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08 Nov, 2024 by Doris hoyte
I recently had the pleasure of working with Larry Kramer and staff .And couldn't be more satisfied with the services from our orginal consultation, he was highly professional attentive and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend to anyone in need of legal assistance. Thank you guys for everything.
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08 Sep, 2024 by Austin
My experience with Kramer, Dunleavy & Ratchik, PLLC was breathtaking. I was run over by a car in Harlem while crossing a crosswalk with the right of way. The guy driving was 100% at fault. The state bar of NY enthusiastically recommend I set up a consultation with them. So I had a 5 minute call with his paralegal, Joanne O’Connell, it was nice. She wanted me to send my neurologist medical records to review and the detailed police report. Made it happen. Then, all communication ceased. No email was replied to thereafter. The only reason I can come up with is that Kramer, Dunleavy & Ratchik genuinely believe there is no merit in finding justice for pedestrians who wrongfully get run over by a car in the state of New York left with long-term injuries. So I found an actual attorney who got to work, now everything is good. This concludes my final thoughts on KD&R for now. I’m extremely honored to have been in Joanne’s presence. She and KD&R are extraordinary human beings - but has no follow through and all that talk lead to nothing. I think they’re great. Keep up the work.
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04 Jun, 2024 by Rafiq kathwari
After I tripped on an uneven sidewalk on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, my neighbor, a longstanding friend, introduced me to attorney Jonathan Ratchik who took my case on as he and the doctors deemed my left foot was severely injured. The landlord had failed to properly maintain the sidewalk in front of the brownstone he owned, posing a clear and present danger to pedestrians. Mr. Ratchik knows his law. He is patient and thorough. He guided me well, coached me thoroughly on the procedures, and allowed me to make decisions about medical treatment and the course of our legal action which took nearly three years when the landlord’s insurance company offered a fair settlement which we accepted. If you have a bad fall, call Jonathan Ratchik who will turn your bad fall into a good trip. Rafique K April 2024
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08 Nov, 2024 by Doris hoyte
I recently had the pleasure of working with Larry Kramer and staff .And couldn't be more satisfied with the services from our orginal consultation, he was highly professional attentive and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend to anyone in need of legal assistance. Thank you guys for everything.
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08 Sep, 2024 by Austin
My experience with Kramer, Dunleavy & Ratchik, PLLC was breathtaking. I was run over by a car in Harlem while crossing a crosswalk with the right of way. The guy driving was 100% at fault. The state bar of NY enthusiastically recommend I set up a consultation with them. So I had a 5 minute call with his paralegal, Joanne O’Connell, it was nice. She wanted me to send my neurologist medical records to review and the detailed police report. Made it happen. Then, all communication ceased. No email was replied to thereafter. The only reason I can come up with is that Kramer, Dunleavy & Ratchik genuinely believe there is no merit in finding justice for pedestrians who wrongfully get run over by a car in the state of New York left with long-term injuries. So I found an actual attorney who got to work, now everything is good. This concludes my final thoughts on KD&R for now. I’m extremely honored to have been in Joanne’s presence. She and KD&R are extraordinary human beings - but has no follow through and all that talk lead to nothing. I think they’re great. Keep up the work.
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04 Jun, 2024 by Rafiq kathwari
After I tripped on an uneven sidewalk on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, my neighbor, a longstanding friend, introduced me to attorney Jonathan Ratchik who took my case on as he and the doctors deemed my left foot was severely injured. The landlord had failed to properly maintain the sidewalk in front of the brownstone he owned, posing a clear and present danger to pedestrians. Mr. Ratchik knows his law. He is patient and thorough. He guided me well, coached me thoroughly on the procedures, and allowed me to make decisions about medical treatment and the course of our legal action which took nearly three years when the landlord’s insurance company offered a fair settlement which we accepted. If you have a bad fall, call Jonathan Ratchik who will turn your bad fall into a good trip. Rafique K April 2024
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08 Nov, 2024 by Doris hoyte
I recently had the pleasure of working with Larry Kramer and staff .And couldn't be more satisfied with the services from our orginal consultation, he was highly professional attentive and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend to anyone in need of legal assistance. Thank you guys for everything.
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08 Sep, 2024 by Austin
My experience with Kramer, Dunleavy & Ratchik, PLLC was breathtaking. I was run over by a car in Harlem while crossing a crosswalk with the right of way. The guy driving was 100% at fault. The state bar of NY enthusiastically recommend I set up a consultation with them. So I had a 5 minute call with his paralegal, Joanne O’Connell, it was nice. She wanted me to send my neurologist medical records to review and the detailed police report. Made it happen. Then, all communication ceased. No email was replied to thereafter. The only reason I can come up with is that Kramer, Dunleavy & Ratchik genuinely believe there is no merit in finding justice for pedestrians who wrongfully get run over by a car in the state of New York left with long-term injuries. So I found an actual attorney who got to work, now everything is good. This concludes my final thoughts on KD&R for now. I’m extremely honored to have been in Joanne’s presence. She and KD&R are extraordinary human beings - but has no follow through and all that talk lead to nothing. I think they’re great. Keep up the work.
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04 Jun, 2024 by Rafiq kathwari
After I tripped on an uneven sidewalk on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, my neighbor, a longstanding friend, introduced me to attorney Jonathan Ratchik who took my case on as he and the doctors deemed my left foot was severely injured. The landlord had failed to properly maintain the sidewalk in front of the brownstone he owned, posing a clear and present danger to pedestrians. Mr. Ratchik knows his law. He is patient and thorough. He guided me well, coached me thoroughly on the procedures, and allowed me to make decisions about medical treatment and the course of our legal action which took nearly three years when the landlord’s insurance company offered a fair settlement which we accepted. If you have a bad fall, call Jonathan Ratchik who will turn your bad fall into a good trip. Rafique K April 2024
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08 Nov, 2024 by Doris hoyte
I recently had the pleasure of working with Larry Kramer and staff .And couldn't be more satisfied with the services from our orginal consultation, he was highly professional attentive and knowledgeable. I would highly recommend to anyone in need of legal assistance. Thank you guys for everything.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Sep, 2024 by Austin
My experience with Kramer, Dunleavy & Ratchik, PLLC was breathtaking. I was run over by a car in Harlem while crossing a crosswalk with the right of way. The guy driving was 100% at fault. The state bar of NY enthusiastically recommend I set up a consultation with them. So I had a 5 minute call with his paralegal, Joanne O’Connell, it was nice. She wanted me to send my neurologist medical records to review and the detailed police report. Made it happen. Then, all communication ceased. No email was replied to thereafter. The only reason I can come up with is that Kramer, Dunleavy & Ratchik genuinely believe there is no merit in finding justice for pedestrians who wrongfully get run over by a car in the state of New York left with long-term injuries. So I found an actual attorney who got to work, now everything is good. This concludes my final thoughts on KD&R for now. I’m extremely honored to have been in Joanne’s presence. She and KD&R are extraordinary human beings - but has no follow through and all that talk lead to nothing. I think they’re great. Keep up the work.
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04 Jun, 2024 by Rafiq kathwari
After I tripped on an uneven sidewalk on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, my neighbor, a longstanding friend, introduced me to attorney Jonathan Ratchik who took my case on as he and the doctors deemed my left foot was severely injured. The landlord had failed to properly maintain the sidewalk in front of the brownstone he owned, posing a clear and present danger to pedestrians. Mr. Ratchik knows his law. He is patient and thorough. He guided me well, coached me thoroughly on the procedures, and allowed me to make decisions about medical treatment and the course of our legal action which took nearly three years when the landlord’s insurance company offered a fair settlement which we accepted. If you have a bad fall, call Jonathan Ratchik who will turn your bad fall into a good trip. Rafique K April 2024
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19 Oct, 2024 by Sara mojtahedi
I recently had a consultation with Ali Shahrestani and I can't recommend him highly enough. He was incredibly thorough and took the time to explain everything in detail, clearing up so many questions I had. His professionalism, patience, and ability to break down complex legal matters made me feel confident and well-informed. I truly appreciate the time he dedicated to ensure I fully understood my options. Thank you so much, Ali Shahrestani for your outstanding service!
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02 May, 2024 by Cassie w.
Efficient, receptive and cares about his clients. Love having him on board for our entertainment legal matters. First call we make!
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04 Mar, 2024 by Devin mcknight
Michael never misses any details and has always been a stable and reliable force on my small team. I would recommend him to anyone!
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19 Oct, 2024 by Sara mojtahedi
I recently had a consultation with Ali Shahrestani and I can't recommend him highly enough. He was incredibly thorough and took the time to explain everything in detail, clearing up so many questions I had. His professionalism, patience, and ability to break down complex legal matters made me feel confident and well-informed. I truly appreciate the time he dedicated to ensure I fully understood my options. Thank you so much, Ali Shahrestani for your outstanding service!
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02 May, 2024 by Cassie w.
Efficient, receptive and cares about his clients. Love having him on board for our entertainment legal matters. First call we make!
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04 Mar, 2024 by Devin mcknight
Michael never misses any details and has always been a stable and reliable force on my small team. I would recommend him to anyone!
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08 May, 2017 by Anonymous
I feel very much grateful to you for how everything went after all. Thank you for looking out for me so well. I simply owe you my life, my well-being, my happiness and all. Not only were you the first attorney I met, but I knew from the bottom of my heart that I had to look no further after our first meeting.
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13 Apr, 2009 by Anonymous
After working with Ms. Batsedis on my case, I would reccommend her to everyone. She is very responsive, and keeps her client in the loop. Not only is she very in tune as to the law, she is also assertive and gets the job done! Her assistant is a doll and very professional as well.
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10 Jun, 2017 by Stephanie
Emily Rubin was amazing!! She was honest and handled my case with the utmost brilliance and professionalism. I trusted her implicitly, which is not something we oftentimes say about our divorce attorneys. She was able to accomplish ALL that my prior 2 useless divorce lawyers were unable to achieve.
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22 Oct, 2009 by Paul
I had to retain Mr. Marshal to defend my father in a very serious vehicular assault case. Mr. Marshall understood my problems and was very understanding to the financial limitations i was going through. He was not only a great attorney that got the job done and spared my dad a jail sentence that he was facing but also made sure to explain the whole process to me and calm me down when i would freak out. I think that if there would be more attorneys like MR. Marshall the world would be a better place. I came back to Mr. Marshall for a few other minor problems and he would always take care of them without even chargin me for it. I have nothing but gratitude towards this man and he truly proved to me that the old cliche about lawyers being greedy and only caring about money is false.
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06 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
Ms. Wohlforth was able to battle and win a very difficult international dispute despite the fact that my child was not born in the U.S. She very brilliantly convinced the Judges and Barristers by digging very deep into an extremely complex and disturbing situation. I am ever so grateful to this attorney.
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20 May, 2016 by Peter
Brian has represented our small company to some of the biggest companies in the world. He's gotten us everything we want. When asked, he is capable of making a business decision, which is really nice. We are lucky he is part of the team. His manner (in a world of condescending lawyers) is refreshing, frank, and he never makes you feel dumb. If I were to describe what he does for me and the company it's simply "he brings out the best in us." Very pleased.
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07 Jul, 2015 by Miri
Richard is an exceptional attorney. He guided me through a difficult ordeal and handled it with patience and professionalism. He really knows his stuff, so to speak. I would definitely recommend him.
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16 May, 2012 by Ronald
A client hiring Ms Talarico for a divorce action could not want a better prepared, more thorough and informed counsel than her. She's an ace in sheep's clothing. If you're lucky enough to have her as your counsel, you've got the best.
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30 Jun, 2013 by Miss
In Don, I had a true advocate that helped me even the playing field so that I could have a fair outcome over 10 years ago, and also have protection with a truly long-term and comprehensive divorce agreement. Sometimes the agreement is frustrating because it protects against a one-sided parental situation, but my family is better for it, and I can depend on it now that I need it many years later. His foresight will allow me to demand a level of responsibility for my child all the way through college. This is an attorney who has the ability to forge an agreement that keeps me balanced. Thank you Don.
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21 Feb, 2010 by Nikki
I found Kenneth McKeon online, he was perfect for what I needed: DIVORCE from my stupid GREEN CARD SEEKING husband. I contacted him through his website and he replied in the 48 hour window. I called and left him a message and he quickly called back. I was IMPRESSED to say the least! I told him about my low-life husband and made an apointment. After the consultation I expected a bill- IT WAS FREE like he said! The prices he quoted were so reasonable, I really thought he was going to charge twice as much since he's doing immigration AND divorce for my case but he didn't. More honest than the average man, probably the most honest lawyer I met.
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24 Feb, 2022 by Mayra
Me ayudo a para poder ser legal en este país y poder traer a mis hijos ,gracias a ella estamos juntos en este país y ahora le necesito de nuevo para q me asesore, por fin la encontré. Dios la bendiga siempre
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16 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
Mr. Rivlin is everything you could want in a lawyer. He kept me informed on my case and was always helpful. He was also kind and respectful.
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06 May, 2011 by Orsi
He did my paper work a couple of times. He is smart.
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24 Apr, 2012 by Linda
I used this attorney when he was fresh out of law school. He was an excellent lawyer-very smart, and knowledegeable, very thorough-very caring, and helpful. I would highly recommend him.
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18 Jul, 2014 by Pamela
I still remember being referred to Ms. Hartsfield, and I was happy with her professionalism and work then, and I still feel that way. She was organized, explained to me clearly what was happening and what would occur, met with me at regular intervals, and followed through on all points to the very end.
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18 Oct, 2020 by Zulal
Attorney Yasemin Ekici at Ekici artukmac attorneys was incredibly professional, knowledgeable, and thorough. She has a genuine desire to help others. Her skill set and knowledge are beyond compare. Highly recommend.
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21 May, 2010 by Tony
Dana Riccoboni handled my case with proficiency and a exquisite understanding of the Law and Courtroom edict. She settled my case in my favor saving me hundreds of dollars. Dana is a determined lawyer with her clients needs as top priority.
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10 Jul, 2023 by Patrick
I received notice after three years that I had a lien on my home regarding previous tenant and it was to the tune of approximately $60,000-$80,000. I contacted alot of lawyers with no avail, until I discovered Reena Rani and associates. Ms. Rani not only helped me with my issue but was able to get my fine significantly reduced and remove the lien from my property. Ms. Rani diligently continued working with city officials on my behalf to whom I am ever grateful. if you have a Civil issue please contact this lady she is a top class lawyer and works very hard and tirelessly for her clients
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11 Jul, 2013 by Gp
Ms. Laskin is a terrific attorney in so many ways. I hired Ms. Laskin after interviewing several lawyers. First off, Ms. Laskin is highly responsive, whether its email or phone. That is what I first noticed when I interviewed her. She was one of the only attorneys I could quickly get in and see, and who quickly responded to me. That experience remained throughout our entire working relationship. I came across a few issues with my ex and Ms. Laskin made sure to step up and get the issues solved. This is where I witnessed that she is an amazing attorney. You cannot ask for a better outcome. I am very happy to have chosen Ms. Laskin as my attorney during my divorce. Overall, great experience, I highly recommend.
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28 Mar, 2014 by Davidc
I had called several attorneys in the central Arkansas area about doing a non-contested divorce for my ex-wife and myself. We had all the terms agreed on and documentation to back it up. When calling around, Sarah seemed to be the most responsive to our needs and quite reasonable rates for handling our legal matters. She was extremely pleasant to work with, made the procedure understandable, and had it finished in the time frame she gave us.
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17 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
I had the pleasure of working with Alla during my parents divorce. I have NEVER met anyone more determined and professional as this lawyer. When she believes in something, she attacks it like a dog would with a bone. She was worth EVERY penny I THANK Alla every day for her support and knowledge of the law
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05 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
What a wonderful experience! Richard was patient with me during a long conversation and forthcoming with the pros and cons of my situation. I'm sorry to say I could not hire him because of the location of my court requirements, but would highly recommend this kind, intelligent man to anyone need a family law attorney.
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22 Feb, 2009 by Anonymous
He is a great attorney with a great deal of knowledge and very fair with retainer fee.
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02 Aug, 2021 by Susan chang
Whenever you have any kind of issue with your employer, there is such a power imbalance that you absolutely need to have someone like Randi on your side. From our very first consultation, I could tell that I had found the perfect person to represent me, and I credit her with giving me the courage and confidence to forge ahead. Randi is smart and strategic, an excellent communicator, and a zealous advocate who will persevere until you get the results that you want. Most importantly, she is a compassionate human being who really listens and cares. I cannot say enough good things about her. Highly recommended!
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04 Apr, 2021 by Timothy mcguire
Great lawyer. Highly recommended!
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10 Jan, 2021 by Rahel bayar
Randi was fantastic. From the moment she responded to my initial inquiry (which was incredibly quick) to the very end she was exactly what you want in an attorney. She has a knack for advising, while keeping you levelheaded and calm, and strategizing in a way that gives you a real sense of navigating situations that are complicated and stressful. I have now recommended her to multiple people and will continue to do so. Her legal acumen helped me through an incredibly tough employment situation, and I am extremely grateful to have had her as my attorney.
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

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