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15 Aug, 2024 by Rebecca venditti
Do yourself a favor and hire Alicia! I previously had a horrible lawyer who did not care. Alicia is the exact opposite. She truly has been the light in a difficult situation for us! She is so knowledgeable and she helps you make the best decisions that see results! She get's back to you in a timely manor and she truly cares about you and your situation as a client. You are not just a paycheck to her. I am so so so grateful that I found her. She know's exactly what she is doing and is FANTASTIC at what she does. Thank you so much again Alicia.
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17 May, 2024 by Joshua easterling
Where should I start.... When I first contacted Alicia, she was patient, knowledgeable and knew exactly how to help make this divorce process as simple as possible. Throughout the process she was prompt and was able to share good and helpful insight, as to how we should address each situation that arose. Her experience really shined and I feel as though we always had an edge on the whole situation because of her strategic and helpful recommendations. From beginning to end, this process was easy and my ex wife, tried her best to make it complicated, but Alicia knew exactly how to handle the situation.
Alicia never made me feel like I was just a number or a transaction, instead she made me feel welcomed and comfortable that everything was going to be okay. When people truly care, its evident, and she cares. Don't hire Alicia just because I am sharing my experience, hire Alicia because you owe it to yourself. I heard so many horror stories about divorces and lawyers and I experienced exactly the opposite. I have a good feeling, thats because I partnered with the best. Thanks again Alicia, not sure I can ever repay you for your kindness and assistance. You're amazing at what you do, your passion really comes out for helping other people during difficult times and I'm happy we crossed paths. You're the best!
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10 May, 2024 by Nicole howell
I highly recommend Femminineo Law. Every person that has worked on my cases, from David to Bart (and everyone in-between) has been amazing. They have fought (and won) for me and kept me in the loop throughout. I cannot thank them enough for all their hard work. If you have been in an accident and feel lost, call them today. You will not regret it!
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15 Aug, 2024 by Rebecca venditti
Do yourself a favor and hire Alicia! I previously had a horrible lawyer who did not care. Alicia is the exact opposite. She truly has been the light in a difficult situation for us! She is so knowledgeable and she helps you make the best decisions that see results! She get's back to you in a timely manor and she truly cares about you and your situation as a client. You are not just a paycheck to her. I am so so so grateful that I found her. She know's exactly what she is doing and is FANTASTIC at what she does. Thank you so much again Alicia.
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17 May, 2024 by Joshua easterling
Where should I start.... When I first contacted Alicia, she was patient, knowledgeable and knew exactly how to help make this divorce process as simple as possible. Throughout the process she was prompt and was able to share good and helpful insight, as to how we should address each situation that arose. Her experience really shined and I feel as though we always had an edge on the whole situation because of her strategic and helpful recommendations. From beginning to end, this process was easy and my ex wife, tried her best to make it complicated, but Alicia knew exactly how to handle the situation.
Alicia never made me feel like I was just a number or a transaction, instead she made me feel welcomed and comfortable that everything was going to be okay. When people truly care, its evident, and she cares. Don't hire Alicia just because I am sharing my experience, hire Alicia because you owe it to yourself. I heard so many horror stories about divorces and lawyers and I experienced exactly the opposite. I have a good feeling, thats because I partnered with the best. Thanks again Alicia, not sure I can ever repay you for your kindness and assistance. You're amazing at what you do, your passion really comes out for helping other people during difficult times and I'm happy we crossed paths. You're the best!
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10 May, 2024 by Nicole howell
I highly recommend Femminineo Law. Every person that has worked on my cases, from David to Bart (and everyone in-between) has been amazing. They have fought (and won) for me and kept me in the loop throughout. I cannot thank them enough for all their hard work. If you have been in an accident and feel lost, call them today. You will not regret it!
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24 Apr, 2024 by Amanda gray
13 Apr, 2024 by David getit
Mr. Coppins is a very disrespectful person and plays the game dirty. I would not recommend this attorney to anyone.
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02 Jan, 2024 by Calista jankowski
I had an incredible experience with Coppins Law group. I worked with Shawn and not only was he highly professional but also incredibly understanding and supportive throughout the entire process. He made sure I felt comfortable and at ease, taking away any worries I had. During a difficult time in my life, Shawn truly went above and beyond to help me out. I highly recommend choosing Coppins Law group to help you with any of your legal troubles!
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24 Apr, 2024 by Amanda gray
13 Apr, 2024 by David getit
Mr. Coppins is a very disrespectful person and plays the game dirty. I would not recommend this attorney to anyone.
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02 Jan, 2024 by Calista jankowski
I had an incredible experience with Coppins Law group. I worked with Shawn and not only was he highly professional but also incredibly understanding and supportive throughout the entire process. He made sure I felt comfortable and at ease, taking away any worries I had. During a difficult time in my life, Shawn truly went above and beyond to help me out. I highly recommend choosing Coppins Law group to help you with any of your legal troubles!
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24 Apr, 2024 by Amanda gray
13 Apr, 2024 by David getit
Mr. Coppins is a very disrespectful person and plays the game dirty. I would not recommend this attorney to anyone.
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02 Jan, 2024 by Calista jankowski
I had an incredible experience with Coppins Law group. I worked with Shawn and not only was he highly professional but also incredibly understanding and supportive throughout the entire process. He made sure I felt comfortable and at ease, taking away any worries I had. During a difficult time in my life, Shawn truly went above and beyond to help me out. I highly recommend choosing Coppins Law group to help you with any of your legal troubles!
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30 Nov, 2023 by Sorrow sorrow
Miss Genavive Taylor was great, compassionate and went the Xtra mile. THNKU🙏- JOHN K.
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09 Aug, 2021 by Kelley valentine
28 Aug, 2020 by Margo chabi
15 Aug, 2024 by Rebecca venditti
Do yourself a favor and hire Alicia! I previously had a horrible lawyer who did not care. Alicia is the exact opposite. She truly has been the light in a difficult situation for us! She is so knowledgeable and she helps you make the best decisions that see results! She get's back to you in a timely manor and she truly cares about you and your situation as a client. You are not just a paycheck to her. I am so so so grateful that I found her. She know's exactly what she is doing and is FANTASTIC at what she does. Thank you so much again Alicia.
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17 May, 2024 by Joshua easterling
Where should I start.... When I first contacted Alicia, she was patient, knowledgeable and knew exactly how to help make this divorce process as simple as possible. Throughout the process she was prompt and was able to share good and helpful insight, as to how we should address each situation that arose. Her experience really shined and I feel as though we always had an edge on the whole situation because of her strategic and helpful recommendations. From beginning to end, this process was easy and my ex wife, tried her best to make it complicated, but Alicia knew exactly how to handle the situation.
Alicia never made me feel like I was just a number or a transaction, instead she made me feel welcomed and comfortable that everything was going to be okay. When people truly care, its evident, and she cares. Don't hire Alicia just because I am sharing my experience, hire Alicia because you owe it to yourself. I heard so many horror stories about divorces and lawyers and I experienced exactly the opposite. I have a good feeling, thats because I partnered with the best. Thanks again Alicia, not sure I can ever repay you for your kindness and assistance. You're amazing at what you do, your passion really comes out for helping other people during difficult times and I'm happy we crossed paths. You're the best!
Read more
10 May, 2024 by Nicole howell
I highly recommend Femminineo Law. Every person that has worked on my cases, from David to Bart (and everyone in-between) has been amazing. They have fought (and won) for me and kept me in the loop throughout. I cannot thank them enough for all their hard work. If you have been in an accident and feel lost, call them today. You will not regret it!
Read more
15 Aug, 2024 by Rebecca venditti
Do yourself a favor and hire Alicia! I previously had a horrible lawyer who did not care. Alicia is the exact opposite. She truly has been the light in a difficult situation for us! She is so knowledgeable and she helps you make the best decisions that see results! She get's back to you in a timely manor and she truly cares about you and your situation as a client. You are not just a paycheck to her. I am so so so grateful that I found her. She know's exactly what she is doing and is FANTASTIC at what she does. Thank you so much again Alicia.
Read more
17 May, 2024 by Joshua easterling
Where should I start.... When I first contacted Alicia, she was patient, knowledgeable and knew exactly how to help make this divorce process as simple as possible. Throughout the process she was prompt and was able to share good and helpful insight, as to how we should address each situation that arose. Her experience really shined and I feel as though we always had an edge on the whole situation because of her strategic and helpful recommendations. From beginning to end, this process was easy and my ex wife, tried her best to make it complicated, but Alicia knew exactly how to handle the situation.
Alicia never made me feel like I was just a number or a transaction, instead she made me feel welcomed and comfortable that everything was going to be okay. When people truly care, its evident, and she cares. Don't hire Alicia just because I am sharing my experience, hire Alicia because you owe it to yourself. I heard so many horror stories about divorces and lawyers and I experienced exactly the opposite. I have a good feeling, thats because I partnered with the best. Thanks again Alicia, not sure I can ever repay you for your kindness and assistance. You're amazing at what you do, your passion really comes out for helping other people during difficult times and I'm happy we crossed paths. You're the best!
Read more
10 May, 2024 by Nicole howell
I highly recommend Femminineo Law. Every person that has worked on my cases, from David to Bart (and everyone in-between) has been amazing. They have fought (and won) for me and kept me in the loop throughout. I cannot thank them enough for all their hard work. If you have been in an accident and feel lost, call them today. You will not regret it!
Read more
24 Jun, 2024 by Eric davis
27 Apr, 2024 by Tony v pilato
Liz is very detail oriented as well as a very down to earth lawyer. I would highly recommend Liz for anybody who has a need for Legal Services at fall into her area of expertise
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21 Jun, 2023 by Sue k (sue k)
Ms. Q was very helpful, very nice, and very reasonably priced. We will contact her in the future when needed.
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12 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY OR TIME.
I have already filed complaints with the American Bar Association, the Attorney General & stopped payment on the last check for his "services," but the googling public NEEDS to know:
I just met Paul this year. He was supposed to handle a license restoral & a $56 bench warrant out of 40th District Court. Paul will PROMISE ANYTHING to get your money. The old bait & switch technique. Got me for $700 of $1000 on the FIRST VISIT.
He will tell you that he "handles cases like this all the time" or "just handled a similar, *far more serious case* just last week," it's ALL LIES. HE DOES NOT.
He HAS NOT, CANNOT, in 6+ months, restore a drivers license, handle closing old cases or represent you for a misdemeanor, let alone handle a felony case, despite his claims. You will have to contact MSP, pull your record for $50 & then Sec of State & restore it yourself FOR $125 while he makes excuses, claiming you just need to provide a "certified copy" of your driving record so he can request a "certifcate of judgement" & continues billing you for his "services." Neither of these are necessary.
One look into his office, circa 1960, should have been my indication that this is not a well-maintained or profitable law firm. He even went so far as to scold my 3 year old (special needs) son for running a plastic matchbox car across the top of his delipidated faux wood desk.
When he does show up for court, on time, if at all, he is an unprepared, sweaty, bumbling, baffoon, not well versed on your case. He deliberately asks the court for more time, so that he can bill you for an additional visit. Paul's neglect, deliberate lack of communication and preparation cost me THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS & almost jail time!!
Don't expect case updates because you will not get that. He will not return your calls or emails.
God forbid, you're a WOMAN & any time, you call him out on his obvious unprofessionalism or assert yourself, you will find Paul has quite a temper. NOBODY wants to deal w 300lb, sweaty, Grandpa screaming at at the top of their lungs, over the phone, outside of the court building because he's a no-show, again.
It is 2023
Your attorney should be your biggest advocate.
Your clients SHOULD NOT BE EDUCATING YOU ON NEW PAROLE & PROBATION LAWS PASSED IN 2021, aka Michigan SB 1050.
WE USE COMPUTERS & THE INTERNET NOW. Get with the program. Stop assuming your clients are as uneducated as you are useless.
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10 Feb, 2023 by Rob s.
09 Apr, 2021 by Barbara basharrah
Wonderful firm. They really know what they're doing and they do it well. Very kind and understanding.
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22 May, 2023 by Todd minnehan
19 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
Arrogant, fast talking and rushes you through consultations. Focused on a cookie cutter process. Can fold during strong arguments from the opposition or pressure from judge. Appears at times to have conspired with the opposing side and divulged attorney/client confidential information to bring things to resolution.
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24 Apr, 2019 by Mary unger
Couldn’t ask for a better attorney
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02 Apr, 2024 by Leonza tipton iii
My interactions with this firm twice since 2018 & 2022 representing the housing voucher process has been very disappointing 😔 no help with being homeless.
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31 Mar, 2024 by Michelle kozlowski (mk)
09 Dec, 2023 by Erika reddick
Very thorough. I loved working with them. Good advice. Caring, loving company.
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07 Oct, 2019 by Jules
First, I confirmed on the phone twice that this would be a free consult. I then confirmed again when we arrived at the office. I mentioned to him that I was trying to get on disability and my daughter was looking for a job so we could bring in money so we could get Medicaid for my mother. He went through the paperwork and only offered that my former lawyer had done everything to keep us out of probate. He went as far as to tell both my daughter and I both that we now had full time jobs- taking care of my mother. I made it clear that with my health issues I could not care for her.. Then he closed the meeting by walking out on us. The whopper was, about a week later I got a $350.00 bill bc my mom has her taxes done there. Even though I was the client, bc the subject of my mother was in their records with her taxes being done within that office, I still got charged. I don’t know how he’s considered one of the best when he was rude, condescending, and gave me nothing but a bill for my “free” consult. What a sick joke!
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23 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Pat treated us like we were his own family. He helped me gain power of attorney with my father and helped us get my dad the help he needed. After meeting with him I felt like there was a huge weight off my shoulders because we were finally in good hands. He is an absolutely wonderful lawyer.
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26 Jan, 2012 by Adele
Pat was very caring and very patient with my older parents. He is extremely versed in all areas of law, but in elder care he is a leader. We attended several of his seminars and watch he tv shows and know we are protected. Pat has given our entire family piece of mind.
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05 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
I recently hired James as my attorney after a series of unfortunate events that occurred in my life. I was facing up to 40 years after receiving two felony charges and a handful of misdemeanors. I was immediately advised by a family friend to hire Jimmy to handle my cases. I was very impressed when I met him, and did not hesitate to hire him. During all of my cases, I even had a third felony charge thrown at me which would have been a mandatory two year prison sentence. After about nine months, I finally had my sentencing and was only sentenced to 18 months of probation, which is absolutely unheard of in my opinion. Jimmy is an absolutely amazing lawyer, and I cant say enough good things about this man because he saved my life. I HIGHLY recommend him for any legal matters you may be having. Thanks again Jimmy!!!
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04 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Andary seemed more interested with extracurricular activities then with the case. Seemed like we were always playing catch up with information that was needed.
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05 Jan, 2020 by Frances
I hired Karyn to help me with a case. She made one mistake which I
learned why later on. She corrected herself and
my case was settled in the time she said it would.
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30 Nov, 2018 by Rebecca
My husband and I retained Karyn for a custody/child support case against his ex wife. She said everything we wanted to hear but when it came to the hearings she didn't advocate for us at all and didn't get us anything that she claimed she would or that we talked about that we wanted. She agreed to things that we did not but it went into court order because she represented us. She also was personal friends with the exes lawyer and I feel it affected her ability to do her job properly and to the best of her ability. She was very hard to get ahold of, didn't answer questions and concerns that we had text her or emailed her about. Highly unsatisfied with her as a lawyer. I do not recommend her at all.
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11 Apr, 2018 by Fooled
I retained Ms. MacDonald for my divorce and she was regularly unprepared, late or absent from legal proceedings. It was the regular course of action that Ms. MacDonald would be preparing her arguments on the benches outside the courtroom at Macomb County District Court. Looking back Ms. MacDonald should have advocated for me, not advocated better, but rather advocate. Her billing practices were off the cuff and I never received an invoice from her for her services despite asking her for one.
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18 Apr, 2023 by Archbishop nikodemos
Pete saved a case of mine that MIKE MORSE law firm, an assembly line of newbies destroyed. He went to the Supreme Court and saved my case! He will always get whatever cases he can handle for me!! Great attorney!!
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08 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Never returns phone calls. Paperwork and documents always contained numerous mistakes. Please look elsewhere.
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29 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
If you want someone to maximize their billable hours and not help this is the lawyer for you.
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03 Jul, 2023 by Kim gollehur
Quick easy free referrals. I was very pleased.
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24 Apr, 2023 by D dee
Just not interested in helping anyone... Yet, it's there to assist the public & Not in Such a rude manner.
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21 Sep, 2022 by Dylan ochoa
rude, didn't care, don't want to help the people, hate their jobs, rude once again,
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03 Jul, 2023 by Kim gollehur
Quick easy free referrals. I was very pleased.
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24 Apr, 2023 by D dee
Just not interested in helping anyone... Yet, it's there to assist the public & Not in Such a rude manner.
Read more
21 Sep, 2022 by Dylan ochoa
rude, didn't care, don't want to help the people, hate their jobs, rude once again,
Read more
03 Jul, 2023 by Kim gollehur
Quick easy free referrals. I was very pleased.
Read more
24 Apr, 2023 by D dee
Just not interested in helping anyone... Yet, it's there to assist the public & Not in Such a rude manner.
Read more
21 Sep, 2022 by Dylan ochoa
rude, didn't care, don't want to help the people, hate their jobs, rude once again,
Read more
03 Jul, 2023 by Kim gollehur
Quick easy free referrals. I was very pleased.
Read more
24 Apr, 2023 by D dee
Just not interested in helping anyone... Yet, it's there to assist the public & Not in Such a rude manner.
Read more
21 Sep, 2022 by Dylan ochoa
rude, didn't care, don't want to help the people, hate their jobs, rude once again,
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08 May, 2024 by Anonymous
Erin started strong and I had hope. However, she was not aggressive and I did a lot of leg work to provide personal financial information that she needed. Her investigation was very surface. My advice is never hire an attorney working in the same building as opposing attorney. I feel I was not treated with equal justice of the Law. Nevertheless, asking if she believed in me became a conflict and she withdrew from my case while a had a few weeks to mediation.
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28 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Handled an appeals case, had to discuss points in case over and over again, send same paperwork over and over to this attorney, he would call and say he never received it or lost it. (paying hourly, mind you)....issue with the court case is that he did not read current laws and when going to court in front of judge, he did not speak up about those points, which we lost our appeals case because he wanted to go a different route than point out the previous judge ruling was not following current laws and legislation.
He is not competent, scatterbrained and disorganized. I lost my case because of this. The state's attorney came into court ready to play hard ball and preprared, bringing up things I did wrong criminally 20-30 years ago and all he could do was stutter... I negotiated a final bill rate after trying to explain to him he was over charging me because I was paying for time I had to repeat myself over and over again for him to comprehend what was going on in the case and why I needed to obtain a lawyer in the first place, not because I was unhappy with the final court ruling. He might have been a good attorney years ago, but he needs to hang it up.
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08 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
I called to get a consultation for representation during divorce. In less than five minutes Mr. Metry made summery decision that he didn't want to take me on as a client. He doesn't have much experience with with contested divorce involving minors. Was unwilling to listen due to the stress of the situation.
Would not recommend an attorney who is unwilling to even hear details.
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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.
