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20 Jan, 2020 by Stephanie
As a professional in the area of high conflict divorce and custody where addiction, violence and personality disorders are at play, I have had the privilege of supporting many families through eviscerating circumstances towards peace. As a result, I have also had the experience of working with over a hundred family law attorneys. Often family law attorneys are overextended and commit to being hired by clients they know they aren’t a good fit for. Or allow themselves to be hired and when the case exceeds their expertise continue without bringing in others to the team that could best support their client. Ms. Stapleton is the opposite of the above stated common scenarios. Ms. Stapleton is the quintessential professional in addition to being compassionate, brilliant and caring. Part of being brilliant is knowing when your efficacy could use subject matter experts with deep well knowledge in areas that will benefit your client. Ms.Stapleton adds subject matter experts to her team, frequently at her own expense, to make sure everything being attended to is beyond approach and/or sustainable argument. This is not common. Upon countless occasions I have seen attorneys commonly take on a case even knowingly outside their expertise and after things are underway - tell the client to research their options or circumstances. The last thing a client needs is a highly paid hired expert to out resource their work back to them- particularly amidst such distress where basic daily survival is an accomplishment. Ms.Stapleton would never, I repeat, never abandon a client or resource legal work back to them. Most attorneys over extend themselves to keep their billable time optimal, at the sacrifice of their client. Ms.Stapleton would never do this. She maintains a client base that allows maximum efficacy to the point you truly feel you are her only client. In addition to being a professional in the field, I have been one of Ms.Stapleton’s clients. My case was complex, nuanced, lengthy- and took unexpected twists into the need for immediate protective orders for myself and my children due to unanticipated violence and other types of criminal conduct. Ms.Stapleton was unflappable. She brought in additional experts deftly and stayed ahead of the situation. With Ms.Stapleton I knew I was being advocated for and that beyond all else she truly had the best interest of myself and my children in mind. Hire her. You will be grateful to yourself for doing so. I guarantee it.
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07 Nov, 2016 by Peter
The BEST attorney I have ever had the pleasure of working with. I would highly recommend her to any of my friends and family! Kate consistently stayed on top of our case, maintaining the integrity of our case even during difficult times experienced by my family. Her professionalism is above par and I would hire her again in a heartbeat!
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08 Nov, 2021 by Jim
Michelle is awesome. Her skill craft is lean and professional. She prepares well, and shows up for battle. If she accepts your case, you will know you are in good hands. Armed only with the facts she is a powerful presence in a courtroom. I know, I witnessed it I'm glad she was on my side. Thanks Michelle. I hope I never need you again.
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23 Oct, 2012 by Samuel
By far the nicest attorney I have ever dealt with. Ms. Funkenbusch was very helpful and kept me very well informed throughout the entire case. The amount of time she spent on my case was great and her fees were very reasonable. If you need legal help she is definitely the one to go to!
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16 Mar, 2016 by Erin
We had a complicated child custody case involving divorce and third party custody of a minor child, and Mark and Cara absolutely delivered. They did exactly what they promised us they would do in our initial consultation. They were always patient, courteous and available. Like most custody cases, ours was extremely emotional and stressful, and on my day in front of the judge, I was a total nervous wreck. Having Cara and Mark standing with me made me feel more at ease, and was definitely a comfort. My only (tiny) compliant would be, I felt I had to chase after them a bit to stay informed about the status of my case. However, I can admittedly be a little obsessive and I am definitely a worrier, so I may have required more attention than usual. That being said, they always got back to me in a timely manner, and were very understanding. I would absolutely recommend Haefner Law Office to anyone looking for help with a custody case. They took us on without hesitation, even though we needed them to work miracles and do something they really had never done before. They made this stressful, exhausting process more bearable and less intimidating. We now have sole legal custody of our daughter, and that piece of mind is worth the cost of hiring Mark and Cara a million times over.
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23 Oct, 2015 by Stacy
I hired Mark for a modification in my divorce . I did it by myself when I filed for divorce & knew I did not want to go it alone again . Mark and Cara were extremely professional & thorough when explaining outcomes , the proper steps they were taking & what needed to be done . They kept me updated regularly on what was going on and even called me before going to court as well as meeting me and explaining what could/would happen , right before going in . They won my case & I got everything I asked for & then some that I didn't even expect . I would definitely hire them again and recommend them again . Words cannot express how grateful I was to have their help . Like many others , I researched the firm as well as many others before consulting and eventually hiring Mark . I do not regret my choice . The other thing I want to add is that I told him the names of a few other law offices I had visited and consulted with and he had nothing but positive things to say about those firms & was respectful in his opinions of them even though they were positive comments . I can't say enough how happy I am with the outcome of my court case , thanks to Mark and Cara . If you want an attorney on your side who will fight for not only what you deserve but go beyond that , this is the firm .
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23 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Jennifer Rench supported me not just as my knowlegable and talented divorce lawyer, but as a genuine human with empathy. She was like a big sister that tells you the truth and reality, sternly, but with compassion and understanding. My collaborative, separation and divorce was a rocky one due to events that were completely out of my control. She did an amazing job at rolling with the punches and presented my options with explanations and possible outcomes. This helped me feel prepared throughout the process. She empowered me with the knowledge and would tell me her honest opinion, but the decision was always mine. She never made me feel pressured to go one way, or the other, on any of the hundreds of decisions a divorce requires. She would simply ask what I wanted to achieve, and we would work together to get there. I know that during the hardest moments of my life, having Jennifer Rench in my corner made my journey so much easier. Something I'll never forget. If you are in the St. Louis, MO area I would recommend her a thousand times over. She's up to speed on digital everything!! So you can upload the documents she needs in a few clicks, reference all of your documents throughout the process, and collaborate. I was able to work with her from another state via her portal system and Zoom. I could also make payments and view history. I met Jennifer in person, for the first time at the end of my divorce. An When I did, it was like greeting family. She was able to create that connection miles away, and successfully do her job like the exceptional professional she is. So many people worry about virtual services, but don't be! Her firm is a well oiled machine and never misses a beat. Everything was always organized, on time, explained, and communicated well. The scheduling process is easy and she's flexible when needed. I hope to never need her services again, lol but I recommend her to everyone I meet who mentions divorce or separation. Thanks for everything Jennifer!
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05 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
I was struggling with understanding any legal lingo that was prepared by my ex-wife's uncontested attorney. More importantly I was just suppose to "trust" that we would be fair. I had never went thru this process & didn't want to be blindsided by an obligations. Jennifer took the time to go over the paperwork and answered all the questions that filled my mind. Very happy with her patience and gave me peace of mind!!
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17 May, 2021 by Mary rice
Very honest and nice.
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09 Sep, 2020 by Candace tatum
Excellent!!! Best in town
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17 May, 2021 by Mary rice
Very honest and nice.
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09 Sep, 2020 by Candace tatum
Excellent!!! Best in town
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11 Dec, 2014 by Michael
Joyce has represented me in the past and I have also referred her numerous clients. She is capable, well-respected in the legal community and scrupulously honest.
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16 Jul, 2014 by Carrie
Very honest and thorough and not a typical lawyer. I will be using her because after the consultation I knew immediately that she could benefit our case.
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11 Nov, 2019 by Melissa
I was referred to George Halenkamp from a friend to assist in my custody case. He was knowledgeable, attentive, actively listened, and explained all my options, (in the beginning and throughout the entire process). This was not my first experience with a lawyer in this matter but was my most successful. I feel as though I found the perfect person to help guide me through a rough situation. I have already referred Mr. Halenkamp to others and will continue to do so.
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16 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
He did a great job with my divorce. He took the extra step to make sure I understood what was happening and he always returned my calls. I felt like he understood that I was going through a difficult time. I was very happy with the overall result.
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11 Apr, 2014 by Joan
Mr. Burcke was very well informed. He helped me resolve a complex estate problem with excellent results. I highly recommend him.
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21 Oct, 2022 by Nelson
Stuart has handled many cases for me over the years. Many attorneys only want to communicate through email and are difficult to get on the phone, This is not the case with Stuart. He reminds me of an intelligent,diligent pitbull that you can rely on.
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12 May, 2014 by Ricki
Mr Bell created and managed my families Trust, and after my grandfathers death, everything went as planned , and we avoided probate court. It was pleasure working with Mr.Bell. I would refer him to family and friends!
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28 Jan, 2018 by Bob
Atty Wuebbeling represented my daughter for a domestic abuse/stalking situation. He spent many hours investigating to ensure us the optimal penalty for the person committing the crime. It was a pleasure to sit beside Atty Wuebbeling in court knowing we were going to prevail. Atty Wuebbeling has outstanding integrity and is very easy to talk with. Calls are returned quickly.
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14 Jan, 2011 by Anonymous
Scott was outstanding! He was aggressive when needed and clearly cared about my needs! Highly recommended!!
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06 Aug, 2021 by Ashley
Amy is very knowledgeable in the area of adoption law, and keeps up-to-date on current laws, which is imperative to competent representation.
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19 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
I worked with Mr. Thomason a few years back on a case involving a bad landlord. I found him to be very knowledgeable, ethical, professional, and showed great care for our situation and finances. I would give him my highest recommendation. Great lawyer!
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31 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
Kevin is fantastic. From the moment I stepped into his office he made me feel right at home and safe. He answered all of my questions regardless of how silly they may have been and definitely eased my worry about everything. He approached my case with confidence and light humor to lighten the mood which definitely made me feel better. He always responded to my calls/emails in a very timely fashion. I would definitely hire Kevin again and would definitely recommend him to a friend.
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12 Sep, 2016 by John
Bryan did a great job for me in my recent case. Everything was easy, affordable, and I never had to appear in court. I would recommend Bryan to anyone!
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21 May, 2017 by Paul dorlaque sr.
My wife and I have worked with Sean for over 30 years off and on. There are not enough positive words or comments that could be used to describe mannerism. You will, not be disappointed at all.
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07 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous
Attorney John Patrick DeMoor helped me out so much in St. Charles City Municipal Court back in November. He showed up at my hearing, as well as getting my probation changed from limited to bench. He's nice, he listened to me, and, he got the job done. I'd recommend him to all my friends and family.
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11 Oct, 2022 by Julie
Marco is amazing! He went above and beyond for my case, and my case was not a typical textbook case. Everything you could think of that could go along with a divorce case did... and then some. Marco was quick to respond to my questions and concerns. He would develop new approaches, strategies, and solutions when we needed to pivot and all efforts ended in a final decision that worked to my favor. I can't tell you have many times throughout this process that I thought to myself, "Thank God I have Marco on my side". No doubt, I will be recommending Marco to any of my friends or family that need help with family law.
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17 Oct, 2024 by Sheril snowden
I had a Good Experience everyone was Professional,Polite&friendly. Jenna,was the Best! Very helpful & nice she always made sure I understood everything regarding my case Thank You!
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07 Oct, 2024 by Cabrina noonan
The staff at the Wilbers Law Firm are incredible! After our accident they were supportive and swift at getting us the medical attention we needed. Throughout our case, if our assigned paralegal was out for any reason, one of their team members was able to jump in and offer assistance. They clearly took good notes as evidenced by how familiar they seemed with our case. Everyone we dealt with was friendly and responsive. They fought for our settlement and ended up going after both the driver and the car’s insurance. We’re happy for our outcome and grateful someone recommended their services!
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03 Sep, 2024 by Erica cole
I definitely appreciate Wilber’s law firm helped me and my family with 3 different cases thanks again
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19 Sep, 2024 by Melissa meyer
Extremely helpful in my case did everything on time fast-paced thanks Chris Tracy and Courtney for all that you helped me with and my children
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06 Sep, 2024 by Shanti “dabratt” a
My experience here at Allen injury law has been amazing. This was my first accident and they have been here helping me every step of the way. The professionalism & care they have provided me with will forever leave a mark on my heart. Keep up the gods work you do.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Tarek db
Wonderful experience with Chris and his associates, not a commercial talk but they got me more than I expected
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28 Sep, 2022 by John singer
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06 Feb, 2020 by Stephanie higgins
Great man! He wasn't able to help us in our budget range but definitely went above and beyond! Because of his referral it actually helped towards saving our home.
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29 Jan, 2018 by Rabbi avi rubenfeld
Scott is an outstanding attorney. Helpful, knowledgeable, and quick!
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07 Jan, 2023 by Nicole johnson
Very nice person
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03 Jun, 2022 by Janice harris
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03 Sep, 2019 by Nuruddin real khondaker
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24 Aug, 2018 by Kris williamson
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20 Mar, 2017 by Donald amick
Great ATTRONEY DAVID OLIN KREUTER
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06 Dec, 2019 by Janene stenzel
The BEST lawyer I have ever had! Highly recommend!
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14 Dec, 2017 by Rachel arnold
Excellent lawyer
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24 Aug, 2018 by Kris williamson
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20 Mar, 2017 by Donald amick
Great ATTRONEY DAVID OLIN KREUTER
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29 Oct, 2020 by Annemarie gamache
Working with the Watts Group was a great experience! They were very professional and provided thoughtful insight on what to expect during the legal process and my case. I was very satisfied with the outcome and would definitely work with them again.
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07 Oct, 2024 by Zihan
Great Attorney!! Quick in response and very professional. highly recommend!
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07 Oct, 2024 by Fuchsia jones
Hey attorney Eric is Great has Good communication skills and efficient. He get things done
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17 Sep, 2024 by Haeman jang
I am writing to express my gratitude and provide positive feedback for Eric, our traffic attorney. My son was facing a serious speeding charge for driving over 25 miles above the limit on the highway. Eric handled the case with professionalism, expertise, and dedication. From our first meeting, Eric was reassuring and thorough in explaining the legal process and potential outcomes. He communicated clearly, kept us informed at every step, and was always available to answer our questions. Thanks to Eric's exceptional skills and knowledge, he was able to successfully resolve the case in our favor. We are incredibly relieved and thankful for his hard work and dedication.I highly recommend Eric to anyone in need of a traffic attorney. His professionalism, expertise, and commitment to his clients are truly commendable.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Autumn restoff
Amazing!!!
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21 May, 2024 by Dionne house
Cable dream team loyal ,committed trustworthy they are simply amazing ,My case was handled far beyond my imagination Andrew put and my feelings first,Not only had I found a lawyer I found a Friend ❤️
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10 May, 2024 by B. d
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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.

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