Do Exactly What I Tell You To Do, Everything, even if the judge does not order it, Do It, and You Will Get Your Son Back, I Promise”. So thats what I did. I took 12 classes on Abused Women. I took 30 (3hr) Drug & Alcohol classes, when I don’t use drugs & occasionally have glass of wine. I took 2 hair follicle drug tests where I watched them chop off 8 thick pieces of my hair, & took over 2 dozen drug/alcohol urine screens. EVERY single test came back Negative! All of this took precious time away from me w/my son. Days I would pull over & call Brandi (Ms.Heiden) crying that I missed him & needed him & was hurting; a piece of me was just gone. She would talk to me, remind me how good I was doing, how hard I was fighting & I am a good mother & will get him back. With over 15 court dates, I lost my job, my car, & my house. Now it really looked bad... if I did get him back how would I support him, where would we live.? I kept praying & An elderly man from church had lost his wife & offered 2 rooms in his house for me & my son a place to stay. Brandi said the state will help w/the rest. Brandi wkd hours on end for me. Finally Nov 19 2018 (11mo/12 days) the judge awarded Me FULL Custody!
I am FOREVER GRATEFUL & THANKFUL to Ms. Heiden! My Son is home w/me where He belongs; & I made a Friend 4 Life !!
Read more
02 Nov, 2023 by Taylor made
I had this lawyer before in the early 2000's fr he stayed on point communicated with me strongly Mr Stengel took time &'came out to the penalfarm to keep me up dated with everything that was goin on with my federal case so I do not have nothing bad to say bout this lawyer Michael Stengel but alot of good things I could say... he's been around for a while ..Good choice I recommen hem to any one that say they need a good lawyer , he's a good communicater, and definitely keep every on the same page & work the situation out to the BEST of his abilities.... facts
Read more
02 Mar, 2021 by Wan c
Great attorney!!! He does what he says. You will always be able to stay in contact with him.
Read more
25 Jan, 2020 by Shacara davis
He was honest and direct
Read more
04 Feb, 2025 by Tacaris payne
From the Briscoe Family. Hired Mr Campbell for my case, he told me what he was gonna do and he did everything he said he was gonna do. Excellent attorney . Will be using him again and I strongly recommend him. And all of the staff was nice, friendly and helpful. If you need a attorney that's gonna fight for you and succeed, call Campbell law firm.
Read more
31 Jan, 2025 by Mary brinkey
I would like to Thank Leslie and his staff I rate you all 100 percent real 🙏 you do what you say you gone do Thank you from The Clark Brinkley family we really love your work From grandmother Mary I know you all got tired of me 😔 Thank you
Read more
29 Jan, 2025 by Tammy mcgowan
Ms. Tanya helped to keep the flow of our case on point. From appointment reminders, taking time to explain things from court…whatever she could do to assist was done. Your hard work for Us did not go unnoticed 🥰🥰
Read more
04 Feb, 2025 by Tacaris payne
From the Briscoe Family. Hired Mr Campbell for my case, he told me what he was gonna do and he did everything he said he was gonna do. Excellent attorney . Will be using him again and I strongly recommend him. And all of the staff was nice, friendly and helpful. If you need a attorney that's gonna fight for you and succeed, call Campbell law firm.
Read more
31 Jan, 2025 by Mary brinkey
I would like to Thank Leslie and his staff I rate you all 100 percent real 🙏 you do what you say you gone do Thank you from The Clark Brinkley family we really love your work From grandmother Mary I know you all got tired of me 😔 Thank you
Read more
29 Jan, 2025 by Tammy mcgowan
Ms. Tanya helped to keep the flow of our case on point. From appointment reminders, taking time to explain things from court…whatever she could do to assist was done. Your hard work for Us did not go unnoticed 🥰🥰
Read more
25 Nov, 2024 by Jamyah davis
I wanna start by thanking the whole firm for accepting my case.:) BIG SHOUT OUT TO MY Attorney ALEXIS WALES. SHE is the best highly recommended she kept me updated listen to everything I had to say helped with things outside of my case! Most importantly never left me in the dark! Thank you so muchhh
Read more
05 Nov, 2024 by Michelle brown
Extremely satisfied. I had never used an attorney before for anything. But coming to Crone, they immediately treated me like family. I felt like my case was the only case being handled. Alan was professional and used excellent tactical skills when negotiating a settlment. 10 stars
Read more
24 Oct, 2024 by Salama ginem
When I was 17, I was hit by a car while jogging. Hospitalized for a month. I retained schwed law and it was the worse decision ever. After maturing, I learned that there was settlements declined on my behalf without my knowledge. Court dates I was not made aware of whatsoever. Infact they switched the lawyer on my case so many times that every time we needed an update, current lawyer had no idea what was going on. Unless you want really unprofessional, shady business, avoid these people. I am 27 years old now and tell this day I still have paint from all my surgeries and these people did nothing but screw me over.
Read more
02 Jan, 2023 by Katharine
She will work and fight for you no matter what. She always shows up. If you hire her, you were hiring her, not some random lawyer from her firm
Read more
09 Aug, 2022 by Angelique
This black queen took my case with no hesitation. I would definitely recommend her. Keep shining black queen.
Read more
03 Aug, 2022 by Clewis
Ms Beasley took my case in a short notice, walked me through the process. She kept in contact with me and made sure to update me on everything that was going on. Highly recommend and does a great job. I'm very happy that I had you as my lawyer
Read more
21 Jan, 2025 by Dante rosales
I hired a lawyer from this office that took $10,000 from me and then quit practicing family law 6 months later.
Read more
15 Jan, 2025 by Jake steffenhagen
Joshua Corman handled my case with precise expertise. I cannot thank him enough for his care and genuine manner. Very accommodating and professional, great communication. Highly recommended.
Read more
06 Jan, 2025 by April fletcher
Mr. Angelakis is the real MVP. From the beginning to the end!! Very informative, patient and friendly. Even the receptionist was a sweetheart. If you are looking for a lawyer that goes above and beyond for their clients.He’s most definitely the guy to get the job done. I promise you want be disappointed!!!
Read more
21 Dec, 2024 by Cassidy smith
Definitely don't recommend expecting to receive any sort of good outcome when hiring Macaw, still trying to undo the damage that was done.
Read more
01 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Suzanne very clearly knows what she’s doing and she does it efficiently without wasting any time or money. She is kind, patient and understanding and effective. Highly recommend!
Read more
25 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Suzanne Brown is first class! She is methodical with her investigation and her execution of the facts. She was there for me when I needed her the most. She answered my texts, emails and phone calls very quickly. She listened with empathy and was confident in her delivery. She was very prepared for court and had a game plan that won my case and at the end he had to pay my attorney fees and court costs. Instead of getting a 1 year Order of Protection he received a 5 year Order Of Protection because my attorney picked out the important items to show the harassment, stalking and threats and aggressively went at him. Thank you for all you did for me I can never thank you enough.
Read more
14 Apr, 2023 by Georgia tarton
14 Jul, 2022 by Lokela lane
He gave good advice. I refer all of my friends to this office. He did what was best for the family as it pertains to divorce
Read more
30 Aug, 2021 by Ronald gretz
I had the privilege of retaining Mr Feild Sr in 2007 when I needed to appeal a decision in my case. I provided him my case file and even included a first draft of the appeal motion that I wrote on my own. A week later he took my case and within 3 months, things were corrected to the way they originally should have been adjudicated. It saddened me to recently learn of his passing a number of years ago. If Mr Feild Jr is anything like his father, they will treat you right and get the job done.
Read more
14 Apr, 2023 by Georgia tarton
14 Jul, 2022 by Lokela lane
He gave good advice. I refer all of my friends to this office. He did what was best for the family as it pertains to divorce
Read more
30 Aug, 2021 by Ronald gretz
I had the privilege of retaining Mr Feild Sr in 2007 when I needed to appeal a decision in my case. I provided him my case file and even included a first draft of the appeal motion that I wrote on my own. A week later he took my case and within 3 months, things were corrected to the way they originally should have been adjudicated. It saddened me to recently learn of his passing a number of years ago. If Mr Feild Jr is anything like his father, they will treat you right and get the job done.
Read more
21 Jan, 2025 by Dante rosales
I hired a lawyer from this office that took $10,000 from me and then quit practicing family law 6 months later.
Read more
15 Jan, 2025 by Jake steffenhagen
Joshua Corman handled my case with precise expertise. I cannot thank him enough for his care and genuine manner. Very accommodating and professional, great communication. Highly recommended.
Read more
06 Jan, 2025 by April fletcher
Mr. Angelakis is the real MVP. From the beginning to the end!! Very informative, patient and friendly. Even the receptionist was a sweetheart. If you are looking for a lawyer that goes above and beyond for their clients.He’s most definitely the guy to get the job done. I promise you want be disappointed!!!
Read more
21 Jan, 2025 by Dante rosales
I hired a lawyer from this office that took $10,000 from me and then quit practicing family law 6 months later.
Read more
15 Jan, 2025 by Jake steffenhagen
Joshua Corman handled my case with precise expertise. I cannot thank him enough for his care and genuine manner. Very accommodating and professional, great communication. Highly recommended.
Read more
06 Jan, 2025 by April fletcher
Mr. Angelakis is the real MVP. From the beginning to the end!! Very informative, patient and friendly. Even the receptionist was a sweetheart. If you are looking for a lawyer that goes above and beyond for their clients.He’s most definitely the guy to get the job done. I promise you want be disappointed!!!
Read more
21 Jan, 2025 by Dante rosales
I hired a lawyer from this office that took $10,000 from me and then quit practicing family law 6 months later.
Read more
15 Jan, 2025 by Jake steffenhagen
Joshua Corman handled my case with precise expertise. I cannot thank him enough for his care and genuine manner. Very accommodating and professional, great communication. Highly recommended.
Read more
06 Jan, 2025 by April fletcher
Mr. Angelakis is the real MVP. From the beginning to the end!! Very informative, patient and friendly. Even the receptionist was a sweetheart. If you are looking for a lawyer that goes above and beyond for their clients.He’s most definitely the guy to get the job done. I promise you want be disappointed!!!
Read more
27 Nov, 2024 by Kiara collier
I’m so appreciative of the Law Office of David E. Gordon. I was rear ended in May of 2024 and I reached out to Attorney Gordon. They were so thorough and made sure I was satisfied with my settlement. Carrianne was the sweetest and I enjoyed her follow up calls as she checked on me throughout my treatment.
I wanted to express my sincere gratitude for the exceptional work your office did on my case. Your professionalism, expertise, and dedication were truly appreciated.
Thank you again for your efforts and support throughout this process.
Read more
20 Nov, 2024 by Pretty vette
I was in car accident late October 2023 and i was in pretty bad shape and David Gordon and his team was with me every step of the way and got me a great settlement and followed up with a thank you card. if you have been injured in a car accident please reach out. they always have someone to talk to you right away and you will always speak to attorney same day if you leave a message but i always spoke with someone right away
Read more
15 Jul, 2024 by Lorretta jackson
The absolute BEST in town!
Read more
22 Jan, 2024 by Laura fisher
11 Jan, 2024 by Kendra wells
I hired attorney Gray Bartlett to take care of a case for me, and he exceeded my expectations. He’s professional, prompt, patient, responded to all of my calls/text messages, and will ALWAYS get you the best verdict in court. This wasn’t the first time I hired him, and he’s literally the best attorney in Memphis, TN. If you want your case taken care of in a timely manner, and an attorney that will always give you updates on your case. Gray Bartlett is the attorney for you, and I promise that you want be disappointed. Thanks a million Gray and I truly appreciate you! 😊
Read more
07 Jan, 2024 by Chris
20 Sep, 2024 by Davinci newson
Excellent service everyone that I talked to was well experienced at their job they made my job very easy and pleasant I recommend anybody looking for a good lawyer to work with this company
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Jacqueline banks
10 Sep, 2024 by Lamarcus butler
28 Dec, 2022 by Gary
Sarah was a tremendous person to hire as an attorney to help guide me through the dissolution of a near 15 year marriage with multiple children. She was honest, factual, attentive, and respectful of what was important to me. Most importantly, she has a keen ability to understand people in a short period of time. She brought up many things during the creation of the MDA that i had not thought about previously that remain helpful today in navigating life post-divorce. From a pure business perspective, her practice operates very efficiently and she is very organized. All expectations regarding fees, payments, and the entire process are as clear up front as they can be. I would highly recommend Sarah to anyone seeking a family law attorney. For me, she was exactly the attorney I needed.
Read more
01 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Wonderful! Night and day experience. They actually care about who they represent.
Read more
17 Jan, 2022 by Quinton
Mrs Turner explained everything to us upfront before we hired her she was extremely professional she answered our questions…Mrs Turner is a beast in the courtroom she will fight for you until the end. Definitely recommend her. She returned our calls and messages
Read more
28 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
Thank you for your help me with my immigration case,
Read more
06 Dec, 2024 by Ricky patterson
they did a awesome job for me
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Tya johnson
05 Dec, 2024 by Courtney beshears
Kim Presser did a fantastic job helping me get my cousin what she has deserved for many years. Without her, I don't know what we would have done other than give up. Thank you for your hard work and dedication to your client.
Read more
21 Dec, 2024 by Cassidy smith
Definitely don't recommend expecting to receive any sort of good outcome when hiring Macaw, still trying to undo the damage that was done.
Read more
17 Dec, 2024 by Modearer henry
Thank you for the professional way in which you handled my business.
Read more
15 Nov, 2024 by Khailyn thompson
The positive reviews are all true! Thank you all for your professional, compassion, and support. I honestly was scared and doubtful I could receive help but Ms. Amanda, Ms. Connie, and Attorney Jordan has been my team during my fresh start journey. Each step has been discussed verbally and provided to me in writing. I am almost at the end of my journey and I am happy to say I chose Darrell Castle & Associates, PLLC! You should look no further for professionalism with a compassionate touch!
Read more
16 Nov, 2024 by Mark clark
Christina and her team were very professional and responsive to all my questions and concerns. Highly recommended
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Missy mckinzy
Very professional with excellent communication skills throughout the process.
Read more
26 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
16 Nov, 2024 by Mark clark
Christina and her team were very professional and responsive to all my questions and concerns. Highly recommended
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Missy mckinzy
Very professional with excellent communication skills throughout the process.
Read more
26 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
25 Jan, 2025 by Tracy fletcher
Theresa Childress lied to me and promised to do things that she never did. Once she realized that she was losing she quit my case without a valid reason and left me without representation 10 days before mediation. She recorded our conversation without my knowledge and refuses to give me a copy of it until I threatened to report her to the Board of Professional Responsibilities - which I am still going to do. She charged me a lot of money (nearly $10k) and I’m still not divorced yet! She bragged about how much smarter she was than opposing counsel and how she often had won against her previously in cases. I didn’t see her to be very smart at all! She was late to hearings, unprepared and was advised that her motions had to be rewritten due to errors. She claimed she couldn’t get a favorable judgment in court because the judge didn’t like me!!!!! She did absolutely nothing to help me.
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Dale burkett
Chelsea and the entire staff at Gill Family Law were extremely helpful during my entire process. They were very professional and made me feel like my case counted and my needs were understood. Chelsea took the time to work diligently on my case, ensuring that I was updated constantly on the progress and explaining the process in great detail to ensure that I was comfortable and confident that my time and situation was being handled professionally. I would recommend anyone going through a divorce or in the need of a family law lawyer to call Chelsea and Gill Family Law and let them fight for you!
Read more
21 Aug, 2024 by Cynthia morgan
Mr. Chad Reeves is an excellent and professional attorney. He handled my case with compassion and kept me informed throughout the process. I would recommend him to anyone in need of an attorney.
Read more
09 Jan, 2025 by Jasmyn jones
They met with me and explained everything about the process. They filed it right away and took care of all of my problems. I recommend John and Linn to everyone.
Read more
07 Jan, 2025 by Lakeia reed
They were able to see me the same day I called. Everybody was nice and got our paperwork filled immediately. I left the office with complete peace of mind.
Read more
06 Jan, 2025 by Kay bates
Didn’t even attempt to help me when it was time to talk to the judge he just sat there zoned out mumbling to himself! I could’ve easily won my case I waited 3 years for a court date all for it to fall apart in a matter of minutes.
Read more
04 Feb, 2025 by Tacaris payne
From the Briscoe Family. Hired Mr Campbell for my case, he told me what he was gonna do and he did everything he said he was gonna do. Excellent attorney . Will be using him again and I strongly recommend him. And all of the staff was nice, friendly and helpful. If you need a attorney that's gonna fight for you and succeed, call Campbell law firm.
Read more
31 Jan, 2025 by Mary brinkey
I would like to Thank Leslie and his staff I rate you all 100 percent real 🙏 you do what you say you gone do Thank you from The Clark Brinkley family we really love your work From grandmother Mary I know you all got tired of me 😔 Thank you
Read more
29 Jan, 2025 by Tammy mcgowan
Ms. Tanya helped to keep the flow of our case on point. From appointment reminders, taking time to explain things from court…whatever she could do to assist was done. Your hard work for Us did not go unnoticed 🥰🥰
Read more
04 Feb, 2025 by Tacaris payne
From the Briscoe Family. Hired Mr Campbell for my case, he told me what he was gonna do and he did everything he said he was gonna do. Excellent attorney . Will be using him again and I strongly recommend him. And all of the staff was nice, friendly and helpful. If you need a attorney that's gonna fight for you and succeed, call Campbell law firm.
Read more
31 Jan, 2025 by Mary brinkey
I would like to Thank Leslie and his staff I rate you all 100 percent real 🙏 you do what you say you gone do Thank you from The Clark Brinkley family we really love your work From grandmother Mary I know you all got tired of me 😔 Thank you
Read more
29 Jan, 2025 by Tammy mcgowan
Ms. Tanya helped to keep the flow of our case on point. From appointment reminders, taking time to explain things from court…whatever she could do to assist was done. Your hard work for Us did not go unnoticed 🥰🥰
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.
