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23 May, 2024 by Elizabeth reeder
This is a firm my husband and I have been clients of.I highly recommend them if you are looking attorneys who will give you personal attention and go above and beyond for their clients.
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23 Feb, 2023 by Mr blackman
Great legal team
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21 Oct, 2018 by Roger heymann
06 Mar, 2013 by Anonymous
Gail is a consummate professional and ably represented me throughout my divorce. My case was complicated and drawn out and I felt that her counsel was always very pragmatic and her judgement of how things would play out was dead on. Her fees are reasonable and she is very easy to work with. I would highly recommend her.
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05 Oct, 2024 by Bisi oladapo
A friend recommended Suzanne and I decided amongst many other attorneys to give her a try, and I’m telling you, I’m so glad I did. She did not disappoint. My interactions with her were very pleasant from the beginning till the end. She was kind, very thorough and extremely responsive. These are definitely qualities you need when going through difficult family situations. If you need a family attorney, look no further, trust me, you will not regret it!
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07 Sep, 2024 by Ismat yassin
This lawyer firm, including Hadrian and Allison, went above and beyond to ensure my divorce was as painless and peaceful as possible. They explained the process thoroughly, provided realistic options for my and my ex to consider, and processed all the paperwork so quickly. Never would I have imagined my divorce going as smoothly as it did or enjoying working with a law firm as much as I did S.P.H. They were also very mindful to keep conversations and task completion as brief as possible to avoid charging me extra hours! I highly, highly recommend this firm for your family legal needs and would 100% work with them again.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Randy goldstein
The expertise of the attorneys at Strickler, Platnick & Hatfield is unparalleled. They have a deep understanding of family law, and their guidance is invaluable in resolving legal issues. I highly recommend their services for anyone in need of skilled family law representation.
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05 Oct, 2024 by Bisi oladapo
A friend recommended Suzanne and I decided amongst many other attorneys to give her a try, and I’m telling you, I’m so glad I did. She did not disappoint. My interactions with her were very pleasant from the beginning till the end. She was kind, very thorough and extremely responsive. These are definitely qualities you need when going through difficult family situations. If you need a family attorney, look no further, trust me, you will not regret it!
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07 Sep, 2024 by Ismat yassin
This lawyer firm, including Hadrian and Allison, went above and beyond to ensure my divorce was as painless and peaceful as possible. They explained the process thoroughly, provided realistic options for my and my ex to consider, and processed all the paperwork so quickly. Never would I have imagined my divorce going as smoothly as it did or enjoying working with a law firm as much as I did S.P.H. They were also very mindful to keep conversations and task completion as brief as possible to avoid charging me extra hours! I highly, highly recommend this firm for your family legal needs and would 100% work with them again.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Randy goldstein
The expertise of the attorneys at Strickler, Platnick & Hatfield is unparalleled. They have a deep understanding of family law, and their guidance is invaluable in resolving legal issues. I highly recommend their services for anyone in need of skilled family law representation.
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05 Oct, 2024 by Bisi oladapo
A friend recommended Suzanne and I decided amongst many other attorneys to give her a try, and I’m telling you, I’m so glad I did. She did not disappoint. My interactions with her were very pleasant from the beginning till the end. She was kind, very thorough and extremely responsive. These are definitely qualities you need when going through difficult family situations. If you need a family attorney, look no further, trust me, you will not regret it!
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07 Sep, 2024 by Ismat yassin
This lawyer firm, including Hadrian and Allison, went above and beyond to ensure my divorce was as painless and peaceful as possible. They explained the process thoroughly, provided realistic options for my and my ex to consider, and processed all the paperwork so quickly. Never would I have imagined my divorce going as smoothly as it did or enjoying working with a law firm as much as I did S.P.H. They were also very mindful to keep conversations and task completion as brief as possible to avoid charging me extra hours! I highly, highly recommend this firm for your family legal needs and would 100% work with them again.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Randy goldstein
The expertise of the attorneys at Strickler, Platnick & Hatfield is unparalleled. They have a deep understanding of family law, and their guidance is invaluable in resolving legal issues. I highly recommend their services for anyone in need of skilled family law representation.
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05 Oct, 2024 by Bisi oladapo
A friend recommended Suzanne and I decided amongst many other attorneys to give her a try, and I’m telling you, I’m so glad I did. She did not disappoint. My interactions with her were very pleasant from the beginning till the end. She was kind, very thorough and extremely responsive. These are definitely qualities you need when going through difficult family situations. If you need a family attorney, look no further, trust me, you will not regret it!
Read more
07 Sep, 2024 by Ismat yassin
This lawyer firm, including Hadrian and Allison, went above and beyond to ensure my divorce was as painless and peaceful as possible. They explained the process thoroughly, provided realistic options for my and my ex to consider, and processed all the paperwork so quickly. Never would I have imagined my divorce going as smoothly as it did or enjoying working with a law firm as much as I did S.P.H. They were also very mindful to keep conversations and task completion as brief as possible to avoid charging me extra hours! I highly, highly recommend this firm for your family legal needs and would 100% work with them again.
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12 Aug, 2024 by Randy goldstein
The expertise of the attorneys at Strickler, Platnick & Hatfield is unparalleled. They have a deep understanding of family law, and their guidance is invaluable in resolving legal issues. I highly recommend their services for anyone in need of skilled family law representation.
Read more
05 Oct, 2024 by Bisi oladapo
A friend recommended Suzanne and I decided amongst many other attorneys to give her a try, and I’m telling you, I’m so glad I did. She did not disappoint. My interactions with her were very pleasant from the beginning till the end. She was kind, very thorough and extremely responsive. These are definitely qualities you need when going through difficult family situations. If you need a family attorney, look no further, trust me, you will not regret it!
Read more
07 Sep, 2024 by Ismat yassin
This lawyer firm, including Hadrian and Allison, went above and beyond to ensure my divorce was as painless and peaceful as possible. They explained the process thoroughly, provided realistic options for my and my ex to consider, and processed all the paperwork so quickly. Never would I have imagined my divorce going as smoothly as it did or enjoying working with a law firm as much as I did S.P.H. They were also very mindful to keep conversations and task completion as brief as possible to avoid charging me extra hours! I highly, highly recommend this firm for your family legal needs and would 100% work with them again.
Read more
12 Aug, 2024 by Randy goldstein
The expertise of the attorneys at Strickler, Platnick & Hatfield is unparalleled. They have a deep understanding of family law, and their guidance is invaluable in resolving legal issues. I highly recommend their services for anyone in need of skilled family law representation.
Read more
25 Jul, 2023 by Betty adler
13 Jun, 2023 by Oren rosen
avoid
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22 Nov, 2022 by Y stewart
It’s my absolute pleasure to recommend Jennifer Manley-Kapour. She is honest, dependable and incredibly hard-working. Beyond that, she is an impressive problem solver who is able to address complex issues with strategy and confidence.
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25 Jul, 2023 by Betty adler
13 Jun, 2023 by Oren rosen
avoid
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22 Nov, 2022 by Y stewart
It’s my absolute pleasure to recommend Jennifer Manley-Kapour. She is honest, dependable and incredibly hard-working. Beyond that, she is an impressive problem solver who is able to address complex issues with strategy and confidence.
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25 Jul, 2023 by Betty adler
13 Jun, 2023 by Oren rosen
avoid
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22 Nov, 2022 by Y stewart
It’s my absolute pleasure to recommend Jennifer Manley-Kapour. She is honest, dependable and incredibly hard-working. Beyond that, she is an impressive problem solver who is able to address complex issues with strategy and confidence.
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25 Jul, 2023 by Betty adler
13 Jun, 2023 by Oren rosen
avoid
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22 Nov, 2022 by Y stewart
It’s my absolute pleasure to recommend Jennifer Manley-Kapour. She is honest, dependable and incredibly hard-working. Beyond that, she is an impressive problem solver who is able to address complex issues with strategy and confidence.
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25 Jul, 2023 by Betty adler
13 Jun, 2023 by Oren rosen
avoid
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22 Nov, 2022 by Y stewart
It’s my absolute pleasure to recommend Jennifer Manley-Kapour. She is honest, dependable and incredibly hard-working. Beyond that, she is an impressive problem solver who is able to address complex issues with strategy and confidence.
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25 Mar, 2024 by Jennifer
Bianca Pinnock is not only an amazing attorney but an amazing asset to have on your team. She listened to all my needs and her vast knowledge of this area of law made me feel very comfortable with the case we were initiating. She made sure to address every question and concern I had in a timely manner and made the process feel very quick and easy. I am immensely grateful to Bianca and her paralegals as they are the reason two minors will be able to live in a household that can provide safety and stability. If you are looking for a family attorney, do not look any further, Bianca is the best attorney you will come across.
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21 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Bianca was amazing from start to finish with handling my case! She is an advocate, responsive, dedicated, diligent, and meticulous. I appreciate her hard work and dedication to ensuring the timely resolution of my matter. I would highly recommend her!
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20 Mar, 2024 by Lee
Ms. Pinnock has been my attorney for many years. She is excellent, professional, and so understanding. When I first met with her, I was going through a very tough divorce and she made the process so easy. You cannot ask for a more understanding, competent and calming (very important) attorney when dealing with divorce or custody issues.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Cheryl sims
We asked Shulman Rogers to set up an LLC for us. We got a pre-estimate, it was reasonable at $2000, so we paid the $2k retainer and contracted with them to do the work. During a meeting, we asked a question about placing a piece of property we owned in Washington, DC as a Sole Proprietorship into the LLC. Our Shulman attorney team researched it, then told us "Don't do it, it will cost you so much more money at approximately $7,500." We took their advice and left the property out of the LLC. Imagine our surprise when we received the final bill from Shulman and it was several thousand dollars more than the "it will cost you so much more path" we didn't take! It totaled almost $10,000. Shulman had even added several hours for a Senior Partner at an outrageous rate ($724/hour), who had not worked on our case. We were able to get those hours removed, but all in all it was a losing venture for us. This reminded us of the old adage "a wolf in sheep's clothing." We will NEVER DO BUSINESS with this firm again and we recommend you go elsewhere when you need an attorney.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Laire bourne
Erin is reliable, honest, and operates with integrity. I recommend her to anyone who is looking for representation with commercial and real estate issues. She helped me personally with reviewing and making necessary amendments to contracts. She always takes the time to answer any questions and provides me with all the options available. When I ran into some issues with clients not paying out of state, she was also quickly able to recommend the right people to aid me with my problems. I’m delighted to have been referred to Erin August. Erin has a wealth of knowledge and is the best!
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23 Jul, 2024 by Margarita dilone
We’ve had the pleasure of working with Erin August for several property settlements through Shulman Rogers, and she has consistently exceeded our expectations. Erin’s professionalism and meticulous attention to detail have made each transaction smooth and stress-free.
One of the standout aspects of working with Erin is her willingness to come to us for the settlements, saving us the hassle of driving to her office. This level of convenience and customer service is truly appreciated and sets her apart from others in the field.
If you’re looking for a real estate attorney who is reliable, knowledgeable, and genuinely cares about her clients, look no further than Erin August. We highly recommend her and Shulman Rogers for any real estate needs!
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16 Aug, 2024 by Cheryl sims
We asked Shulman Rogers to set up an LLC for us. We got a pre-estimate, it was reasonable at $2000, so we paid the $2k retainer and contracted with them to do the work. During a meeting, we asked a question about placing a piece of property we owned in Washington, DC as a Sole Proprietorship into the LLC. Our Shulman attorney team researched it, then told us "Don't do it, it will cost you so much more money at approximately $7,500." We took their advice and left the property out of the LLC. Imagine our surprise when we received the final bill from Shulman and it was several thousand dollars more than the "it will cost you so much more path" we didn't take! It totaled almost $10,000. Shulman had even added several hours for a Senior Partner at an outrageous rate ($724/hour), who had not worked on our case. We were able to get those hours removed, but all in all it was a losing venture for us. This reminded us of the old adage "a wolf in sheep's clothing." We will NEVER DO BUSINESS with this firm again and we recommend you go elsewhere when you need an attorney.
Read more
24 Jul, 2024 by Laire bourne
Erin is reliable, honest, and operates with integrity. I recommend her to anyone who is looking for representation with commercial and real estate issues. She helped me personally with reviewing and making necessary amendments to contracts. She always takes the time to answer any questions and provides me with all the options available. When I ran into some issues with clients not paying out of state, she was also quickly able to recommend the right people to aid me with my problems. I’m delighted to have been referred to Erin August. Erin has a wealth of knowledge and is the best!
Read more
23 Jul, 2024 by Margarita dilone
We’ve had the pleasure of working with Erin August for several property settlements through Shulman Rogers, and she has consistently exceeded our expectations. Erin’s professionalism and meticulous attention to detail have made each transaction smooth and stress-free.
One of the standout aspects of working with Erin is her willingness to come to us for the settlements, saving us the hassle of driving to her office. This level of convenience and customer service is truly appreciated and sets her apart from others in the field.
If you’re looking for a real estate attorney who is reliable, knowledgeable, and genuinely cares about her clients, look no further than Erin August. We highly recommend her and Shulman Rogers for any real estate needs!
Read more
16 Aug, 2024 by Cheryl sims
We asked Shulman Rogers to set up an LLC for us. We got a pre-estimate, it was reasonable at $2000, so we paid the $2k retainer and contracted with them to do the work. During a meeting, we asked a question about placing a piece of property we owned in Washington, DC as a Sole Proprietorship into the LLC. Our Shulman attorney team researched it, then told us "Don't do it, it will cost you so much more money at approximately $7,500." We took their advice and left the property out of the LLC. Imagine our surprise when we received the final bill from Shulman and it was several thousand dollars more than the "it will cost you so much more path" we didn't take! It totaled almost $10,000. Shulman had even added several hours for a Senior Partner at an outrageous rate ($724/hour), who had not worked on our case. We were able to get those hours removed, but all in all it was a losing venture for us. This reminded us of the old adage "a wolf in sheep's clothing." We will NEVER DO BUSINESS with this firm again and we recommend you go elsewhere when you need an attorney.
Read more
24 Jul, 2024 by Laire bourne
Erin is reliable, honest, and operates with integrity. I recommend her to anyone who is looking for representation with commercial and real estate issues. She helped me personally with reviewing and making necessary amendments to contracts. She always takes the time to answer any questions and provides me with all the options available. When I ran into some issues with clients not paying out of state, she was also quickly able to recommend the right people to aid me with my problems. I’m delighted to have been referred to Erin August. Erin has a wealth of knowledge and is the best!
Read more
23 Jul, 2024 by Margarita dilone
We’ve had the pleasure of working with Erin August for several property settlements through Shulman Rogers, and she has consistently exceeded our expectations. Erin’s professionalism and meticulous attention to detail have made each transaction smooth and stress-free.
One of the standout aspects of working with Erin is her willingness to come to us for the settlements, saving us the hassle of driving to her office. This level of convenience and customer service is truly appreciated and sets her apart from others in the field.
If you’re looking for a real estate attorney who is reliable, knowledgeable, and genuinely cares about her clients, look no further than Erin August. We highly recommend her and Shulman Rogers for any real estate needs!
Read more
16 Aug, 2024 by Cheryl sims
We asked Shulman Rogers to set up an LLC for us. We got a pre-estimate, it was reasonable at $2000, so we paid the $2k retainer and contracted with them to do the work. During a meeting, we asked a question about placing a piece of property we owned in Washington, DC as a Sole Proprietorship into the LLC. Our Shulman attorney team researched it, then told us "Don't do it, it will cost you so much more money at approximately $7,500." We took their advice and left the property out of the LLC. Imagine our surprise when we received the final bill from Shulman and it was several thousand dollars more than the "it will cost you so much more path" we didn't take! It totaled almost $10,000. Shulman had even added several hours for a Senior Partner at an outrageous rate ($724/hour), who had not worked on our case. We were able to get those hours removed, but all in all it was a losing venture for us. This reminded us of the old adage "a wolf in sheep's clothing." We will NEVER DO BUSINESS with this firm again and we recommend you go elsewhere when you need an attorney.
Read more
24 Jul, 2024 by Laire bourne
Erin is reliable, honest, and operates with integrity. I recommend her to anyone who is looking for representation with commercial and real estate issues. She helped me personally with reviewing and making necessary amendments to contracts. She always takes the time to answer any questions and provides me with all the options available. When I ran into some issues with clients not paying out of state, she was also quickly able to recommend the right people to aid me with my problems. I’m delighted to have been referred to Erin August. Erin has a wealth of knowledge and is the best!
Read more
23 Jul, 2024 by Margarita dilone
We’ve had the pleasure of working with Erin August for several property settlements through Shulman Rogers, and she has consistently exceeded our expectations. Erin’s professionalism and meticulous attention to detail have made each transaction smooth and stress-free.
One of the standout aspects of working with Erin is her willingness to come to us for the settlements, saving us the hassle of driving to her office. This level of convenience and customer service is truly appreciated and sets her apart from others in the field.
If you’re looking for a real estate attorney who is reliable, knowledgeable, and genuinely cares about her clients, look no further than Erin August. We highly recommend her and Shulman Rogers for any real estate needs!
Read more
16 Aug, 2024 by Cheryl sims
We asked Shulman Rogers to set up an LLC for us. We got a pre-estimate, it was reasonable at $2000, so we paid the $2k retainer and contracted with them to do the work. During a meeting, we asked a question about placing a piece of property we owned in Washington, DC as a Sole Proprietorship into the LLC. Our Shulman attorney team researched it, then told us "Don't do it, it will cost you so much more money at approximately $7,500." We took their advice and left the property out of the LLC. Imagine our surprise when we received the final bill from Shulman and it was several thousand dollars more than the "it will cost you so much more path" we didn't take! It totaled almost $10,000. Shulman had even added several hours for a Senior Partner at an outrageous rate ($724/hour), who had not worked on our case. We were able to get those hours removed, but all in all it was a losing venture for us. This reminded us of the old adage "a wolf in sheep's clothing." We will NEVER DO BUSINESS with this firm again and we recommend you go elsewhere when you need an attorney.
Read more
24 Jul, 2024 by Laire bourne
Erin is reliable, honest, and operates with integrity. I recommend her to anyone who is looking for representation with commercial and real estate issues. She helped me personally with reviewing and making necessary amendments to contracts. She always takes the time to answer any questions and provides me with all the options available. When I ran into some issues with clients not paying out of state, she was also quickly able to recommend the right people to aid me with my problems. I’m delighted to have been referred to Erin August. Erin has a wealth of knowledge and is the best!
Read more
23 Jul, 2024 by Margarita dilone
We’ve had the pleasure of working with Erin August for several property settlements through Shulman Rogers, and she has consistently exceeded our expectations. Erin’s professionalism and meticulous attention to detail have made each transaction smooth and stress-free.
One of the standout aspects of working with Erin is her willingness to come to us for the settlements, saving us the hassle of driving to her office. This level of convenience and customer service is truly appreciated and sets her apart from others in the field.
If you’re looking for a real estate attorney who is reliable, knowledgeable, and genuinely cares about her clients, look no further than Erin August. We highly recommend her and Shulman Rogers for any real estate needs!
Read more
16 Aug, 2024 by Cheryl sims
We asked Shulman Rogers to set up an LLC for us. We got a pre-estimate, it was reasonable at $2000, so we paid the $2k retainer and contracted with them to do the work. During a meeting, we asked a question about placing a piece of property we owned in Washington, DC as a Sole Proprietorship into the LLC. Our Shulman attorney team researched it, then told us "Don't do it, it will cost you so much more money at approximately $7,500." We took their advice and left the property out of the LLC. Imagine our surprise when we received the final bill from Shulman and it was several thousand dollars more than the "it will cost you so much more path" we didn't take! It totaled almost $10,000. Shulman had even added several hours for a Senior Partner at an outrageous rate ($724/hour), who had not worked on our case. We were able to get those hours removed, but all in all it was a losing venture for us. This reminded us of the old adage "a wolf in sheep's clothing." We will NEVER DO BUSINESS with this firm again and we recommend you go elsewhere when you need an attorney.
Read more
24 Jul, 2024 by Laire bourne
Erin is reliable, honest, and operates with integrity. I recommend her to anyone who is looking for representation with commercial and real estate issues. She helped me personally with reviewing and making necessary amendments to contracts. She always takes the time to answer any questions and provides me with all the options available. When I ran into some issues with clients not paying out of state, she was also quickly able to recommend the right people to aid me with my problems. I’m delighted to have been referred to Erin August. Erin has a wealth of knowledge and is the best!
Read more
23 Jul, 2024 by Margarita dilone
We’ve had the pleasure of working with Erin August for several property settlements through Shulman Rogers, and she has consistently exceeded our expectations. Erin’s professionalism and meticulous attention to detail have made each transaction smooth and stress-free.
One of the standout aspects of working with Erin is her willingness to come to us for the settlements, saving us the hassle of driving to her office. This level of convenience and customer service is truly appreciated and sets her apart from others in the field.
If you’re looking for a real estate attorney who is reliable, knowledgeable, and genuinely cares about her clients, look no further than Erin August. We highly recommend her and Shulman Rogers for any real estate needs!
Read more
18 Oct, 2022 by Liz a.
09 Feb, 2022 by Kevin case
04 Oct, 2021 by Nick bond
I've been led on then ghosted by dates before but never a lawyer until dealing with Mac, which was surprising given his reputation. Our initial consultations were fine and we seemed to settle on a plan, but he suddenly left me suspended in limbo for months and failed to follow up as promised, ignoring multiple attempts to touch base on my part. I wasted a ton of time and pursuing my case became significantly more difficult as a result.
If you are not interested in taking a case, have the professional courtesy to communicate that, especially if you've established a relationship and the client has exchanged sensitive information. Pretty sure the ABA agrees.
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Discover the ideal lawyer
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
-
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.
