Best Family Law lawyers in Minnesota

1,601 Family Law Lawyers in Minnesota

>1.6k

experienced lawyers

Emily Mae Lundbohm

730 Center Avenue Suite 202, Moorhead, MN

Adoption Child Custody Estate Planning +1 +4

4.0/5

4.0

4 Reviews

15 Sep, 2020 by Tammy olson

19 Dec, 2019 by Kyle olson

05 May, 2019 by Ben johnson

Mark A Gray

3960 Minnehaha Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN

Child Custody Child Support Elder Law +1 +4

4.0/5

4.0

4 Reviews

15 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous

Mark is an inept attorney with little knowledge of the law. Random, poor communication, did not forward paperwork needed for the case, overall a very poor experience. I would not recommend.

21 Mar, 2022 by Daniel

I needed a divorce attorney, and someone recommended Mark Gray. After meeting with him, I knew he was who I needed. My divorce turned out to be more protracted than expected. We kept pushing for a settlement resolution, but we had no cooperation from the Petitioner. It turned out to be quite a battle. I don't remember how many Motions we had to file on various issues. Eventually we had a trial date set, and finally we got it settled on that day just before trial started. But we also had post decree motions later regarding custody, etc. The more protracted the battle is, the greater the legal fees. But Mark Gray did not overcharge me. I found out later that my ex-wife's legal fees were five times greater than my legal fees! I am so glad that I had Mark Gray to represent me, and help me understand the process. He was easy to work with, and he is a very smart guy.

15 Dec, 2015 by Daniel

Mark listened carefully to my concerns and returned my phone calls promptly.You can depend on Mark to give you his honest opinion and the best representation. Mark efficiently and effectively processed my case, so that I could move forward with my life.

Thomas Peter Winters

114 Holmes St W, Detroit Lakes, MN

Business Criminal Defense Estate Planning +3 +6

4.0/5

4.0

4 Reviews

02 Aug, 2024 by Roger

Terrible service, no communication, multiple mistakes in his filings that would cost you long term. Would never hire him again. The associates in the firm are bad as well.

28 Feb, 2017 by Annette

Tom winters listened was able to act quickly with my case. He listened to what I had to say and together we came to a solution.

21 Feb, 2017 by Lucas

We contacted Thomas about a C&D letter that we received shortly after starting our business. He reviewed our information and was able put together a draft for our review. He was flexible and made our requested changes. His wording in the letter was direct and well supported by stating multiple statutes and common business practices.

Michelle Lea-Atkinson Kelsey

100 Buchanan Street North, Cambridge, MN

Criminal Defense Family Law Personal Injury +3

4.0/5

4.0

4 Reviews

23 Jun, 2017 by B

I FELT LIKE I WAS ALWAYS GIVEN THE RIGHT ADVICE, NOT JUST FOR MY LEGAL CASE, BUT FOR MY LIFE SITUATION. I APPRECIATE EVERYTHING MICHELLE DID.

13 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous

Michelle promised many things she could not deliver. I requested that she proceed with as little conflict as possible. Her strategy dramatically increased conflict and court costs. It was very expensive for no tangible results. I would not hire her or her law firm again.

16 Dec, 2015 by Anonymous

Kelsey Law did an amazing job helping me thru some tough times with my kids and ex wife. They were a great group to work with on several different situations and issues for the past several years. I would strongly recommend them to anybody who needs a family lawyer. They are down to earth and tell you what you need to hear and not necessarily what you want to hear, which was much appreciated. I can not say enough how lucky I was to have them on my side and helping me out. Thanks again

Kimberly Jean Corradi

301 East Howard St, Hibbing, MN

Criminal Defense Family Law +2

4.0/5

4.0

4 Reviews

06 Jan, 2017 by Mary

My husband and I had an easy divorce. There were no children and no real estate, vehicles or possessions that we were fighting over. We came up with the equity division by ourselves. My lawyer basically had to write up and file the paper work. I was told this would be done in 2 months, it took 6. I was not informed along the way about what was going on at all. I was not notified that I was divorced and found out 2 weeks after by contacting the Court House and asking if they had any idea when the divorce would be finalized.

17 May, 2016 by Jm

She doesn't put up with the good old boy club at the court house. She doesn't let them just do what they want And ignore your rights. She fights for you. SHE FOUGHT FOR Me. And it wasn't easy I have a big criminal record. I got my life together and she got me 50-50 legal and physical custody of my kid. I wouldn't use any other lawyer.( thanks Kim I owe you )

03 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous

Kimberly helped me out on a criminal matter, she did a very good job. She was very friendly,not rude like some other lawyers I have contacted.

Leigh Jane Klaenhammer

2585 Hamline Ave N Ste A, Roseville, MN

Business Family Law Mediation +3

4.0/5

4.0

4 Reviews

15 Aug, 2024 by Tw

I hired Leigh to handle my divorce recently. Extremely skilled and professional. She walked me through the entire process. While always forward thinking and communicating about the next step. As long as she is practicing law, she can count on me being her client. I could not recommend her more.

21 Oct, 2022 by Me

Advises clients to do things that go totally against the best interest of the child just to try and win the case for her clients. Absolutely heartbreaking the lows this attorney stoops to. Also, how does a distinguished attorney feel comfortable blatantly lying in correspondences and allowing their clients to lie in court documents? Very scary and sad.

15 Jun, 2014 by Ross

I originally hired Leigh in 2006, I think, to handle my divorce. My wife decided she wanted to try to work through our difficulties and I put the process on hold for a year. I came back to Leigh in 2007 to finish the job. It was fairly long and dragged out process but Leigh kept me informed all the way. Not all tasks took an hour and I was charged accordingly. She is extremely knowledgable and helpful. I highly recommend her and have referred several friends/family members to at least have a conversation with her and decide for themselves. She was a big help, right from the first conversation we had, when I was shopping for a Lawyer. I would not hesitate to hire her again, but hope I never have to :)

Elizabeth Ann Clysdale

15 Kellogg Boulevard West, Saint Paul, MN

Family Law +1

4.0/5

4.0

4 Reviews

03 Sep, 2014 by Caroline

I would highly recommend Elizabeth Clysdale. She is very knowledgeable ethical, experienced and very well prepared. She has extensive court room experience. Elizabeth is responsive and dedicated to your case.

03 Sep, 2014 by Brian

I would highly recommend Elizabeth Clysdale if you have questions and/or concerns regarding divorce or are heading down that path. Elizabeth's experience, judgement, acumen and overall legal prowess/aptitude was impressive and allayed my fears. She is extremely knowledgeable and fair and really strives to find a 'common ground' and/or solution between both parties that will work well and maintain a cost-effective basis. Elizabeth has a calming presence about her that genuinely helped me feel comfortable and confident in having her navigate me through my divorce - she did an excellent job throughout the entire process.

09 Aug, 2012 by Tania

Elizabeth Clysdale has represented me for a period of years in a family law matter. I trust her completely. She was easy to work with, on top of each matter as it arose, and always kept me informed of what was happening and what would be happening next. She was very knowledgable in anticipating a referee's decision and in using the best possible strategy. I had favorable outcomes in numerous matters with her as my attorney. She was fair financially, using a legal assistant when possible to keep my costs down, and in the end, she worked with me to allow me time to pay my bill. I would highly recommend her to friends in need of legal assistance (and have actually done so).

Laura K Fretland

5881 Cedar Lake Rd S, Minneapolis, MN

Child Custody Family Law +2

4.0/5

4.0

3 Reviews

04 Feb, 2015 by Karin

I can't say enough about how helpful Laura was to me during a time of personal trauma and divorce. Her guidance was objective and valuable with a human touch of caring and kindness that is so appreciated. My case was closed in an extremely timely manner, and Laura's team was responsive and available throughout the process. I highly recommend Laura Fretland without hesitation.

31 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous

Laura helped me navigate one of the more difficult situations with pragmatic guidance and expertise that I needed. And she was extremely helpful in understanding options and paths that fit my goals for resolution. All good things. And frankly found her style and compassion the best part of working with her. I'd highly recommend to anyone but particularly those that want fast, fair, and frank legal counsel.

25 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous

Hired her for help with divorce/custody proceedings. Was very responsive and attentive in the begining. As the case progressed, she was less and less engaged in working on my case. The opposing counsel was quite aggressive and I suspect this had alot to do with her lack of engagement as the case progressed. I would do some calling around and research on child support information to help offset time and cost, but she didn't seem to care or want to do anything with the information I provided. The opportunities she did get engaged, she spent time playing phone tag with the opposing attorney/ legal aid, when I would have rather she got the child support case infront of the judge. At one court proceeding, I remember the judge addressed her and the opposing counsel and said that they should "stop wasting these clients money and wrap up this case." My funds were depleted long before I got completion on my case, even though she initially said it was so simple it could be wrapped up in 3 months. Ultimately she lost her zeal to represent me and dropped me 30 days before we had to go back to court. Had to hire 2nd attorney who not only had to file paperwork that she didn't do, but was able to get my divorce/child support proceedings completed in 3months, where I had been working with her for 9 months and had nothing to show for her services.

Shawn Reinke

701 Koronis Ave., Paynesville, MN

Child Custody Criminal Defense Family Law +3

4.0/5

4.0

3 Reviews

26 Jul, 2018 by George

Shawn was extreamly helpful throughout my devorce. I was terrified that it was going to be a nightmare, but he made my whole experiance stress free. He's an amazing lawyer, and a great person.

04 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous

When I started my divorce I was very lost. After explaining my situation to Mr. Reinke I felt much more secure and comfortable in what was going on. He was understanding and non-judgemental through the whole process. He also had my interests and concerns in mind the whole time. He made sure that I knew exactly what was going on every step and that I never had outlandish expectations. He was honest and straight forward. I was as pleased with the outcome as a person can be in a divorce. I also know if I need assistance down the road with custody or child support I can count on him.

01 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous

Shawn spent most of his time during my divorce sending endless proposals back and forth to the ex's attorney that he knew weren't going to be accepted. If he would have been more proactive, he would have just taken the greedy %+&$* to court and we would have easily had a better outcome. Months into my divorce, I get an email saying he's leaving the firm I hired him at to start his own practice. It all made sense then...it's tough to believe he was really working as hard on my case as he could; fighting for a favorable outcome for me when he's busy, secretly spending his time starting a business... Would not recommend...

Cory D Gilmer

10 S 5th St Ste 1010, Minneapolis, MN

Family Law +1

4.0/5

4.0

3 Reviews

12 Sep, 2019 by John

I hired Cory at the recommendation of another lawyer friend. After our initial meeting, we discussed our strategic options and he followed my direction to the letter. He always took the time to explain options and ensure that we were both on the same page when it came to the direction I wanted my case to go. Now that my divorce is final, I would without hesitation recommend Cory Gilmer to both men or women who are seeking legal representation at the end of their marriage.

04 Sep, 2013 by Kyle

I can only guess that the fact that Cory is in court generally twice daily and not able to personally call right back may have led to a less than A+ review. My experience has been lengthy and quite the opposite. He has gone so far beyond the call of duty that I do not think most would believe me and I know I am not an anomaly. We did not know each other I got him blindly out of a book during one of the storms of life. He told me our choices and helped me decide. He even told me when he thought I was letting emotions rule and every time between 10 years ago and now when I have talked to him and sometimes it has been hours. The bill must have been lost in mail. Find me another like him because I would take 10 if I could afford to. There are not many people I respect to the degree I do him at every level. Person, Profession, and do one of the hardest jobs and never taking it out on others He did not lie and fill me with expectations and it hurt. But so much less than the truth did coming from the courts. Cory tells it how it is and when you want an attorney if you prefer they tell you that was not dog poop you stepped it but rather an exotic mist then fine. Cory told how it was. I knew what my choices were I would recommend this man over any attorney bar none but he only does family law. Huge plus for that but I wish he did estates and stuff!! No relation. Not solicited. I just was shocked to see a somewhat negative review when he could have charged me twice what he did and he still didn't. I had now known him 10 years and respect him more now than ever.

17 Jan, 2012 by Kieran

Cory Gilmer appears to mean well, but his skills are mediocre at best. He is poor at returning calls/emails and does not seem to understand who the client is. He tends to be reactive rather than proactive and allows himself to be outmanuevered by opposing counsel. Also his lack of knowledge on financial matters is disturbing.

Craig Merle Byram

807 W Oakland Ave, Austin, MN

Adoption Appeals Business +10 +13

4.0/5

4.0

1 Reviews

19 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous

I would recommend this lawyer if you have plenty of money. He did an excellent job with the custody motion, however I was only able to use him until a hearing was scheduled, and had to proceed pro se. This lawyer requested a larger than normal retainer (due to my particular situation) and stated that when the retainer ran out, he would let me know before he started billing me. This did not happen and he billed me $8,000 beyond my retainer.

Tracy Irene Nightingale

11670 Wayzata Blvd, Minnetonka, MN

Estate Planning Family Law Probate +3

4.0/5

4.0

1 Reviews

02 Oct, 2008 by Ambaye

She is knowledgeable and responsible;

Douglas Dean Kluver

Po Box 486, Montevideo, MN

Criminal Defense Estate Planning Family Law +1 +4

4.0/5

4.0

1 Reviews

30 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous

But he did wine my case and bring me a 6,000 dollar settlement in the end. So if you’re stuck or need a good local Atterny then he may do as good for you as he did for me

David John Sjoberg

18015 Ulysses St NE Ste 200, Ham Lake, MN

Criminal Defense Family Law +2

3.9/5

3.7

3 Reviews

3.9

25 Reviews

15 Oct, 2024 by Cheyanne

If ur looking for a lawyer to help you in a custody case, do not choose this irresponsible man. I had nothing but a headache with him! He didn’t even turn in motions in time to the judge, nor get my gal fee waived (got it done myself in one day!) never had time and refused my money back because I seen no change or no effort in my case. My ex lawyer got everything done and sent in time this dude had no time and very care less. I will be reporting to the higher boss! I am so disgusted wasted $4,000 on this guy for a retainer. He is rigged with Isanti county, and he does not take his job seriously nor care once he gets that 4k he’s out and not helpful at all. Never in and never had the time to do anything in or out of court. What a character! Spend ur money and time else where what a joke!

02 May, 2024 by Diane cardinal

David Sjoberg represented my son in a divorce case. David was difficult to get ahold of. He did not follow through with opposing attorney. He refused to file for a hearing when temporary child support was set too high by $1,000 per month. The Judge denied the over payment of child support since no hearing was requested to reduce the temporary amount. When it came time for the financial settlement, David did not have anything for my son to review. He just kept saying ‘it’s a good deal. Just take it’. This is your financial settlement shouldn’t you be entitled to look at your numbers on paper? My son wasted 22 months with David representing him. PLEASE do not waste your hard earned money and precious time with David Sjoberg. He ended up changing attorneys and the file that was transferred to his new attorney was basically empty.

31 Jan, 2024 by Asher gunderson

I have no doubt that David is a great lawyer, he had great information that helped me understand the situation I was in, but is not the best at communication. He told me he would send me a retainer agreement for a simple family court case. After calling 5+ times over the span of 2 weeks to ask if he could send it, all I got in response was his assistant telling me they would relay the message. I get that people are busy and might not be able to take a case, but I would have appreciated some communication so I could call another service instead of treading water and losing valuable time. Not very professional in my opinion.

Jacqueline Aen Dorsey

311 S Water Street, Northfield, MN

Business Child Support Debt Collection +5 +8

3.9/5

1.0

1 Reviews

4.1

18 Reviews

31 May, 2024 by Eva bruestle

16 May, 2024 by Trina brunk

We went for a consult and appreciated Britt’s kindness and breadth of knowledge. Will definitely hire her in the future if needed. Would recommend.

26 Dec, 2023 by Devin ziegler

Great attorney office, they have helped myself and my family out tremendously.

Robin William Finke

515 Water St S, Northfield, MN

Adoption Appeals Business +9 +12

3.9/5

1.0

1 Reviews

4.1

16 Reviews

02 Oct, 2024 by Jesse eisert

David represented me about 12 years ago did a great job

30 Sep, 2024 by James ellickson

04 Sep, 2024 by Jon phillips

Mr Ludescher is a very skilled negotiator and litigator. His rates are an excellent value. Worth every dollar. He has strong ethics and has suffered because he would not do wrong by his client to avoid punishment. All the same, when it comes to family matters and estates, even collections, David presents options as well as how those options affect the time frame for resolution as well as the cost potential for each option. His communication is also excellent. Response times are asap. We used lawpay to make our payments online, so there was no worry of delayed check cashing or handling of cash. Kristina is also spot on with documentation, appointments, communication and customer service. We will be back for estate planning... 😁

Lindsey Eileen O'Connell

2109 County Road D East, Maplewood, MN

Family Law Juvenile Law +2

3.9/5

5.0

1 Reviews

3.9

53 Reviews

25 Sep, 2024 by Rachel kurtz

They handled a major custody issue with me, my ex-husband and my kids. I worked specifically with Alexandra Michelson and her team. She was efficient , thorough and empathic to clearly highly emotional situation, she knows the laws and she and her team were prepared and organized especially the days of trial. I was so relieved to be working with someone I could trust to make sure my kids and I could be safe and have someone on our side of the table working with us for the best outcome of my family. I am so grateful for this law firm and their entire team! She knew the system and the folks in the judicial system to make sure we had all we needed to present ourselves in court fairly and concisely. Thank you to this entire team.

19 Sep, 2024 by Michael schissel

18 Jan, 2024 by George danukos

Unable to connect by phone.

Greyson Maxwell St Martin

14985 Glazier Avenue, Apple Valley, MN

Family Law Government +2

3.9/5

3.9

40 Reviews

13 Apr, 2024 by Creativechick

04 Feb, 2024 by Mikhail brunes

An absolutely invaluable resource for my family and I while navigating difficult life events.

31 Jul, 2023 by Connor wickenhauser

Melanie Rose Finley

14985 Glazier Ave Ste 525, Apple Valley, MN

Appeals Business Child Custody +12 +15

3.9/5

3.9

40 Reviews

13 Apr, 2024 by Creativechick

04 Feb, 2024 by Mikhail brunes

An absolutely invaluable resource for my family and I while navigating difficult life events.

31 Jul, 2023 by Connor wickenhauser

Ashley Michelle Beard

14985 Glazier Avenue, Apple Valley, MN

Family Law Litigation +2

3.9/5

3.9

40 Reviews

13 Apr, 2024 by Creativechick

04 Feb, 2024 by Mikhail brunes

An absolutely invaluable resource for my family and I while navigating difficult life events.

31 Jul, 2023 by Connor wickenhauser

Scott Allen Buchanan

14985 Glazier Avenue, Apple Valley, MN

Family Law Government +2

3.9/5

3.9

40 Reviews

13 Apr, 2024 by Creativechick

04 Feb, 2024 by Mikhail brunes

An absolutely invaluable resource for my family and I while navigating difficult life events.

31 Jul, 2023 by Connor wickenhauser

Molly Patrice Davy

14985 Glazier Ave, Suite 525, Apple Valley, MN

Family Law +1

3.9/5

3.9

40 Reviews

13 Apr, 2024 by Creativechick

04 Feb, 2024 by Mikhail brunes

An absolutely invaluable resource for my family and I while navigating difficult life events.

31 Jul, 2023 by Connor wickenhauser

Joseph E Marvin

2150 Third Avenue North, Anoka, MN

Child Custody Child Support Family Law +3

3.9/5

3.9

20 Reviews

25 Aug, 2022 by Donny

Joey is a horrible lawyer. Unprepared. His secretary Beverly is a lair and can not complete a coherent sentence. This guy should not be practicing law! Worse than Hunter Biden at law!

10 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous

Joey is as good of lawyer as Joe Biden. I have heard he enjoys touching kids just like joe Biden. If you want to throw your money away use this guy!

16 Mar, 2022 by Charles

Joe Marvin was up front with me in a custody battle. He did not make any promises but fought very hard for me. The judge ruled in my favor.

John H Daniels Jr.

201 Ridgewood Ave, Minneapolis, MN

Business Family Law +2

3.9/5

3.9

14 Reviews

13 Dec, 2023 by Christi cardinal

“Regret is not rape”. Mic drop

12 Nov, 2021 by Joe holland

Does not pay his vendors.

03 Sep, 2021 by Alexus moore

Letty Marie-Sailer Van Ert

2109 Co Rd D E, Maplewood, MN

Estate Planning Family Law Probate +3

3.9/5

3.9

53 Reviews

25 Sep, 2024 by Rachel kurtz

19 Sep, 2024 by Michael schissel

18 Jan, 2024 by George danukos

Unable to connect by phone.

Anna Grace Sibley Street

2109 County Road D E, Maplewood, MN

Family Law Government Real Estate +3

3.9/5

3.9

53 Reviews

25 Sep, 2024 by Rachel kurtz

19 Sep, 2024 by Michael schissel

18 Jan, 2024 by George danukos

Unable to connect by phone.

Allyson Olivia Kerr

2109 County Road D East, Maplewood, MN

Family Law +1

3.9/5

3.9

53 Reviews

25 Sep, 2024 by Rachel kurtz

19 Sep, 2024 by Michael schissel

18 Jan, 2024 by George danukos

Unable to connect by phone.

Dan C O'Connell

2109 County Road D East, Maplewood, MN

Family Law +1

3.9/5

3.9

53 Reviews

25 Sep, 2024 by Rachel kurtz

19 Sep, 2024 by Michael schissel

18 Jan, 2024 by George danukos

Unable to connect by phone.

Vang Thai Lor

1001 Johnson Parkway, Suite B10, Saint Paul, MN

Civil Rights Criminal Defense Family Law +2 +5

3.8/5

5.0

3 Reviews

3.6

19 Reviews

28 Apr, 2023 by Thein san

In my divorce case, he made mistake without translator , late 10 mins. Lack of knowledge . Very bad lawyer, don’t waste time and money here.

31 Dec, 2022 by Juicy smooyay

Great, reasonable and affordable lawyer. Help me out big time and will recommend to anyone. I appreciate what u did and will always be grateful, thanks!

17 Oct, 2022 by Sheelue yang

Der Yang

1001 Johnson Parkway, Saint Paul, MN

Criminal Defense Family Law Immigration +3

3.8/5

5.0

2 Reviews

3.6

19 Reviews

28 Apr, 2023 by Thein san

In my divorce case, he made mistake without translator , late 10 mins. Lack of knowledge . Very bad lawyer, don’t waste time and money here.

31 Dec, 2022 by Juicy smooyay

Great, reasonable and affordable lawyer. Help me out big time and will recommend to anyone. I appreciate what u did and will always be grateful, thanks!

17 Oct, 2022 by Sheelue yang

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FAQs

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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.

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.

Best Family Law lawyers in Minnesota

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