Lawyers map
>7
experienced lawyers
Filter by
15 Aug, 2024 by Bruce
Samantha is amazing. Her legal knowledge and communication skills are top notch! She is the family law attorney we all hope to get if we need one.
Read more
22 Jun, 2024 by Kevin
First and foremost Samantha is so amazing. My sons mom relapseed on prescription meds. She was and is in complete denial to this day. We were never married. We opened the case June 9th of 2022. It took several court dates. Samantha has walked me through domestic violence, restraining orders, ex parte, three different Child custody investigations and Trail. When this all started we were 50/50 custody. At that time I had child support which I payed close to 1300.00 a month. Roughly a year later we went back into court because my sons mom was saying she was going to kill her self and that she was going to take are son with her! We head back to court roughly two days later. I received temporary full custody and she got supervised visits 3 times a week. Today is June 22, 2024 I Now have been to trail and i received full custody have are son. Are son is able to see mom three times a week that's if she show up to the facility. Samantha is incredibly fare when it comes to only stating facts and show prove to back it up is ideal. Her paper work is very very intense and is probably one of best at it as far as im concerned. Her communcation skills are very very good. If I asked a question generally within a few hours I got a clear answer. When we would have a court date I had sometimes lots of work to do on end. Looking for bank statements etc. Was not that hard because she kept me organized and she is very organized. She even had dead lines for me. I had so many things happening every week with my ex she pushed me to write in a journal. I do it to the day still which is extremely important. I was never once promised that something would happen in court. I was giving the worst out come and best outcome going into court every time. I personally got the best every time. I would never think about calling a different lawyer. I felt so comfortable with her that I had my moments and would cry. I no longer see Samantha as my lawyer I see Samantha as good friend. Not really sure what I would have done out her on my side of the street. You cannot go wrong with Samantha she is the best in Orange County. Take her advice and do what she says to do even if you don't want to. Im forever grateful. Kevin
Read more
06 Jun, 2024 by Allison
Samantha was very responsible and friendly. Her advice was helpful and easy to understand.
Read more
10 Jun, 2024 by Debbie mouwdy
If you are seeking a honorable, knowledgeable, sharp, honest & intellectual Adina Stern is who you need to contact. Adina & her staff are wonderful. Thankyou Adina & staff for all of your ongoing help. You helped me get through a very difficult time. 🙏
Read more
18 May, 2024 by Linda jiménez
I would definitely recommend Fresh Start Law Center. They are the best got my Expongement aproved. Thank you again David Huffman and his team.
Read more
29 Apr, 2024 by Cici (butterfly)
This is my truthful assessment stemming from my interactions with Fresh Star Law Center, honest review, and I want to share my experience.
I began the journey in February 2024 and immediately received all the necessary information to for my specific case. After payment, they started working on the case immediately and provided frequent updates and a step-by-step process, responding to every email within 24 hours or less, FRESH START LAW CENTER !! delivered and we are extremely pleased with the outcome - 100% case were dismissed. This is the kind of outcome you can anticipate when working with this firm.
1)You will receive responses.
2) You will receive access to a portal where you can track the progress of your case step by step.
3) Affordable prices and they work with you
You will always be able to see the filing date, updates, and exceptional service. They prioritize your questions and again keep you inform of all updates. . I communicated primarily through email and the portal, which is effective because it provides constant updates without requiring callbacks. 90% of my communication was done in this way. I am grateful to Fresh Start LAW Center and all of its team members. The outcomes had a significant impact on our lives. If you need a Law Firm for any reason, I highly suggest hiring FRESH START LAW CENTER as they excel in assisting with your case.
I am completely satisfied as a customer and I would suggest Fresh Start Law Center to anyone who requires assistance with a legal issue.
I am not being compensated or receiving anything for this review. This firm has been my personal journey, and I am ecstatic to finally be able to move on from it. Thank you
Read more
3.7
6 Reviews
3.7
3 Reviews
19 Jul, 2024 by Khaled jlassi
Great lawyer, helped us pretty well with our prenup and he did his best making the process easy and smooth. I highly recommend him
Read more
29 Sep, 2023 by Romy maxwell
Had a phone consult with Steven Mulligan that lasted 11 minutes.
After a few minutes of normal conversation, he became progressively more hurried, rude and condescending, telling me he's got other leads to call. Guy couldn't even pronounce my name, called me Roxy.
If you want a lawyer who rushes you off the phone and treats you like a checkbook, then call this guy. If you want a professional, look elsewhere. Literally every other lawyer I spoke to before and after him was a breath of fresh air.
Read more
20 Sep, 2023 by Stephanie
I am 21 years old, and I graduated college in May 2023. When I started college, I didn't have the credit history to obtain a private student loan for tuition expenses, and I didn't know anyone who would co-sign for me -- and my parents weren't in the position to do so either. Having a decent job at the time, I had the 'bright idea' to obtain a personal loan through my credit union (Founders FCU in SC) to pay for my tuition expenses. Each year I borrowed a little more to pay for each semester -- the loan ended up reaching a whopping $10,000. My credit union also talked me into applying for a credit card -- which I did and had a limit of $5,000. My fall semester of college I lost the job I had throughout college, and having no income until my internship started the next summer, I wasn't able to make the payments and they eventually went into charge off status. Also, during my Junior year in college, my grandmother needed a loan for medical expenses, and her credit was not good enough to qualify on her own, I agreed to co-sign for her, which was dumb, I know. It was a smaller open line of credit ($2,500) at State Employees Credit Union in NC. Around 6 months in, she couldn't make the payments, so I paid it off for her. Unknown to me, she took out an advance on the line right before she passed, and I found out shortly after and was stuck with the bill, and that did not help with the fact that I had lost my job and was already drowning in debt that I could not pay. That account went into charged off status as well shortly after. I have been in a relationship for a couple years, we recently moved in together, and the struggle of being approved as a co-applicant due to my credit made me realize that I needed to get my credit back in shape. It's easy to give up and forget about it, but I know that in the next 3-5 years we will want to buy a house, and I don't want to be the one who makes it difficult because I haven't addressed my credit situation. I have attempted a settlement and payment arrangement with Founders FCU and they have surprisingly been very difficult to work with -- they will not settle and will not make a payment arrangement with me. They also told me that they have filed a judgement. The loan through Founders is still accruing interest as well, but the credit card is not. I got a secured loan through NFCU in March for $300 at a 6-month term, after that a friend of mine who is an attorney recommended PINNACLE CREDIT SPECIALIST to me, which I quickly contacted and explained my predicament to them. They gave me 100% assurance that they’ll bring my credit back to shape. Within 6 days they made my State Employees line of credit reporting as paid and some of my debts marked as paid which boosted my score to an excellent score. Mohela student loan no longer appears on my credit report. All thanks to PINNACLE CREDIT SPECIALIST for helping me gain my happiness back, I sincerely recommend them. Hit them up on email:Â
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
-
What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases. -
Who will be handling my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.
How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
- Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
- List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
- Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
- Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.
Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.
