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17 Sep, 2024 by Jennifer raby
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03 Sep, 2024 by Colleen hench
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22 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Kevin kept me informed throughout the whole process, and ultimately got my case dismissed. I would absolutely recommend him.
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26 Jul, 2023 by Andrew
Supplied a referral as it was outside her wheel house
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02 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
I recently had the privilege of working with Maria Caley who exceeded my expectations in every aspect of my high conflict interstate case involving domestic violence. From start to finish, she displayed an exceptional level of dedication, professionalism, and expertise. I am thrilled to write this review to express my utmost gratitude and recommend her services to anyone in need of a compassionate and fierce advocate. Throughout the entire legal process, Ms. Caley consistently consulted with me, ensuring that I was fully informed and actively involved in every decision that needed to be made. Her attention to detail and commitment to keeping me informed every step of the way greatly alleviated my anxieties during this difficult time. I appreciated her willingness to explain all the available options, patiently discussing the pros and cons of each, which enabled me to make well-informed decisions. What impressed me the most about Maria was her unwavering dedication to the best interest of my child. She approached the case with the utmost care, always considering the long-term impact on my child's well-being. Her ability to balance her fierceness in the courtroom with her compassionate nature was truly remarkable. I felt reassured that my child's safety was her top priority. I would not hesitate to retain her services again if needed in the future. Her professionalism, compassion, and fierce dedication make her an invaluable asset in any legal battle. I am forever grateful for the peace of mind she provided throughout the process. She fought tirelessly for my child's safety and ensured that the necessary safeguards were put in place. Without reservation, I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone seeking legal representation in complex custody cases, especially those involving domestic violence.
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11 May, 2023 by Thomas
If you're in the market for a lawyer that will make you feel like they're a part of your family rather than just a hired professional, then look no further than Maria Caley! She recently represented me in a parental rights/custody case and I cannot say enough good things about her. Maria went above and beyond to ensure that I was well-informed throughout the entire process. She kept me in the loop every step of the way and made sure that I felt comfortable and at ease with everything that was happening. Aside from being a great communicator, Maria was an absolute powerhouse in the courtroom. Her knowledge and expertise in the area of law were apparent from day one and it was evident that she was always ten steps ahead of the opposing counsel. She fought for my rights tirelessly and relentlessly, and I cannot thank her enough for everything she did for me. Overall, I would highly recommend Maria to anyone in need of legal representation. She is an exceptional lawyer who truly cares about her clients and will go above and beyond to ensure that they receive the best possible outcome. Thank you again Maria!!
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29 Jul, 2022 by Jdc
Atty Kristy Garside has got to be the most professional lawyer I have dealt with. I was in a Medicaid jam and hired her to find a solution. She led me directly to a Special Needs Trust which ultimately fixed my problem. We even got the matter cleared up in a fast/informal way so that I did not need to wait for an appeal. DHS decided in my favor 100%. I would hire her again and encourage anyone considering doing so to go ahead and hire her because your legal problem(s) are likely to go bye-bye after that! -jdc
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15 May, 2024 by Kim stamoulis
Amy is an extremely professional and talented attorney, and took care of all the issues associated with my car accident. I highly recommend her!!
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02 May, 2024 by Maria schmidt
Amy was able to help me after I was in a car accident ( I was the middle car in a collision sandwich) that left me injured and out of work. She guided me thru the process, explaining things so I could understand and was readily available when I had ANY questions. In the end she was able to help me get the compensation I deserved. I highly recommend her legal services!
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15 Apr, 2024 by Ba
I was extremely lucky to have reached out to Graig and Kevin to help me with my case. From the moment I met with them they made me feel reassured that they would have my back and get me through this very stressful and difficult time. Craig was a true professional and walked with me every step of the way. I am very grateful and thankful for his help. Highly recommend.
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14 Dec, 2023 by Philip frederick
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13 Dec, 2023 by Jacqueline wilkinson
The best of the best!
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22 May, 2023 by Steven demello
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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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