Lawyers map
>343
experienced lawyers
Filter by
20 Jul, 2019 by Barbara
Mike got my case dropped! I was being sued for over $330,000 by an insurance company. Mike quickly identified the flaws in their case and the company yielded. I highly recommend him.
Read more
04 Feb, 2019 by Christine
Michael's expert guidance allowed me to leave a bat infested apartment immediately and recover monies I had paid yo the landlord in a timely fashion so that I could relocate. He also recovered medical costs I incurred as a result of contact with bats. His expert advice saved my son and myself from living in terrible conditions.
Read more
29 Jul, 2018 by Christine barbato
My daughter was advised by the judge in Warwick County Court get a restraining order and a lawyer on the landlord. This has been going on for 8 years I moved 2 years ago my daughter stayed. This is a long story in a serious lawsuit.
Read more
08 Apr, 2023 by Brienna
I saw something and I did something and it got me sued. Thank God for Mark. The only reason I got through that whole thing was because of him and his legal expertise. He's not just a lawyer, he has compassion and a heart and he gives a s***. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Read more
16 Nov, 2022 by Tom
Good day. Approx. 3 years ago me and my service dog were attacked by 2 pitbulls that were loose. My dog was almost killed and I sustained serious injuries that kept me incapacitated for months.
The dog's owner had no home owner's insurance and he would not cooperate. D'Oliveira and associates refused to take the case because there was no insurance. Attorney Morse took my case out of kindness and he did a fantastic job. He didn't have to take my case and I am eternally grateful for his help and insight. He is a class act and deserves any accolades sent his way.
THANK YOU SIR.
Read more
15 Jan, 2020 by Anonymous
Well versed in animal law, and has a great deal of experience in the field. Was able to explain what we could anticipate and was there through the entire process.
Read more
10 Jan, 2023 by Blair
Attorney Ricker very kindly handled my name change petition pro bono and treated me and my case with the same professionalism that I would expect in a paid matter. She and her staff are wonderful!
Read more
29 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
Attorney Ricker provides exceptional representation to her clients. I heartily endorse her without reservation.
Read more
26 Apr, 2018 by Andreea
We have been charged unfairly a non-utilization tax for Woonsocket, RI and Carol has helped us fight the cause and have this tax abated. It's been a long fight with tons of follow ups that she made to the right people. It's finally over and it really matters to have an outstanding lawyer on your side in these cases. She has been fighting for us continuously even when we lost hope. I highly recommend her work!
Read more
18 Aug, 2020 by Joy
Amy is very personable and efficient. There have been a few times that I have gone to court without what was ordered of me, with the expectation of incarceration resulting. AMY HAS KEPT ME FROM GOING TO JAIL ON MORE THAN A FEW OCCASIONS. And I did not make it easy for her to do that, by disobeying the court order.
Read more
29 Jul, 2020 by Tara
My attorney was more than efficient ,she was patient & spoke with clarity while exploring more than one avenue with my case. I had a better outcome than expected. I would highly recommend her.
Read more
27 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
Amy has been our attorney off and on over the past 10 years. She has helped us with child custody, adoption and most recently a restraining order case which all went in our favor. She is very thorough with court documents and explaining the details
of cases. Her fees are reasonable to the amount of time she spends working and preparing for court. She’s punctual and always makes herself available for questions. We would highly recommend her. Thank you again Amy for all your amazing work!
Read more
11 Sep, 2021 by Fred h
Attorney Brady has helped me on several occasions.
Everyone wants to hire an attorney who is knowledgeable. Everyone wants to hire an attorney who is a winner. Bob is that and more. He is tough. When Bob is representing you, you can rest assured that he will do everything he can to get you a positive outcome.
Fred E Hallal, Ed.D
Read more
03 Nov, 2019 by Joseph silva
16 Oct, 2019 by Michael delsignore
One of the best lawyers in Rhode Island for anything you need to fight for, car accidents, divorce or work related injury. Very well respected by all judges in Rhode Island. I have used him and recommended others to him with great results.
Read more
21 Jun, 2023 by Benjamin
Extremely great lawyer , handle my case extremely well with out come. I still work with him , and have referred people to him..
Read more
10 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
If you're in search for a lawyer to represent you regarding family court matters, look no further. This man is amazing and very meticulous in his work on every detail. My standards are extremely high, he meets and exceeds all of them. Highly recommended.
Read more
16 Jul, 2018 by Clare
Jack Quigley handled my very difficult divorce that my husband dragged out for years. He worked with me to find the financial records my husband had hidden and to finally negotiate a property settlement that gave me my life and sanity back. Whether your divorce is amicable or not, I recommend Jack.
Read more
11 Sep, 2021 by Fred h
Attorney Brady has helped me on several occasions.
Everyone wants to hire an attorney who is knowledgeable. Everyone wants to hire an attorney who is a winner. Bob is that and more. He is tough. When Bob is representing you, you can rest assured that he will do everything he can to get you a positive outcome.
Fred E Hallal, Ed.D
Read more
03 Nov, 2019 by Joseph silva
16 Oct, 2019 by Michael delsignore
One of the best lawyers in Rhode Island for anything you need to fight for, car accidents, divorce or work related injury. Very well respected by all judges in Rhode Island. I have used him and recommended others to him with great results.
Read more
10 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
Atty Pederzani provided excellent representation for my divorce and child support cases. He has a calm and informative manner that put me at ease. In the court, however, he is aggressive and fought so I received everything I deserved. Several friends have used him and were also highly satisfied. Would highly recommend!
Read more
10 Mar, 2016 by Paul k.
I have known Paul for many years through our military careers. He was an exemplary officer and when I needed the services of a talented attorney, I immediately contacted him. He has represented me in a variety of legal situations ranging from wills for my parents to divorce for myself. I have the highest regard for Paul and I recommend him highly.
Read more
22 Mar, 2015 by Margaret
During long divorce proceedings, Attorney Pederzani worked with me patiently and professionally.His office manager always kept me informed, and I truly felt that the three of us were an effective team which resulted in a positive outcome for both the divorce settlement and, later, an increase in the child support. He's very knowledgable about the technicalities of military divorces and I would highly recommend him.
Read more
24 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
Cathy was referred to me by a family member. She is very trustworthy, and has helped with several legal matters.
I would recommend her to my family and friends.
I can’t say enough good things about her.
Read more
16 Feb, 2021 by Deborah
Cathy Graziano, is the Best attorney I ever dealt with. She is caring and goes above and beyond to help you. She gets right back to you by phone or text. I can't say enough about her other than she is the BEST ATTORNEY!!!
Read more
16 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
Cathy is such an amazing attorney! She represented me for a divorce and a personal injury matter. She was knowledgeable of the law, diligent and caring. She did not gouge me for fees as many other attorneys would as well. So happy I found Cathy. I also loved that she was easily accessible by cell phone, text or email. I would recommend her to any and all of my friends and family In need of legal assistance.
Read more
31 Aug, 2015 by Beth
I was a client for a divorce. Richard provided aggressive, thorough legal representation from beginning to end. He was very accessible and always there when I had questions. Although I reconciled with my husband in the 11th hour, Richard never made me feel as if I had done the wrong thing or made a bad decision. He was very supportive throughout the whole process. He is an excellent attorney and an utmost professional. I would highly recommend his services.
Read more
28 Aug, 2015 by David
Richard proved himself a great, well rounded attorney. He has successfully represented me and members of my family on several occasions on cases in Family And District Courts. He is very personable and explains the process and expectations clearly. I look forward to using his services again.
Read more
28 Aug, 2015 by David griswold
Mr. Merola personally handled my divorce and Child Custody Cases.
Mr. Merola and the members of his staff professional representation and mannerisms guided me thru the darkest time of my life.
During this time emotions are high and having a professional like Mr. Merola is essential to insure a positive future.
Mr. Merola lived up to his reputation and my expectations and as a result, my daughter and I reside together and live a very enjoyable life.
None of this would have been possible without Mr. Merola and his wonderful team.
Sincerely
David
Read more
17 Jan, 2024 by Steve tanguay
19 Dec, 2022 by Kristen palmer
23 Jun, 2021 by Rikki alessi
10 Oct, 2013 by Melissa
If you are looking for a professional and passionate attorney who cares about justice, Jennifer Fitzgerald is the attorney for you. She is a wealth of knowledge and truly cares for her client's. She helped me and my family immensely! I highly commend her!
Thank you Jennifer Fitzgerald for all that you do to ensure justice for all of us!
Read more
06 Oct, 2013 by Candace
Jen helped us with an eviction case. She works so hard. She is very thorough with her research! Jen pays attention to detail. We had a great experience working with her. And we received the outcome we were looking for! Thanks Jen!
Read more
06 Oct, 2013 by Johnny
Jennifer A. Fitzgerald is the definition of a passionate attorney. She is fierce, determined, incredibly intelligent and driven. You will notice this within the first few minutes of your consultation. She is an amazing, driven and fierce lawyer and has the potential to be a nationally known name.
Read more
19 Jan, 2022 by Keith berns
She is the best has taken care of my family for many years.
Read more
15 Nov, 2020 by Arlene parisella
I have dealt with this woman on a number of occasions and she’s always come through with flying colors! She listens! She’s thorough and compassionate…
Read more
19 Jul, 2019 by S b
Excellent lawyer, wonderful person.
Read more
18 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
We retained our own lawyer in an adoption case because of the incompetence of the adoption agency's lawyer. Strachman stayed on target through multiple hearings and kept the case moving along. He ensured the termination of parental rights of both birth parents and helped foster an open adoption agreement between us and the birth mom.
His communication is direct, succinct, and realistic. He helped seal what should have been an easy case. He is pricey, but it's worth every penny!
Read more
20 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
Attorney Strachman is an excellent attorney. When I was getting a divorce, he was extremely professional and was intimidating at first but it was a good thing against my ex-husbands attorney and I got way more than I thought I ever would. Yet it was a very fair settlement considering my ex owed me for taking all of my credit which I have great credit now only after a few years apposed to 7 years or more!
Read more
26 Sep, 2018 by Jim
Can not say enough about him, compassionate, careful, frugal and well versed in law and the doings in Rhode Island family court. He really cared about my case and obtained a great outcome
Read more
29 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
She’s was amazing. Helped with all questions quickly. Along with making sure I was involved in every action that happened.
Read more
25 Aug, 2017 by Steve
Angelina provided excellent counsel during my divorce proceedings. She discussed and reviewed all of my options in great detail, which was especially important to me regarding placement of my children. I especially apprecaited that she presented all options, with the pros and cons and likelyhood of success, without leading in me in one direction or another. I appreciated having the information to make the decision instead of having it made for me. It left me with the confidence that I chose the best available path forward.
In writing the agreement, she anticipated a number of areas that needed to be covered in the agreement that later proved to be critical.
In addition, her billing was very fair and accurate. Although I was the plaintiff and she did most of the work (initial complaint, wrote entire agreement and entered the order) her bill was smaller than my ex-wife's attorney's bill, which represented only a fraction of the effort of Angelina's work.
Lastly, going through a divorce, especially with small children involved, can be very emotional. She dealt well with my occasional emotion state by acknowledging my concerns and then calmly discussing the path forward.
Read more
02 Sep, 2016 by Mary
Angelina worked with me on a relocation case for nearly a year. She was prompt getting back to me and did so much leg work during the case and has continued to remain on top of things after it was settled. She was always understanding and explained things so that I didn't have any further questions. She was incredibly thorough and a constant professional. Angelina is very easy to talk to, which is helpful in high stress situations, and was able to calm situations that would have otherwise been worse off. I would recommend her to anyone and have.
Read more
29 Apr, 2024 by Scott
An excellent attorney with thorough knowledge of the law. She defended my case with determination and true professionalism. I highly recommend the Law Office of Keri Hague.
Read more
13 Mar, 2021 by Erin b
Great lawyer and just truly a kind and helpful person.
Read more
08 Oct, 2020 by Noelle clapham
Wonderful person and highly skilled attorney. A true advocate.
Read more
03 Apr, 2017 by Craig boyle
I was in need of lowering my Child support, 1 of my Boy's has already reached the age of 18 and my other is about to. I was going to handle this on my own, thinking it was a open and shut case. After reading the overwhelming snip it's online about how bad that really was to represent yourself, I started having 2nd thoughts. Then my Divorce started to flash through my head on how expensive that was to retain the Lawyer, then the court/filing fee's etc..etc.. So this time instead of looking up the top names in RI, I decided to surf the web for reasonable Attorneys. I am glad I did that and glad I came across Mr. Pearsall, he was and is nothing short of professional, called me back when needed, answered all my e-mails in a timely manner and recommended we try and get both Boy's child support terminated together so I would not have to go back to court again in 2 months. Glad to say with his help and guidance all went well today, and I am now free of Child support. Would recommend Mr. Pearsall to anyone in need of a Lawyer that will work for you.
Read more
25 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
After what I thought was a mutual and uncontested divorce I had to retain Attorney Pearsall when my X began alienating my children from me and threatening to litigate against me if I did not pay more in child support that I was required, or pay her additional monies she was not entitled to. I unfortunately handled the case PRO SE and made a few legal errors which came back to haunt me. Attorney Pearsall was able to block litigations against me attempting to extract additional monies, and get a court ruling providing for once a week parenting time with my minor daughter. If I had retained his services instead of going it PRO SE things would have been so much easier and turned out so much better for me and my kids.
Read more
11 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
I was served with divorce papers only one week before a court hearing and was expected to answer. By law 30 days are required to answer. I had no idea how to proceed with this under the stress I was in on such short notice. I was desperate to find legal representation at the last minute. Beside the fact of the stress I was under because my husband was divorcing me for another woman. Having little experience at this situation left me anxious and afraid. I did an internet search for local attorneys and stumbled upon attorney Christopher Pearsall's website www.rhodeislanddivorcetips.com. Being a skeptic, I scoured the internet to find reviews on Attorney Pearsall's work. He seemed like an honest guy so I took a chance. Under the time constraints, Attorney Pearsall came through for me literally the day of my hearing. He handled everything for me with the utmost professionalism and reassured me that everything would turn out alright. Attorney Pearsall also did not charge me an arm and a leg for his service like some attorneys. He kept me informed while waiting for my husband's attorney to file the final documents, late once again. Going through a divorce is tough enough, make sure you get a professional attorney that is concerned for your interest. Attorney Christopher Pearsall is that person. He will prove that to you. I highly recommend attorney Christopher Pearsall.
Read more
28 Aug, 2020 by Danielle
It is difficult to rate a lawyer. Obviously you like your lawyer if it goes your way and not if it doesn’t You can get lucky with a judge who takes your side which may have nothing to do with your case or your lawyer. We all know that the judicial system is most definitely partial. I feel that I am in a good place to review as I had several lawyers for my divorce and following the settlement. Oftentimes the law does not protect you even though it has made a ruling and it is necessary later to go back to court. Finally, Steven Wright was recommended to me by a lawyer acquaintance. The difference between Steven and all others was his knowledges of the law, his diligence, skill and honesty. He answered my questions before I had them. He immediately had a plan and a task list. He was also amazingly compassionate. My ex husband is a scoundrel. I had no idea of the difficulties I would face. My only regret was that I hadn’t found him from the beginning. Steven will work for you, not for an easy settlement as many do. He knows the system and the people to get things done. In no short order he saved my dignity, my career and my children from the anguish divorce will cause. I am not a person that writes reviews on anything because I believe opinions vary and are not always helpful. I’m writing this now because if I had Steven as my lawyer from the start I would have saved a lot of time and money and that is not an opinion- it is fact.
Read more
03 Dec, 2019 by Martha
Steven worked with me on my divorce and custody case which certainly was not the easiest. Neither he nor I expected for my case to be as contentious or drawn out as it was, but he great about easing my anxiety and ensuring that I didn't back down on anything important. Steven showed great professionalism in and out of the courtroom and looked out for the best interests of my son and I. In the end, everything worked out pretty much exactly as he had indicated that it would from the start.
Read more
19 Jun, 2012 by Anonymous
Mr. Wright represented me with exceptional knowledge, expertise and passion. Every aspect of the legal process was explained as often as I needed. Mr. Wright's genuine concern and reassuring manner made my difficult time much easier. I highly recommend Mr. Wright.
Read more
17 Jan, 2022 by Joseph barletta
Mr. ballirano has been not only an inspiration to me but a motivator as well.
He has handled cases for my late mother and even for me and friends of mine with grace, class and respect.
He’s a man of his word and I wouldn’t trust anyone else with my life
Read more
16 Nov, 2016 by Leslie berroa
Attorney Ballirano was very professional and efficient. The accident process was easy for me to understand, the most important part was that I received a great settlement, everything my case was worth.$$$$$$
Read more
07 Sep, 2016 by Anya
I have hired Joe multiple times throughout the years and have always been pleased with the level of service, communication, and outcomes of the cases. He is very knowledgeable and always transparent with his feedback, ensuring that expectations are reasonable.
Read more
08 Aug, 2019 by Martha
I am forever grateful to Attorney Albin Moser for his help! I was in the middle of a huge legal situation and feeling really overwhelmed. Albin's extensive knowledge and vast experience brought me to a successful resolution for my legal problem. Working together, he conveyed a sense of respect for me, carefully listened to me, and when it was time to take action, he explained all of my options, empowering me to be part of the decision making process, and thus earning my deepest respect.
Read more
30 May, 2019 by Andrea
I hired Albin Moser after being in two motor vehicle accidents in a period of 5 weeks. I have chronic pain, have gone through surgery and was having an unbelievably hard time just getting out of bed during the weeks and months following this horrible window of time. Albin is dynamic, responsive, knowledgeable and able to communicate the complexity and parameters of the law in an accessible way. He is also a top notch negotiator and has checked in with me frequently over the past few years to keep me up-to-date on both my cases. He has been a godsend. If you need help with a personal injury case: Albin Moser is your guy!
Read more
17 Apr, 2024 by Zoe humphreys
Best lawyer going. Well versed, honest, straightforward and a pleasure to work with. I feel safer and wiser having her in my corner. I will always be thankful I found her. She has walked me through my divorce thoroughly and helped me traverse every twist and turn. Thank you, thank you, thank you for everything 🙏
Read more
30 Mar, 2024 by David pursche
15 Dec, 2018 by Steven
Have used him for thee auto. accident claims. Much happier with him. Than my recent experience with Rob Levine. Seth is a no nonsense diligent attorney.
Read more
11 Aug, 2018 by Paula
Mr. Perlmutter helped me through a divorce and my husband through quite a few issues, he's professional and honest.
Read more
06 Mar, 2023 by J j
An amazing law firm with a great reputation
Read more
27 Feb, 2021 by Fred issa
17 Apr, 2024 by Zoe humphreys
Best lawyer going. Well versed, honest, straightforward and a pleasure to work with. I feel safer and wiser having her in my corner. I will always be thankful I found her. She has walked me through my divorce thoroughly and helped me traverse every twist and turn. Thank you, thank you, thank you for everything 🙏
Read more
30 Mar, 2024 by David pursche
07 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
always recomend to friends and family. if there if something she cant do she wull find somebody who can. the hours are exellent. she will stay til 10 pm if she has to . i do not believe she tried to over charge or recharge anybody as her prices are fair and is willing to negotiate. i have used Dawn for bankruptcy..legal matters and tax filing for several years and have great results
Read more
06 Mar, 2014 by Liz
Dawn has been great to work with! I'm still in the process of working with her on some legal contracts for my business and she's very fair and easy to work with. I've had absolutely NO problems in communications with her at all. She responds to all my questions and even goes the extra mile to help me out. I would certainly recommend working with her!
Read more
10 Jun, 2016 by Vincent
I hired William Bulkun for my divorce . He has done an excellent job , met all my expectations and goals . He was fair and honest with me . Bill knows the law inside and out and told me what to expect . In my case we went to trial , and he is a great trial attorney , he had me well prepared a great strategy and was a much better attorney than my ex had hired . Also , he cares for his clients well being . I would recommend him for anyone who needs a divorce attorney and I have .
Read more
06 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
Very knowledgeable, easy to talk to, has a great and calming demeanor which is of the upmost importantice when dealing with legal issuses. Most people think of lawyers in a negitive way.... this man is a man of honor and principal. He will speak the truth and guide you through the legal process... I highly recommend his services. He is the best around by far!
Read more
17 Feb, 2023 by Cole
Noelle's support and guidance through my custody case far exceeded my previous experiences with family law attorneys. Her years of experience lend her calm and confidence in dealing with judges and opposing attorneys alike, which is incredibly helpful as a client. The inherent uncertainty of family court is always stressful, but I always felt confident in how I was being advised because of her ability to focus on what was best for my son. The outcome of my case was what I wanted, but more importantly, the journey to get there was not as stressful as I had anticipated, and I have Noelle to thank for that.
Read more
23 May, 2013 by Joe
Attorney Robinson was not able to handle a case for me in this instance. However, he spent hours looking into the problem prior to my appointment and spent 1.5 hours with me explaining various legal outlooks to me so that I could understand properly. He has worked with me in the past to my great satisfaction. Mike knew that he wouldn't be able to handle this complicated case and referred me to another attorney who works with this rare area of law. However, Mike Robinson is able to handle a wide range of law. You will find him to be capable, intelligent, speedy and caring.
Read more
13 Feb, 2018 by Rg
Michael Furtado did an excellent job of handling our case, after a previous attorney had let it languish for months. He was efficient, timely, and communicated with us during each and every step of the process. He was not only professional, but empathetic by providing emotional support whenever the case took a complex turn of events.
He will always have our gratitude and praise.
Read more
Browse lawyers
Cities in Rhode Island - Find a Lawyer Near Me
-
Providence
-
Warwick
-
Cranston
-
Pawtucket
-
Johnston
-
Newport
-
East Providence
-
East Greenwich
-
North Kingstown
-
Wakefield
-
Smithfield
-
Lincoln
-
Westerly
-
Woonsocket
-
Barrington
-
North Providence
-
Bristol
-
Cumberland
-
West Warwick
-
Coventry
-
Jamestown
-
Middletown
-
Narragansett
-
Riverside
-
Portsmouth
-
Tiverton
-
Greenville
-
Rumford
-
Warren
-
North Smithfield
-
Charlestown
-
Saunderstown
-
North Scituate
-
West Greenwich
-
West Kingston
-
Exeter
-
Chepachet
-
Little Compton
-
South Kingstown
-
Hope
-
Scituate
-
Carolina
-
Kingston
-
N Kingstown
-
Slatersville
-
Block Island
-
Manville
-
Pascoag
-
E. Providence
-
Foster
-
Harmony
-
Harrisville
-
Valley Falls
-
Adamsville
-
Ashaway
-
Central Falls
-
Forestdale
-
Hope Valley
-
N Scituate
-
N. Providence
-
Peace Dale
-
Richmond
-
Slocum
-
Suite 260
-
Wakefield-Peacedale
-
Warwich
-
Wickford
-
Wyoming
Browse lawyers
Practice Areas in Rhode Island
-
Business
-
Real Estate
-
Personal Injury
-
Litigation
-
Family Law
-
Criminal Defense
-
Estate Planning
-
Probate
-
Government
-
Civil Rights
-
Insurance
-
Medical Malpractice
-
Appeals
-
Car Accident
-
Intellectual Property
-
Workers Compensation
-
Mediation
-
Consumer Protection
-
Lawsuit / Dispute
-
Tax
-
Elder Law
-
Child Custody
-
Immigration
-
Wrongful Death
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Trusts
-
Bankruptcy
-
Domestic Violence
-
Child Support
-
Debt Collection
-
Divorce
-
Juvenile Law
-
Discrimination
-
Class Action
-
Foreclosure
-
Adoption
-
Employment / Labor
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
Entertainment
-
DUI / DWI
-
Wrongful Termination
-
Copyright Application
-
Landlord & Tenant
-
Sex Crime
-
Federal Crime
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Debt Settlement
-
Drug Crime
-
Construction
-
Admiralty / Maritime
-
Cannabis Law
-
Credit Repair
-
Education Law
-
Environmental Law
-
Life Insurance
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.
