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03 Apr, 2022 by Kade
Several months ago I was slammed with a hefty speeding ticket after attempting to pass an unsafe driver on the highway. I was ordered to pay $250 and had a 6 point mark on my license, which would likely lead to even greater losses due to my insurance. Amy was a truly amazing help throughout the whole process; not only did she handle the entirety of the court processions and remove that stressor, she also managed to negotiate a total negation of the ticket as long as I took a short drivers safety class for a considerably cheaper $70 fee. Without her, I would’ve been at a complete loss, and I can’t thank her for her services enough!!
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15 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Amy is amazing at what she does and is full of knowledge. The results she came out with were amazing and I am forever greatful for the work she did for me! If more than 5 stars was an option i would select it.
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14 Jun, 2021 by Matt
15 months from start to finish. That’s what it took for my case. At first glance I don’t believe any attorney, if given the chance to look at my case would of thought it’d become an issue.
I hired Amy Menzel through a recommendation of word of mouth. After the initial consultation. She gave me a outlook of possibilities. All of which ultimately would be determined by how I handled myself in this domestic case.
I should add that my case began in December of 2019. Due to COVID, the pace of or lack there of almost seemed to come to a stop. The hearings were stretched out. All of a sudden everything was done over the phone or web conference. This in my opinion created a handy cap of sorts due to the D.A’s lack of familiarity with my case. It seemed as if they were going over the same issues during every new hearing. The positive information I was attempting to show them sort of got lost in the traffic jam of the court due to the pandemic.
With the amount of time Attorney Menzel dedicated to my case because of the aforementioned issues. I started to view this case as if it was almost for charity considering the extreme amount of extra time it took.
At no point from start to finish did attorney Menzel ever make me feel secondary. Anytime I sent a question out through email or phone. I would get a quick response. She never promised me a magic deal where all the charges I had pending would simply disappear. But that she could greatly reduce the damage.
When it was all said and done I’m at the opinion that I got the absolute best deal anyone in my position could have asked for. I strongly feel that my representation from attorney Menzel exceeded all of my expectations and I would recommend her to anyone and everyone who is in need of her expertise. A++ job. She’s a very smart, classy and all around genuine lady to work with.
Thank you for everything!
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07 May, 2022 by Jazmin
My review cannot possibly do justice describing my experience with Bill Hammett as my divorce attorney. Bill’s ethics, knowledge, experience, intelligence, and quick-thinking ability are simply unmatched. With his long-standing and impeccable career, Bill is highly respected in the community and the kind of professional you want representing you in Court. From his peers to his clients, the verdict is unanimous. He is brilliant! Bill is a gift to the legal community in the Valley and a life saver for those who find themselves amid a difficult divorce.
Bill showed the utmost compassion, dedication, and commitment to my case throughout my very challenging divorce process. He worked long and hard to obtain the best outcome for me. His attention to detail and good judgment paid off!! I feel so incredibly grateful for what Bill (and his outstanding, superb staff) did in my case. Hiring Bill Hammett as my attorney was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
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14 Sep, 2021 by Chris
I feel thankful that I was able to work with Bill through such a difficult time in my life. He has tons of experience and was able to make me comfortable in all aspects of the divorce process. I highly recommend Bill.
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04 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
Bill Hammett is incredibly good at what he does. He handled my divorce in 2021 with professionalism, good advice, patience, and understanding. He was quick to respond, always kept my best interests in mind, let me dictate how aggressive I wanted to handle things, and was very fair when it came to billing. I would recommend him to anyone who finds themselves going through a divorce. Thank you Bill and staff!
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01 Nov, 2018 by Mike
Attorney Reed was very helpful during a very difficult time in my life
I would highly recommend her to anyone! she was hands down worth the cost associated with hiring a lawyer.... I have friends that would not say the same about other lawyers..... to be honest she reinforced my belief in the court system... I always felt I had the best lawyer ..... the best prepared lawyer...... a lawyer that didn't have a paralegal handle everything... I never write reviews but in this case I want everyone know how amazing she was and how she protected my children and myself!
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02 Nov, 2017 by Timothy
I have a very high standard when it comes to attorneys considering I am one. I hired Renee to handle my divorce. My divorce presented it's own set of unique challenges, but I found her to be extremely knowledgeable, prepared, firm (when needed), compassionate (when needed), and always professional inside and out of the courtroom. She is very good at her craft! I would highly recommend Renee.
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17 Jun, 2016 by Heather
Attorney Read represented me during my divorce. She was always professional and well prepared for every meeting and court date. She was extremely thorough and competent. She explained everything to me in a way I could understand it. She was compassionate and provided me excellent guidance throughout the process. She was resourceful and respectful. She tried to maximize her efficiency so as to save me money whenever she could. I would highly recommend her without hesitation to anyone seeking an attorney.
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20 Jun, 2023 by Whitney
Attorney Fozard has been absolutely amazing to work with! He is very clear and direct with the guidance he provides you, fully explaining the reasoning behind the direction he is giving. He ensures you understand the process in the current state and what is to come. He is incredibly prompt to respond to any email or phone call. What sets him apart most is he isn't afraid to be direct and blunt with you in helping you decide the proper actions and responses that would be best in situations that involve children to ensure the children remain a the forefront and aren't put in the middle.
Highly Recommend Atty. Fozard, you will not be disappointed!!
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11 Aug, 2022 by Jim
When you are going through something as emotional as a divorce, you need someone who is calm, cool and very competent at your side. Mr. Fozard is kind, professional and he stays focused on the goal. My ex-wife went through two different attorneys and both of them tried starting silly arguments with us that quite frankly just rack up the legal fees . . . .. good for the lawyers, bad for the clients. Mr. Fozard shut that down immediately and kept the process moving forward.
Also of note, his communication and follow through are absolutely outstanding. While hopefully I will never need his services again, I know I will be keeping in touch with him, as he is that type of individual!
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31 Aug, 2021 by Thomas
Attorney Fozard has gone above and beyond representing a loved one in their messy divorce. He inherited a complete mess from her previous attorney and has done everything in his power to protect her and her children.
Stephen is prompt in responding to any questions and concerns with sound legal advice. More importantly, I truly believe he cares. He is a great attorney and an even better person.
Without hesitation, if I ever need an attorney for any reason going forward, I will give his office a call first.
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25 May, 2022 by Rachel
Brandt was absolutely incredible; we used him for both our criminal and family situations. He truly cared about our family's needs. He was honest & communicative. I did consult with other attorneys, & many others said Brandt was the best in the field. He worked so hard on our cases & got us the results we wanted. I would highly recommend him to any friend or family member.
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12 Mar, 2021 by Alex d
Brandt was referred to me by my Dad's attorney, for a paternity action and accusations involving CPS. The accusations were weak at best. Yet serious in nature. I received an excellent outcome in both situations. Brandt is an outstanding attorney. He knows the law. He sincerely cares about his client's, and the outcomes they receive. Brandt aggressively represented me and my rights. He is the epitome of professionalism. He has excellent communication skills, both in court, and with his client. Brandt is detailed and prepared. I am very pleased with Brandt's representation. If I could give him more than 5 stars, I would. I strongly recommend Brandt for any family law need.
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14 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
Brandt represented me twice in a series of cases brought against me by a local municipality. We got an acquittal in the first felony case and are poised to get an acquittal on the latest one. Brandt is willing to stand up to the governmental apparatus that tried to personally and professionally destroy me. He was easy to communicate with and responsive. If you need an attorney who will fight for you, choose Brandt.
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04 Nov, 2016 by Deb
Melody was my lawyer and she is very knowledgeable and compassionate. She helped me retain my children in 100% physical custody from my abusive ex. I would recommend Melody to anyone needing help with their divorce.
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07 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Attorney Moffat is a great attorney! I had her for my custody case. She took the time to look at all the information available and determine what was in the best interest for my daughter. She is extremely knowledgeable and seems completely comfortable in the courtroom. I'm very grateful for her work to make sure my daughter was safe! I would recommend her to anyone looking for a wonderful family law attorney that truly seems to care about her clients!
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30 May, 2013 by Anonymous
Jolene picked up my case after my old lawyer no longer wanted to work on my case. She has been very helpful with everything that I have brought to her. My only wish and I don't think this is her issue but the length of time for everything.
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29 Jun, 2012 by Anonymous
I hired Jolene to represent me in my divorce. I had never had a reason to hire a lawyer and I had never been to court for anythiing in my life. Our finances are complicated and my husband and I are not communicating good, so I knew that I wouldn't be able to do the divorce on my own. Jolene was recommended by a friend, and when I met with her she made me feel at ease and explained how the process works. Throughout my divorce she has steered me in the right direction and gave great advice when I had no idea what I was doing! I thought my outcome was good and I would definitely recommend Jolene to a friend or family
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30 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
I was extremely disappointed in Mr. Pasquale’s professionalism. My soon to be ex husbands lawyer sent him documentation I never received until two months later. He took over a week to respond via email or phone call. It was the day before our temporary hearing when he finally reached out to me and pushed me to make decisions less than 24 hours before the court date. I had to terminate the contract with him and hire a new lawyer.
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29 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
I want to preface this by saying i do not have much experience with lawyers but this was just an ultimate disaster. The one positive thing i can say is that he seemed very knowledgeable at the law. But hes very arrogant, very dismissive, and very pushy. Being a woman and a parent going through one of the hardest times in my life, i really could have used some compassion and support. He himself has been through a divorce, but since it was amicable, he thinks that everyone else should too. The most frustrating part was the lack of communication from him and his paralegal. It got so bad it was weeks and weeks without hearing back, most of the time it was only because i kept calling to check in. The icing on the cake? Apparently the law form closed up and he withdrew from being my lawyer and i never got a call, email, or formal letter documenting it. Not even from the court system. I just happened to ccap my name and found out there. He also knew that i was naive about the system and i believe he took advantage of me because of it. Please, if you read this, please think twice.
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28 Mar, 2018 by Gil
Nicholas is truly an expert in his field. I had a family/separation issue that was quite a mess. Nick cleaned it up with minimal court time and alleviated major stress off of my shoulders. He puts himself in your shoes as if it was his own problem. Great attorney. I would not hesitate to use him again if need be.
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27 Oct, 2023 by Laura l davis
14 Jun, 2022 by Tricia
One of the rudest attorney's. She has no respect for what her clients wants are.
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27 Jan, 2022 by Frank&brianna vivalaraza
Great attorney to have on your side. She knows her job very well. 💯👍👍👍
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24 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
This guys a Jem, I’d recommend not hiring him as he has only his best interests Leftoversin mind.
Argumentative, arrogant, waste of time and $ - find a Attorney that will fight for you and not his ego..
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03 Jul, 2024 by Tyler muellenbach
I been with Peter for legal issues since before he had his OWN FIRM. I was with him at Dempsey law firm in Oshkosh.
Now he owns his own firm. This is truly incredible and the American dream. He is a Very smart attorney & one that I wouldn't want to go against!
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25 Jun, 2024 by Rhonda edwards
Peter is extremely hard working and intelligent, often reaching out to in the evenings or even a Sunday to touch base. He gave expert legal advice, and was very being very compass and empathetic, using his own experiences as guidelines. If you are looking for an honest man, do not hesitate to reach out to Culp Law Firm LLC.
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24 Jun, 2011 by Anonymous
Attorney Winkel was my divorce attorney and always explained what was happening, what to expect and proved very beneficial to my family. I have since recommended him to several family members and friends for various matters.
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21 Apr, 2011 by Anonymous
He maybe busy but he always get's the job done! He fights for what's right and fair and won't take the case if he believes you don't have one. I have used him for years for my business and personal issues. Unfortunately in this field someone doesn't like you when you walk out the court room door. Not easy shoe's to fill, but my firm has been pleased for years!
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25 Nov, 2009 by Anonymous
Where do I start?!! Mr. Winkel was full of promises that he could not keep. He showed up late to every appointment. He even showed up late for court. He over-billed me for things he never did. I currently have a complaint filed with the state against Winkel. He pushed me into a loan with him which later I found out is illegal fr a lawyer to do.
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31 May, 2023 by Julie
Peggy Miller should not be a court commissioner. She knows nothing about how abuse works and is not qualified to be deciding people's lives. I told her how I was beaten up, attacked, threatened, abused. Her and the man who had an expensive lawyer made fun and laughed at me. She turned 8 years worth of abuse into a joke, and let him abuse me more than I could take. I told her I could not take any more, but she couldn't care less about a woman's life. I said I would pay for lie detector tests for the both of us. She said they wouldn't be admissable as evidence. I said no, but when I pass and he fails it will be a good indicator of who is telling the truth! Now there will be consequences to letting him take my life away.
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27 Jun, 2015 by Greg
It was a pleasure working with attorney Miller. She always kept me informed. Did what I asked. Always answered my questions. And always gave me a very fast reply.
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07 Mar, 2015 by Kasey otis
I was going through a custody battle for my daughter. Before she was born I already knew court was the only way we were going to settle this. I was researching and talking to many people about who is the best family court attourney in wisconsin and multiple people told me Peggy Miller. I made the phone call aand talked to attourney Miller then we sat down and talked. She told me from the beginning exactly the approach we would take ans everything we could make happen. I was very confident in what she told me when i left her office and already had my mind made up she was the attourney for us. Long story short everything Peggy told me would happen the first day i met with her and she made it happen almost just as easy. I got everything i wanted out of this case and i now have my daughter! My ex girlfriend went through 2 attourneys with this case and Peggy handled them with no issues what so ever. Im glad to have her on my side. Working against Peggy would have been a nightmare! As far as communication goes shes second to none. Anytime of day i could email her and she would get back to me almost immediatly. It didnt matter if it was 8 oclock on a wednesday morning or 9 oclock on a friday night the response was almost instant. Peggy is hands down worth every dollar spend and I feel very fortunate to have her on our side! If your going through a family or custody battle she is the attorney for you! You wont be let down!
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16 Feb, 2024 by Penny
Mark represented me in my divorce. He did a great job of educating me on the process. He and his staff were always responsive to my calls and emails. I would highly recommended him for anyone needing a divorce lawyer.
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21 Jul, 2015 by Mary kay
Mark did a great job with my case! the outcome was better than I anticipated. I would definitely recommend Mark to anyone needing an attorney.
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28 Jun, 2010 by Anonymous
Mark worked hard in the beginning but as time when on he only did minimal work for A LOT of money. Over the course of 10 years I paid mark over $50,000 and still have no placement time with my child. Mark looked out for him and his pocketbook and not me or my relationship with my child. He was always to busy and continually left me in the dark. Mark even went as far as to tell me to give up my child. I paid Mark to do just the opposite. What type of family law attorney tells his client to give up his child? Not one you would want hire.
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13 Sep, 2019 by Kim
Very helpful, caring, and knowledgeable. Was able to help me with a very difficult divorce and continues to assist me at this time. I am "TRULY GRATEFUL" to God that this wonderful man has crossed my path. I have recommended Mr. Stillings and will continue to do so in the future.
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30 Jul, 2017 by Morgan
well first of all he failed to represent me due to the fact that i am a addict who had been sober since 2012. He was suposed to get my son out of an abusive situation and decided his relationship with the gal was more important.
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27 Mar, 2019 by Anonymous
Meghan fought for what I deserved. Was available to me in my most trying moments and she backed me up and took my feelings into consideration. I was very lost and alone with my kids to think about. I will never forget how much she helped me.
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31 May, 2018 by Anonymous
Several times, my attourney who used to be a GAL has even said she had no clue what attourney Healy was thinking. The whole thing seemed very bias, and not what was best for the kids.
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03 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous
If you can avoid this lawyer, do it at all cost. The court recommended her as my sons GAL. 2 years later my son is still going to be fighting to spend time with his brothers and me. If she is recommended ask for someone else immediately. I thought it was ok at first. She seemed like she was listening. After a while I noticed all her meetings and phone calls were always made to my ex and his lawyer first. I wasn't represented because I couldn't afford it. She would ask me for information and turn around and say she did all this investigating but actually did no work. I made recommendations for my son and she turned around and claimed them for herself in court. She was completely unprofessional in court if she showed up at all. She will make you feel like she cares about the things you're saying but in reality if you don't have a lawyer she is biased and WILL SIDE with the party that does. Her billing is outrageous. She offered my ex a payment plan and took me to court for contempt once again because I have no lawyer. She told me in one of our very few meetings that our case with others was neglected because she was off having a baby and that's why we hadn't heard from her. My sons about to be 3 and the one thing she's supposed to be doing is looking out for his best interest. All she cares about is filling her pockets. I can't believe how fast she went from nice and caring to vindictive just because I didn't agree with everything she said. She twists words and only hears certain things and then will call you a liar. I have to continue to keep fighting for my child now. I wanted all this to be over for him but now it has to continue so he has a fair shot with his brothers. So sad that this lawyer couldn't stop thinking about herself.
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13 Jan, 2018 by Rebecca
Atty. Huber procrastinated for two years, resulting in loss of case to settle my father's estate, and resulting in the loss my Probate Letters of SP. Following two years of work on my part, after hiring A. Huber in 2015, a court date was finally scheduled for 04/2017. Just prior, without my consent or knowledge, Atty Huber cancelled it. He opted for a conference call instead; I listened. Huber, Atty. Lim and the judge took part. Lim, attorney hired by my father's ex-wife's (E) relatives, unknown to my family, wanted me to stop pursuing bank information needed to reconcile accounts in accordance with Probates LSP. Lim said he would gather all data required to settle. Huber and the Judge agreed and another 2 month postponement occurred. A. Lim procured bank statements, all post divorce, unrelated to what was needed. Atty Huber, despite my fears of E. passing on without this being resolved, (age 90s), Huber continued to procrastinate, giving me mundane tasks to do, so he could "better wrap his head" around things. I attained legal advice at various times throughout the 2 years. Other attorneys were able to understand what was needed quickly. After caring for my father, E, and E's sister for years, money was low; Over and over again, I was advised to stick it out with Huber. I was advised against representing myself. E. passed away 2 months after the cancellation of the 04/2017 court date. . Huber said that was ok - he could easily file a claim against the Trust. He evaded and procrastinated on that. Atty Lim filed a motion against me to stop me from attaining the bank information needed. Huber said it was nothing to worry about; the claims Lim made in the affidavit were false anyway. I remained concerned. Huber said he would file a counter Motion. We had a meeting on the Monday prior to the Friday court date, to discuss. The meeting was a disaster. Huber claimed we should be grateful that Lim got the bank statements, even though they were wrong. Huber said, "at least he responded." Huber asked me for more copies of E's bank accounts following the divorce so he could "better wrap his head around it." For the first time, I refused. He had received that data more than once, and none of it pertained to resolution. I had done the forensic accounting for the marriage/divorce and repeatedly supplied files and data sheets for Huber's review. All E's funds were accounted for. What I needed was the account information of the marital funds that were hidden; kept from my father. When I left his office, Huber knew I understood he had never really worked on the case; he was ready to end it. After leaving, I telephoned the bank attorney Huber claimed he had been in contact with. That attorney said he was waiting to hear from Huber; nothing for over 3 weeks. Huber lied to me. I drove directly to the Courthouse, checked CCAP to find the Motion Huber said he filed for me - it was not there. Another lie. I attained what advice I could, and worked around the clock to represent myself on Friday. I had three days to prepare. Two attorneys helped me by reviewing what I had prepared. I did not allow Huber to represent me. No choice but to go it alone. At the Friday hearing, I won - on every legal point. I got the transcripts. But, still lost. In spite of winning in accordance with the law, and proving Lim in error on his affidavit, the only point the judge had left was that "it took too long." I worked for days after; then, received a letter from Lim, giving me 5 days to respond or the court would find in favor of him; I did not receive it until the 5 day limit was over. I drove back to the courthouse. The judge had received it, and signed it before the 5 days. The Judge said I could write a letter; I did.. On my own, I explained I was finally getting results from the bank. The Judge said I should have done that sooner and decided the divorce could never be reopened and thereby nullified the Probate Letters. I lost everything.
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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.
