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16 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
After working with Mr. Thorne for 2+ years it became clear to me that he is well respected by judges and opposing counsel. I felt like he took the time to get to know me at our first consultation and returned my phone calls fairly quickly throughout this whole process. Anyone that's going through a divorce knows that things can pop up at any minute and I was glad to be able to get responses in a timely manner. Going thru a divorce during COVID was no easy task, but things moved pretty quickly to my surprise. He was able to get the ball moving for me and get a court hearing scheduled in a decent timeframe. I appreciate his honesty, even when it came down to things that weren't obtainable.
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25 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
Don’t waste your money on this lawyer. Very bad experience. I would have given him 0 star if I could.
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20 Jan, 2022 by Courtney
Mr. Thorne was actually the attorney that took over my case when his business partner Mr. Haslam retired. Mr. Thorne represented me at my first court appearance for child support. He was very helpful and we left with an order in place that day. Throughout the years, he has always been very informative, ethical, honest, reliable, and knowledgeable. He and his staff always kept me up-to-date on what was going on with my case. I was able to reach them when I needed to. I have used a couple other family law attorneys in my past before I knew Mr. Thorne. I would highly recommend Mr. Thorne over any of the other attorneys I used. He is definitely fair and will fight for you!
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05 Aug, 2024 by Bryan wong
I have had my clients hire Ms. Vandergrift in many many cases to serve as minor's counsel for their matter. I always recommend her because she is no-nonsense and is always there to protect the minor's interests. She does interviews with multiple parties to ensure her recommendations are appropriate in those circumstances. Moreover, Ms. Vandergrift is always available for a quick chat to get an update on the case or when issues arise during a high conflict situation. There are times Ms. Vandergrift would refuse the parents' requests or demands after making her recommendation. From my perspective, this methodology is highly sought after since she is really looking out for the minor's interests instead of the fighting between the parents. We need more minor's counsels like her around. There are other minor's counsels around that would just recommend a 50/50 and watch for the consequences thereafter.
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03 Aug, 2024 by Charles kohorst
Julianne was very attentive to every legal obstacle that came up during my divorce proceedings. I highly recommend her services.
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03 Aug, 2024 by Own muttavangkul
I had a consultation with Julianne when my custody situation was at its absolute lowest. She was professional, encouraging, and empathetic. Julianne took a great deal of time evaluating the history of my case, and was very honest about what expectations were realistic and unrealistic. Most importantly, I could see that Julianne prioritized the needs and well-being of my children above anything else. She addressed my concerns and provided objective expertise, and she helped me navigate a very challenging and hostile coparenting situation. Thanks to Julianne, my relationship with my children is not only restored and healthy, but also protected.
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22 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
If you want to change your life and have a clear future, please hire Mr. Kenny or Ms. Kelly! They are the best and their customer service is A+!
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11 Nov, 2020 by Sam bakhtiar
James and Kelly price are truly first class. Very caring and compassionate. They are doing an amazing job handling my very complex divorce and so far have been doing an outstanding job. Highly recommend them.
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12 Sep, 2017 by Janelle
Let me just say, you get what you pay for! This attorney includes all fees and rates in his RETAINER, I didn't have any surprise charges on my monthly statements. People, if you want a cheap attorney, expect cheap services! Mr. Kenny was worth every penny, he helped me through my Divorce and Child Custody case and I am so pleased! He was a strong voice in court and definitely knows what he's doing. I felt very confident throughout the course of my divorce, and Ladies let me assure you he will stick up for you. Would recommend his office to anyone!
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19 Sep, 2018 by David c.
Don was extremely professional and informative during my entire case. He took his time in hearing what I wanted to accomplish and help me understand the court system to have realistic expectations. He got me an outcome I could never had done on my own and ultimately help bring my coparent to the table to write an custody agreement that focused on what best for our children. I could not have ask for a better attorney I strongly recommend him if you want an attorney that truly cares about you and will work to accomplish an outcome in your favor.
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04 Mar, 2018 by Debra a.
Outstanding quick response on a Saturday for legal consultation, who does that anymore? Mr. Dench does and my client and I appreciate your dedication to your profession! Thank you!
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20 Nov, 2017 by Trinette s.
Don Dench represented my son in a criminal case. Mr. Dench was referred to me by a family member who knew that I not only needed to find a great lawyer knowledgeable in the law but also a lawyer who was patient and readily available to answer all questions from a very scared mother. Luckily I found both in Mr. Dench! Being that we were unfamiliar with the legal system, I really appreciated the time he took to explain the process and what to expect every step of the way. We never felt alone or helpless during this extremely stressful situation. The case settled in my sons favor and I could not have been more pleased with Mr. Dench's performance in the courtroom. If I am ever in need of a lawyer again, I would not hesitate to hire Don Dench again.
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4.2
12 Reviews
29 Jun, 2024 by Shannon
Help me serve my papers before I was served.
Spent time with me and explained everything
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05 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
Do not hire this attorney, she took my money and stated that she had filed for divorce when the paperwork was atill in her possession. Her staff avoided me and was not available to confirm or deny weather or not my case was filed. Fraud
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10 Mar, 2020 by Brendan
Divorce is stressful...and different for everyone .Ms Ferrante cuts to the chase and gets down to the nuts and bolts of what to expect from your case.she is very personable and takes notes at the consultation as well as when you deal with her face to face.she wont sell you a bill of goods or tell you what you want to hear.I was very frustrated and stressed at my first consultation with her (as well as having a list of lawyers i was going to consult with that day ).after the consultation, i felt great about her and her staff and decided not to bother with my list and im glad i did.dont get sucked in by lawyer games ...if you think you need a lawyer(not every divorce does), then you wont go wrong with Ms Ferrante or her team.she knows her stuff...she knows the system (as well as knowing it can suck).youll get advice from friends and family about what you should and shouldnt do but at the end of the day, advice is biased and often not given by folks who know the full facts.My only quibble with her office are the folks who answer the phones!(theyre not rude but sometimes i did wonder if id reached the correct number...and i feel her office does need to address this.).i would use her (and her office) again....and have no hesitation in reccomending her.you can only navigate the system alone if the divorce is going to be amicable...if it isnt amicable, you need help and Ms Ferrante and her team are the help youll need.Her Paralegal ( i first dealt with Alysha and subsequently dealt with Ruben ) are great and were quick to answer queries by phone or email.your sistuation wont be solved overnight....its a process...and it will be solved better with their help
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28 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
Ms. Koch didn’t live up to her previous review! Dragged my visitation hearing, never hardly spoke when asked questions by judge. Not impressed whatsoever. Buyer’s Beware
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19 Oct, 2016 by Desiree
Ms. Koch helped me win custody of my two kids. My ex, their dad, tried spouting a bunch of lies, but Ms. Koch was always ready to defend me. She helped me get everything I needed and was always there when I needed her. If I could give her more stars, I would!
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19 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Ms. Koch was VERY professional and knowledgeable about the law, my case, and her fees. I was always impressed with how assertive she was with the other attorney. She also educated me on the law so I understood every step of my case.
I would recommend her to anyone
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5.0
20 Reviews
3.0
16 Reviews
12 Jul, 2024 by G gigi
26 Mar, 2024 by Al charvel
Do not hire this lawyer, this guy Sergio is nothing but a thief and a crook he will take your money and run and not represent you right! Do you research and go somewhere else??
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29 Feb, 2024 by Greysy
First of all front office is rude and they never call back
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09 Apr, 2016 by Lori
I hired Attorney David Miller for my divorce. He guided me through a most difficult divorce with knowledge and professionalism. He always answered my questions and concerns. I highly recommend David Miller. Thank you Mr. Miller for your services.
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15 Jan, 2016 by Heather
$400 an hour and $12,000 in the end what does he do? He drops me? Why no more money? Also at the best time when i absolutely needed an attorney to represent me. He took a aggressive stance and wasted my money and my ex's money. When we tried to settle things peacefully, he drops me. Went into negotiations and fueled a bigger war than was necessary. Once he realized there was no money he dropped me. Thanks Miller, you have no business representing anyone!
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10 Mar, 2015 by Brian
David Miller is an excellent attorney and highly recommended. I felt extremely confident having him in my corner during my divorce. He is a professional in his field and also a great guy.
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06 Jul, 2024 by Robinsonr857
After going through a couple of attorneys and thousands of dollars without any resolution, my confidence in the entire legal system was shaken. It became very clear that most attorneys cared more about making money than helping me-the client- get through a very stressful and life-altering event. I was distraught, until a friend told me about Ms. Kahlon, aka "Neelam," whom he retained in the past. After my intitial consultation with Neelham, my confidence in the legal system was restored! She genuinely listened to me and did not trivialize my concerns as other attorneys have done. After I told Neelam my legal issues, she explained to me -in layman's terms- my options and what she can do to help me. I finally felt I had someone on my side! Neelam exceeded my expectations. My legal troubles were finally resolved in a timely manner with care and compassion. I highly recommend Ms. Kahlon! She is the epitome of what a great attorney should be!
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07 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
Hired this lawyer years ago and wouldn't recommend her at all. She was a lawyer from another firm at the time but her services was just not on par and worth the money we paid for her representation. She might be ok with the new firm she's with now but the work she did on our case from a previous law firm was just awful.
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08 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Ms. Kahlon was very helpful on my divorce case. She was responsive, attentive and kept me informed every step on the way. I didn't think the end result was going to be favorable for me but in the end I was awarded full custody and minimal alimony. Not many fathers can say that. She is the best.
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06 Sep, 2015 by Jay ogl
I had occasion to hire John Maclyman and it was It was a great choice. I found him to be attentive listener who took copeus notes,
His questions were pertinent to my case In the interview me of him / him of me, I felt he was genuinely interested in my predicament. At no time was wondering what was happening with my case. He and his secretary / legal assistant kept me aprised as to what was going on. Kudos to his secretary Pam who was instrumental in helping me get through this quirky situation.
We tried to resolve some issues as mandated by the court but to no avail. It was then Game On! Went to court and I could not have happier to have him as my 'champion'. He lawyer'd well and because of this I was / am extremely happily satisfied with the outcome. For anyone seeking a honest, competent through and empathic counselor; I enthusiastically recommend John J. Maclyman ESQ.
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04 Feb, 2015 by Darlene
Beware of this Attorney. John Maclyman Is An ABSOLUTELY horrible attorney. I regret hiring him for me. He DOES NOT, I will repeat DOES NOT get anything done. Him and His office Staff Para Legal assistant (so she call herself) Have no idea on giving any answers. Every time you walk out of his office you feel unsure of what you are paying him for. And, trust me you will be paying for everything for nothing that gets done. You your self will have to do all the following up for them to keep on your case. You will have no idea on whats going on with you situation until you your self follow up. He will drag out you case as long as he can just to keep charging to your amount. I have a simple case that could and should of been finished within a few months, and still now 3 yrs later is still opened with money that's is spend for nothing. If you call you wont get a return call back for days or even maybe not at all (such as my case) , you will be the one to call back. And, then of course he will lie and say he tried to return the calls. Over all I am sorry to hire John Maclyman. I was referred from a different attorney office because it was not what they specialized in. I will make the attempt to contacted them as well to state the kind of attorney they are referring out.I am sure they would want to know to save their own reputation. I hope that I will save the stress and money for someone else by writing this.. And by the way, I also tried emailing them to try to get some kind of call back and their response was they don't check there email. I thought that was odd. If i can rate with Zero stars i would...
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30 Jan, 2015 by Christina d.
John, was the best attorney. Nobody really has any control of the judges in rancho or san bernardino. They are the ones who keep postponing cases. Which is bogus. John helped me with my divorce case in every way and I will always be so very thankful to him for all he has done. Thanks John, Pam and the other very nice ladies in the office. Thank you for everything,.
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01 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
Not that I have met many attorneys but this one is the worst. No website? Who in this day and age has no website? No cell phone? Yes, Zo does not believe in giving out her cell number and all communication (I use the term "communication" with a large degree of sarcasm) no doubt adding up more charges. Ineptitude is a word that does not even cover this attorney again using the term "attorney" lightly if not sarcastically. If your case is important and there is anything on the line then keep walking until you find credible representation. After considerable time on my case Zoe who is crass beyond belief wanted a full run down of my case. In the court hallway. Before the case. Like as in I was sitting there about to testify. Seems a little shoddy? All of the reviews state the same thing and I suggest you listen to those with previous experience and keep looking. Unless your case isn't important and your money has no value.
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19 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Zo Taylor-Rees as my representative attorney for a contentious divorce. The first meeting I had with Zo she was curt and dismissive which should have been my cue to complete the consultation and exit without hiring her. Her manner did not improve in the four months I had dealings with her and her passive approach did not assist my situation, in fact it most likely was the result in a negative situation being more negative. When I left her office 4 K lighter I knew I had made a serious error. It turned out I was right and I suggest you heed/read the reviews here should you need further verification. Taylor-Rees is not passive so much as inept. After the one initial consultation with her in her office each meeting thereafter was held in the hallways in the courtroom. On my second appearance related to the divorce but not the divorce itself Rees substituted another attorney (her husband) and he was not aware of the story, circumstances nor the situation. I had to brief him in the courthouse and thankfully this matter did not progress to trial. I could not imagine going to trial with an attorney playing catch-up the morning of a trial. On the matter of my divorce the last appearance I had secured three witnesses. Despite several attempts to reach Rees the week before the trial she did not return my calls. Most of, if not all communication to Rees is done through her paralegal and Rees neither answers telephone calls nor emails directly. Therefore, one must do all communication though a third party leaving you waiting for a response at the behest of Rees. Rees had not spoken to any of my witnesses to ascertain their value to the case nor furnished me with a list of questions prior to the court date. In the end she did not want to call any of my witnesses to the stand. This could have been easily ascertained prior to the case. Each of my colleagues took a day off from work to testify on my behalf but apparently she did not see fit to use them. If the witnesses had no value to the case that should have been ascertained prior to the court appearance. I subsequently discovered that I could and should have subpoenaed witnesses to testify on my behalf. She was rude and adversarial with me (remembering I am the client) and several of my colleagues who were there on my behalf were horrified at her manner and her hostile tone. I spent the morning in the hallways with Rees squiggling notes on her yellow pad trying to line up the facts of the case in a chronological order despite having been my attorney for four full calendar months. Despite email evidence, photographs, texts videos and all manner of highly relevant items to my case Rees did not offer anything into evidence. She had no predetermined questions for me and missed many, many opportunities to score points for our case. When she did finally call a witness to testify upon my request she was very obviously unprepared. Three weeks prior to the case being heard I consulted with another attorney who suggested I seek turnover orders for assets in the basis of fiduciary waste. This was not completed and the morning of the trial Rees informed me that the motions were going to be presented the following day. Three weeks after I had instructed this to be completed. She was constantly talking about ex-parte motions which were never filed and the one she did file I was informed by my subsequent attorney that it would be rejected and indeed it was. The attorney I hired post Rees also informed me that whole exercise was a completed waste of money. In the four months that Rees was my attorney I never received an update on my account nor the work carried out. The final straw arrived when Gina her paralegal informed me that opposing counsel had enraged her, finally after four months of legal pugilism she was joining the party. I terminated her during that phone call. I have never received a statement nor a refund for work that was not carried out. Caveat Emptor!
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23 Jun, 2014 by Sam
Zo and her paralegal Gina did a fine job for us in the divorce case. Our results were better than we expected. Very knowledgeable
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22 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Reiko is completely unprofessional! I have followed up with her on several occasions pertaining to my case. The only time she will follow up with me is when it pertains to payment. She constantly up charges but does not provide any updates on the case matter. If you can, avoid this firm at all costs especially if you have to pay out of pocket. She will bleed you dry and then not fight for your case in court.
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29 Mar, 2021 by Paul
DO NOT use this attorney for complex legal matters especially ARAG members. This attorney lost every court fight except one during my contested case against my sister. When our mother's home was place for sale I notified the attorney by email and phone of the sale, however, instead of placing a Les Pendens to stop the sale during the first thirty days the home was on the market she procrastinated and dragged her feet and finally after much prodding submitted the Les Pendens four days prior to the close of escrow. However, it was to late and the home was sold because the title company later stated through an email that they checked just before closing of escrow and there was no Les Pendens listed on the county's website. The title company later stated that the county was two weeks late in entering any legal documents into their system.
For ARAG members. The ARAG website shows that members are entitled to a discount in legal fees and the attorney's website shows a charge of $225.00 per hour. However; this attorney charged me $300.00 per hour. I sent her an email regarding the difference in the fee, however; she never responded. During a phone call I requested and she agreed to send me a break down of all invoices but she never did. In closing, after spending several thousands of dollars in contesting this case and several months later this attorney stated that we had a weak case but still requested $50,000 if I wanted to continue fighting this case and hire a medical doctor who specialized in Dementia to review and possibly testify in court. I told her to forget it and close the case.
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21 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Mrs Diaz represented me in a family law case at a time when i was out of a job and needed a cheap lawyer. She was nothing short of terrible. Before court, she acted like she knew the law and protraid some confidence. She started noticeably sweating, she was unable to speak clearly and she exhibited zero to little lnowlege of the law. Every statement she said was objected and sustained; every item she submitted as evidence was thrown out immediately. I would never ever ever recommend Mrs Diaz to represent anyone in court!!! Honestly, I'm surprised she still has her licence to practice law.
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03 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr Pratt would never keep anything i told him as his client to himself. He would phone my ex's attorney and tell him everything i had told him confidentially. I stopped informing Mr Pratt of my business and what i was doing. Mr Pratt did not inform me of a court hearing. In turn I was forced by the court to pay my ex's attorney's fees. Mr Pratt allowed my ex to go into his office and Mr Pratt spoke to my ex on more than one occasion about our court case. Mr Pratt said he would do the quadro for my case. The quadro was so poorly and illegally done that it was refused by my retirement company Cal pers. Mr Pratt gave my ex rights to survivorship. He was legally not entitled to that. Also my ex can not leave my retirement to his girlfriend as Mr Pratt stated in the quadro. Not only did he violate my legal rights regarding the quadro, he told the judge that i would pay for the quadro. I never agreed to this. My ex should pay. I was forced to give him half of my retirement. Even though my ex had a retirement fund that he cashed out and spent. I was not awarded any of my ex's retirement. Mr Pratt knew my retirement was going to be held and cut in half. Cal pers notified Mr Pratt of this 9 months before they notified me. He never informed me of this. I bought a home with my current husband. Because he never informed me we lost our home. Im now homeless. My divorce was filed in the wrong county by my ex. Mr Pratt never informed me of this. In turn i spent 10 years trying to get divorced. My ex is a narcissist. He intentionally kept this divorce going, trying to drain me of any money. Mr Pratt would hound me about whatever my ex wanted. Playboy magazines, alimony, my retirement. We actually had a trial for this divorce. We have No young children. I had very limited money. I was in no way well off. I was a state of California employee. Mr Pratt told me the court case was done. But it was not done. I moved out of the state of California. This was the only break i got dealing with this hellish divorce. The state of California could not do anything because i was no longer under their jurisdiction. Mr Pratt refuses to send me the judgement on the case, even though i have paid him every penny i owe him. Im sorry that i had him as my attorney. He has violated the law and violated my rights. I can not afford another attorney. After 10 years of pure hell i just want my judgement and i never want to deal with him, my ex, or the Riverside Family law court again.
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FAQs
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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:
-
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.
