Filter by

star star star star star
16 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
It was clear almost immediately that money was her primary focus. I do not feel she acted as my advocate at an incredibly vulnerable time in my life. She seemed to mediate during mediation rather than advocate for my best interests. I was confused and vulnerable and found her compassion to be lacking. I was not adequately prepared by her for the very important mediation, and was required to correct many gross errors myself on mediation documents at the last minute under rushed circumstances. Bonnie did not request a much-needed appraisal that cost me a lot of money. The language in the final agreement was not clearly defined and resulted in additional arbitration or attorney effort and fees to clarify the provisions. I was ultimately required to hire another lawyer at much expense to try to fix some of the problems created. Essentially I felt "thrown under the bus" by this attorney.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
30 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
I consulted with Bonnie about a child support case when I had lost my job and was trying to get an adjustment. She suggested I not pay until the court date that had been set for the adjustment. Following that advice cost me tens of thousands of dollars mostly due to a thrashing of my credit report, but also due to fees and interest the DES began charging. Do not trust Bonnie with anything related to child support. She also brought up the fact that she wanted to be paid before I left the office more than three times throughout the one hour consultation. Once would have sufficed. If that's the sort of experience you want, definitely call Bonnie.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
25 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
When you first enter into divorce proceedings the whole process can be intimidating and trust me YOU DO NOT KNOW THE LAWS (even if you think that you do)! We all think about money. I can tell you don't shop for a lawyer based on the cheapest as it will cost you more in the long run if you are not represented well. Bonnie is not the cheapest, but she is the BEST! I had been married over 30 years and my children are all adults. Bonnie worked with me for almost a year (yes mine was MESSY!) and in the end we were able to get a binding agreement with my Ex. You may say "So what?" It kept me from a judge deciding my fate which could have been much worse because they look at your last 5 years of annual income (they were very good years). In divorce there are NO winners, however I can say that I wasn't a loser either and I am enjoying my life now! After you get through your divorce Bonnie will tell you one more thing..."Do not get married again without a PRENUPTIAL AGREEMENT"! Words of wisdom! I HIGHLY recommend Bonnie Booden!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
29 Nov, 2021 by David
This attorney was hired by my wife after we had an investigation by CPS. This Attorney Brad Tenbrook was assigned to her case. After 9 months of incurring legal fees this attorney made no communication with my wife regarding the investigation by CPS even though she inquired several times about the status and placed a 20,000 dollar with the firm. It wasn't till my case with Scottsdale Court was resolved that they finally disclosed the CPS case was closed after 10 months of representation. This attorney was very condescending to her and extremely Rude. I would not recommend hiring this firm under no circumstances. They charged us over 10,000 for nothing. Made her worry for almost a year about CPS possibly making a big deal about this situation.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
09 Oct, 2018 by Leticia
I was ignored when I asked for motions to be filed. Brad was not well informed on my case before walking in the court room. Unless you are forking over 20 grand or more you will not see any work that can be done cheaper by someone more experienced. I asked why a motion for contempt was not filed when my child went missing for 6 months AFTER I hired brad. His response was that it was not necessary. The ultimate issue. During trial because he did not file the motions I asked for I was denied custody of my child. I filed a bar complaint against him for not doing what I paid him for and he responded with a bill for having to explain himself to the bar. Disgusting right? If you are a victim of domestic violence, have dependency issues look elsewhere. They just want money.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
04 Mar, 2015 by Stella
Brad is an excellent attorney and handled my CPS case. He was knowledgeable, aggressive and creative In working a plan to quickly get through the convoluted CPS/juvenile court system. Not only did he quickly advocate for us, he had the utmost patience and compassion during the emotional roller coaster. He truly cares and is passionate about what he does. His staff is courteous, responsive and prompt. He has such a respected stance by all parties in the courtroom. I would highly recommend hiring Brad if CPS ever comes and knocks on your door. It was the best decision and he saved our family and most importantly, our children.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
23 Apr, 2024 by Lynn
If you need a competent, professional, knowledgeable attorney who will fight for you and your children you'd be in excellent hands with Stephanie! She assisted me with a contentious custody situation and I could not be happier with the results! The children are safe and I am so grateful for her help!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
26 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
USE EXTREME CAUTION Was provided Ms. Deskins' by the firm I was with as my previous counsel was let go. I had a very sensitive and delicate case involving my children. Mrs. Deskins' behavior before a judge showed that she was not prepared and incompetent to handle a case of this magnitude as the other party is highly narcissistic. My case was delayed numerous times as I was told of a game plan that to me would have been ideal if the case was different. My situation changed to life or death and I was brushed off. I would not recommend Mrs. Deskins to anyone who has a volatile custody battle as this attorney's game plan is to have you throw money and was time. Use caution and do your research.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
14 Mar, 2023 by Arianna delarosa
Communication is horrible. Nobody ever answers the phone or returns emails. Almost 2 years later, my bankruptcy is still not closed as it should be and no funds have ever been sent to me from the tax return that this office intercepted from the IRS. Absolutely ridiculous and frustrating!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Jul, 2021 by Jimmy culbertson
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
16 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
He always looked out for the best Interestfor my child and I . Always get truthful and honest . Being in a mother leaning state he fought that as a father have equal and fair rights. Always looking for the truth . To the point I asked once if I’m doing wrong please tell me . He helped me grow as a man and how to handle situations better with my child mother. I would always recommend but come as prepared as possible . He is very detailed and honest . The more info the better I felt things went . He always went above and beyond . Worth every dollar invested.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
04 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
Unfortunately this lawyer was extremely disorganized and inadequate. Mr Lowen Jones neglected to bring in reports during court and did not represent and fight my case. Due to his lack of efficiency as a lawyer to represent me, my life for the past several years has been changed for the worst. He did not fight for my rights as a mother. It’s a very sad disheartening experience that I don’t wish upon any mother. I would not recommend this lawyer.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
14 Mar, 2023 by Arianna delarosa
Communication is horrible. Nobody ever answers the phone or returns emails. Almost 2 years later, my bankruptcy is still not closed as it should be and no funds have ever been sent to me from the tax return that this office intercepted from the IRS. Absolutely ridiculous and frustrating!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Jul, 2021 by Jimmy culbertson
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
18 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Cook helped one of my friend in court for a custody matter. My friend told me that Mr. Cook is amazing in court, he looks like he spent all his life there. The best, Mr. cook won and protect that friend 's child from an abusing mother.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
27 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Cook represnted me for a short for my custody case.... you can NOT trust him with anything!! When my family needed him to step up and fight for what was right... he did what was wrong... knew nothing about our case when we were in court, was confused and allowed a good for nothing parent with proven mental issues have joint custody on "COOKS" settlement not ours!!! We now have to pay for another attorney to try to undo what cook did, and our children are sadly for it~~ STAY AWAY FROM COOK
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
21 Nov, 2013 by Lorie
I was the trustee working through my father's tangled estate and Mr. Romley was terrific at helping me negotiate with the creditors and other issues. He kept me informed when there was information to know and things to do. He was attentive and resolved the estate promptly once we had waited the entire time period. I could not be more relieved. In response to the previous review, sometimes he didn't call me back because frankly there was nothing he could say or do, somethings take time. When you are wading through a tough situation, waiting for phone calls can seem like forever. However, his calling me back immediately when he had no information to provide would have only served to rack up my bills. I highly recommend Mr. Romley.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
11 Oct, 2013 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Romley a year and a half ago. I had a very tough time getting him to even call me back. He is completely computer illiterate, so won't email. He never returned my unused retainer. One of the worst experiences I ever had with an attorney.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
09 Apr, 2024 by Douglas
I highly recommend Elliot as an employment lawyer. He provided me with exceptional service, never charging for consultations and always being readily available to address any inquiries I had regarding my case. His professionalism and expertise were evident throughout our interactions, and I have full confidence in his abilities to assist others in need of legal representation in employment matters. I wholeheartedly endorse Elliot and encourage anyone seeking legal assistance in this area to consider his services.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
20 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Plain and simple, this man can't be trusted. He's a charlatan. A phony. He will use your case to make a quick buck for himself. He doesn't care about civil rights or people at all.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
06 Mar, 2024 by Leslie
Hiring this attorney was a mistake. Nice and seemingly caring until they get your money. Had to keep contacting them to ask for updates. Kristi, in his office, was rude and hung up on me after I questioned her about something Mr Isaacs said he was going to do, that she was now claiming he wasn't going to do. Mr Isaacs claimed he'd do one thing, weeks after starting, Kristi then told me he wasn't going to do that. I asked him to clarify which one of them was telling the truth, he has yet to answer me. Bad enough getting messed over by a company, but then to be messed over by your attorney & his staff, that's worse! What a waste of time.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
29 May, 2023 by Rashel
I happened to like her. Clear and concise. No need for small talk. Just needed numbers and filing. Appreciated her professional assistance!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
27 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
I had a similar experience as Bridgette where I stupidly agreed to use Georgia Wilder for my QDRO. My only saving grace was that I didn't pre-pay for the QDRO split but hourly--which was very costly. I was the only one paying while my ex-husband was suppose to pay his half. I received nasty emails for me to pay because she wrongfully accused me of not paying when it was him. I had to rehire my attorney and he had to rehire his attorney. However, when Georgia was having meetings with my ex-husband which me or my attorney weren't notified or given the contents of these meetings his attorney did the right thing and fired him (his attorney wasn't invited either). I found out about these meetings when I had to pay half the meetings which there were a lot of them! Like Bridgette, Georgia refused to give me or my attorney the formula of how she came up with his portion of the QRDO split. The formula she came up with mine made no sense and it was clear George is bad at math. When I confronted Georgia she gave me Rule 72, Arizona Rules of Family Law Procedure which states she has immunity and can do what ever she wants. The level of incompetence this woman has and how she treats people who are paying her is so sicking. She kept delaying where she was milking me for money where I was almost going bankrupt since I was the only one making regular payments. So I stopped paying and sent an email stating that I couldn't continue to pay her but would have to use my settlement money to pay or declared bankruptcy. Georgia advised me to set up payments with the girls who worked in the office. After I told the girls working in the office that I couldn't set up payment arrangements or pay I would have to declare bankruptcy instead unless I could use the settlement money to pay Georgia I received the QDRO the next day. Upon review of the QDRO, my attorney couldn't figure out how she even came up with settlement form my ex-husbands retirement. My attorney stated she didn't use any known method for splitting retirement accounts. When he did the split he received a higher number for myself and gave his math. Georgia responded with a case number (which had nothing to do with mine) and math that made no since on how she split part of my ex-husband retirement. My attorney had a talk and stated Georgia's ethics could be reported and we could appeal but it would cause more money and headaches than it was worth in his opinion. The great thing was that my law firm refused to agree to use Georgia for future QRDROs after their experience with her.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
29 Mar, 2022 by Joel
Ms. Wilder was engaged on my behalf by my Divorce Attorneys, a large Phx Firm, the beginning of April, 2021. Mine is a relatively small Pension Plan and we agreed to split it 50:50. Neither my Attorneys or I could seem to make "contact" with Ms. Wilder, but all the Documents were sent to her office. Finally in November, apparently one of my attorneys did make contact, telling Ms. Wilder we would likely reach a settlement in December, 2021. I finally spoke with Ms. Wilder on December 2, 2021. I offered to answer any questions she might have, and told her I would gladly participate in this resolution of a 50:50 "SPLIT." I impressed on Ms. Wilder I needed the "split" amount for the Pension Administrator before December, 30, 2019 or, "I was obligated to take a Required Minimum Distribution ("RMD") on the entire amount and PAY TAXES ON THAT AMOUNT." Ms. Wilder stated, "that is between you and your Plan Administrator", but I'll get to work on this. I spoke again with Ms. Wilder on December 6, 2019 expressing my concerns and my willingness to assist her with any questions or concerns she might have. I tried to contact her throughout the remainder of December, but she did not respond. She also did not respond to my Attorney's queries. December 30 passed with no communication from Ms. Wilder, and, yes, I was forced to take the full RMD and I am responsible for considerable tax obligations that should have been avoided. The Divorce Agreement was signed by the Judge in mid-December, 2021. As of mid-February we had no definite communications from Ms. Wilder. When I complained of this to my Attorneys, I was told "perhaps you should handle this yourself" (Strange, but true). Then "suddenly", Ms. Wilder requested all the documentations we had already supplied. We supplied them again. We were rewarded with no additional communications from Ms. Wilder. In mid-March we learned Ms. Wilder had consulted the opposition's Forensic Accountant for reasons unknown. This accountant had been excluded from the Court Proceedings by the Trial Judge. Ms. Wilder did NOT inform my attorneys of these inquiries as is customary in these issues...everything is suppose to be done OPENLY. This smacked of obvious apparent partisan actions on Ms. Wilder's part I then wrote an Email to Ms. Wilder detailing her seemingly non-standard behavior and asking her to complete the task for which she had been contracted and PAID IN ADVANCE. Ms. Wilder attacked me claiming my "tone was condescending, and she did not wish to defend herself". She could not, however, refute anything I said concerning her behavior. She unilateral "withdrew". We must now incur more expense re-educating a new QDRO person. We have "lost" months in this process. Forewarned is Forearmed!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
04 Feb, 2013 by Anonymous
Failed to update me on the progress of the case and he and paralegal to do not answer emails in a timely manner
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
28 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
Was ill prepared for Court and got us destroyed. Lied to me and said I couldn't appeal until it was too late to appeal and then was like "oh yeah, I guess we could have done that." Messed up my evidence. Flubbed questions and countless opportunities in Court. Told opposing Counsel stuff he shouldn't have. Gave up way too much way too early. Completely off base. SLOW in every way, especially in court & responding. He was more nervous than I was. Sure, he seemed real nice. Took forever to respond. Responded rudely and dismissively. Took his money and ran (sent me demands in less than 5 minutes after they sent me a bill because he doesn't know how his own billing works - their bills run really late.) He basically ruined my life and my custody case and my torture will now continue forever and I paid him a lot of money for the privilege. Do not hire.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
17 Jul, 2020 by Armand
He is more of a self promoter than a knowledge attorney. Spent a lot time doing research for my case, but got destroyed in the courtroom with faulty arguments. What is most concerning, is his lack of insight to his shortcomings, and lack of productive preparation. Don't waste money on him. You can save yourself heartache, if you just set your cash on fire.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
18 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
I went through a difficult, unwanted divorce. If I could go back, I would hire someone who specialized in my situation (stay at home mothers). Unfortunately, once I paid the retainer, I couldn't afford to go elsewhere. I was left broke and unprepared for what lay ahead after the ink dried. I felt very little compassion from her. Divorce is extremely stressful and it is important to feel that your lawyer has your back.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
07 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
She is inconsiderate and money hungry. She did not care about well being of me as her client. She doesn't obtain people skills.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
23 Jan, 2019 by Tony
Wish you could give a zero!!! This attorney took money and did nothing. Should of never got his license back in 1992 after resigning in 1975 before he was disbarred on he definitely took funds.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
26 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
He works for Defenders of Children and when we contacted the facility he started screaming at us on the phone telling us that he already knew all about us and that his facility, he told us that he had already spoke to the other person who was not ordered the Court Supervised Visitations and that I would not get a way with what I was getting away with at the other facility and that the father should have total and permanent custody since I needed mental help
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
01 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
I hired Blake for a child custody case. I provided him with physical evidence, witnesses and trusted his advice. Once we got to trial, he did not call any witnesses to the stand, he advised against needing any more evidence than submitted and did not argue on key points in court. We lost due to not enough evidence submitted. He then informed of new direction to take that changed 180 degrees each consultation. He seemed disconnected to the case. His counseling seemed on however he felt at that moment not in the case overall. I would not recommend him not because we lost but because of the direction he took after the case. His direction forward not only failed but he rebuttal his own advise within 6 months after, which was far to late. He was also one of the more expensive attorneys I worked with. Which did not make a difference.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
25 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
This attorney failed to inform us that our discovery period was when we were required to submit our witnesses and did not include the witnesses we had given him. He also advised us not to fight a partial summary judgment against us stating that it would be very difficult to dispute it and win. Naturally, we lost that part of the case. Once we reached our main trial, we found out that all of the arguments we were going to make were stricken from the record as they were arguments that should have been made in the partial summary judgment. In essence, the ill advise from our attorney sealed the deal for the other party. He also repeatedly wanted to "stay away" from arguments that would dispute the other parties claims or question their motivations. For this reason, we would have to say he was not tenacious at all. He obviously did not have the expertise in the area that we needed. We were fighting a termination of parental rights.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
27 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
HE went before the immigration judge. He didn't say much. He was ordered by there judge to file two different motions. He had 30 days to do this. And never did the motions. He also never answers his calls. And won't return our paperwork.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
22 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous
If u want results on your case u have a better chance of doing it yourself..take my word for it...complete waste of money, time and costed me everything that i asked from the judge...
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
15 Sep, 2021 by Eric
Coercion, manipulation, unprofessionalism. Just a few terms that fit nicely with Kristine.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
21 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Unprofessional, rude and treats clients like they are idiots. 10/10 would not recommend.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
17 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
Julie Rhodes represented me in 2016 during an unlawful Petition filed against me in 2015. Even though I was found not guilty, Julie gave me very disturbing incorrect advice and ineffective representation. She provided no defense whatsoever. I later discovered she was previously an assistant CPS/DCS AG for Tom Horne, and was sued in Federal Court by the HSLDA for violating a family's Civil Rights. Had I known this, I would not have allowed her to represent me. Julie is now again an assistant AG working in Arizona, representing DCS in petitions against families. It is not only disgusting and bizarre, but her practicing of law is conflicting with her previous engagements of representing parents like myself. She was reported to the State Bar, but unfortunately they did nothing, and she was rewarded with getting her old job back. If and when she gets removed again from the AGs office, based on her history of violating the US Constitution and bad representation of me, she should not be allowed to practice Law. Take it from one of her clients, she does not present exculpatory evidence in court and only cooperated with the interests of the Attorney General to get her old job back. She is a very dangerous person IMO, please STEER CLEAR.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
12 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr Austin Woods represented me and let his emotions take over and drug out the case. I really wanted to settle and he wouldn't let me. He made decisions on my behave that did not represent my best interests. I would not hire him again.
Read more Avvo
See 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:

  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.

Scroll to top