Filter by

star star star star star
06 Jun, 2022 by Norkys y carlos moroz
Mi caso fue de legalizacion de Status de inmigracion, y mi esposo Carlos Moroz y la presente Norkis Gutierrez nos sentimos muy agradecidos por la profesionalidad,disponibilidad y excelente trabajo del avv. Manuel Acevedo lo recomendamos absolutamente.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
02 Feb, 2022 by Luis martinez/m baez
Mr. Acevedo is an excellent and very knowledgeable attorney. He worked with our case, step by step with great professionalism, clarity and speed. Recommended full.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
11 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
When I looked directly into the eyes of Attorney Acevedo, I knew with certaintly that he is a very trustworthy, honest and authentic person. He spoke to me with a rare form of wisdom, kindness, and professionalism. Not only did his advice make sense to me, but it was exactly the solution that I needed even though I didn't previously even know existed. He represented me with a very personal matter, and delivered me a very quick and effective resolution. For that, I am very appreciative.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
02 Mar, 2023 by Brittany
I was served unexpectedly by my ex 6 days before the scheduled court date and Jamie was able to work with me and represent me. He was honest and straightforward and did not take advantage of me, a single mother. He did what was in my best interest instead of what was in his best interest and it was refreshing. I will be using him again in the future, should I need an attorney.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
27 Aug, 2022 by Gregory
Mr. Jamie represented my son in court and was very helpful, he stayed in contact with me from over 400 miles away and another state. He worked with the DA's office and my son to get a good outcome. Thanks for all your help and highly recommend Mr. Jamie if you need a very good laywer
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
23 Mar, 2022 by Shere a.
Mr Gonzales handle our case efficiently by being well prepared and aware of the most current statuses of the cases. His manner is professional and compassionate. I highly recommend Jamie Gonzales for legal matters.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
25 Sep, 2017 by William
Rachel and her team did an awesome, profession job of managing my divorce this year (2017). I found them to be effective, affordable and easy to work with. Rebecca did an excellent job of keeping me in the loop. I always I knew what was going on and when I had questions, she was very responsive. They are clearly technical experts in family law and how it is implemented in Florida. The fact that Rachel also has a strong financial background ( CPA ), is an extra benefit that insures there are no financial issues. I highly recommend Rachel’s firm.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
16 Aug, 2014 by Josh
Rachel handled my divorce this year (2014). This was an exceedingly difficult time in my life after the break up of a 25 year marriage. Rachel and her staff (Rebecca), were always professional, knowledgeble, compassionate and resourceful. They held my hand through the process but were all about business and holding all parties accountable. I would and do recommend Rachel to anyone needing an outstanding divorce attorney that knows the law inside and out and has the added benefit that as a CPA, understands complex financial statements.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
07 May, 2013 by Nicole
Mrs. Gorenflo has handled 3 cases for me, including child custody. She is kind, compassionate, professional, and knowledgeable. I would never use any other attorney to skillful guide me through the troubled waters of family law.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
03 Aug, 2021 by Pastor cubit malone
Mr. Butler helped me tremendously through my divorce. He helped give me my life back. He stated to me, Mr. Malone you are in good hands.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
27 Sep, 2019 by Katrina
Attorney Butler is an outstanding attorney. He's very knowledgeable and maintains contact with his clients. He is currently helping me with a probate matter which can be scary and heartbreaking for anyone to deal with but I can honestly say that I am so at ease knowing that I have Chris Butler in my corner fighting for me and with me.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
17 May, 2018 by Nanette
Mr. Buttler was very knowledgeable and professional. I could not have hired a better attorney.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
04 Apr, 2022 by Lyndon b. barfield jr.
Good Attitude
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Sep, 2017 by Kimberly sharpe
Google Maps
star star star star star
11 Jul, 2016 by Jocelyn
Jack has managed our family trust for years and has been a very dependable advocate. His filings are always timely and he answers questions in a very thorough way. He's even advised us on unrelated matters when requested. I highly recommend him for whatever services you might require.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
17 Jan, 2023 by Daniel
JJ, Kim, Rosie etc. We're all great. Services, were prudent, approachable and easy to access for any questions. Thank you, for dealing with my procrastination
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
12 May, 2022 by Anonymous
My dad, JJ Partlow, he has been the best dad anyone could ask for. He provides everything that we I need or want. He has always been there and he has done his best to make me happy. No one could ask for a better dad. And my dad has helped me when I needed him. Even hen it comes to school, sports, and at home. And i know that my dad works very hard and does his best or his clients and his family. My dad does not even know that I'm making this, and I hope hw finds it soon. And I hope that when ever you need help my dad will always be there to help.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
02 Mar, 2022 by Jennifer
I came to JJ with what I thought was an impossible situation and from the initial consultation he had a very positive attitude on how to help me. I had been to court two times previously and was not being helped. I also had such great communication and help from all of JJ’s staff. I would highly recommend this law firm to all. I always tell people about my favorable outcome and so wished I had been recommended to the firm 3.5 years earlier.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
19 Sep, 2024 by Nancy hwang
If I could give this place zero stars, I would. I made an apportionment, filled out an intake form, and took the day off work only to have the attorney cancel on me last minute. This happened a total of 2 times. Extremely unprofessional. Perhaps lawyer was not taught punctuality and accountability in law school.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Sep, 2024 by Valerie griffith
Anderson & Associates PA (Mrs. Dana Goza, Ms. Jackie) provided us with excellent customer service. Attonery Dana was excellent in helping us prepare our Last Will and Testament and Revocable Trust. I would definitely recommend them to family and friends.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Sep, 2024 by L malc
It was our first time using their firm. The staff at Anderson and Associates were so very helpful in answering all our questions resulting in us selecting the best course of action. They took care of all the paperwork and great follow up. I will be using them again for another real estate issue. I have recommended them to family.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
15 Oct, 2018 by Rodney
I would highly recommend Melissa to anyone seeking legal representation that is honest, fair and will keep your best interest and unique needs at the forefront. Should the situation arise, I would not hesitate to seek representation from Melissa Dayan again.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
01 Mar, 2016 by Lisa
All I can say is Wonderful and totally caring! The care and support that I received was immense and during my divorce I needed it more than ever. Very knowledge in the area of Family Law. I won the custody of my two girls 100%. Could not ask for more.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
01 Mar, 2016 by Lisa
Attorney Melissa represented me in a complicated divorce case. She is a very smart and compassionate family attorney who knows her stuff. She was always available on the phone/email and respond to my queries promptly. Above all she is a great human being who genuinely cares for her clients. She was thorough and did a great job of dealing with my husband’s attorney. We eventually settled out of court, which was great since it saved a lot of money and time. Highly recommended!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
11 Jan, 2024 by Mary c
Mr. Gorenflo helped me during my divorce.. It was a very complex case, and he was always very professional and compassionate would recommend him to anyone.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
11 Jan, 2024 by Karen
I hired Mr. Gorenflo to bring a contempt against my former husband. I could not have asked for a better outcome. Mr. Gorenflo and the entire office were so wonderful to deal with that I did feel like I was part of the family. I recommend Mr. Gorenflo to everyone who needs an attorney.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
09 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
I had had a referral for Rachel Gorenflo, she had a full schedule, but her husband was highly recommended, so I paid Clif 10,000 to represent me in advance, I found Clif to be knowledgable, but his staff seemed to want to suck up all of my retainer with stuff that was already documented/discovered. Instead of helping me with my case, his staff seemed to only want to charge me with discovering things that were already discovered. The money quickly ran out this way and even though I helped with my own documentation, which he laughed about (to my face).. The document I prepared was never reviewed by the court. Instead of helping me with my case, his staff seemed to only want to charge me with discovering things that were already discovered. The money quickly ran out this way and even though I helped with my own documentation, he laughed about it as though it meant nothing. No feelings, no anything. Not a person to confide to. He only care about his pocket. I had to get another lawyer after him because he was a leach.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
17 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
WARNING- She will take your case, post pone court dates and push them out to prolong the process until your last payment with her is made. As soon as you make that last payment (months later) all of a sudden your court day will finally come. Your case will be over and you’ll be left with the same terrible end result as the next person who had no lawyer to begin with. My friend and I got charged at the same time for the same thing only difference with our outcome was that I paid this scammer $1800 and he paid nothing. She did NOTHING. Communication was terrible, she will not respond to your calls or texts. I feel she should get her BAR revoked. She is a scammer. If she decides to show, she will show up to court so unprofessionally which is embarrassing. Helen Silva of Seminole/Volusia county is a joke of a “lawyer.” Honestly felt so disappointed and scammed .
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
12 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
We hired Helen based off a recommendation and the original meeting that we had. She stated her approach in the family law case and were very pleased with her outlook. Paid her the $4,000 deposit and she immediately filed the emergency petition. The petition got denied and we have not heard from her since. Have made many attempts to contact her via email, texts, and phone calls and to no avail have we had a response. I would never recommend her to anyone for any type of case!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
08 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
Hired Helen for divorce. Paid her $5,000 and she stated that would cover up to mediation. Helen has failed to send back acceptance of petition. She emailed me to execute on 8/28 and I emailed back the same day. I never received and email from her confirming she sent it. I followed up several days after with no response. I also told Helen that I wanted to draft a settlement offer, waited several weeks and never received a draft. Same went for the response to petition and response to offer sent by husband when I told her I wanted to proceed. It didnt get done.
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