Filter by

star star star star star
03 Feb, 2021 by Erica
I am very fortunate to have found Mr. Marchese. I was given an impossible task of finding a lawyer with little time and in a different state than I lived in. When I reached out to the office online at 8pm, I was not expecting an email back that same evening, let alone within 30 minutes. Mr. Marchese personally emailed me about my concerns and agreed to meet with me the next day. One of the things that makes him stand out against other lawyers is his responsiveness and ability to write about case law. I had multiple people tell me how lucky I was to have a lawyer who responded to emails and phone quickly as Mr. Marchese did. This was my first time ever hiring a lawyer, I did not know what to expect. Mr. Marchese is the person you want to hire if you’re looking for a fair and try-hard lawyer. Mr. Marchese knowledge of case law is so vast that our the Judge complimented on his writing. There was absolutely no comparison between his writing and understanding of the law vs. the opposing counsel. Once again, I was very fortunate to have him as my attorney. I found Mr. Marchese to be very understanding, empathetic and honorable. Nobody wants to go through a divorce, custody battle or fight false allegations. I can honestly say that Mr. Marchese tries to see both sides of the coin, which is absolutely necessary in these type of circumstances. Family law, I have learned, is not black and white. The foundation that Mr. Marchese laid for my case will always be greatly appreciated. When you have a lawyer that fights for justice and the truth, like Mr. Marchese practices, in the end...You cannot fail. Thank you for making me feel heard and helping me through this extremely difficult process.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
10 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
Our divorce was essentially a financial number crunch. Dan worked diligently to resolve the matter as quickly as possible. Dan will make efficient use of your time and his.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
09 Dec, 2018 by Heather
I looked at reviews on Avvo when I needed to find a new lawyer to take over my previous lawyer's subpar job on my case after 6 months. I saw Daniel's reviews and decided to take a chance. I'm glad I did! He did more for me in the 3 months on my case than my previous lawyer, and everything was done via phone and email as I had moved out of state earlier this year. I would recommend Daniel to anyone wanting a great lawyer.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
22 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
Incredibly informational (I got all my preliminarily questions answered for free), kind, respectful, professional, knowledgeable, thorough to answer all of my questions, not at all a rushed conversation, felt very at ease and comfortable explaining my tough situation, will 100000% contact for any future legal issues or questions and wish I had used his services in my other legal matters. Though I’m In a difficult situation right now, I actually look forward to the possibility of court knowing Jeff would represent
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
07 Mar, 2019 by Christine
I hired Jeff Franklin about 3 years ago. He has resolved custody, divorce, and a legal case for me. He is very knowledgeable. Very respectful and polite to both parties. Every circumstance is different but if your doing the right thing all the time then he will make sure you get what you rightfully deserve. I.E. I have full custody of my son, divorce was a breeze, and got out of a bind with the law almost as soon as I hired him(I had a different attorney at first and was in some trouble for a while til I hired Jeff). He does great work and fast for how slow the courts can be. If I ever needed a attorney again, I would hired him again. I highly recommend Jeff Franklin!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
30 Aug, 2017 by Douglas
Consulted with this attorney regarding an extremely difficult and unusual situation. He was caring, kind and understanding with all parties involved. He was clearly knowledgeable about the law and the surrounding court systems. I would highly recommend him to anyone!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
27 Oct, 2017 by Jodi
My husband and I hired Mr. Bennion when we were unexpectedly served papers regarding a paternity/ child custody case. From the moment we consulted with him we felt confident in his knowledge and ability to handle a “unique/difficult “ case such as ours. He delivered on his promises and kept us realistically informed on all matters. I would HIGHLY recommend hiring him!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
29 Feb, 2016 by Gary
Mike Bennion provided the estate legal services for my most recent will. I felt confident and comfortable with the insights that he shared with me. Mike provided all the information that I needed to make difficult decisions easier.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
20 Dec, 2013 by Anonymous
Steve was great during my dui case. He helped me a lot and always answered my questions and worked with me on any matters that came up during my case. I felt very confident with him. Outcome of the case was better than I expected too thanks to Steve.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
05 May, 2024 by Rya brown
One of your attorneys was seated next to me in first class and was very rude. It was the 5/4/24 flight that was supposed to leave at 12:50p but was delayed for almost an hour. I had my headphones on while looking out the window. She tapped me abs asked me to turn MY HEADPHONES down because she could barely concentrate. She was typing on her laptop on the flight. I have severe anxiety about flying and music soothes my nerves. My headphones weren't that loud, and if she couldn't concentrate then maybe she should have completed whatever it was she had to do before flying and making another passenger uncomfortable for my entire flight. Not to mention she had all the of her bags in the overhead, so I had to store my items in a different location than the one where my seat was because she filled it up. I certainly hope I don't have to sit next to her on my flight home. I'm you can figure out so this woman was. I know she wore glasses and a mask so I couldn't see her face. She is definitely a member of your law firm because she was wearing a jacket with your insignia on it. That was really a shame how she goes she behaved. I paid for my first class seat so I should have been able to enjoy it accordingly.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Dec, 2023 by Rundetroit !
They were able to point me in the right direction
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
17 Dec, 2022 by Jeremy powers
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
05 May, 2024 by Rya brown
One of your attorneys was seated next to me in first class and was very rude. It was the 5/4/24 flight that was supposed to leave at 12:50p but was delayed for almost an hour. I had my headphones on while looking out the window. She tapped me abs asked me to turn MY HEADPHONES down because she could barely concentrate. She was typing on her laptop on the flight. I have severe anxiety about flying and music soothes my nerves. My headphones weren't that loud, and if she couldn't concentrate then maybe she should have completed whatever it was she had to do before flying and making another passenger uncomfortable for my entire flight. Not to mention she had all the of her bags in the overhead, so I had to store my items in a different location than the one where my seat was because she filled it up. I certainly hope I don't have to sit next to her on my flight home. I'm you can figure out so this woman was. I know she wore glasses and a mask so I couldn't see her face. She is definitely a member of your law firm because she was wearing a jacket with your insignia on it. That was really a shame how she goes she behaved. I paid for my first class seat so I should have been able to enjoy it accordingly.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Dec, 2023 by Rundetroit !
They were able to point me in the right direction
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
17 Dec, 2022 by Jeremy powers
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
05 May, 2024 by Rya brown
One of your attorneys was seated next to me in first class and was very rude. It was the 5/4/24 flight that was supposed to leave at 12:50p but was delayed for almost an hour. I had my headphones on while looking out the window. She tapped me abs asked me to turn MY HEADPHONES down because she could barely concentrate. She was typing on her laptop on the flight. I have severe anxiety about flying and music soothes my nerves. My headphones weren't that loud, and if she couldn't concentrate then maybe she should have completed whatever it was she had to do before flying and making another passenger uncomfortable for my entire flight. Not to mention she had all the of her bags in the overhead, so I had to store my items in a different location than the one where my seat was because she filled it up. I certainly hope I don't have to sit next to her on my flight home. I'm you can figure out so this woman was. I know she wore glasses and a mask so I couldn't see her face. She is definitely a member of your law firm because she was wearing a jacket with your insignia on it. That was really a shame how she goes she behaved. I paid for my first class seat so I should have been able to enjoy it accordingly.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Dec, 2023 by Rundetroit !
They were able to point me in the right direction
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
17 Dec, 2022 by Jeremy powers
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
05 May, 2024 by Rya brown
One of your attorneys was seated next to me in first class and was very rude. It was the 5/4/24 flight that was supposed to leave at 12:50p but was delayed for almost an hour. I had my headphones on while looking out the window. She tapped me abs asked me to turn MY HEADPHONES down because she could barely concentrate. She was typing on her laptop on the flight. I have severe anxiety about flying and music soothes my nerves. My headphones weren't that loud, and if she couldn't concentrate then maybe she should have completed whatever it was she had to do before flying and making another passenger uncomfortable for my entire flight. Not to mention she had all the of her bags in the overhead, so I had to store my items in a different location than the one where my seat was because she filled it up. I certainly hope I don't have to sit next to her on my flight home. I'm you can figure out so this woman was. I know she wore glasses and a mask so I couldn't see her face. She is definitely a member of your law firm because she was wearing a jacket with your insignia on it. That was really a shame how she goes she behaved. I paid for my first class seat so I should have been able to enjoy it accordingly.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Dec, 2023 by Rundetroit !
They were able to point me in the right direction
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
17 Dec, 2022 by Jeremy powers
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
05 May, 2024 by Rya brown
One of your attorneys was seated next to me in first class and was very rude. It was the 5/4/24 flight that was supposed to leave at 12:50p but was delayed for almost an hour. I had my headphones on while looking out the window. She tapped me abs asked me to turn MY HEADPHONES down because she could barely concentrate. She was typing on her laptop on the flight. I have severe anxiety about flying and music soothes my nerves. My headphones weren't that loud, and if she couldn't concentrate then maybe she should have completed whatever it was she had to do before flying and making another passenger uncomfortable for my entire flight. Not to mention she had all the of her bags in the overhead, so I had to store my items in a different location than the one where my seat was because she filled it up. I certainly hope I don't have to sit next to her on my flight home. I'm you can figure out so this woman was. I know she wore glasses and a mask so I couldn't see her face. She is definitely a member of your law firm because she was wearing a jacket with your insignia on it. That was really a shame how she goes she behaved. I paid for my first class seat so I should have been able to enjoy it accordingly.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Dec, 2023 by Rundetroit !
They were able to point me in the right direction
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
17 Dec, 2022 by Jeremy powers
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
14 Jun, 2022 by Anonymous
If you want someone to represent you look, elsewhere as Mr. Goulding is a self serving, sexist, misogynist. When he’s called out on his inappropriate behavior, he bashes his client instead of being a professional. I was told the only way I could help with the defense of my case was to “Sit there and look pretty”. There were many more issues that arose during the time that Mr. Goulding represented my family in what was our biggest fight to do the right thing, in protecting the innocent. You (Cameron Goulding) are in fact a very unprofessional, unhelpful, uncaring human being and you try to prance around in the world, pretending otherwise. And I hope you know there is in fact a higher judge who will hold you accountable for all of you actions.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
30 May, 2018 by Michael
Cameron has represented me for the last 8 years. Once the JOD is signed it just begins when children are involved till they are 18. Cameron has navigated these waters with knowledge and determination. Best of the Best....
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
01 May, 2018 by Anonymous
When faced with a time sensitive divorce matter, Mr. Goulding and his staff provided excellent service, were professional and made the matter much less stressful.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
12 May, 2018 by Anonymous
Mr. Shepard & his Team have been truly exceptional in their handling of several legal matters. This team is available, approachable, considerate, knowledgeable, temperate, and kind. Seeking creative solutions in a measured manner, this office truly understands and respectfully handles legal matters.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
23 Jul, 2014 by Chris
I will give 1 star due to the fact that I can not give 0 stars. My experience with Randal Shepard has been painful and unprofessional. He was not aware of the time of my hearing and arrived late. He would have been later but I called him when I was on the way to the hearing to make sure he was on the way. He had the wrong time written down. Good thing I called. He brought another clients paperwork to my hearing which in turn has created me many problems and heartache. I now have to go to court again due to his mistakes and he is trying to charge me for him to fix what he messed up. His office staff has a turnover rate of about a month. I say that because in the three months I have been working with Randall I have seen three assistants. The last assistant recently called me to ask what is going on with my case. I was shocked. I said you tell me, I hired you. It was then explained to me that the last assistant made a mess of everything and walked out. I highly recommend you find another attorney.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
25 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
This lawyer was great! He was extremely helpful with my case. He made sure I knew exactly what was going each step, made me feel confident about the outcome and was an excellent representative. I strongly recommended him, I have recommended him to all my family and friends. He worked so hard to protect mine and my family's interests.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
04 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
I contacted Mr. Solomon regarding a general practice issue. He had no idea how to proceed. He called me on several times to discuss the issues and each time reviewed 2-3 points and talked for an average of 90 minutes. It was impossible to get him off the phone. Each time he freely admitted he did not know how to proceed with my case. He would not listen to my questions and several times yelled at me saying.' I am the attorney. What do you know?' I think his real concern was how much he was going to get paid. In the end I had paid him and never got anything for my money. I had to find another attorney . I wasted both time and money. He never gave me any of the files or information on my case back.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
26 Jan, 2012 by Anonymous
This lawyer took a small misunderstanding that could have been resolved quickly and turned it into a major issue that is still haunting me, by being stupid and not listening to me. He assumed I was guilty of a crime that my next lawyer found quickly was not cause by me, even told me that I was guilty! He is hard to deal with, arrogant, loud, and will yell at you for asking good questions, just to prove he is smarter than you. He often told me that he went to law school, and I didn't so I need to shut up. In the end he cost me thousands of dollars with no results and created a very bad situation that did not need to exist.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
20 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
I have been trying to call Paulette for 3 week with no return call!!! Very unprofessional Attorney/not!!
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