Lawyers map
>34
experienced lawyers
Filter by
09 Feb, 2024 by Melissa
Let me tell you about Don he’s the best ! I first met Don when he was a new lawyer at Fahey and Boyd I had talked to 3 attorneys at that point who wanted a 5 to 10 thousand dollar retainer for my case as it was complicated I was a waitress with little money . He listened to me and said he didn’t know but was willing to try .I had given custody of my son to my ex during a ruff patch and when it was over he wouldn’t hear of giving him back. His home situation had deteriorated and my son wasn’t being cared for. Don took every phone call from this scared mother no matter the hour saw me through every psych evaluation home study and eventually a bench trial that saw I was correct and awarded custody of my son back to me . That was 20 years ago and I am very grateful that he listened that day and said he would try .Love you Don xo
Read more
20 Oct, 2019 by Laura
The Boyd Law Firm is an amazing group. They were there for me during a difficult divorce. Don was able to explain everything and take the time to make sure I understood my options. Don and the office assistant, Tavo, we’re prompt and efficient with their responses., whether they be email or phone calls. They have a great deal of integrity and I highly recommend them.
Read more
04 Oct, 2019 by Liz meza
Throughout my divorce Donald Boyd has been there for me on every twisted turn of this difficult ride. He has always given me clear and complete explanations of my options, as well as guiding me to the best one to achieve the most desired outcome. He has also let me know when to let go.
Over the course of my case Don and his office manager Tavo, have always been prompt at responding to my questions and informative while stay understanding of my situation.
Don really knows the legal process and how to get our point across in court without alienating the judge.
For the above reasons I think of the people at the Boyd law firm as family. They always have my back and are watching out for me while truly caring.
If you need an attorney for this unfortunate life event, I highly recommend the Boyd law firm.
Sincerely Liz Meza
Client
Read more
25 Jan, 2025 by Malinda
I can't thank Marc enough for the exceptional legal support I received during my divorce. He was incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and empathetic. Divorce is never easy, but having someone who truly understands the intricacies of the process and is committed to protecting your interests made all the difference.
Marc took the time to listen to my concerns and provided clear, practical advice at every step. He was quick to respond to my questions and made sure I understood all of my options, which gave me peace of mind throughout this challenging process.
What stood out the most was how much Marc genuinely cared about the outcome. I’m grateful for his support and highly recommend Marc to anyone looking for expert legal guidance during a divorce.
Read more
10 Jan, 2025 by Joseph
I am so glad that I had Marc on my side as council for my divorce. The process was drawn out and emotional. Marc consistently gave me great guidance, keeping me focused on getting to a fair resolution. He went above and beyond to be supportive and reachable, and coached me through the drama. His measured approach and focus on details was reassuring. When the situation called for it, he was a tough advocate. He’s a kind, compassionate gentleman, but also a terrier.
Read more
12 Dec, 2024 by Kristen mueller
As an attorney, I was quite pleased with the representation I received by James Keleher and Lauren Chibe. They were prompt in communication, but more importantly, they advised me on the governing laws, listened patiently when I told them more than they needed to know about my relationship, AND they helped me strategize based on my situation and the legal standards. They were fair in hourly rates and prepared for our court hearing. I achieved the result that I wanted by working with them and following their advice (and obviously by not asking them to promise me results that would be impossible under the law). I will continue to recommend them to others without hesitation.
Read more
25 Apr, 2017 by Fbr
My former attorney dragged my divorce for a year and kept filing petitions and worked up a $12,000 bill!!! I fired her and hired John O' Walsh from Mitchell Law Group. He helped me with all the remaining issues and had my divorce finalized within two months. Unlike most attorneys that just want your money, John actually cares to help and resolve all issues strategically in the least amount of time with the best possible results. He also replies back right away, keeps you informed, is professional and bills fairly. He is a 10/10 rockstar attorney and knows what he's doing. He is awesome!!!
Read more
29 Apr, 2011 by Anonymous
Got me everything I asked for from my cheating ex wife
Read more
18 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
Adam worked with us to prepare our wills and was not only punctual, but thorough and precise. We appreciated his professionalism and would refer him to any and all of our friends! Hire him.
Read more
12 Dec, 2024 by Kristen mueller
As an attorney, I was quite pleased with the representation I received by James Keleher and Lauren Chibe. They were prompt in communication, but more importantly, they advised me on the governing laws, listened patiently when I told them more than they needed to know about my relationship, AND they helped me strategize based on my situation and the legal standards. They were fair in hourly rates and prepared for our court hearing. I achieved the result that I wanted by working with them and following their advice (and obviously by not asking them to promise me results that would be impossible under the law). I will continue to recommend them to others without hesitation.
Read more
30 Sep, 2024 by Viet pham
Marc (of Conniff & Keleher) is an outstanding lawyer who is extremely passionate about his work and his clients. I had an especially difficult divorce that lasted much longer than average cases and he was there with me every step of the way providing guidance and support. Marc’s advice and counsel always got me through, especially in the rougher stretches where I questioned my own direction or the opposing party was unbearable. He will fight to get you what you deserve! Intelligent, well-versed, and an awesome guy with a good heart - you cannot go wrong with him as your attorney!
Read more
20 May, 2024 by Amy beaudry
Marc took on my case with very little notice prior to my court date and made himself available to guide me through the process. He was available during off hours via calls, texts, and Teams meetings, even while I was traveling out of town on business. Marc is very intelligent, a great communicator, and has an excellent team that was on the ready to support during a schedule conflict. I could not have been more satisfied with the outcome of my case.
Read more
07 Feb, 2025 by Chriscuit s
Overall great attorney ,very professional and informative.
Read more
23 Jan, 2025 by Jc gonzalez
It was great to be working with Brandon. He was very professional and responsive. i understand that immigration is a slow process but none the less he would still keep me updated even if there wasn't an update.
Read more
15 Jan, 2025 by Nano gogo
Ruby was very helpful and responsive throughout my case here, even working past her time on some occasions to make sure documents were submitted on time. Exactly the kind of person you want on your side working with you in stressful times.
Read more
12 Dec, 2024 by Kristen mueller
As an attorney, I was quite pleased with the representation I received by James Keleher and Lauren Chibe. They were prompt in communication, but more importantly, they advised me on the governing laws, listened patiently when I told them more than they needed to know about my relationship, AND they helped me strategize based on my situation and the legal standards. They were fair in hourly rates and prepared for our court hearing. I achieved the result that I wanted by working with them and following their advice (and obviously by not asking them to promise me results that would be impossible under the law). I will continue to recommend them to others without hesitation.
Read more
30 Sep, 2024 by Viet pham
Marc (of Conniff & Keleher) is an outstanding lawyer who is extremely passionate about his work and his clients. I had an especially difficult divorce that lasted much longer than average cases and he was there with me every step of the way providing guidance and support. Marc’s advice and counsel always got me through, especially in the rougher stretches where I questioned my own direction or the opposing party was unbearable. He will fight to get you what you deserve! Intelligent, well-versed, and an awesome guy with a good heart - you cannot go wrong with him as your attorney!
Read more
20 May, 2024 by Amy beaudry
Marc took on my case with very little notice prior to my court date and made himself available to guide me through the process. He was available during off hours via calls, texts, and Teams meetings, even while I was traveling out of town on business. Marc is very intelligent, a great communicator, and has an excellent team that was on the ready to support during a schedule conflict. I could not have been more satisfied with the outcome of my case.
Read more
17 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
I had an attorney that was charging me a lot of money and taking a lot of time. I fired the other attorney who together my exwife attorney stretched and made up reasons to meet again. I found Lupe Sandoval who rapidly got me divorced and done an excellent job in my case.
Read more
16 Dec, 2011 by William
attorney sandoval,was recommend to me by my daughters court appointed attorney,after i dismiss a prior lawyer that what, i thought was doing a very poor job of my divorce and custody dispute of my daughter that lasted over two years,with no end in sight i was given her name and not only did attorney guadalupe sandoval won my case i was granted sole custody and child support for my daughter,all of this in just a matter of months,she was very fair and easy too talk to,i remember being on my last string feeling because i was a man i could not get a fair shake with the court system,and her saying to me to trust her,that it will get worse before it got better..before i knew it one by one things not only got better everything became great! After i won custody of my daughter random people from work,would ask how i did it and i always gave her name,as far as i know theres 2 others that she has helped and won dissputes for i fully recommend her!
Read more
17 Aug, 2010 by Damian
I had a hard time with not being biological father of children and being taken to court still for child support. I had faith that Attorney Sandoval would get me through although she said "I can't promise", I was never worried in the least. I owe her a debt of gratitude for doing all the hardwork she did. Definitely would recommend her in a heartbeat!
Read more
23 Feb, 2014 by Anonymous
Mr. Rifis and his staff handled a divorce for me. They worked very closely with me in obtaining and organizing my financial records to disprove the charge by my husband’s attorney that I made more money than I did and that the debt that I was asking my husband to share was my own personal debt. He proved that my husband was responsible for much of our marital debt by using my credit card and that we had paid off my husband’s credit card charges first because he had a higher interest rate than mine. We used my card for family purchases. My ex-husband is now paying his fair share of those old family bills and the children’s current expenses. Mr. Rifis and his staff were very considerate of my situation and my emotional state. I highly recommend their compassion, experience and professionalism.
Read more
22 Oct, 2013 by Anonymous
The insurance company offered me a pathetically low sum of money for my work accident. Attorney Rifis convinced me not to accept it and on the morning of the trial they finally offered me a lot more reasonable amount as we were walking into the arbitrator’s hearing room. Mr. Rifis spent a lot of time with me preparing for the hearing. We went over the facts of the accident and all of my medical care and bills. He had taken the doctor’s deposition and was ready for the hearing. All that preparation was not wasted because I knew that I would win after the hearing and it gave me the confidence to wait for the best settlement offer. Mr. Rifis is worth every bit of his fee.
Read more
21 Jul, 2010 by Anonymous
My ex had a million reasons why he couldn't pay his child support. Mr. Rifis got all of his financial information and figured out he was spending it on his girlfriend. I got a settlement for tens of thousands of dollars with interest. Plus, he got my ex to pay most of his legal fees.
Read more
10 Nov, 2010 by Neal n.
She is a fantastic attorney who will go above and beyond for her clients. She made our last closing go much smoother than it otherwise might have. Other members of my family have also used her services, always with very positive results.
Read more
14 Jan, 2010 by Donald
Ms. Osga is readily available to her clients day and night, she knows how to manuever paper work through our overloaded courts, people in the County building mean it when they ask Kristi how she is feeling or how are things wtih the family. I have had Ms Osga handle 7 real estate transactions for me over the years. All went smoothly all documents were in order papers and tiltles checked etc. Our first transaction was when Cook County Illinois still used the Torrens recording system. Torrens records could take a year or more to be inscribed. When Ms Osga dealt with Torrens it took 4-6 weeks to be listed. Her legal fees are extremely reasonable. Her knowledge and profesionalism put first time buyers at ease. She represents only her clients best interest and is one of the most ethical legal professionals I have ever met. She also helped my grandmother get a physical power of attorney for a mentally handicapped daughter at a fee my grandmother could afford, She came to court to give my grandmother support at the hearing. I could write a book about how Ms. Osga has served mankind in the legal system. When Kristi Osga is your attorney, you can rest assured that all is going to be legal above board run smoothly and in everyway possible successful
Read more
12 Dec, 2024 by Kristen mueller
As an attorney, I was quite pleased with the representation I received by James Keleher and Lauren Chibe. They were prompt in communication, but more importantly, they advised me on the governing laws, listened patiently when I told them more than they needed to know about my relationship, AND they helped me strategize based on my situation and the legal standards. They were fair in hourly rates and prepared for our court hearing. I achieved the result that I wanted by working with them and following their advice (and obviously by not asking them to promise me results that would be impossible under the law). I will continue to recommend them to others without hesitation.
Read more
30 Sep, 2024 by Viet pham
Marc (of Conniff & Keleher) is an outstanding lawyer who is extremely passionate about his work and his clients. I had an especially difficult divorce that lasted much longer than average cases and he was there with me every step of the way providing guidance and support. Marc’s advice and counsel always got me through, especially in the rougher stretches where I questioned my own direction or the opposing party was unbearable. He will fight to get you what you deserve! Intelligent, well-versed, and an awesome guy with a good heart - you cannot go wrong with him as your attorney!
Read more
20 May, 2024 by Amy beaudry
Marc took on my case with very little notice prior to my court date and made himself available to guide me through the process. He was available during off hours via calls, texts, and Teams meetings, even while I was traveling out of town on business. Marc is very intelligent, a great communicator, and has an excellent team that was on the ready to support during a schedule conflict. I could not have been more satisfied with the outcome of my case.
Read more
22 Nov, 2024 by Marek b
I had a wonderful experience working with Attorney Eve and her Paralegal Agnieszka. They were both very professional and supportive throughout the process. Thank you!!!
Read more
25 Oct, 2024 by Mary rodriguez
I had an extremely disappointing experience with Miss Ewa Torczynski I entrusted her with my immigration case, paid the full fee upfront, and expected a professional service. However, she abruptly stopped handling my case without any reasonable explanation. Despite numerous attempts to contact her for a refund, she has ignored my requests and has not returned the money I paid. This behavior is unprofessional and unfair to clients who rely on her expertise for important legal matters. I do not recommend her services to anyone seeking a reliable and trustworthy immigration lawyer.
Read more
14 Oct, 2024 by Franek j
I'm still waiting for my refund after months of poor communication and no action on my case.
Read more
17 Jun, 2024 by Sue walsh
I cannot say enough about the wonderful law firm of LaRose & Bosco! We have worked with them for 7+ years and their level of professionalism & caring is excellent!
Joe Bosco and David Aron, along with Costa Diamond and other team members are extremely knowledgeable and vigilantly represented us. They achieved a record setting verdict for our family, in the wrongful death case of our son, Stephen Walsh.
We are forever grateful for the diligence and compassion they have showed us through the years! Thanks again to all!
Read more
10 Jul, 2023 by Josh
Jessica is a true professional and will help you navigate difficult legal situations were emotion can cloud judgement.
She is direct in her approach but provides task clarity on options without wasting time and your money. I've retained her twice to represent my interests (support order litigation, and support order termination) and was completely satisfied.
Read more
14 Apr, 2022 by Matt
I had the pleasure of working with Alison and retaining her services for two separate child custody cases involving my two minor children. While it's already difficult trying to navigate the family courts as a father, Alison made the entire process smooth. Alison is the most intelligent, respected, well-prepared, and fearless attorneys in IL family law. I would recommend her to anyone.
Read more
29 Oct, 2024 by Agnes cebrat
I would love to share the story with this GLA but review would be too long. She never cares about child fillings and she is going after money and taking advantage of parents who are going through divorce. Her recommendations to the judge are worth nothing. Her service is worth nothing
Read more
14 Apr, 2024 by Annette jones
This lawyer is amazing. There’s no other way to explain it. Don’t let the soft spoken gentleman that he is fool you he can be a pitbull when it’s time.
Read more
25 May, 2023 by Kurt
A mover and a shaker. . You need results then hire Ken... He's a master around the court room. Thanks for the win Ken....
Read more
30 Oct, 2024 by Tyesa strum
Great service! All my boyfriends cases was beat by Todd
Read more
18 Oct, 2024 by Jason turner
04 Oct, 2024 by Melissa timms
Unresponsive lawyer. Will leave you left in the dark about your case.
Read more
29 Oct, 2024 by Agnes cebrat
I would love to share the story with this GLA but review would be too long. She never cares about child fillings and she is going after money and taking advantage of parents who are going through divorce. Her recommendations to the judge are worth nothing. Her service is worth nothing
Read more
14 Apr, 2024 by Annette jones
This lawyer is amazing. There’s no other way to explain it. Don’t let the soft spoken gentleman that he is fool you he can be a pitbull when it’s time.
Read more
25 May, 2023 by Kurt
A mover and a shaker. . You need results then hire Ken... He's a master around the court room. Thanks for the win Ken....
Read more
22 Nov, 2024 by Marek b
I had a wonderful experience working with Attorney Eve and her Paralegal Agnieszka. They were both very professional and supportive throughout the process. Thank you!!!
Read more
25 Oct, 2024 by Mary rodriguez
I had an extremely disappointing experience with Miss Ewa Torczynski I entrusted her with my immigration case, paid the full fee upfront, and expected a professional service. However, she abruptly stopped handling my case without any reasonable explanation. Despite numerous attempts to contact her for a refund, she has ignored my requests and has not returned the money I paid. This behavior is unprofessional and unfair to clients who rely on her expertise for important legal matters. I do not recommend her services to anyone seeking a reliable and trustworthy immigration lawyer.
Read more
14 Oct, 2024 by Franek j
I'm still waiting for my refund after months of poor communication and no action on my case.
Read more
23 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
After he takes are of your case, he cannot seem to find a file on you. I asked a simple question. "Did you include a clause in my divorce decree that would allow me to change back to my maiden name?" He told me to ask the court. He doesn't keep files, evidently.
Read more
26 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
Gonzalo (aka Gonzo) Gomez is the greatest thing since sliced bread! The diversity and comptance of his applied knowledge of law and life has earned the trust and confidence from all those who know him. He continues to serve as an American Patriot, but he’s also an Army veteran, a retired public servant within the law enforcement community, a husband, father and professional friend who is not intimidated to apply those life experiences, with empathy, for those seeking justice and that’s what you’ll get...fair and equatable justice!
Read more
16 Nov, 2023 by Wendy
Melissa Fish is something most lawyers are not: Sincere. She really tried to help me. But after two years of terrible litigation, I was broke. I would recommend her. Especially if you are a woman with young children. She really gave it her best shot. I would hire her again.
Read more
23 Jul, 2013 by Milan
Unfortunately for me I hired Ms Fish to handle my divorce. After 5 months and $7500 later nothing was done and she did not know what's next, so I decided to try another attorney. Also, she was not responsive at all. I would send her an email with two questions for example, and she would answer only one question. Stay away.
Read more
02 Feb, 2024 by Tom
Terrible. I asked the court to appoint a child advocate in a contested divorce. We got Coblitz. It was the second biggest mistake of my life and deeply damaged my children. She failed to perform her court-appointed duties, failed to communicate with the court-appointed therapist and the worse was when she told my 10-year-old that I was seeking a paternity test. Can you imagine the damage from this negligence? Avoid her at all costs!
Read more
26 Oct, 2012 by Anonymous
Wessell represented me some years ago when I was in my early teens in a child visitation case. Instead allowing the case be decided on merits he tried to force one of my parents to give up on visitation. To do it he set up a fake therapy sessions with a psychologist (later it turned out he knew her well.) Therapy, which Wessell claimed was need to "heal the family" resulted in the psychologist writing a letter which Wessell presented in court. The letter contained a number of exaggerationions and accusations. I thought these issues would be resolved during the therapy but that was the end of whole therapy. Later I learned that Wessell approached one of my parents and asked to help him "box in" the other parent. Disgusting.
Read more
20 Nov, 2024 by Djurkovska
No, he’s not good
.. .. .. … …. ..
……. …… … . …
… … . . …. …… ….. .. …. …. …. ..
.. .. ….. .. …. …. …. ….. … .. …. …. … . …
… . …. .. . !!!!!
…,
Read more
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.
