Lawyers map
>6.6k
experienced lawyers
Filter by
30 Aug, 2024 by John sammy
My sincere gratitude to The Bongiorno Law Firm for the excellent service that was provided. The service here is second to none! Professionalism at the top of their game! This Law Firm is the Master of their profession, they know what to do , how to do and when to do . I have no doubts in recommending this firm ! My family and i are extremely grateful for your service, thank you once again . Shout out to My Attorney Brandon !
Read more
22 Jul, 2024 by Bianca berry
We were recommended to the Bongiorno firm and never went anywhere else. When I got rear ended which was a separate case, Rich was quick to get on the phone with me and walk me through what needed to be done. The staff was wonderful and helped in explaining every detail. A great thanks from our family!
Read more
01 Jul, 2024 by Ed depalo
I can not thank rich and Kerri more than I can put in words. They truly went beyond my expectations as representing as the best lawyer on Long Island I would bet in the state!
There’s not one thing in these past few years I can say they haven’t helped me out with along the way.. absolutely great people authentic as authentic comes and the greatest of attorneys!
Read more
26 Jul, 2024 by Prakash bisht
Excellent service helping me with my Green card approval, special thanks to Srdjan Milenkovic. I am very grateful and thankful for all the hard work and dedication.
Read more
26 Jul, 2024 by Nikhil chaudhary
Excellent service was provided to me by this office. Every one was, patient and kind and provided me with time I needed. I am very great full for all services Milenkovic Law Group gave to me.
Read more
26 Jul, 2024 by Arjun parashar
Very professional and the staff was great and very helpful.
Read more
29 Jul, 2024 by Mary leonard
After firing my first TWO LAWYERS, I was finally relieved to have found Natalia. I had just escaped an abusive relationship and my ex decided he wanted to sue me for custody of our 1 yr old son.. (Even though he never showed any interest in being a father until I got the courage to leave him) He was incredibly skilled at playing the victim and I needed someone who was able to not only recognize this but to have the ability to present the truth to the judge. From our first consultation, I knew I finally found the right representation with Natalia. She was incredibly intelligent, attentive and perceptive. She helped me to navigate this nightmare with such professionalism and tenacity. After 2 1/2 years of litigation, the judge in fact saw that my ex dragged me to court under “self serving” purposes and awarded me Sole Legal AND Physical custody with permission to relocate out of state. This was a complex case and if not for Natalia’s wisdom and expertise, not to mention compassion, I don’t know where my son and I would be today. Lawyers are a dime a dozen but very few actually CARE about their clients. This is definitely what sets Natalia apart from all the rest. I highly recommend her if you find yourself in a contentious custody and/or divorce case. She will keep you grounded, focused and empowered with knowledge of applicable state laws.
Read more
19 Jul, 2024 by Krystle alvarez
James was great he made the process very smooth and easy. I would highly recommend him.
Read more
30 May, 2024 by Marlon tran
Amazing. If you are thinking about making a big decision in your life financially, Mr. James J. Rufo is the lawyer to go to. I was ignorant about bankruptcy as a whole and he guided me through this process with everything I needed to know and made me feel it was okay to make this decision. By choosing him and decide to file, it felt like the weight was lifted on my shoulders of financial burden. Thank you James.
Read more
17 Jul, 2024 by John d
I can not give enough praise to Greg Dantznan and the firm Dantznan & Dantznan. Greg was professional, compassionate, comforting, and non-judgemental from the very first moment I met him for my free consultation. When I first spoke with Greg I was at my wits end with what to do. Greg sat with me patiently and went through every option and helped me understand the direction I was able to move forward in. He made me feel relaxed and helped me understand the process, from beginning to end.
Thank you Greg, I really can't explain what you have done for our family and how amazing your firm really is. I never given reviews, ever.. But if you are reading this review and you feel lost and not sure what to do... Please take the time to meet with Greg at Dantznan & Dantznan, I promise you... It will be the best decision you could possibly make.
Read more
11 Apr, 2024 by Kurt w. rudiger
Greg is fantastic. When I first started exploring bankruptcy / restructuring options, I was pretty nervous and confused about what I should do.
However, Greg set my mind at ease. He clearly stated what my options were, and helped me determine the best path to take.
He was both very professional and empathetic. I am very grateful I had his help through this process.
If you are contemplating a bankruptcy filing, I highly recommend that you talk to Greg.
Read more
10 Apr, 2024 by Maureen prince
I must say my experience with my lawyer, I was scared couldn’t believe I fell off but dantzman& dantzman he made me feel relax and confident about myself, no more phone call I don’t feel stressed like I was I can thank him enough such a great person he gave me the knowledge about everything if you ever want apiece of mine please go to him and I promise you are in good hands that’s the layer to talk to he is the best
Read more
29 Jul, 2024 by Christopher jean
Innocent, dismissed, withdrawn, are what you want to hear throughout your case. Accusations are upsetting, you’re angry, you want to get up and fight. That’s your Attorney’s job, to reassure you that we’ll get to the bottom of this. Have patience, be calm and cool, understand the process.
I couldn’t have asked for a better Attorney to represent me than Ashleigh Russell.
Ashleigh was responsive to me throughout the entire case, even before and after court hours. She’s not just some ghosting lawyer with a mountain of cases that you think you’re doing all the work for and takes days or weeks to get an answer from.
In the end, my son was freely back in my arms again 😃
Thank you Ashleigh, so much, and the team at Picarello & Saciolo, PLLC
Read more
27 Jul, 2024 by Toniann leveridge
My experience here was horrible willing to take your money but don’t put in no work I had Brian first for my first court date then he got drop from me and I got Catherine the worst ever she showed no care for what I was going through due to the fact of me trying to get my son back home in Connecticut. It’s like she was working against me with the other party. I would email her and she takes for ever to respond I won’t get a respond until the next day if so. Then she try to tell me oh I should be glad dad didn’t put me on child support for my son because dad have temporary residential custody mean while dad is on child support and never paid a dollar since be been on child support now tell me how that make sense?. The front desk lady got upset with me when I wanted to change her and get somebody else who would actually care about my situation asking why I wanna change Cathrine as if they doing me a free job like I’m not paying these people my hard working money. Cathrine should no compassion to how I feel as a mother about my situation regarding my child. would I recommend anybody to this law firm HELL NOOOOOO!
Read more
24 Jul, 2024 by Dawn herbst
Mr. Picarello and his team came highly recommended to me, and I can see why!! This firm is knowledgeable and capable. They were upfront and honest about fees, and worked with me so that I could pay comfortably yet promptly. So grateful for all of their help and the positive outcome.
Read more
25 Apr, 2024 by Joseph toth
I contacted Cordero Law about some questions with a contract my company was preparing to sign. Julian addressed our concerns quickly and professionally. He explained the legalese in clear English and even provided specific wording that we then used for a revision in the contract. We will definitely use Cordero Law again in the future.
Read more
19 Jan, 2024 by Ralph holmes
Julian pulled me out of a really bad situation. As soon as he noticed the problem, he acted. He made me feel valued and helped me get out from under a poor deal. I looked up his name on Google when looking for business lawyers. Finding him has been a godsend, in my opinion, and I'm happy I did.
Read more
21 Nov, 2023 by Leo anderson
06 Jun, 2024 by Greg wilson
George Patsis is a great and trustworthy attorney. Mr. Patsis took me on as client in a disaster of a case for me. He educated me guided me to the best outcome and delivered a good decision for me. You can place your entire trust in him and his firm.
Read more
28 Apr, 2024 by The greek
24 Oct, 2023 by Mary ann devine
Very helpful and professional staff!
Read more
06 Jun, 2024 by Greg wilson
George Patsis is a great and trustworthy attorney. Mr. Patsis took me on as client in a disaster of a case for me. He educated me guided me to the best outcome and delivered a good decision for me. You can place your entire trust in him and his firm.
Read more
28 Apr, 2024 by The greek
24 Oct, 2023 by Mary ann devine
Very helpful and professional staff!
Read more
27 Aug, 2024 by Brett e. zuckerman
23 Aug, 2024 by Philip thomas
Incredible experience with Pasquale Zito. Quick and efficient work through out the entire process.
Read more
28 Jul, 2024 by Gt prestige
For years me and my family have used Pasquale and The Zito Firm for all of our closings , tickets and law work . He gives dedicated service and walks us through the process of whatever service he might be performing for us. If you like dealing direct and getting the answers to any questions in a timely fashion , The Zito Firm is the answer !
Read more
18 Jul, 2024 by James addison
John O'Rourke is the man, he was very easy to talk too, he handle my case with patience and understanding. He was very informative with all information and made sure I understood all the steps of the process.
Read more
02 Jul, 2024 by Antoine reid
John O’Rourke did an amazing job handling my case. Very understanding ,easy to deal with, and accessible. Made the process smooth and answered all my questions and or reservations with integrity. I would recommend Gassler & O’Rourke for any personal injury claims
Read more
21 Mar, 2024 by Kevin sexton
I never considered writing a negative review until my experience with Van Horn & Friedman, P.C. (“VH&F”). However, I feel compelled to share my story. I retained Alissa to file a petition (for privacy reasons I will not disclose the type) and to represent me throughout the associated court proceedings. Immediately upon learning of the situation, Alissa could not understand why a petition had not previously been filed. When I explained to her that I was told by the local police department that the person was too old, she said that the police do not know the law—she does. Regrettably, I retained her services.
To my dismay, I soon learned that the local police department knew what they were talking about; Alissa did not. I believe that VH&F eventually found out shortly after Alissa was unable to file the petition. However, the only response I received when inquiring about the situation was “red tape” and “you have a judge that cares.” Not acceptable explanations coming from a firm you are paying $500.00 an hour to represent you, especially considering that the judge does not have the authority to circumvent the system. I asked at least three (3) times and always received the same responses. Laughably, I was asked by a managing partner at VH&F if I was an attorney. I am not, I just don’t enjoy being taken advantage of.
I believe that VH&F’s hourly rate is way overpriced. Moreover, their retainer agreement provides for billing in fifteen (15) minute increments. My bill ran up very quickly because of sending/receiving correspondence. The problem is that Alissa was recommending services I had already tried unsuccessfully and were not related to the petition. As such, I found myself paying VH&F to explain to them that their recommendations were not appropriate for my situation after previously providing that history to her.
My takeaway: Don’t expect to receive a good product just because a business charges more than their competitors and be wary of someone’s overconfidence!
Read more
26 Aug, 2024 by Santosh kumbhar
18 Aug, 2024 by Hemal sheth
08 Jul, 2024 by Syed shah
Very professional and top on everything workers are well mannered. Good job guys
Read more
05 Aug, 2024 by Devin muller
Outstanding firm! Christipher Chimeri his associate, John Whiteman and the administrative staff specifically Lougene were a pleasure to deal with. They followed up consistently & were extremely knowledgeable. I would highly recommend this firm to anyone looking to navigate the legal system in every aspect.
Read more
23 Jul, 2024 by Thomas
Less than one star if I could afraid of other attorney on case never returned phone calls sublet case out several times
Read more
24 Feb, 2024 by K “kz”
I hired Mr. Whiteman as counsel for my divorce case. From the onset of our working relationship, he was very professional, highly knowledgeable and a great advisor to a case that was made complicated as a result of the opposing party (my former husband). On numerous occasions, we needed to show firmness in our stance with the opposing party and Mr Whiteman was a strong advocate fighting for my rights consistently and fairly, yet still maintained the case as amicable as possible to avoid further legal complications and settle out of court. Mr Whiteman was very responsive to any questions or issues I had during the case, and explained thoroughly each step of the way. I appreciated him keeping me in the loop for any correspondence with opposing counsel. I would highly recommend Mr Whiteman for any legal matter that is handled by him.
Read more
13 Feb, 2024 by Tara schiller
"I want to express my profound gratitude to Brent Salevsky for his exceptional legal assistance. Throughout our longstanding professional relationship, Brent's expertise has consistently secured positive outcomes for my cases. His unwavering commitment to his clients sets him apart, showcasing a level of professionalism that has been both reassuring and invaluable. I wholeheartedly recommend Brent for anyone seeking legal representation, as his dedication and skill make him a standout advocate. Thank you, Brent, for your continued support and outstanding service." If there were more ⭐'s to be given he would definitely get them.
Read more
02 Feb, 2024 by Shane cherry
Attorney Brent Salevsky has been my representation since I first met him while he was with Chia-Chia and Fleming. I could very easily tell that he was destined to spread his wings and start his own practice. Since he has done this he has only gotten more motivated and more experienced as time has passed. However, no matter what his case load he always has all the time needed to give personal attention to me and always has a plan which he executes always with great skill and confidence. Thank you Brent. Don’t change a thing!
Read more
17 Jan, 2024 by Peter brockman
Brent is a great attorney. He told me exactly what my situation was, how he could fix it while keeping my best interest in mind. More importantly, he kept his word and got me a great deal. He was always willing to answer my questions and he was very accommodating throughout the whole process.
Read more
25 Aug, 2023 by Kathleen copp
Excellent experience. Fully explained the process and offered sound advice. I have referred two friends to her so far.
Read more
22 May, 2023 by Rich palazzo
It was great working with Debbie Cutler at Cutler and Cutler in Malta. Expertise and Details were the reason I chose them
Read more
26 Feb, 2023 by Bryan licata
Have used them for multiple services: will, trust, PoA, etc.
Always extremely attentive and responsive and make sure we consider items we never would have thought of on our own.
Read more
24 Jul, 2024 by Aditi sharma
The best attorney, I have ever met in my life. I am a law student and have met many attorneys along my path. Not one person is like Mr. ANDREW WIESE! He is dedicated and extremely professional. He cares about his clients. When my father passed away, I saw it in his eyes, that he genuinely cared and felt bad about my family's situation. He will do above and beyond to make sure his clients are happy, satisfied, and aware of everything. God bless him. I have made him the attorney, I will forever contact him for his practice(s). He has a heart of gold and guides you in the best direction. I find it a privilege to have him as my lawyer. He will fight and never give up. I wish I could give him 6 stars. If you are with him, let me say, you're in GREAT HANDS! I wish they're were more attorneys that had such a genuine heart and so much intelligence. He is a man of impeccable character. He will always communicate with his clients and speaks with such a sweet tone. I'm so lucky I came across Andrew. Thank god 🙏 🙌
Thank you Andrew. You and your team are extremely one of a kind 👏.
Read more
16 Jul, 2024 by Diane brussenski
Andrew Wiess and company are excellent attorneys. They wouldn't stop fighting my case until the other side came up with an acceptable settlement. They are hard workers and detail oriented. I would definitely use them again, if needed and highly recommend them.
Read more
12 Jul, 2024 by Aura toc
Is excellent lawyer they explain everything and help me a lot in my case personal I recommend this firm lawyer. Thank you for your help
Read more
28 May, 2024 by Jeffrey bc
The choice of an Attorney and their associated law office is a heavy responsibility. We need to weigh with care not only raw ability, but the values, dedication, and ethos that are instilled throughout the firm.
We need our Attorney to act on our behalf with dedication, yet all the while mirroring our personal expectations for fair play, and indeed the very real 'need' for justice that lies nascent within all decent souls.
We need our Attorney to conduct all business on our behalf with honour. Not just a 'display' of honour, but the real thing that drives those in whom this trait is part of the very fabric of their being, for at the end of the day we all need to hold our head high, and to take honest pride that our actions in all matters are true, and just.
We need our Attorney to be proactive. Dates and deadlines need to be kept sacrosanct. We may need to be prodded to action with compassion and care when distraction or even grief clouds our ability to react.
Lastly, we need to be able to emplace our trust in a manner that is representative of the heavy impact that word demands. Trust is difficult to earn, easy to lose, and forms the foundation of every confidence. That trust needs to be placed well, with the knowledge that time forges that bond to every increasing reliance and strength.
Richard Handler and the Handler Law Offices have earned this review. Their care, reason, civility, and humanity have served myself and my family in all aspects with excellent results. Their ability to plan, to envision contingencies, to prepare for the future is unmatched in my experience. I recommend them for their talent, and I commend them for their exceptional character.
----Jeffrey B. Chipetine
Read more
09 Nov, 2022 by Patrick sweeney
Frendly, thorough, efficient!
Read more
12 Jun, 2021 by Alyce voigt
Extremely professional and yet very friendly and understanding. Mary Calabrese is the BEST lawyer anywhere!! She ALWAYS calls you back, responds to texts and emails. I would use her for everything and anything!!
Read more
16 Dec, 2023 by Bill rhatigan
Charles Emma is a fantastic family lawyer, he helped us move Mom’s house out of her name and into the kid's name.
He’s very knowledgable and patient with his clients
Read more
03 Jan, 2020 by Joseph gagliardi
11 May, 2019 by Patrick liang
06 Mar, 2020 by Km c
Very warm family feeling. Professional and friendly. Always working for the client in any situation.
Read more
28 Jan, 2020 by James k
We were very pleased with Mr Jaworski and his staff. There knowledge and insights made us confident that our will and estate plan would protect our assets and interests of our family.
Read more
09 Aug, 2019 by Don errington
Very friendly and professional experience. This was the first time I used a lawyer for family court and I was very happy with what they achieved. I used others that were just horrible. I highly recommend them. Thanks again!!!!
Read more
29 Apr, 2024 by Stephen schmitt
08 Jul, 2022 by Michael gillette
Cool
Read more
19 May, 2022 by Joshua masters
Ms hunt represented me for a time before for technical reasons we had to part paths. I'm dealing with a difficult family court case that she was with me for for a few months. I had submitted evidence to her that showed that the statement against me was false, but the device I had it recorded on was stolen. I contacted her as a final hope and she responded with in a few days with the evidence! This may seem like a random review but my time spent with Elizabeth was very positive! I have bad anxiety and Elizabeth helped me through every step, reminding me that I was innocent and to stay the course! I would recommend her to everyone!
Read more
29 Apr, 2024 by Stephen schmitt
08 Jul, 2022 by Michael gillette
Cool
Read more
19 May, 2022 by Joshua masters
Ms hunt represented me for a time before for technical reasons we had to part paths. I'm dealing with a difficult family court case that she was with me for for a few months. I had submitted evidence to her that showed that the statement against me was false, but the device I had it recorded on was stolen. I contacted her as a final hope and she responded with in a few days with the evidence! This may seem like a random review but my time spent with Elizabeth was very positive! I have bad anxiety and Elizabeth helped me through every step, reminding me that I was innocent and to stay the course! I would recommend her to everyone!
Read more
06 Mar, 2021 by Melanie fontecha
27 Jul, 2019 by Jesus marquez
Very helpful
Read more
04 Sep, 2018 by Crystal castro
21 Oct, 2023 by Navin arora
Caring, empathetic team, that puts your needs first. The Economou brothers are the best. Highly recommended for your legal needs!
Read more
15 Jun, 2023 by Michelle ortez
Our experience was amazing ! The Laywer Chris was so friendly, easy to talk to, and let us know all the information that we needed to know, keep you posted with the case and always checking in making sure that we was ok. I would recommend.😊
Thank you.
Read more
29 Jul, 2022 by Lora rosenthal
Excellent legal services
Read more
28 Feb, 2024 by Derek messier
18 Sep, 2023 by Sydney schuldiner
The most friendly people are in the office. My attorney is Ms. Ashley Valla. She is just on terrific person to have as an attorney
Read more
25 Feb, 2023 by J b
30 Oct, 2024 by Kimberly alhafni
Cathy is a literal angel sent from heaven. I can’t think of a more stressful situation than bankruptcy & she somehow made it a stress free experience.
Read more
23 Oct, 2024 by Alejandro barco
09 Oct, 2024 by Kleber torres
Professional knowledge About your legal benefits.very much grateful for the help excellent resolved
Read more
30 Oct, 2024 by Kimberly alhafni
Cathy is a literal angel sent from heaven. I can’t think of a more stressful situation than bankruptcy & she somehow made it a stress free experience.
Read more
23 Oct, 2024 by Alejandro barco
09 Oct, 2024 by Kleber torres
Professional knowledge About your legal benefits.very much grateful for the help excellent resolved
Read more
30 Oct, 2024 by Kimberly alhafni
Cathy is a literal angel sent from heaven. I can’t think of a more stressful situation than bankruptcy & she somehow made it a stress free experience.
Read more
23 Oct, 2024 by Alejandro barco
18 Oct, 2024 by Jake kaplan
My experience was so smooth and they got me the best results possible 10/10
Read more
30 Oct, 2024 by Kimberly alhafni
Cathy is a literal angel sent from heaven. I can’t think of a more stressful situation than bankruptcy & she somehow made it a stress free experience.
Read more
23 Oct, 2024 by Alejandro barco
09 Oct, 2024 by Kleber torres
Professional knowledge About your legal benefits.very much grateful for the help excellent resolved
Read more
30 Oct, 2024 by Kimberly alhafni
Cathy is a literal angel sent from heaven. I can’t think of a more stressful situation than bankruptcy & she somehow made it a stress free experience.
Read more
23 Oct, 2024 by Alejandro barco
18 Oct, 2024 by Jake kaplan
My experience was so smooth and they got me the best results possible 10/10
Read more
30 Oct, 2024 by Kimberly alhafni
Cathy is a literal angel sent from heaven. I can’t think of a more stressful situation than bankruptcy & she somehow made it a stress free experience.
Read more
23 Oct, 2024 by Alejandro barco
18 Oct, 2024 by Jake kaplan
My experience was so smooth and they got me the best results possible 10/10
Read more
30 Oct, 2024 by Kimberly alhafni
Cathy is a literal angel sent from heaven. I can’t think of a more stressful situation than bankruptcy & she somehow made it a stress free experience.
Read more
23 Oct, 2024 by Alejandro barco
18 Oct, 2024 by Jake kaplan
My experience was so smooth and they got me the best results possible 10/10
Read more
Browse lawyers
Cities in New York - Find a Lawyer Near Me
-
New York
-
Brooklyn
-
Buffalo
-
Albany
-
White Plains
-
Rochester
-
Garden City
-
Bronx
-
Syracuse
-
Melville
-
Mineola
-
Staten Island
-
Jamaica
-
Kew Gardens
-
Great Neck
-
Uniondale
-
Flushing
-
Hauppauge
-
Forest Hills
-
Long Island City
-
Scarsdale
-
Poughkeepsie
-
Central Islip
-
Jericho
-
New Hyde Park
-
Williamsville
-
Schenectady
-
Yonkers
-
New City
-
Huntington
-
Westbury
-
Woodbury
-
Syosset
-
Binghamton
-
Hempstead
-
Riverhead
-
Purchase
-
New Rochelle
-
Armonk
-
Tarrytown
-
Rockville Centre
-
Utica
-
Elmsford
-
Saratoga Springs
-
Astoria
-
Smithtown
-
Port Washington
-
Latham
-
Kingston
-
Pittsford
-
Rye
-
East Meadow
-
Larchmont
-
Goshen
-
Manhasset
-
Amherst
-
Ithaca
-
Bayside
-
Mount Kisco
-
Islandia
-
Troy
-
Chappaqua
-
Farmingdale
-
Harrison
-
Newburgh
-
Plainview
-
Commack
-
Rye Brook
-
Valley Stream
-
Hicksville
-
Roslyn
-
Bay Shore
-
Bronxville
-
Merrick
-
Suffern
-
Carle Place
-
Clifton Park
-
Delmar
-
Cedarhurst
-
Jackson Heights
-
Elmira
-
Northport
-
Middletown
-
Southampton
-
Floral Park
-
East Hampton
-
Long Beach
-
Mamaroneck
Browse lawyers
Practice Areas in New York
-
Business
-
Litigation
-
Real Estate
-
Personal Injury
-
Criminal Defense
-
Family Law
-
Estate Planning
-
Intellectual Property
-
Consumer Protection
-
Appeals
-
Insurance
-
Government
-
Tax
-
Medical Malpractice
-
Civil Rights
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
Immigration
-
Lawsuit / Dispute
-
Probate
-
Trusts
-
Elder Law
-
Bankruptcy
-
Car Accident
-
Entertainment
-
Mediation
-
Class Action
-
Debt Collection
-
Child Custody
-
Workers Compensation
-
Child Support
-
Discrimination
-
Wrongful Death
-
Foreclosure
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Copyright Application
-
Domestic Violence
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Adoption
-
Federal Crime
-
Employment / Labor
-
Divorce
-
Wrongful Termination
-
Juvenile Law
-
Debt Settlement
-
DUI / DWI
-
Sex Crime
-
Landlord & Tenant
-
Credit Repair
-
Cannabis Law
-
Construction
-
Environmental Law
-
Drug Crime
-
Life Insurance
-
Education Law
-
Corporate
-
Admiralty / Maritime
-
Constitutional Law
-
Wills
-
Contracts
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
