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10 Jul, 2013 by Melissa
Mr. Moeller helped me with my problem in a very professional and kind manner. He informed me of my options and assisted me in choosing the best option for my situation. I would recommend him highly.
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27 Mar, 2012 by Anonymous
I trusted this attorney with one of my more complex issues. I was well satisfied
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18 May, 2023 by Anonymous
Smart, Amazing and and Loyal Would use Berta any time I need lega help. Thank you for all you do. God Bless you
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12 Aug, 2024 by Juan bermea
Clerk was not helpful at all. “Someone speak Spanish” no nobody here speak Spanish.👎🏼 Bad attitude on clerk not recommended.
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26 Mar, 2024 by Cynthia
Brian & team were very helpful & caring. They made the process easy & quick.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Jodi erbe
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15 May, 2024 by G10 ccv
Very disappointed
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02 Mar, 2024 by Delia g saucedo
We just started my case and I must say everyone in the office has been kind and helpful 😎 I feel I made the right decision coming here!
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02 Oct, 2023 by Roque borrego
I haven't even made it all the way to have a meeting with Mr Sadler himself. But just the time, and effort and showing how much his secretary/assistant cares, I was extremely impressed. The honesty and advice over a simple phone call, put a lot of things in perspective for me, during a difficult process/time in my life, having to do without my son, because of my ex wife. These situations are probably the most difficult any caring parent can go through and it's unbelievably difficult to come across someone that cares in all of the mess of finding the right lawyer. I highly recommend to give them a call and see if they're the right fit for you. I wish I had found them sooner. Even though I feel Im still in good hands where I'm at. His office is definitely worth a call
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10 Feb, 2022 by Josephine solano
He is not the easiest to get a hold of although he is very good at what he does an has alot of knowledge being he has been a judge an now an attorney. I feel very confident that he will provide the upmost best defense for my loved one an he is in good hands I Thank God For Him
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09 Aug, 2021 by Craig funk
Seemed eager and willing to do what he had to do to win my case, not only did he do what he could he got it completely dismissed.
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12 Jul, 2021 by Teri
Very nice and friendly but hard to make contact with.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Shaun allen
The price for services is there but Skinner and her firm are definitely strong & collected. It was about two months from hiring this law firm to obtaining a resolution, I was satisfied with the quality of work provided.
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05 Jun, 2024 by David pena
I’m very satisfied with how my case turned out! They did a great job and were on top of things.
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15 May, 2024 by G10 ccv
Very disappointed
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17 Jul, 2024 by Diana gonzales
Very good experience I appreciate there honesty and not just there to take peoples money 👍 🙂
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26 Jan, 2024 by Tanya sparks
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17 May, 2023 by Christina brown
Lawyer was court appointed and paid by the state. Supposed to represent my friend with a possession charge. Lied in court saying my friend was with a 14 year old girl. Not true at all. This is a possession case. Possession of a controlled substance and Marijuana.
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25 Jul, 2024 by Shaun allen
The price for services is there but Skinner and her firm are definitely strong & collected. It was about two months from hiring this law firm to obtaining a resolution, I was satisfied with the quality of work provided.
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05 Jun, 2024 by David pena
I’m very satisfied with how my case turned out! They did a great job and were on top of things.
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15 May, 2024 by G10 ccv
Very disappointed
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02 Apr, 2024 by Gina hernandez
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19 Mar, 2024 by Tim muniz
He doesn't answer at all
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03 Oct, 2023 by R d
I will read reviews before I ever recommend another lawyer here in San Angelo.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Crystal rios
My family went to Mr Brigman for assistance. He said he could help and asked for half of the money owed. In the end, said sorry can't help. Money disappeared into Brigman pockets. STAY AWAY from this con artist!!!
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25 Mar, 2024 by Tj dean
This law firm has a team that will dang sure get behind you. They will get down in the dirt and fight for you. I’ve used them on 4 cases, and i’ll straight up tell you worth every penny. Just like a buddy rolling up his sleeves and taking care of business for you! West Texas tough is an understatement. If you need a lawyer don’t be scared to pull the trigger and get some real help! I’d bet the ranch on em.
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22 Mar, 2024 by Heidi minnick-guice
Russell + his team did an amazing job on our case! His expertise in personal injury law is second to none and his compassion for people, and helping them attain the highest recovery is evident in every step of the process.. Highly recommend him as the EXPERT personal injury attorney in San Angelo!
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02 Apr, 2024 by Gina hernandez
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19 Mar, 2024 by Tim muniz
He doesn't answer at all
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03 Oct, 2023 by R d
I will read reviews before I ever recommend another lawyer here in San Angelo.
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02 Aug, 2024 by James
I was indicted without ever knowing I was accused of crime. Stephan Goodman with my court appointed attorney and I sat in jail writing her letters that she never replied to or read calling her weekly without ever getting an answer. When she finally came to see me I had been sitting in jail without even knowing the extent of my charges for 193 days. I was finally able to bond out and I only saw her on screen threw zoom court over the next 2 1/2 years. A total of 47 pretrial appearances. I still had not ever read my indictment, she completely denied me any documentation about my case. Even when the ongoing strain of the legal battle rendered me homeless Ms Goodman did nothing. I filed grievance for the State bar giving the details of her negligence. In her reply and appeal she stated outright lies alleging that she had met with me dozens of times. When in fact she had refused to meet with a person that would have been a great help to my case and soon after that person passed away they were being able to be interveiwed or get the evidence on record. As of this post I have been dealing with this case for 1,019 days without ever being able to go over the details of my indictment, never presented with one piece of documentation of my case, not knowing single detail of what's going on. Ive now been diagnosed with life threatening medical issues and have been denied permission by bondsman to travel more is needed to get treatment and been my state. Tonight my speedy trial, good night write the face my future or know the evidence against me. Denied the ability to participate my own defense, and denied the right to adequate legal counsel. Ms Goodman's casual friendship with judge weatherby was used anyway aviation for me filing a grievance against her. I missed one zoom Court pretrial due to my medical issues days after she was notified of the grievance and the judge refused to examine the documentation in this Goodman refused to present it as reason for my absence. Therefore the judge gave me a failure to appear warrant with a bond 10 times what would normally be given. Causing meet you again be arrested and on my release on yet another Bond once again because I'm homeless shelter day after because of medical and financial strain. Because of Miss goodmans negligence I'm at elevated risk of Major medical collapse while still having no legal representation. Do not keep this woman as your attorney. Her actions are more criminal than anything she possibly defend
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29 May, 2024 by C f
Shawntell McKillop advised me on how to remedy with the opposing company in order to avoid charges and stay out of San Angelo Municipal Court. She counseled me on the potential consequences of this charge, and established a contingency plan for the worst-case-scenario. Don't assume that you're immune to petty charges, especially in the municipality of San Angelo. I'm glad that I listened to my instincts and called Shawntell.
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15 May, 2024 by G10 ccv
Very disappointed
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13 Apr, 2023 by Marie
I strongly feel your attorney should fight for you, be the best defense, even if he is court appointed, he still has a title and name to protect. This lawyer didn't help at all, didn't return calls, was annoyed by the continuous attempts made to reach him. Never discussed court hearings. Just simply didn't care, his only option was take a plea or he would withdraw, and not go to jury trial, to find a young attorney. He withdrew. Probably the best thing he did, but he should have not wasted 10 months, because so many things could have been done other than letting you sit in jail, thinking he was a good attorney and was going to stand by you. Don't waste your time, move on.
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01 Feb, 2021 by Jim
As a retired police officer and a person who has had a need for a family law attorney, I feel that Paul is hands down the best attorney overall that can be hired. This man seems to genuinely care for people weather you are a client or not. His fees are extremely fair, his attitude is always positive and he can deliver the legal services that are most needed. Since my services were completed over 5 years ago, Paul remembered me and when I had a couple simple questions, he immediately took my call and answered them without seeking compensation before hand. ( a Rarity in the legal world) I highly recommend Paul for all of your legal needs.
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03 Nov, 2020 by Joshua davis
Handled my appeal in 2012 and did a pass poor job. She kept rescheduling when time came to turn in my paper work, and she was hard to get in touch with after she got paid
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18 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
When you begin to consider hiring Shawntell, do your fair share of digging and realize that as she has gotten older she continues to do a poorer and poorer job at representing people. I retained Shawntell with the expectations being high. She talks a very big game, bashed the courts and all of their parts, the police department, and tries to reassure you she is the best for the job. Truly, she is only there for the money. From the beginning of my legal proceedings she was impossible to reach. I would attempt to reach her 2-3 times a week and would get in contact with her receptionist at best. Her para legal Emily was also extremely hard to get ahold of. Emails would go unanswered and phone calls often send to voicemail. When I would get ahold of Emily she would inform me that Shawntell was working tirelessly to resolve the issue and that I would hear from her soon. After releasing Shawntell as my attorney and hiring another attorney the truth came out. My new attorney had informed me that Shawntell had barely requested the discovery of information from the courts 4 months after my initial arrest. She had also informed me that going to prison was inevitable and there was nothing she could do about that but would attempt to get me less time. My new attorney got me probation. Long story short, don’t waste your time/money or risk your freedom.
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26 Oct, 2016 by Paul
From the 35 thousand foot view, I'll gladly put this into perspective. Shantell has qualities that other attorney's generally don't have, and those qualities are attractive. The scarcity of an attorney like her in San Angelo have sent demand for Shawntell soaring. I don't doubt she has too much of a work load. Her fees are reasonable and it's not easy to find an alternative, for people who value what she is best at. When I first hired Shawntell in 2011, her business was rapidly picking up. Her attractive qualities have brought in many more clients. I don't expect to text her small questions, like I did then, getting responses to time-critical problems nearly instantly, not to say I can't contact her in an emergency when emotions are running high and I need quick legal advice. As an example, my wife and I both went to an appointment with her. My wife was seeking an amicable divorce. Most attorney's jump at the chance to make money and tend to follow the green and recommend legal actions that stir up conflict. They cash in on family law conflict. Shawntell wanted to know what counselors we had been seeing, how well they helped us and recommended, from her experience, the best counselor in San Angelo. She lost an opportunity to put together divorce papers and make quick and easy money, and put our interest ahead of her revenues. We're still married. On another case, wife and I to hired a separate 1st year attorney to assist us in fighting a custody modification against my former wife. I asked Shawntell to assist as a second opinion to help guide our strategies with her experience. She agreed, and even participated in court proceedings. Not many attorneys would do that. Shawntell is a different breed of attorney, and she doesn't come across as the attorney that make you feel like your world is ending amidst desperation and despair. She's cool! Very friendly, talkative and outgoing. We definitely need more attorneys like her, and the demand is obvious. The other reviews may have it right, but there is a lot more behind her success than those stories. Consider what I've said here. Shawntell may be exactly who you are looking for.
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17 Mar, 2016 by Georgia
I was represented by Shawntell Mckillop in a custody case against my physically and verbally abusive ex who is my son's father. She helped me a little during the hearing for the temp orders. After the temp orders hearing ended, she informed me that she had represented my son's aunt in her custody hearing which would be a conflict of interest. Between the temporary and final hearings, I attempted to contact her several times regarding my son's dad's family breaking the orders and she would never return my calls. During the final orders hearing, Shawntell didn't do anything she said she'd do and after the hearing was over, I found out that clauses were put into the final orders that I was not made aware of until after the orders were finalized. It seemed a lot like she was working for the other side after the temp orders hearing. I have since been afraid of hiring a lawyer because I fear going through another experience like I went through with Shawntell.
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25 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
Gerald Ratliff has been the most reliable and professional attorney I have come across in West Tx. His staff is awesome, and responds quickly. He settled my case, and was accurate, timely, and overall very reasonable compared to other attorneys in the same area of expertise. Thanks Mr. Ratliff. Hopefully you can help me again in the future! Very much recommend his services!
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21 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
Gerald Ratliff is the most knowledgeable Attorney in San Angelo, Texas. Even though he specializes in family law, workers comp and other legal claims, he helped me with estate case. I won my case and highly recommend him. Mr Ratliff's charge is very reasonable, especially compared other local attorneys. His assistant is quite knowledgeable, and they will always respond quickly, no matter what the time, they have a 24 hr answering service. He also got 2 folks I know out of jail within a few hours. Thank you Mr Ratliff!
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30 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
I could pretty much verbatim say what one of the other reviewers said. It is time for this guy to retire. He was incredibly incompetent in helping with my legal matter. As has been said...flippant...not prepared and didn't remotely fight for me. I could have defended better than he did. No research...incredibly POOR communication. If no stars was an option...I would pick that.
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03 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Lied about what he could do. I should have got a court appointed lawyer and saved myself 4000. I would have got the same punishment.
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12 Apr, 2018 by Anonymous
He did not follow through on anything promise in my divorce. He did not talk to me ONCE except for right before the hearing. I took him papers that I wanted addressed in the divorce and they were ignored. He did not defend me in court. He went to the hearing without even a piece of paper or pen in hand. He followed through on NOTHING! I had no money to change so was forced to continue with him but would have been better off throwing myself at the mercy of the court! I was never asked if I wanted a jury trial or by judge but was told at the beginning of the hearing my right to a jury had been waived.
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02 May, 2017 by Anonymous
To put it nicely, He is arrogant and very expensive! Was a smart aleck every chance he got. Would not listen to my concerns about the case or the child in interest. Made promises about my case and never followed through. He is expensive and good at what he does if he actually show interest.
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10 Aug, 2015 by Mary
Though more than happy to take our check, she did nothing more than leave a couple of phone messages. She talked a good talk but did not follow through on any points we had discussed in her office. Because of her ineptness, our court date came and went without an extension. She did not update us on any progress (I suppose because she had none) but she didn't even reply to our texts. Any phone calls we made to her were messages the secretary promised to get to her. None of our calls were returned either.
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31 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Mrs. Hennington represented me in an access/visitation case. She has not returned numerous phone calls, emails, voice mails in a month. She is not a strong advocate for protection of children. I would not recommend Mrs. Hennington in the future to anyone I know.
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19 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
Amy Hennington assisted me in my divorce, and I received little to no support from her. She did not return phone calls, and I only spoke to her twice during the entire divorce process. I was a victim of domestic abuse, and not once did she advise me on getting a protective order. I now work in domestic relations and I realize now more than ever that the help she gave me was seriously below par.
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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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