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13 Oct, 2024 by Stephanie pagsisihan
Abby was amazing to work with! She was informative during the whole process which made it easy for us! I would highly recommend her!
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02 Oct, 2024 by Tim lang
Working With John has been the greatest. He stuck through the toughest parts of my case with me and we overturned the odds and won! Thank you John Callahan!
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30 Sep, 2024 by Jt schlegel
Abby was extremely helpful in closing on my new condo. I always got immediate responses and she made the whole process extremely easy. Would recommend her to anyone in need of an attorney.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Tim lang
Working With John has been the greatest. He stuck through the toughest parts of my case with me and we overturned the odds and won! Thank you John Callahan!
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13 Apr, 2024 by Andrea holt
We were just about to give up hope on getting my boyfriend's license reinstated in IL when I contacted John Callahan this all changed. He and his associates were very helpful and understanding of our situation. They walked us through every step of the way and made it a much easier process than we had experienced trying to do it on our own.
We highly recommend John Callahan and his associates. Thank you again for all your help!!
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06 Mar, 2022 by Ralph
Mr Kazmar met and exceeded all of my expectations. Fought extremely hard and smart. Very loyal attorney who was easy to trust. Delivered on his promises and the case went pretty much how he predicted.
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06 Oct, 2024 by Jonathan berning
David was amazing to work with! I would have been lost without his guidance!! Cannot recommend him enough.
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24 Sep, 2024 by Tony davis
David assisted me with a traffic matter. His courteous, prompt, and professional manner made it easy. His fees were at the top of the scale I'd be willing to pay, but he gave a discount for upfront payment.
Thank you, David. I'll recommend you to anyone who needs your services.
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18 Apr, 2024 by Jenest espino
David was great in helping my boyfriend and I close on a house. He is a very patient man and very helpful in understanding that my boyfriend preferred to email/text instead of call. During the closing process, David helped us understand how everything works in layman's terms. He also made sure to check in every now and then to see if the lenders would push through earlier, but again, David was very patient even when we were not.
Overall, David Liberty is the guy to go to when you want something done. He does well in explaining everything and will make sure that you are getting what you need/want for a good reason. I thank those who introduced me to David Liberty since he is a genuine man to work with.
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19 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
He responded to all my emails promptly . Explained everything very clearly. Nice man
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12 Jul, 2017 by Dollie
Stuart Polizzi was very professional and polite. He responded to all of my calls, etc., in a timely manor. He was always prompt and very detailed. I was very satisfied and would highly recommend his services!
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12 Jul, 2017 by Lou
Stuart did a fine job heading up to the Closing of our new home (on the lookout for our rights) and the day of the Closing as well, making sure to explain every single document my wife and I signed.
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14 Apr, 2024 by Peter l.
I would definitely recommend Blacha Law Firm to anyone who needs a lawyer for family matters. My lawyer was Elizabeth Youakim. She was awesome, great service, always answered my calls and e-mails, was very knowledgeable and her paralegal Christine Lovendal was very helpful as well, they both never missed a beat with me and would always keep me in the loop and let me know what was going on. They both are very outgoing and kind people. Elizabeth always have good advice on what should be done and said, and she never let me down thank you for your help, I will always be grateful for what Elizabeth has done for me.
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03 Oct, 2021 by Candice peterson
Ms. Blancha's team is excellent. I would recommend her firm you anyone in Cook County looking for family law services. The team is friendly and responds quickly. They handled my case with care and expertise.
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03 Oct, 2021 by Jose
We are grateful to find the help we needed with Blacha Family Law.
They did not just win our case but they guided us through every step in the process of our adoption. They were very informative and professional.
Thank you Blacha Family Law for your services. We are very pleased with the results.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Montoria mays
15 Mar, 2024 by Melissa garcia
Great service from everyone there.
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10 Mar, 2024 by Shirlene coppage
She was very helpful and consistently answered all of my concerns and more from day 1.
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05 Aug, 2019 by Janice
Mr, Mccumber represented our family when we were seeking Permanent Guardianship our of grandchild. Mr. Mccumber is knowledgeable. When we incurred problems with the negligent father, Mr. Mccumber knew exactly what to do.
We are so happy with his expertise. We have our grandchild because of Sean. Thank you so very much.
YOU ARE THE BEST!
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02 Aug, 2019 by Paul
Sean McCumber represented me in my nasty divorce and I could not have been happier with his representation. When I would get upset/heated he kept things calm. He always told me exactly how things were and kept emotions out of it. He is a consummate professional. I strongly recommend Sean and this firm.
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29 Mar, 2019 by David
Sean helped finalize four adoptions for us! He's an expert in this field of law and handled everything timely and professionally. I was pleased to receive quick concise answers to my questions throughout the process.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Montoria mays
15 Mar, 2024 by Melissa garcia
Great service from everyone there.
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10 Mar, 2024 by Shirlene coppage
She was very helpful and consistently answered all of my concerns and more from day 1.
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14 Dec, 2022 by Pravena
John has been very helpful and supportive. Highly professional but still was caring personality too. Having right attorney makes a big difference.
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15 Jun, 2022 by Steven
John did an amazing job in helping me with getting custody of my son. John was very helpful with any questions I had and was available when ever I needed anything. I highly recommend using John as your lawyer! Thank you John
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29 Dec, 2021 by Monica
I had consulted with several divorce attorneys, and I finally was referred by a friend to John Fay. John Fay explained everything in a way that I understood and in a way that put me at ease. His extreme wealth of knowledge was very valuable and he was a trusted advisor throughout the process. There were some twists and turns throughout the journey, and John Fay navigated through the changes in a calm matter while always pushing things forward. My case seemed like it should be very simple, but it turned out to be unique and at times complicated. John always responded in a timely fashion. It was amazing to see at the end how he and his staff moved at lightning speed to finalize the divorce before the end of the year – truly amazing! The staff is wonderful - friendly, responsive, professional and helpful. I can’t say enough good things about John Fay and the staff. If you are looking for a divorce attorney, I highly recommend John Fay.
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01 May, 2018 by Michelle
Katherine is a great attorney who knows her stuff and will not waste your time. I hired Katherine for post-decree issues that were handled quickly and professionally. She is straightforward about what you can expect from her and the courts and always relayed this to me, every step of the way. I felt heard and understood by both Katherine, and her associate Kate, who were quick to respond to questions or concerns. In the end, I walked away with great settlement. I have already recommended Katherine to several people and will continue to do so.
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25 Apr, 2018 by Sarah
Katherine Becker was excellent. She kept me super informed, and was an amazing advocate for both me and my children. Every detail was covered professionally and quickly. It was also clear in the courtroom on prove up day that Katherine was well respected by both peers and judges alike. Considering that and that her rates are quite reasonable for a skilled lawyer, I can’t recommend her enough!!
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25 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
Ms. Haskins Becker and her team put my mind at ease from our first meeting and consultation. She took the time to answer all of my questions, and there were many, and I immediately felt confident in my decision to retain her firm. A divorce is never an easy process, and I had specific requirements and requests that she always respected and honored. If I had known that I could have gotten through this process so painlessly and within 7 months, I would have probably acted sooner. I would highly recommend Katherine and her team.
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23 May, 2024 by Monica
I cannot speak highly enough of Tracie. The 5-star reviews are spot on and not without the well deserved merit. Tracie came on as counsel a bit over 2yrs. into my divorce and she not only quickly grasped the situation she also had a good handle of opposing councel and was able to settle the matter in just over a week. I couldn't be more pleased with her professional and stead-fast work that she did for me. She is a credit to her profession and I highly recommend her services.
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04 Jan, 2023 by Betsy
Tracie was professional and straightforward, while being caring and warm from the very start. She makes herself available and listens intently. I appreciate her honesty and willingness to present options with guidance. I can't imagine navigating this difficult situation with anyone else.
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31 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Traci helped me years ago with post divorce mediation that went all the way to court. She was willing to take on my case when other lawyers were not. She took control, never backed down and defended me at every turn. She is the attorney that you want on your side! Do yourself a favor and schedule a meeting with Traci you will not be disappointed.
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29 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
I had a consultation with Jen and she is the best! I had a lot of questions and she was able to respond to them in ways that I understood. She made me feel so comfortable and was attentive to my wants and needs. I would definitely hire her!
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28 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Ms. Rice was extremely professional, possessed expert knowledge, provided intelligent and strategic consult, ultimately resulting in a successful outcome for my family. She was compassionate and empathetic to our situation,and I would highly recommend her for any and all legal consult.
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28 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
Jennifer is a phenomenal advocate for her clients. She always made sure I was well informed, updated, and prepared for every possible outcome. She always made sure she answered all my questions and calmed all my concerns. I felt safe when she was representing me. I highly recommend her!
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26 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
Excellent attorney - smart, professional, strategic, personable, knowledgeable and trustworthy
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08 Mar, 2015 by Martha
I highly recommend George Mueller. I went to him back in 1993 or 94 for legal advice. George was understanding to my situation, and was able to rectify the situation without the hassle of having to go through the court process. Since then I have called George on multiple occasions for legal advice as well as representation to which he has never disappointed me. He is fair, compassionate and understanding, but also tough where need be to get the positive outcome he felt I deserved. I have called on his expertise over the past 22 years and have always been treated with the utmost respect and care. I will trust no other.
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20 Mar, 2013 by Sandy
George Mueller fought for our son as if he was his own. Many attorneys seem to go with the easy way out, take your money, and you deal with the consequenses. George fought for what he believed to be right. The outcome was what we had prayed for. "Not Guilty" Thank you George Mueller for caring......I will give your information to anyone I hear of needing representation.
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02 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
I was referred to don through someone with similar circumstances, met with him, and he told me the facts of where I stood. I signed on with him, and he took care of my case responsibly, and kept me well informed throughout the whole case. I would recommend to anyone in need of a good, skilled, and knowledgeable injury lawyer. I wouldn't hesitate to use him again. Thanks again don.
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23 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
Was very helpful and extremely professional. Hopefully don't need his services again, but would not hesitate to use him if I do. Great overall Experience.
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02 Sep, 2011 by Thomas
A marvelous, brilliant attorney! I envy him! I Could not recommend him more highly. One of our greatest joys and pleasures to have met him! He was referred to us by a long-time friend and classmate and has become a friend.
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04 Mar, 2011 by Anonymous
Kristina has done a wonderful job representing me in my divorce. I am very pleased and grateful for her service and I would strongly recommend her to anyone who needs legal help in domestic relations. It is extremely hard to find an attorney who is as reliable and affordable (really) as Kristina. I’ve already referred my friend to her and he is just as satisfied.
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21 May, 2021 by Mary
I worked with Elizabeth in my divorce. She is extremely knowledgeable, patient and thorough. I can't imagine working with anyone else to get me through this stressful event in my life. Elizabeth was very responsive and always made time to answer any questions I had or walk me through different scenarios. I really appreciate the time and care Elizabeth put into my case.
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17 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
Met With Maureen to discuss a family law matter. I was so impressed with her!! She is very compassionate and a strong leader you can depend on! She is committed to your cause and will fight for your rights and win!!
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12 Oct, 2009 by George
Mr. Canulli handled my divorce several months ago.
He moved the discussions from potentially contentious to amicability.
Through his diligence and concern, my ex and I moved from litigation to mediation and saved my family from additional stress. Mr. Canulli has stayed involved in the solution for several small follow up details.
I never felt like he was " Dialing for Dollars " .... in fact, his fee was quite reasonable for a somewhat complicated solution.
Hi experience was evident and appreciated.
George Brown
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07 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
We worked with a number of real estate lawyers with mixed results until we found Dave. Dave has now guided us through a number of personal and investment property real estate transactions well as supported new residential construction transactions . Dave is readily accessible and extremely responsive. He has a no BS manner that has served us well in numerous negotiations and sticky situations. He is extremely knowledgeable and very experienced. Highly recommend him for anyone embarking on purchasing their first house to those , like us, managing multiple properties and transactions.
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23 May, 2023 by Bob reed
Attorney Homer was great
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26 Jul, 2020 by Scott brongiel
We could not of been happier with this company. Tom Homer and Stephen Sotelo were extremely professional throughout our multiple dealings with them. They kept in constant communication with us and always responded promptly to any and all concerns we had. They never dropped the ball and made sure progress never ceased by being in constant contact with buyer’s attorney. They also kept us in the loop on everything through sharing all communications with us. Will and have recommended this company to anyone in need of the services they offer. 5 out 5 stars no questions asked.
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10 Sep, 2019 by Julian
Sarah Wallin is hands down one of the best attorneys I have had the pleasure of dealing with. She is always very easy to get in touch with and keeps you updated on progress throughout the whole transaction. I would highly recommend her office for any of your needs.
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23 May, 2023 by Bob reed
Attorney Homer was great
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26 Jul, 2020 by Scott brongiel
We could not of been happier with this company. Tom Homer and Stephen Sotelo were extremely professional throughout our multiple dealings with them. They kept in constant communication with us and always responded promptly to any and all concerns we had. They never dropped the ball and made sure progress never ceased by being in constant contact with buyer’s attorney. They also kept us in the loop on everything through sharing all communications with us. Will and have recommended this company to anyone in need of the services they offer. 5 out 5 stars no questions asked.
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10 Sep, 2019 by Julian
Sarah Wallin is hands down one of the best attorneys I have had the pleasure of dealing with. She is always very easy to get in touch with and keeps you updated on progress throughout the whole transaction. I would highly recommend her office for any of your needs.
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26 May, 2023 by Madison m martinez
Mevorah & Gigolo Law Offices is simply the place you need to go if you want your situation/case handled properly. They are reliable and great communicators. This office is nothing shy of amazing. From the receptionist to the paralegal and amazing team of lawyers, you get nothing less than exceptional treatment and respect. They advocate for you in ways you don't even realize you need advocating for. Their year of experience really shows through their work. I was treated with nothing but respect when asking any type of question, no matter how large or small. Never once did they not keep me filled in with the process or stage my case was at. If you are looking for an exceptional lawyer and phenomenal representation while being treated very well, this is the office to go to. I cannot recommend them enough!
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23 Jan, 2023 by Tina durbon
5.0
20 Reviews
4.9
403 Reviews
03 Oct, 2024 by Rick henry
Don has been absolutely great throughout my wife's custody case. He has continuously gone above and beyond to get everything exactly how we want it.
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15 Sep, 2024 by Akshay john
I went through Khan Nayyar & Associates for my marriage based green card. We had a unique situation as I was transitioning from Student to Green card, and Jeethna and Attorney Khan made the process very smooth from the start, and explained the process in detail, when to expect the green card, and everything in between. Would highly recommend anyone to go with the team and let them handle the immigration burdens alongside with you. - Akshay & Shreya
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04 Sep, 2024 by Aamir tyyebi
Faraz is an experienced professional and reliable attorney that gives excellent and practical advice.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Rick henry
Don has been absolutely great throughout my wife's custody case. He has continuously gone above and beyond to get everything exactly how we want it.
Read more
15 Sep, 2024 by Akshay john
I went through Khan Nayyar & Associates for my marriage based green card. We had a unique situation as I was transitioning from Student to Green card, and Jeethna and Attorney Khan made the process very smooth from the start, and explained the process in detail, when to expect the green card, and everything in between. Would highly recommend anyone to go with the team and let them handle the immigration burdens alongside with you. - Akshay & Shreya
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04 Sep, 2024 by Aamir tyyebi
Faraz is an experienced professional and reliable attorney that gives excellent and practical advice.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Rick henry
Don has been absolutely great throughout my wife's custody case. He has continuously gone above and beyond to get everything exactly how we want it.
Read more
15 Sep, 2024 by Akshay john
I went through Khan Nayyar & Associates for my marriage based green card. We had a unique situation as I was transitioning from Student to Green card, and Jeethna and Attorney Khan made the process very smooth from the start, and explained the process in detail, when to expect the green card, and everything in between. Would highly recommend anyone to go with the team and let them handle the immigration burdens alongside with you. - Akshay & Shreya
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04 Sep, 2024 by Aamir tyyebi
Faraz is an experienced professional and reliable attorney that gives excellent and practical advice.
Read more
5.0
8 Reviews
4.9
403 Reviews
03 Oct, 2024 by Rick henry
Don has been absolutely great throughout my wife's custody case. He has continuously gone above and beyond to get everything exactly how we want it.
Read more
15 Sep, 2024 by Akshay john
I went through Khan Nayyar & Associates for my marriage based green card. We had a unique situation as I was transitioning from Student to Green card, and Jeethna and Attorney Khan made the process very smooth from the start, and explained the process in detail, when to expect the green card, and everything in between. Would highly recommend anyone to go with the team and let them handle the immigration burdens alongside with you. - Akshay & Shreya
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Aamir tyyebi
Faraz is an experienced professional and reliable attorney that gives excellent and practical advice.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Rick henry
Don has been absolutely great throughout my wife's custody case. He has continuously gone above and beyond to get everything exactly how we want it.
Read more
15 Sep, 2024 by Akshay john
I went through Khan Nayyar & Associates for my marriage based green card. We had a unique situation as I was transitioning from Student to Green card, and Jeethna and Attorney Khan made the process very smooth from the start, and explained the process in detail, when to expect the green card, and everything in between. Would highly recommend anyone to go with the team and let them handle the immigration burdens alongside with you. - Akshay & Shreya
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Aamir tyyebi
Faraz is an experienced professional and reliable attorney that gives excellent and practical advice.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Rick henry
Don has been absolutely great throughout my wife's custody case. He has continuously gone above and beyond to get everything exactly how we want it.
Read more
15 Sep, 2024 by Akshay john
I went through Khan Nayyar & Associates for my marriage based green card. We had a unique situation as I was transitioning from Student to Green card, and Jeethna and Attorney Khan made the process very smooth from the start, and explained the process in detail, when to expect the green card, and everything in between. Would highly recommend anyone to go with the team and let them handle the immigration burdens alongside with you. - Akshay & Shreya
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Aamir tyyebi
Faraz is an experienced professional and reliable attorney that gives excellent and practical advice.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Rick henry
Don has been absolutely great throughout my wife's custody case. He has continuously gone above and beyond to get everything exactly how we want it.
Read more
15 Sep, 2024 by Akshay john
I went through Khan Nayyar & Associates for my marriage based green card. We had a unique situation as I was transitioning from Student to Green card, and Jeethna and Attorney Khan made the process very smooth from the start, and explained the process in detail, when to expect the green card, and everything in between. Would highly recommend anyone to go with the team and let them handle the immigration burdens alongside with you. - Akshay & Shreya
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Aamir tyyebi
Faraz is an experienced professional and reliable attorney that gives excellent and practical advice.
Read more
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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.
