Filter by

star star star star star
22 Sep, 2023 by Alex lawyer
Very nice man fair price helping me with a k1 visa for my fiance highly recommend his services.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Nov, 2022 by Rita-ben duru
Google Maps
star star star star star
16 Aug, 2022 by Erica taylor
Service was very professional on the phone,answered my questions!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
05 Dec, 2022 by Manpreet
Mr. Jonathan and his team worked on my case related to FDCPA and his team was always communicating when needed throughout the process. A great law firm and great team.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
12 Jul, 2022 by Janet miller
Jim helped me when no one else would without big money up front. he is a true gentleman and I would refer anyone to him and highly recommend. He is prompt in responding to inquiries and goes out of his way to help no matter what the issue is.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
14 May, 2022 by Nick keener
He did everything promise and more.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
22 Aug, 2024 by Emage
I had the honor of being guided by Harris Law. Ms. Harris gave me insight, options and timeliness. She answered every phone call and had an answer for every inquiry. By for the best counsil one could ever ask for. She goes above and beyond for her clients / potential clients. If you are looking for legal aid I highly Recommend Ms. Harris.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Jul, 2024 by Clifton sparrow jr
Visited with Atty Bryan Steward. Great group of professionals. Great service! Been working with Atty Steward for over 10 plus years. Committed to EXCELLENCE!!!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
20 Feb, 2024 by Kennessa m. ward
Extremely knowledgeable and patient. She took her time to explain things that I didn’t understand in our case. She is also fair in pricing. I didn’t feel rushed when I spoke with her.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
17 Apr, 2024 by Jeremy hupp
Does great work!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
30 Jan, 2024 by Scott walker
Scott is knowledgeable and was very helpful navigating us through our mother’s estate during a very difficult time - thank you
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Dec, 2023 by Don corbett
One of the best!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
27 Apr, 2023 by Kinser
Rude
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Jun, 2020 by Felicia conley
Google Maps
star star star star star
14 Feb, 2020 by Luke zarlino
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
12 Jul, 2022 by Janet miller
Jim helped me when no one else would without big money up front. he is a true gentleman and I would refer anyone to him and highly recommend. He is prompt in responding to inquiries and goes out of his way to help no matter what the issue is.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
14 May, 2022 by Nick keener
He did everything promise and more.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
26 May, 2020 by Martinez concrete
Has always BEEN very respectful and always gets the job done. I have used him for years and still the best attorney I know. Thank you Joel for every thing
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
12 Jul, 2022 by Janet miller
Jim helped me when no one else would without big money up front. he is a true gentleman and I would refer anyone to him and highly recommend. He is prompt in responding to inquiries and goes out of his way to help no matter what the issue is.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
14 May, 2022 by Nick keener
He did everything promise and more.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
26 May, 2020 by Martinez concrete
Has always BEEN very respectful and always gets the job done. I have used him for years and still the best attorney I know. Thank you Joel for every thing
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
06 Mar, 2024 by Olga hesch
Google Maps
star star star star star
22 Jan, 2024 by Jhanda sims
Google Maps
star star star star star
20 Dec, 2023 by Ben smith
Doug Stewart did an amazing job for my case. I will continue to use him if anything else ever comes up. Not only has he been professional and successful during our case, but he also provides a lot of knowledge and wisdom for outside of the courtroom and how to prepare.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
16 Aug, 2020 by Stephany
Several years ago, Jodelle D' Amico, was my child support attorney. She did such an excellent job on my case!! Because of her excellent attorney skills, everything came out in my favor. I am disappointed that she is no longer practicing family law because I wanted to seek her help again .
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
04 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Jodelle is incompetent. She handled my divorce but after conversation with another lawyer I found out how poorly she handled my case. We had an ongoing testy relationship and I regret staying with her.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
02 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
I was referred to Jodi by another attorney and told she was a great divorce lawyer. While she has been practicing law for quite some time and is respected in the court system, I was not at all impressed with her work. The office is old and antiquated, all attorneys share the same e-mail address so you never know who is reading your correspondence or if she is getting what you send her, the paralegal overworked and disgruntled with her job, speaking negatively about Jodi during my first meeting as I waited for her to arrive, literally trying to warn me off from using her to begin with as she said she is not the one to use if children are involved because she "doesn't get why mothers get so protective of their kids," and the paralegal ultimately quit. The next one didn't last longer than a week or two. Once the case got started, so did the problems. There was an absolute lack of communication. E-mails went unanswered over and over again. She would say she was e-mailing information I needed, but it was never received; then when I didn't respond because I never got an e-mail, I was chastised for "not cooperating." Phone calls rarely returned. If leaving more than one message due to not having calls returned, she would literally yell and lecture for calling too much and bothering her. Not notified of court dates or other deadlines looming, little or no prep before court dates. She received discovery by the opposing counsel that I did not receive until months later, well past the deadline for response, even though she swore she sent me the information, which she didn't and we had to rush to complete. If she were a doctor, she would be described as having a horrible bedside manner: Is very impatient, rude, condescending, and brash and insulting. Does not like to be questioned on strategy or issues, even when what she is proposing doesn't make sense or isn't in her client's best interest. The way she treats clients is almost as abusive as the relationships they left, and is totally uncalled for from a "professional." To be fair to her, she knows the law and was probably a great attorney at one time. It just seems as though she is disenchanted with the field and should probably retire soon as her ability to be an ally to people during a difficult time in their life is sorely lacking. I have often said I felt she was working against me instead of helping me, as one would expect from an attorney they hired to help them through a divorce, a stressful time in anyone's life. One ruling in particular she seemed incredibly disingenuous when coming to tell me that's the best she could do, as though some back room deal was made with opposing counsel that wasn't in my best interest at all and oh, well, just accept it. I have had contact with other attorneys throughout the years and have rarely come across one as rude as she is to her own clients. She has no shame in insulting you, your situation, your children, or making comments that are hurtful and rude. When questioned about one matter in particular that needed addressed, I was quickly told I could find another attorney if I didn't think she was doing a good job....many months into the case when it would be difficult for someone else to take over. I got the feeling that she was always shifting blame to me, trying to make me wrong, rather than take responsibility for a mistake or oversight on her part. Hoping to get this wrapped up with the least amount of damage to myself as possible, but considering filing a Bar complaint for unethical behavior for an officer of the court. If you have children, I would not recommend her at all. For an easy divorce where you and your spouse agree, perhaps, just to get the paperwork done and filed she would be fine. Anything beyond that, the stress of trying to work with her to get property and custody issues resolved and a divorce completed as quickly as possible is more stressful than getting divorced itself.
Read more Avvo
See 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:

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

How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer

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

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

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

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

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

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

Scroll to top