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08 Oct, 2022 by Maharshi
I recently applied for my green card with him and am very happy I found him. Not only will he guide you through the whole thing and explain what's what, he'll also give you pretty decent estimates of outcomes and their timelines. Keep in mind that this is immigration and nothing's guaranteed, but he definitely knows how to present your case. Thanks to him, my EAD came through pretty fast and I'm very thankful for it. Added bonus, his services are VERY affordable.
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15 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
I hired Jakub Szlaga for immigration. He proved to be intelligent, professional and supportive. I would recommend him to anyone who is looking for an excellent immigration lawyer.
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04 Dec, 2019 by Phillip
My wife and I were recommended Jakub Szlaga from a family friend while we went through the green card application process. We had the usual worries and stresses that go along with immigration. Jakub was patient, diligent, and guided us along through all the paperwork and requirements. In addition to his wealth of knowledge of the inner-workings of the immigration systems, Jakub genuinely cares, and his passion shows. He really was dedicated to helping us and was very patient with our constant questions and worries. We could not have imagined a better person to assist us in this step of our lives. We are very grateful, and my wife is now a green card holder!
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19 Jun, 2019 by Theodore
I hired Mark Chiesa for a very difficult case involving real property. To say that the deck was very much stacked against us in this case would actually be an understatement. I’ve had seven lawyers in total for other cases and, although they were all pretty good, Mark was the best. I have some complaints about all of the other lawyers that I’ve had but I have absolutely no complaints about Mark; he’s just that good. Of course, in any court case, it always comes down to the decision of a judge or a jury but Mark will work harder and smarter than most other attorneys, increasing the likelihood of a favorable outcome. Mark did exactly what I wanted him to do despite the unlikelihood of that ever happening. And he did it ethically, without having to convince the judge of things by telling bold-faced lies like the lawyer on the opposing side kept doing. Mark Chiesa is a great guy and a great lawyer. If you retain him and lose, you were gonna lose no matter what.
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10 Mar, 2016 by Jack
Mark has represented me on a couple of matters and both times he was very helpful, courteous, and did a great job. On top of that his fees were very reasonable. I refer him to all of my friends!
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01 Nov, 2010 by Kevin
Garth was very helpful in getting my cases resolved in a positive, efficient, and cost effective manner. He has helped me in traffic citation and insurance claim issues. I am convinced that he worked with my best interest in mind.
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20 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
Helped me like no one else had with divorce and child custody issues.
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20 Jan, 2020 by Joe carli (joearea51)
Scott is a honest helpful trustworthy attorney..
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17 Dec, 2018 by Lmaureen cirocco
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10 Oct, 2024 by Lindsey beasley
Sarah Steslicki and her paralegal Jennifer are amazing! I HIGHLY recommend! I had a previous attorney who sat on my step parent adoption case for 3 years and I had to hound her to get anything done. Sarah/Jennifer were friendly, motivated, familiar with the process and ready to go. She had everything done and closed in 10 months. Her process with everything being in a portal, including copies of every document and invoices was very helpful to keep us informed so we had no anxiety about her capabilities. Her quote on cost and time was on target. We had no surprise fees or difficulties getting answers to our questions. I always recommend her and her team whenever someone asks!!
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19 Sep, 2024 by Stephanie miller
I had a very long 9-10 month process which Sarah helped me through every step of the way. She was very reassuring and helpful to calm the nerves and anxiety that come with custody issues and multiple court hearings. In the end we got the results we wanted, I couldn’t be more thankful and grateful for the work she did.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Megan powers
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10 Oct, 2024 by Lindsey beasley
Sarah Steslicki and her paralegal Jennifer are amazing! I HIGHLY recommend! I had a previous attorney who sat on my step parent adoption case for 3 years and I had to hound her to get anything done. Sarah/Jennifer were friendly, motivated, familiar with the process and ready to go. She had everything done and closed in 10 months. Her process with everything being in a portal, including copies of every document and invoices was very helpful to keep us informed so we had no anxiety about her capabilities. Her quote on cost and time was on target. We had no surprise fees or difficulties getting answers to our questions. I always recommend her and her team whenever someone asks!!
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19 Sep, 2024 by Stephanie miller
I had a very long 9-10 month process which Sarah helped me through every step of the way. She was very reassuring and helpful to calm the nerves and anxiety that come with custody issues and multiple court hearings. In the end we got the results we wanted, I couldn’t be more thankful and grateful for the work she did.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Megan powers
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17 May, 2024 by David van kerckhove
We hired Mr. Shaw for a Will & Trust. Mr. Shaw was referred to us through my employer's assistance program. Mr. Shaw accommodated our schedule and our first meeting was virtual. His costs were very reasonable. We received all of our paperwork in a nice, organized, leather binder. The communication was always prompt.
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07 Feb, 2022 by Christine a
Professional & thorough. Answered all of our questions and made suggestions.
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09 Sep, 2019 by Diane
Ed Shaw and his Legal Assistant, Beth, were awesome to work with. I had head so many horror stories about dealing with Attorneys. They were so kind and professional. I would definitely recommend them to anyone looking for legal assistance.
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29 Aug, 2024 by Vince villalvazo
Brad Aldrich is an excellent attorney, he has helped me with both my business and my living trust. I highly recommend his firm, everyone in his staff is great, it was a great experience working with them!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Patricia chamberlain
Office staff are very polite and professional, would highly recommend Brad for your legal services !! Wonderful experience working with Brad !
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06 Aug, 2024 by Scott watson
Straight forward, did exactly as he said he would, when je said he would! Highly Recommend him!
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26 Sep, 2024 by Joseph phillipson
Very professional and down to earth. Was very helpful with my case.
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18 May, 2024 by Bryan wharram
Mr. Vivian was very professional. He explained all that was required of me in terms of documents and documentation. I was well prepared for my court appearance. Mr. Vivian communicated well with me throughout the process of ~3.5y, letting me know of any requirements or deadlines along the way. Ms. Koyle was also very professional, helpful and courteous. I highly recommend the Vivian Law Firm!
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14 May, 2024 by Yvette marie
Very thorough in answering questions, follows up timely and very easy to communicate with. Flexible in scheduling meetings to accommodate. Assistant is very nice, professional and prompt in responding. I definitely would recommend Matt/services.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Peggy green
Chuck has been doing a great job with me and my concerns for over15 years! Always a good experience.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Greg bayley
Mr Lowe does not represent me, he represents my sister. He is under no obligation to me and in fact the relationship over the past 2 years could be characterized (by me) as borderline adversarial. Attorneys have no issues with that. It's fundamental to the business. I'm an engineer. I think it stinks. I met with him yesterday. I left there not wanting to punch him in the nose. A major breakthrough moment for me and attorneys. He cares about his client and the role of the family. Yikes. And then I found a little grocery shop that sold U.P. pasties. I'm must be in the twilight zone or Larium, Michigan, eh Toivo? I'm a Toot (Michigan Tech student, (not graduate, but my son did).
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08 Jul, 2024 by Rescue apet
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29 Aug, 2024 by Vince villalvazo
Brad Aldrich is an excellent attorney, he has helped me with both my business and my living trust. I highly recommend his firm, everyone in his staff is great, it was a great experience working with them!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Patricia chamberlain
Office staff are very polite and professional, would highly recommend Brad for your legal services !! Wonderful experience working with Brad !
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06 Aug, 2024 by Scott watson
Straight forward, did exactly as he said he would, when je said he would! Highly Recommend him!
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29 Aug, 2024 by Vince villalvazo
Brad Aldrich is an excellent attorney, he has helped me with both my business and my living trust. I highly recommend his firm, everyone in his staff is great, it was a great experience working with them!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Patricia chamberlain
Office staff are very polite and professional, would highly recommend Brad for your legal services !! Wonderful experience working with Brad !
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06 Aug, 2024 by Scott watson
Straight forward, did exactly as he said he would, when je said he would! Highly Recommend him!
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08 Aug, 2024 by Loria woodruff
I could not have asked for better representation in my divorce. Attorney Pulte was professional, proactive and quickly responded to my questions and concerns. She always communicated next step. I can say I was represented by a well rounded attorney.
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19 Feb, 2024 by Patrick jossey
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14 Sep, 2023 by Sandra koen
Maria and her staff are professional and attentive to every detail. During a very difficult transition in my life I felt listened to and helped at every turn in my journey. I would highly recommend anyone in this office. You are not a number but a person here.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Rhonda simko
I had an opportunity to use this attorney company. I pray that you find peace with the issues you have. Please call a good attorney that can get you child support, medication expense, things you own . This attorney company never did for me. They charged me two attorney fees and all I had was a 150,000.00 loss of money Never use this attorney firm New Attorney Alex Benson in South Field Michigan Please use Alex as I have a few people going through divorce and they are using him because I used him and liked. God bless you and protect yourself and your money.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Marco dimichele
Hiring Kecskes, Gadd & Parker, PC was a true blessing for us. We were being sued by a money hungry horrible company for over 100,000 thousand dollars!! Kecskes and team seen right through their false allegations against my family and took the case head on. Long story short they ended up owing us money. One thing I can say whole heartedly is this team of lawyers truly care about their clients. If we ever need legal advice again we will absolutely come back to Kecskes firm. Loyalty integrity honesty and commitment are a few words we'd use to explain this firm. Highly recommend!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Julie groulx
Where to start? Going through a divorce is never easy! I thought I could handle it all but at the urging of some very good friends and a referral from one of them, I decided to hire Penny Parker. She not only handled all the legalities but more importantly, she talked to me like a real person and helped me to see what was truly in my best interest. She made something that could have been so difficult very easy for me. I would highly recommend her to anyone!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Rhonda simko
I had an opportunity to use this attorney company. I pray that you find peace with the issues you have. Please call a good attorney that can get you child support, medication expense, things you own . This attorney company never did for me. They charged me two attorney fees and all I had was a 150,000.00 loss of money Never use this attorney firm New Attorney Alex Benson in South Field Michigan Please use Alex as I have a few people going through divorce and they are using him because I used him and liked. God bless you and protect yourself and your money.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Marco dimichele
Hiring Kecskes, Gadd & Parker, PC was a true blessing for us. We were being sued by a money hungry horrible company for over 100,000 thousand dollars!! Kecskes and team seen right through their false allegations against my family and took the case head on. Long story short they ended up owing us money. One thing I can say whole heartedly is this team of lawyers truly care about their clients. If we ever need legal advice again we will absolutely come back to Kecskes firm. Loyalty integrity honesty and commitment are a few words we'd use to explain this firm. Highly recommend!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Julie groulx
Where to start? Going through a divorce is never easy! I thought I could handle it all but at the urging of some very good friends and a referral from one of them, I decided to hire Penny Parker. She not only handled all the legalities but more importantly, she talked to me like a real person and helped me to see what was truly in my best interest. She made something that could have been so difficult very easy for me. I would highly recommend her to anyone!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Rhonda simko
I had an opportunity to use this attorney company. I pray that you find peace with the issues you have. Please call a good attorney that can get you child support, medication expense, things you own . This attorney company never did for me. They charged me two attorney fees and all I had was a 150,000.00 loss of money Never use this attorney firm New Attorney Alex Benson in South Field Michigan Please use Alex as I have a few people going through divorce and they are using him because I used him and liked. God bless you and protect yourself and your money.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Marco dimichele
Hiring Kecskes, Gadd & Parker, PC was a true blessing for us. We were being sued by a money hungry horrible company for over 100,000 thousand dollars!! Kecskes and team seen right through their false allegations against my family and took the case head on. Long story short they ended up owing us money. One thing I can say whole heartedly is this team of lawyers truly care about their clients. If we ever need legal advice again we will absolutely come back to Kecskes firm. Loyalty integrity honesty and commitment are a few words we'd use to explain this firm. Highly recommend!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Julie groulx
Where to start? Going through a divorce is never easy! I thought I could handle it all but at the urging of some very good friends and a referral from one of them, I decided to hire Penny Parker. She not only handled all the legalities but more importantly, she talked to me like a real person and helped me to see what was truly in my best interest. She made something that could have been so difficult very easy for me. I would highly recommend her to anyone!
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29 Apr, 2024 by Daryl freeman
I talked to Kurt today over the phone about a problem that was taunting me and he politely told me what I needed to know . I am impressed by his knowledge and experience about this matter . He volunteered his time for me . So glad I called him, he is the perfect attorney to call for any matter he is an honest man. Thank you Kurt.
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13 Sep, 2023 by Willie king
Kurt Schultz is bye far one of best lawyers that ive had the pleasure of working with. He's a fighter for his clients and believe me he fought and came out victorious. Kurt thanks.. I would definitely recommend him to all my family and friends...
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15 May, 2023 by Denise robinson
Kurt is an excellent attorney. He is very friendly and easy to talk to. He will explain every detail on your case and what to expect. He will answer all your questions and concerns you may have. Takes his time with his cleits never in hurry to get you out the door. . I highly recommend Kurt as your attorney.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Joseph phillipson
Very professional and down to earth. Was very helpful with my case.
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18 May, 2024 by Bryan wharram
Mr. Vivian was very professional. He explained all that was required of me in terms of documents and documentation. I was well prepared for my court appearance. Mr. Vivian communicated well with me throughout the process of ~3.5y, letting me know of any requirements or deadlines along the way. Ms. Koyle was also very professional, helpful and courteous. I highly recommend the Vivian Law Firm!
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14 May, 2024 by Yvette marie
Very thorough in answering questions, follows up timely and very easy to communicate with. Flexible in scheduling meetings to accommodate. Assistant is very nice, professional and prompt in responding. I definitely would recommend Matt/services.
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21 Jun, 2022 by Megan powers
Greg handled my divorce,which was very difficult. He got me everything I asked for,was very informative,always responded back to every worry that I had. I would recommend him to anyone.
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02 Mar, 2022 by Rachelle torres
Greg was very kind,up front and honest. Straight to the point-which is what you should look for when selecting a lawyer. He has the years experience that makes him very knowledgeable. Thank you Greg !!!
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29 Dec, 2020 by Velociraptor trainer
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31 Oct, 2022 by Clint
I hired one lawyer spent hours prepping and the other shows up . Had no intention in litigating my case . Cost me custody of my son .
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13 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Cam was awesome every step of the way. Always on call. Smart with his advice. Great divorce attorney.
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27 Apr, 2018 by Olga
I am a client of Cameron Miller. I am very happy because he understands the situation and advises wisely. He is very patient and tries his best to resolve the issue. I had many lawyers and Cameron is the best.
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26 Sep, 2021 by Audrey
Greg guided me through some commercial landlord/tenant lease issues and was immediately responsive when things hit the fan. He told me exactly how to handle it and what to do. He called me immediately after coming out of a court case after I called the office in the midst of what could've quickly become a crisis. Everything worked out fairly. Greg will always be a sword in my fight!
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29 Mar, 2021 by Jim
Mr. Calabrese was my attorney during my divorce case. His focus on my child custody was critical and well received. He also added something not usually associated with lawyers - ethics (haha). While I was under probably the most stress of my life, it was awesome to have someone that was willing to point out, "It's just the right thing to do." Believe me, no love lost with my ex, but no reason to sink low.
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08 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr. Calabrese doesn’t return calls or emails in a timely matter. You must call repeatedly to get a response and often you get excuses for the delays (or sometimes no response for extended periods of time). A quick reply to an email letting a client know that they haven’t been forgotten and maybe schedule a time to talk with them in the near future would be helpful. Apparently Mr. Calabrese lacks the professionalism, organizational skills and/or staff to manage his client loads.
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05 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
She worked as my Attorney when I was 14-15 and my life has completely turned upside down I really wish she would’ve cared more about my safety and well-being instead of focusing on the money… I deal with severe anxiety and depression due to the position she took in my case….
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22 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
A friend, who also had Watry in his divorce case, confirmed he was coached that she was a hired gun to sway the divorce settlement in his favor.
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28 May, 2019 by Rowsell
I found Ms.Watry to be honest, trustworthy and someone who cared about the job she was doing. It was a very difficult and trying process that I had being going through I felt like Ms. Watry was the first person that really saw what had been going on and was willing to stand up and say something. The person on the other side made it very difficult on Ms. Watry making allegations, threating to get herr dibarred. I had been dealing with this type of behavior for over a decade and had become some what used to it. It looked like it had been taken it's toll but she stood tall and I appreciate all that she had done. I would highly recommend her.
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14 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
He's a rude, ignorant liar. He's dishonest, and will hurt people at no cost. He will put others in harm's way, including children, and not think twice about it. He's a nasty person and I would definitely not recommend him to anyone!
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18 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
I hired Vince to handle the case, which was going very poorly, with many reminders anc chasing my own attorney and stuff not done. As a result it went to be dangerously developing not in my favor. Strongly warn you from trusting anything that requires attention to Mr. Farougi
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02 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Very good Attorney, very bright, dependable, organized. I have hired Vince a handful of times and he really has gotten me out of some jams. He knows his stuff. If you want a Lawyer to do the job call Vince, you won't be sorry!
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What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You

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

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

When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?

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

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

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

What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?

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

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

How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?

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

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

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

How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?

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

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

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

Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer

Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:

  1. What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
    Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption.
  2. How will you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved.
  3. What are the possible outcomes of my case?
    An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case.
  4. What is your approach to resolving disputes?
    Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals.
  5. How long do you expect my case to take?
    While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases.
  6. Who will be handling my case?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.

How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer

To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:

  • Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
  • Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
  • Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
  • Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
  • List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
  • Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
  • Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
  • Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.

Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.

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