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06 Sep, 2024 by Antonella
Robert Osuna Es un muy mal abogado solo le in el dinero de los cliente, mi novio y yo lo contratamos y nunca lo ayudo hacer nada en una año que el tiene preso solo fue a verlo una sola vez y fue cuando lo contratamos, en todo ese tiempo nunca supo nada del caso nunca sabia nada siempre hablaba mentira en todo hacia cosas sin autorización de nosotros, siempre hace lo contrario de lo que le pides que haga y trabaja con los fiscales, es el peor abogado que eh visto en todo mi vida y hasta me tenia bloqueada de su telefono solo me escribia cuando tenia que hacerle un pago, dure un año pagando para nada para al final tener que despedirlo y también tuve que reportarlo con boar association de abogados en NY no lo recomiendo ni para recoger basura........ Si quieres perder tu caso puedes contratarlo
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06 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr Osuna Am Gud laywer but whens I leeve a samwich four mine lunch on him desk he eat mine samwich when not I looked, I like him butt that was a Gud samwich, dammit!
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31 Aug, 2016 by Anonymous
I had a phone interview with Mr. Osuna. He was very promising, however, at the end of every sentence he asked for his money "as soon as I received your first payment, I will start your case. Your case is very simple and if shouldn't take long". I sent him the payment and that was the end of it. Every time I called him, he asked me to call him back and two weeks, after the first tree months he sounded like a broken recor "I will talk to the DA call me back in two weeks". After a year, I sent emails, messages, voice mail and never got a replay until one morning I called from a different phone number, he answered his phone and said "ohhh!!! Your case is too old and I can't help you. To make my story short. Mr. Osuna took my money and did absolutely nothing to help me with my case. Don't trust this lawyer
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03 Oct, 2020 by Anas
She is my family court lawyer she was very patient and helped me become patient throughout these problems i had With my Foster care agency. She also help me calm down when I was getting frustrated she is the best Lawyer anyone could ask for.
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12 Mar, 2020 by Novilette
SHE DON’T ANSWER THE PHONE, RETURN MESSAGES OR EMAILS. SHE DON’T CARE!! BEWARE STAY AWAY.. SHE REPRESENTED ME IN A CHILD CUSTODY HEARING. SHE NEVER WAS READY. SHE PROMISED TO DO MOTIONS THAT NEEDED TO BE DONE IN A TIMELY MANNER AND IT NEVER HAPPEN. SHE WAS HIRED THREW THE STATE OF NEW YORK. POINT BLANK SHE DONT CARE.. BIG DISAPPOINTMENT
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18 Sep, 2019 by Aaron
Kira is very lax it’s either a hit or miss with her literally. I saw her once and never seen her again, and when I tried reaching out to her via phone, email, texts, voicemails I received no response or update. Do not waste your time because you’ll most certainly waste your time hiring her as she picked up my case and decided to disappear leaving me in the dark with no answers.
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10 Dec, 2022 by Rebecca
Marge Greenberg was able to hold my hand while still dealing with the emotions that you go through when you have a high conflict divorce. Her colleague Sara Hiltzik was part of the team that protected my children, my finances and my life. She is just amazing.
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18 Apr, 2019 by Aracelys
Margery and her office provided excellent service, demonstrating professionalism and personal attention to all details of my complex divorce. Margery was a human first and attorney second. She was compassionate and supportive and was tactful in thoroughly explaining the processes of what had the potential to be a traumatic experience. Margery promptly handled any red flags or issues that arose from opposing counsel. If an issue ensued, it was handled almost immediately. I was kept apprised of all movements in my case and all communication was replied to in a timely manner. My case was very particular and Margery and her staff were diligent in their research to grant me a successful settlement. The time that was supposed to be the hardest period of my life, was made easier with my experience with Margery and her firm. It was so comforting and helpful to work with someone who you know will take the proper measures to get you successfully divorced. Margery is knowledgeable and proactive in ensuring the smooth processing of what was a difficult process personally, and I was very grateful for the confidence that her professional manner instilled. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend her services.
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13 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
1. Non responsive. Had to BEG her to reply to my emails. Sometimes it took WEEKS for her to respond. (Mind you, her bills came on time and were paid in full the day they were received.) 2. She ever had a good grasp on the all issues involved in the divorce, resulting in a poor settlement/result. It was not an especially complicated divorce (not a lot of assets, no custody, no property, etc.) so I'm not sure why so many things were missed on her end. 3. Sent me (more than once) confidential emails meant for her other clients. When I pointed out that she sent these to the wrong person, no apology was given - simply "well, you have similar names". UM. I just hope she didn't send someone else all my private information!! 4. She told me I did not need to attend a hearing, even though I was willing and ready to do so. At the next hearing, the judge admonished me for not being at the previous hearing. The judge said my not showing up proved that I didn't care - which was clearly not the case. I was just following my lawyer's advice! Marge did not stand up for me or take the blame for telling me not to show up. Overall I received poor legal advice and even worse client/customer service. I would strongly recommend finding another lawyer.
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24 Dec, 2016 by Jayme
Unfortunately what I heard about him and what he did was totally the opposite. He took my money and never delivered his promises, even asked for more money and when I asked him about his promises he did not show up, later on I realized that he does not have good reputation among judges and judges find him quite annoying and disturbing and adding more complication to the equation. I would not recommend him to anybody.
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22 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr. Scott has been representing me for a number of years in a very difficult domestic violence/custody case. His compassion and dedication have been consistent through all these years. He has also allowed me to work out a payment plan I could afford. Mr. Scott always returns my calls and emails. I can't imagine having a better attorney, and I would highly recommend him.
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13 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
I find "Horrendous Attorney"'s review difficult to believe. Mr. Scott represented me for a very difficult and contentious divorce/custody matter. Mine was a delicate situation that required a combination of compassion and aggressiveness. Mr. Scott helped me navigate some very difficult waters and I would highly recommend him.
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03 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
June B Callwood was assigned to me by Family Court in a case of Child Support in 2009. She prevented the plans of the father of my children to put me in jail after providing court with wrong testimonies. She informed me in the best of her knowledge and I am here today to prove it. It was an odd case as Court gave credit to the lying allegations of an American white citizen versus true and proved allegations of a colored european woman. I have nothing against Americans nor white people being myself dual blooded black and white. I an eternally thankful to Attorney Callwood of the way she handled my case. I studied law in Europe for 5 years, if I am not aware of the American procedure and laws, I have strong basis in law .
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08 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
June Callwood is not professional. She was assigned to my daughter as AFC. In over a year she has met with my child only twice. Our case is high conflict and involves new issues incessantly. My daughter constantly contacts Mrs Callwood, yet receives no response 95 percent of the time. Emails go unanswered, as my attorney and my ex's fight over child related issues, our daughter has no voice. Mrs Callwood falls far beneath the standards of "zealous advocate." My daughter's therapist contacted this lawyer 5 times over 2.5 months - zero call backs, no email responses from July until almost October. This woman "lost" notes from a conversation with my lawyer, lost my daughter's number and lost the therapist's number. She tried to facilitate a phone call with my ex despite a no-contact order, until my attorney stepped in. She has remained mute on every issue integral to our child, MIA. Despite hundreds of emails exchanged by our attorney's, less than a dozen as the voice of our child. Mrs Callwood failed to file on behalf of our daughter in the appellate, despite pleas from our kid. When contacted with a broken bone/surgery matter requiring consent and immediate action, well, still no response despite 2 weeks going by. This lawyer failed in due diligence, not contacting doctors, court assigned therapists, teachers, etc. She is mute and collects thousands in private pay by reading emails. She has made inappropriate comments to our daughter "I was a DV victim too." "Your father acts that way because he's bipolar or schizophernic." On an OSC to quash a TOP she failed to file a single piece of paper for the hearing! When camp was taken away by my ex despite a stip of settlement she failed to file notice of default! She didn't deign to even reply to emails, let alone file papers! She was ersatz from minute one, trying to bill me despite a court order mandating my ex pay. This lawyer still has not procured a case file in a year. Does Mrs Callwood do anything but falter and bumble? She never explained rights to her "client." This woman is so egregious it's comical, she's like a SNL skit!!! Do not hire her.
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10 Jan, 2024 by Mark
Disgusting human being. When we read reports about the ills of family courts that take children away from their parents, delay cases, and cause trauma throughout our communities, Judge Shim is at the epicenter of those societal ills.
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13 Sep, 2016 by Anonymous
I have been in and out of family court for years. Greedy ex wife, and her relentless attorney. Mr. Shim which was able to reason with unreasonable people and was really appreciated by the judge. Great manner, very smart, and extremely sympathetic and helpful.
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04 Sep, 2022 by Ade t
So-called HUD federal monitor, racking it up big in fees, while NYCHA falls apart due to poor management and systemic corruption.
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30 Jul, 2019 by Paul miller
a Titan in the world of Law
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04 Sep, 2022 by Ade t
So-called HUD federal monitor, racking it up big in fees, while NYCHA falls apart due to poor management and systemic corruption.
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30 Jul, 2019 by Paul miller
a Titan in the world of Law
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15 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
If I could give him zero stars I would. Bobby has a ton of charm, he will make you feel that you have found the best lawyer in the world . He listens and makes you feel that you've found a lawyer that cares but, don't be fooled. HE IS THE WORST. DONT BE FOOLED BY THIS AWFUL ATTORNEY!
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22 May, 2018 by Claire
Robert Preston handled my divorce and custody case 12 years ago. The situation was complicated and he handled all aspects of the case with extreme diligence, perspective and focus. This is a man who cares deeply about helping his clients and their children. He has been there for me many times since that time. He is easy to talk to, has a brilliant mind and is solid in his ethics. I would highly recommend him.
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22 May, 2018 by Anonymous
When I first needed to hire a family law lawyer, I interviewed several. Given what was at stake--my relationship with my kid, I fretted over making a poor choice since there was no more important decision that can impact my life for the next many years. After weighing all of the choices and selecting Bobby, I cannot overstate how much Bobby is personally responsible for changing the next 20 years of my life and my kid's life. He did not rotely accept how all of the other lawyers proposed approaching the case (in hindsight, the other lawyers seemed to demonstrate a lazy acquiescence to what I "should expect" from the court system), yet he did not overpromise. Sure, he is smart, effective, and insightful about the law and the various issues in the case, but most importantly he "got it" and was impressively loyal and dedicated to working towards a resolution that was in the best interest of my kid and me. The process was not easy, but his work ethic and faith never wavered even when I felt like giving up. He had the integrity and caring to spend the time thinking about the case beyond what I expected. He applied his skills and judgment to help me win custody against all apparent odds (not, to be clear, against what the appropriate resolution should have been). On a very regular basis over the years after the trial ended until the present, I am actively grateful for the impact that Bobby has had on my life and the life of my kid. Bobby is personally responsible for the relationship I've had with my kid for the last many years. Obviously I do not know the circumstances of your case and no one can promise results, but I have never stopped being incredibly grateful having the good fortune of hiring Bobby Preston many years ago. After more than a decade of representing me, I could not be happier with my decision to hire Bobby.
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01 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
He has no sense of responsibility. I could not reach him for weeks when I needed him for discussion on time sensitive materials. More important, he never informed me about such deadlines until I found out on my own research. He is not knowledgeable. He has no idea about some very simple laws/acts that explanations on these can be found on Internet easily. Sometimes, I had to make decision on rejecting some unreasonable requests/demands from the opposing lawyer based on common sense while he was trying to accept. He is lack of abilities—a simple agreement (about half page) took him hours to draft and it was full of mistakes. I had to review and modify myself, then he would just copy and paste. He tried to persuade me into a settlement when he could not strike back some preposterous accusations from the opposing lawyer without listening to me. In short, he is the most crappy lawyer i have ever hired.
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25 Nov, 2009 by Maryann
Based on my negative, crappy experience - and speaking for myself - I could not in good conscience personally recommend this divorce lawyer, his colleague Saul, or the legal practice to anyone. If we pay lawyers for legal services rendered, then they should properly and diligently advise their clients. The lawyer probably received a lot more compensation than for what he deserved. 20-20 hindsight indeed. It's the principle of it. As clients we don't expect incompetence. We hire attorneys for help and "due diligence!" We don't hire lawyers to be "dead weight" and unresponsive. At the time of the divorce processing there were some "oversights" and "neglected responsibilities" that I feel the law firm should have been more on top of. Why is this bothering me, you might be thinking? Because I feel the divorce lawyer and his support staff have not properly and professionally served this client. Are three generations of successful legal experience worthless? Apparently so! The firm does not handle your case with a personal touch.
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23 May, 2008 by Anonymous
I used Phil Brown in my custody case. Prior to litigation, Phil advised me that it was perfectly OK for me to take my infant and relocate out of state to avoid my abusive ex. As it turns out that advice was not 100% correct. It colored my case negatively before it even began. He was very good in the Child Support arena, however, and was able to get my child's need met based on actual need and not on the income of the dead-beat father.
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28 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
Watch your pocket book if you hire this firm. I wish I did more research and read the other clients responses of their billing. If you have over $200 MM in assets. 1 % percent of your bill is not the end of the world for a 20 page document. I kid you NOT !... They did nothing to move my case in the right direction. They charged me over $60K to do nothing towards my benefit. This big Law firm was not even abreast of procedure changes in the legal system and bill you for their mistakes and waste your time. Smoke and Mirrors at its finest. I can not stress enough WATCH YOUR WALLET or you will end up BROKE and they do not represent you in a caring way. They are only out to Milk your entire bank account. Incur extra billing, and not a pleasure to deal with. Rude, and disrespectful to the client who is paying this big bill. BEWARE !!!
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24 Jan, 2011 by Anonymous
the firm will do a dissent job to represent you. But they will over-bill you badly. Again and again. It is impossible to control their billing. They will figh you on that. They bill you for reading 2 lines email, for leaving a phone message to call them back. they will have endless legal research and internal 3 and up conferences with each other. They will make whole office to work on 4 page document. Any document bigger then 20 pages will cost you $20K on average. They are the masters of their game to keep the opposing spouse in the state of the war, while they will keep billing you with their state of the art over-billing practices. If you check you invoices and bills, and ask questions - eg counting your dollars, this firm is not for you.
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06 Jan, 2025 by Mike
I hired & worked with Aimee Richter from 11/13/23-8/21/24 after being recommended by a friend. She came in very strong and over promising saying my case was “simple and straightforward”, when it simply was not. I was dealing with a very unreasonable vengeful person. Throughout the whole duration of my case she never managed my expectations, and often sided with my ex wife, which made me feel like I had ZERO chance. Often my concerns would be dismissed and when it came time to the nitty gritty details of the settlement agreement, there was absolutely no fight for me. I understand the circumstances weren’t ideal for me (ie: my ex made no money, so I understand it won’t turn out great for me) - but to say things like “just take the deal” “we can’t control her side of the table” “it is what it is” is completely unacceptable and the exact opposite of what I was expecting from an attorney of such high stature. I kept waiting for this hammer to drop, her to have one ounce of a fight for me, or at least, the very least combat something my ex brought to the table. She never once showed me that she had my back…. It appears she cared more about her high profile clients, and my needs went by the waste side. When it came to invoices though, her and her team were all over me for those payments. My day-to-day lawyer was Sabrina Woods and she was really buttoned up and detailed when it came to the drafting of the agreement, however in court appearances she was too timid and meek, again making me feel like I was a problem. The best thing I will honestly say where they shine is they got me immediate access to my children and put me on a good parenting schedule. I give them big credit for their swift action there. Not worth the money, go somewhere else and save yourself the trauma.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Anonymous
There was no push for a resolution, the matter dragged on endlessly with numerous hearings spread out over a year. The cost was astronomical!! Plus we were pushed to pay costs for the other side. Look for an attorney who is willing to take your side & give you a reasonable expectation of the costs.
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15 Dec, 2023 by Stacey
As someone who has had much experience with matrimonial attorneys for the past 9 years I can say with certainty that she is the worst. It took me years to undo the damage she did. Avoid at all costs.
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10 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
Consulted the lawyer on a property related issue, his quick grasp of issue, his ability to identify the weak points of the case was incredible. Hire him, specially if you have a weak case.
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27 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous
Lost a lot of time and money and eventually did not have any trust that he could get the work done. Went with a different immigration lawyer and he not only got it done on time but the service and communication was night and day. Very difficult communicator. Poor staff support. Not recommended.
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11 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous
No Knowledge on immigration matters. No process. No staff or associates to support/cross check the paper work. Manages his firm single handedly. Uses a yahoo email account instead of a company account. Gave good amount of business for Green Card processing . Except for one approval rest all audits and also possible denials . He doesn't know what Notice Of Filing means. He thinks its optional and not mandatory. Calling himself as an immigration attorney when he doesn't even know the pre-requisites of filing a PERM. Would not recommend him to anyone. Do it at your own peril.Lost lots of money and wasted a hell lot of time.A BIG RESOUNDING NO. If anyone disputes my claims I have the evidence to prove this.
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19 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
After "representing" me for three months, he announced that there may be a problem with the filed jurisdiction, and indeed there was. I had to hire another attorney from another state. He neglected to tell me the financial tidbit that I could not change an IRA beneficiary after the divorce action had been filed.
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13 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Horgan was referred by a friend and it was the best referral I could have gotten! My divorce was handled in a timely manner and he made a bad situation a little easier to handle.
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12 Jun, 2012 by Anonymous
This attorney spent basically no time or effort in forming a defense on my behalf. There was no verbal communication other than the introductory call.
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What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You

A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.

Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.

When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?

Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:

  • Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
  • Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
  • Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
  • Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
  • Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
  • Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
  • Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.

Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.

What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?

A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:

  • Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
  • Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
  • Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
  • Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
  • Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
  • Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
  • Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.

How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?

Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:

  • Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
  • Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
  • Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.

The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.

How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:

  • Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
  • Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
  • Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
  • Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.

Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.

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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