Lawyers map
>29
experienced lawyers
Filter by
5.0
20 Reviews
5.0
7 Reviews
21 Jan, 2025 by Gulia a
Won my heavily contested child custody battle and support enforcement case. Kayla stood by me and defended my case from the beginning till the end. My custody battle went on for four years, and she defended my case and continued supporting me all the way. She is a very knowledgeable and detail-oriented attorney. I would recommend her to anyone who needs a good quality representation in a family dispute case.
Read more
23 Jan, 2022 by Dipankar dipankar das
29 Nov, 2021 by Bibi ezeonyim
Have you been told that you are worthless, not good enough, a failure, unaccomplished or Inadequate? Have you been told or made to feel incompetent, like you did not bring enough or really anything to the marriage, pretty much that your contribution to your marriage was not good enough. Have you been put down to the point of you losing your self esteem and confidence? Have you been subjected to emotional, mental and or physical abuse in your marriage? If you answered yes to any of the above questions and you want to redeem yourself, then the team of Brian Hirsh and Sharon Pederson is what you need on your side to represent you.
Brian brings with him wealth of knowledge, passion, compassion and empathy. The question is will he accept to represent you.
Sharon’s wealth of knowledge and attention to details makes her a powerful ally.
The day Brian Hirsch and Sharon Pederson agree to represent you, is the day you begin to live again. You will not only get back your self esteem and confidence, you become whole again.
This team will get you justice. I know because it happened to me.
Read more
5.0
8 Reviews
5.0
7 Reviews
21 Jan, 2025 by Gulia a
Won my heavily contested child custody battle and support enforcement case. Kayla stood by me and defended my case from the beginning till the end. My custody battle went on for four years, and she defended my case and continued supporting me all the way. She is a very knowledgeable and detail-oriented attorney. I would recommend her to anyone who needs a good quality representation in a family dispute case.
Read more
23 Jan, 2022 by Dipankar dipankar das
29 Nov, 2021 by Bibi ezeonyim
Have you been told that you are worthless, not good enough, a failure, unaccomplished or Inadequate? Have you been told or made to feel incompetent, like you did not bring enough or really anything to the marriage, pretty much that your contribution to your marriage was not good enough. Have you been put down to the point of you losing your self esteem and confidence? Have you been subjected to emotional, mental and or physical abuse in your marriage? If you answered yes to any of the above questions and you want to redeem yourself, then the team of Brian Hirsh and Sharon Pederson is what you need on your side to represent you.
Brian brings with him wealth of knowledge, passion, compassion and empathy. The question is will he accept to represent you.
Sharon’s wealth of knowledge and attention to details makes her a powerful ally.
The day Brian Hirsch and Sharon Pederson agree to represent you, is the day you begin to live again. You will not only get back your self esteem and confidence, you become whole again.
This team will get you justice. I know because it happened to me.
Read more
5.0
3 Reviews
5.0
7 Reviews
21 Jan, 2025 by Gulia a
Won my heavily contested child custody battle and support enforcement case. Kayla stood by me and defended my case from the beginning till the end. My custody battle went on for four years, and she defended my case and continued supporting me all the way. She is a very knowledgeable and detail-oriented attorney. I would recommend her to anyone who needs a good quality representation in a family dispute case.
Read more
23 Jan, 2022 by Dipankar dipankar das
29 Nov, 2021 by Bibi ezeonyim
Have you been told that you are worthless, not good enough, a failure, unaccomplished or Inadequate? Have you been told or made to feel incompetent, like you did not bring enough or really anything to the marriage, pretty much that your contribution to your marriage was not good enough. Have you been put down to the point of you losing your self esteem and confidence? Have you been subjected to emotional, mental and or physical abuse in your marriage? If you answered yes to any of the above questions and you want to redeem yourself, then the team of Brian Hirsh and Sharon Pederson is what you need on your side to represent you.
Brian brings with him wealth of knowledge, passion, compassion and empathy. The question is will he accept to represent you.
Sharon’s wealth of knowledge and attention to details makes her a powerful ally.
The day Brian Hirsch and Sharon Pederson agree to represent you, is the day you begin to live again. You will not only get back your self esteem and confidence, you become whole again.
This team will get you justice. I know because it happened to me.
Read more
09 Dec, 2024 by Jinal juthani
Priti is the rare kind of lawyer who combines brilliant expertise with a genuinely caring heart. The moment you meet Priti, you know you're in good hands. She has this wonderful ability to make you feel heard and understood, while also being refreshingly honest about your situation. There's no legal jargon or intimidating talk - just clear, straightforward guidance from someone who truly wants to help.
Amazing part about Priti is, how she remembers everything you tell her, even small details you mentioned months ago. She listens with genuine interest and understanding, not just taking notes but truly absorbing your story. This level of attention makes you feel valued and respected, not just like another case file on her desk.
In the courtroom, Priti is simply brilliant. She transforms into a powerful advocate while never losing her authenticity. She's thoroughly prepared, confident, and articulate - watching her in action, you can't stop feeling grateful that she's on your side.
Her organizational skills are amazing. She's always prepared for whatever might come up, thinking several steps ahead to protect your interests. You can see how much she cares about getting things right for her clients.
I particularly appreciated how she handled the financial aspects of my case. In a field where legal fees can be overwhelming, Priti was very reasonable and transparent. She actively guided me on ways to manage costs without compromising the quality of my representation. Her rates were fair, and she genuinely helped me make smart decisions about where to focus our legal efforts.
What truly sets Priti apart is how she guides you through the legal process. She doesn't just handle your case - she makes sure you understand what's happening every step of the way. Whether you're heading to mediation or trial, she takes the time to explain your options and help you make informed decisions. There's never any pressure, just genuine support and expert guidance.
If you're looking for an attorney who'll bring both exceptional legal expertise and genuine human understanding to your case, Priti is absolutely the person you want. She proves that an attorney can be both professionally brilliant and personally approachable. In a field where many lawyers can seem distant or impersonal, Priti stands out as someone who truly puts her heart into helping her clients while delivering outstanding results.
Read more
04 Dec, 2024 by Shikha sharma
I am beyond grateful for the incredible support I received from Priti Khanna throughout my divorce process. From the very first consultation, she demonstrated a level of professionalism, expertise, and empathy that immediately put me at ease during such a difficult and emotional time.
Priti took the time to listen to my concerns, fully understanding the intricacies of my situation and providing clear, practical guidance every step of the way. She communicated regularly, ensuring that I was always updated on the progress of my case and had a solid understanding of my options.
What stood out the most was Priti's ability to negotiate with patience and determination, always keeping my best interests in mind. Her strategic approach helped to minimize stress, and thanks to her hard work, the outcome of my case was more favorable than I could have expected.
If you're looking for a lawyer who is not only knowledgeable but also compassionate and dedicated, I highly recommend Priti Khanna . She made a challenging process much more manageable, and I’m grateful for her unwavering support.
Read more
09 May, 2024 by Adi adi
I am impressed with the professionalism & expertise of Priti Khanna. I really appreciate the understanding about the case completely and the way she handled it. Priti Khanna comes with great compassion and excellent legal skills. I was happy that i had priti khanna as my attorney and she was always right about her advice. I would surely recommend her to anyone who is in need of legal services.
Read more
21 Jan, 2025 by Gulia a
Won my heavily contested child custody battle and support enforcement case. Kayla stood by me and defended my case from the beginning till the end. My custody battle went on for four years, and she defended my case and continued supporting me all the way. She is a very knowledgeable and detail-oriented attorney. I would recommend her to anyone who needs a good quality representation in a family dispute case.
Read more
23 Jan, 2022 by Dipankar dipankar das
29 Nov, 2021 by Bibi ezeonyim
Have you been told that you are worthless, not good enough, a failure, unaccomplished or Inadequate? Have you been told or made to feel incompetent, like you did not bring enough or really anything to the marriage, pretty much that your contribution to your marriage was not good enough. Have you been put down to the point of you losing your self esteem and confidence? Have you been subjected to emotional, mental and or physical abuse in your marriage? If you answered yes to any of the above questions and you want to redeem yourself, then the team of Brian Hirsh and Sharon Pederson is what you need on your side to represent you.
Brian brings with him wealth of knowledge, passion, compassion and empathy. The question is will he accept to represent you.
Sharon’s wealth of knowledge and attention to details makes her a powerful ally.
The day Brian Hirsch and Sharon Pederson agree to represent you, is the day you begin to live again. You will not only get back your self esteem and confidence, you become whole again.
This team will get you justice. I know because it happened to me.
Read more
21 Jan, 2025 by Gulia a
Won my heavily contested child custody battle and support enforcement case. Kayla stood by me and defended my case from the beginning till the end. My custody battle went on for four years, and she defended my case and continued supporting me all the way. She is a very knowledgeable and detail-oriented attorney. I would recommend her to anyone who needs a good quality representation in a family dispute case.
Read more
23 Jan, 2022 by Dipankar dipankar das
29 Nov, 2021 by Bibi ezeonyim
Have you been told that you are worthless, not good enough, a failure, unaccomplished or Inadequate? Have you been told or made to feel incompetent, like you did not bring enough or really anything to the marriage, pretty much that your contribution to your marriage was not good enough. Have you been put down to the point of you losing your self esteem and confidence? Have you been subjected to emotional, mental and or physical abuse in your marriage? If you answered yes to any of the above questions and you want to redeem yourself, then the team of Brian Hirsh and Sharon Pederson is what you need on your side to represent you.
Brian brings with him wealth of knowledge, passion, compassion and empathy. The question is will he accept to represent you.
Sharon’s wealth of knowledge and attention to details makes her a powerful ally.
The day Brian Hirsch and Sharon Pederson agree to represent you, is the day you begin to live again. You will not only get back your self esteem and confidence, you become whole again.
This team will get you justice. I know because it happened to me.
Read more
17 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Despite my complicated case, Carole significantly made progress towards a settlement by working with the opposing counselor and moving things forward. I was working with a different attorney and unfortunately, things weren't going anywhere for more than 6 months. When that attorney left the office and Carole was assigned to work on my case everything shifted for the better. She is very cooperative, responsive, and very approachable at any time to answer questions or even just rant about the situation. Thanks to her communication skills with the opposing counselors, My case was settled and I got divorced without compromising any of my rights.
Read more
29 Jul, 2018 by Nancy
I highly recommend Lisa Levy as an exceptional family attorney Ms. Levy took the time to truly understand the particulars of my case and the psychological profile of my ex. This enabled she and I to be of like minds in bringing a settlement which was advantageous for myself and supports the best interest of my child.
I would not have been able to fight for my custodial rights and prevail in the process without Lisa looking out for my best interests. Ms. Levy educated me on legal strategies and state statutes beneficial to my case. Her insight into the mindset and precedents of the judge in my case proved invaluable.
I felt comfortable bringing my concerns to Ms. Levy, relying on her ability to anticipate problems and present the best solutions in managing a complicated relationship with my ex. Choosing Lisa Levy as my attorney resulted in a carefully crafted Order designed to save time, money, and emotional distress going forward.
Read more
12 Nov, 2024 by Calvin ngo
As an attorney practicing in another state, I found myself in the unusual position of needing legal representation in Virginia and chose to retain Borjian Law Group. As such, I had the pleasure of working closely with the managing attorney, Maryam Borjian. I am extremely grateful for Maryam’s hard work and dedication in resolving a baseless garnishment on a personal account. Maryam simplified my case, meticulously handling each stage of the case, ensuring that no detail was overlooked. Maryam was highly receptive to my input and kept me informed at every step of the way to allay any of my concerns. Her outstanding communication extended beyond regular business hours, and she would even call me after-hours to provide case updates. Maryam's qualities as an attorney is readily apparent as soon as you meet her – she genuinely cares about her clients, and her dedication to achieve the best possible outcome on my behalf was certainly appreciated. Her warm demeanor, approachable personality made the experience a truly positive one amidst a stressful time. I am delighted to write this review and wholeheartedly recommend Borjian Law Group without reservation.
Read more
10 Nov, 2024 by Anonymous
"My lawyer showed a deep understanding of my personal situation and demonstrated empathy throughout the legal process. This helped me a great deal to get through this difficult time."
Read more
09 Nov, 2024 by H w
Initially, Maryam seemed very convincing and helpful. My family and I approached her for assistance with a garnishment, and she repeatedly reassured us that it could be easily resolved. She even expressed a “strong feeling” that she could “get rid of this” for us. After encouraging us to pay her, we did so, but then she went silent for two weeks. In our growing concern, my family and I reached out to her for an update. She finally responded, telling us there was nothing she could do and that she was overwhelmed by the two calls and two text messages we had sent. She then sent an email stating that she was no longer taking the case and wished us the best of luck. We paid $1,200 for no service or resolution. Please be cautious when choosing someone to represent you—this experience felt like a marketing scam.
Read more
5.0
1 Reviews
5.0
1 Reviews
14 Jan, 2022 by Gantulga tsogdelger
We got Mr. Kim just 5 months ago. He worked our Green card process. Unbelievably we received Green card 5 months later. He worked very good and professional. We’re so happy. We’ll strongly recommend
Read more
01 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
Cherise is a very professional and transparent attorney. She assisted me in one matter I was dealing with in Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court and I engaged her on a second matter, as I felt she was very competent, well versed, and had my best intentions in mind.
Read more
24 Nov, 2018 by Suzanne
Robert Dain is the best lawyer in this area. He is a seasoned legal professional, experienced and extremely knowledgeable in all aspects of the law. Well respected in the courts, and held in high regard, Mr. Dain is fair and honest, humble -- all while committing himself to his clients' best interest in their case. I swiftly moved my divorce case to Mr. Dain after realizing my "family law" junior attorney was not making any traction, unfriendly and one who pandered to the OC. Mr. Dain is savvy and simply genuine. He had my best interest and that of my children at the forefront, in advocating for me. He had to work quickly to undo the former attorney's lack of detail for an upcoming deposition. It was amazing how quickly Mr. Dain got up to speed; asking all of the right questions, to my now ex-husband. We settled and did not go to court yet Mr. Dain was prepared in the event the opposing team would not cooperate. Most importantly in the interest of my children, we did not wish to subject them to that hostile environment. I look forward to working with Mr. Dain in the future regarding estate issues and perhaps, follow-up with my divorce case. His representation and negotiation skills were life-saving during such a difficult time. His calm, upbeat manner and strength have a way to put his clients at ease. I'm certain many would agree.
Read more
01 Sep, 2017 by Abby morris
Mr Robert Dain is a lawyer who does an excellent job. He always advises me right, does what he promises & he is very patient. He responds to my calls & emails without delays & his fees are very reasonable. As a client I feel very comfortable with mr R. Dain. I will recommend him to anyone.
Thank you Robert Dain
Read more
28 Jun, 2017 by John
Robert (Bob) Dain and his partners at his firm handled my case (foreclosure resulting in subrogation claim filing Breach of Contract) in a professional manner and I didn't feel like he was 'riding the clock' so to speak on my case. EXPERIENCE MATTERS.... The plaintiff in my case was hoping for easy picking but Bob and his firm was able to blow it out of the water causing the Plaintiff Attorney to request a non-suit (Dismissal without Prejudice).
If you have a $90K problem you need a GOOD attorney and I would not hesitate to counsel Bob and his firm again for cases in Virginia.
Read more
21 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Kristina Cruz did an excellent job in my child custody case. I now have full custody of my son and am very happy. Miss Cruz explain everything to me as far as how my court case would go and that's just the way it went. I would strongly recommend Miss Cruz to anyone who has a child custody case.
Read more
08 Sep, 2017 by Blanche
I contacted Kristina five years ago when my ex and I separated. I specifically hired her because of her vast knowledge of military law. Since my ex husband was in the military, I knew I needed a lawyer such as Kristina. From the moment Kristina took my case, I knew she would fight hard for me. I was so impress with her attention to detail such as her research on topics such as spousal support and what exactly am I entitled to in regards to military benefits. She never gave up on me and my case. It paid off because in the end, I received everything that we requested in the divorce proceedings. My kids and I will be forever grateful to Kristina. Because of her, I am able to give my kids the life they deserve.
Read more
07 Sep, 2017 by Christopher
Kristina, supported me through a very complex divorce and custody case. The situation was very unique, complicated and emotional. Kristina demonstrated her expertise command of the law and the court systems. Kristina made this difficult situation as palatable as possible while providing me a sense of comfort that she and her firm were doing everything in their power to represent my best interests. Kristina's court presence was exceptional and it was obvious to me that the judges had great respect for her litigation skills and her command in the court room. The outcome of my case was beyond what I had expected. As a father, I was awarded full legal and physical custody of my son which is generally unheard of in the state Virginia. Also, my financial interests were protected beyond what I had expected. Cannot thank Kristina enough for her hard work and diligence with my case.
Read more
14 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
Kitty did a great job guiding me through a difficult time. She is very thorough and goes through everything carefully to best suit your needs.
Read more
14 Jan, 2020 by Erin
Kitty was a godsend for me during my divorce. She was wonderful, tactful, and empathetic during the entire process. She saved me from myself more than once, when I let my emotions get the best of me during the arduous legal process. Her guidance and strategy were always explained clearly to me, and she fought for me & always had my best interests in mind. I really appreciate her guidance and advice during this difficult process; I was lucky to be in her good hands. She was a calming voice of reason in a wild storm. She also kept defense in check and would not back down. I admire her integrity, empathy, and confidence - she’s one of the best attorneys I’ve ever had! The whole team at her office was awesome - I’ve already recommended them to friends and family. Thank you so much for everything you have done for me, Kitty! My life now is better and happier thanks to you! I am forever grateful.
Read more
07 Sep, 2008 by Kim
I am a Ph.D. candidate in the field of criminology, and I know what makes a good attorney. I give Mr. Walker my most sincere endorsement. He is honest, caring, knowledgeable, and an zealous advocate for his clients. He was truly worth every penny I paid him! On a more personal note, the family law case I went through was the most difficult experience of my life, and Mr. Walker went beyond the call of duty by being a friend, counselor, and comedian-who could always turn my frown upside down-in addition to being my advocate. I would recommend him-highly-to anyone going through any type of family law issue. He will give it to you straight on what you can expect, and he will let you know the potential outcomes and alternatives to any issue. He earns his keep. He is articulate and knowledgeable. Furthermore, he has a wonderful rapport with most of the judges and attorneys in this area. I can not say enough about how amazing he is. Look no further, you just found the best attorney around!!!!!!!!!
Read more
21 Mar, 2024 by Tommy818
He really handles your case like he cares...he really tries to get the best possible result for you..
Read more
09 Aug, 2020 by Claire
Jay and his team were very welcoming from the beginning, and I felt very supported. The environment was very familial, and I always felt like I could reach out at any time. I hired Jay for my divorce, following a friend's recommendation. He did an excellent job at putting my children's interest first, and with his expertise, he guided me through a very difficult time. Everyone at Myerson Law Group was very dependable and efficient throughout the entire process.
Read more
16 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
I had Jay represented me in child custody & support. Despite I didn't get sole custody as I'd like yet Jay gave me a flat fee due to my job lost and not mind working hard with his Associates Elanna to get most of what I asked. You could totally trust him, his ethical and friendly staff.
Read more
20 Jul, 2020 by Indrit
I am a young, IT professional, residing in the Northern Virginia area who has been familiar with divorce, separation and family law for about 4 years now. This is due to a really bad divorce and child custody battle between my ex wife and I. I had two attorneys that I retained the first time around and although i got what i feel was decent representation, it did not come close to what Lindsay has done for me. It was like she took this case personally. Unlike previous lawyers, Lindsay did not wait until last minute to prepare for this case. From day one she took the time ti not only get familiar with the case, but she took time to get to know me as an individual. This was especially important because i was the main witness in my defense. She took advantage of my strengths and took into consideration my weaknesses. This was critical in preparing me to take the stand. One thing that really stood out to me and comforted me in this matter was receiving emails from her late in the evening. This let me know that my case was of the upmost priority for her as that is usually time I personally reserve for personal matters and I would NEVER let work interrupt that, not Lindsay.
I could really spend days going over why I am SO satisfied with her services, but I will save everyone the time.
I got exactly what I had been asking for, from this case. Lindsay was very likable to the judge and had great confidence and delivery. Honestly, I would have written this review EVEN if things did NOT go my way in trial. She deserves it! I am a single father who just simply wants a relationship with his daughter and that's what Lindsay Rebecca Hendrix gave me.
Give her a shot! Let her hear you out! Feel free to reach out to me on here if you have any questions about my experience with her but I can say with confidence that after one simple conversation with her, you will know you are in good hands.
Best of luck yall, with all of your trial matters.
Indrit Greblleshi - Defendant in the Greblleshi matter.
Read more
31 Jan, 2020 by Trisha
amazing wonderful and beautiful lawyer in loudoun county virginia. She is a wonderful mother and dog mom to teagan, kellan, and sammy. She saved my family and made sure my husband Michael was locked away forever. I received a profit of $900,690 with her as my attorney. Now i ain't need no sugary daddy. THANK YOU LINDS!
Read more
23 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
I retained Lindsey to represent me in my divorce. She gave me bad advise regarding custody of my child that I am fighting against several years later. She has ruined my child's life and there is little I can do about it now despite the fact I am court all the time with my ex. I regret ever meeting Lindsey.
Read more
17 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
I had two consultations with Ms. Ehlenberger and both opportunities were bad experiences. As other reviews mentioned, Ms. Ehlenberger was more interested in having a friendly relationship with opposing counsel than in protecting my best interests. She also didn’t have the answer to many of my questions and was not pleasant at all. I had a consultation with another attorney and realized immediately the huge difference in knowledge and treatment.
Read more
13 Oct, 2016 by Michael
Carol helped me with my custody case and was able to keep my daughter from relocating with her mother to another state. She is professional, straight forward and honest. It was a pleasure working with her and her team. Everyone at the firm is very professional and helpful in every way possible. She was very prompt with communication and was transparent the whole time with what to expect during the case. I highly recommend Carol to anyone looking for a lawyer who is trustworthy, experienced and very knowledgeable!!
Read more
27 Sep, 2016 by Luis
Carol was great!! From the very beginning I was told what to expect and what my chances were in my custody battle. There were no surprises, just good old fashion honesty and dedicated work.
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.
