Lawyers map
>139
experienced lawyers
Filter by
29 May, 2020 by Jenny
WON my case. I absolutely LOVED working with Jane the whole process through. Jane is a truly amazing professional who will fight for you as hard as she can. Jane is very honest in her dialogue, and is constantly in communication with you. She is willing to discuss your case in-person (with COVID safety precautions), via Zoom, email, or over the phone, and always returned my calls promptly. The process for me was quick, effective, affordable and was very consistent with what she initially predicted a settlement would look like. I highly recommend this firm for any one who is facing educational issues. Jane is an excellent attorney who fought hard for me. Again I gladly recommend Windsor Law, LLC
Read more
15 May, 2019 by Elizabeth
My case was rough but so was my child! A learning experience for everyone involved as some unique circumstances came up it was challenging. I prefer to not lay out all the details as they are personal to my son BUT I can tell you this: in the end, Jane got the job done. I walked away with the results I wanted. What more could I possibly ask for? I’m continuously grateful because with the end all result being exactly what I wanted it put us where we are today!
Read more
02 Jan, 2017 by Robert
Ms. Windsor immediately responded to my immediate need for a consultation regarding a school issue. Excellent advice, insight and encouragement
Read more
12 Feb, 2024 by Michele
I hired Ms. Keane for a child support enforcement/custody issue. She was so helpful, making sure I understood what was happening, what various things meant, and what "could" potentially happen. She never made promises that couldn't keep, just laid out possible scenarios. Her transparent approach was extremely comforting, especially when it involved my child. She gave me such peace of mind, on top of great legal advice/service. She listened to me, and just made me feel very comfortable from the start. I hope I never have to hire a lawyer again, but if I DO, I will not hesitate to hire Ms. Keane again
Read more
03 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Dana is very personable, knowledgable, ethical, and responsive. She explained everything throughout the divorce process, and addressed all of my questions and concerns, resulting in resolution. I highly recommend her for your case.
Read more
09 Apr, 2021 by Susan
Ms Keane was referred to me by my Estate Planning Attorney. She was able to assess the issue and resolve it quickly. Ms Keane was professional, efficient and timely in response to all questions and concerns. Would highly recommend her services.
Read more
31 May, 2024 by Karen
Bob represented me in my divorce. He is an exceptional attorney. Very affordable, and quick to respond to phone calls,
emails, and texts. Also very empathetic. Highly recommend Bob.
Read more
20 May, 2024 by Semir josé muhammadpachano
Attorney Hoffman was amazingly fast to respond and set up an in person meeting to listen to the situation and set up a plan that helped find a solution. I would recommend him to anyone needing legal advice with a fast response and easy to talk to. Thank you!!
Read more
31 Mar, 2024 by Lazaro gazo
I reached out to Robert well after the recommended time to contact an attorney for case, but he went ahead and took care of the legal side of things with seemingly no issues.
Very greatful to him for making the case easy to handle and getting a final result well below the worst outcome.
Read more
25 Oct, 2021 by Darci
I hired Monica because My ex took my kids and would not return them or let me talk to them. She was amazing and always was there for me with any questions I had.
Read more
28 Apr, 2017 by Debbie
Monica was very thorough and made sure the process went smoothly. She also headed off a problem at the court appearance that would have cost us precious time.
Read more
04 Mar, 2015 by Drew
I recently went through my first divorce. I was very upset and lost. I could not find a lawyer available or one that would even answer the phone. After a full day of calls, at about 7:15pm I was so afraid and lost. Then Monica answered her phone and gave me some guidance. Monica set an appointment with me the next day. I almost got a little bit of sleep that night. I hired Monica to represent me. This divorce was one of the most difficult things I have been through in my life. Monica was knowledgeable on the laws and offered the right path for my case to take. Being all alone through this, Monica was kind and considerate towards me and how I felt. I do recommend Monica and her services. Her personal touch made all the difference to me.
Read more
10 Oct, 2020 by Robert
Mr. Santi represented me in my divorce and an early elimination of my probation, related to my divorce. I can’t thank him enough for his professionalism and expertise in these cases. I highly recommend him, plus he’s a really good guy. A home run hitter.
Read more
04 Sep, 2020 by Tony
Nico was referred to me by a coworker who had hired him previously. I have had an excellent experience. Family law matters are very high stress situation but I felt he had my back and reduced much of the stress. Nico was caring, courteous, knowledgeable, and experienced. I referred him to yet another coworker who had a great outcome also.
Read more
12 Mar, 2018 by Tom
Nico is smart, resourceful, diligent, hardworking, and reasonably priced for the work he puts in. He is a straight shooter, and handled my rather difficult situation with understanding and attention. He always kept me on the same page, as to my rights and the law, when I was dealing with manipulations from the opposing party. It was a complicated and confusing case: and he took everything in stride and always had a solid strategy. Extremely professional, I would definitely recommend Nico to anyone seeking an attorney for family law, I was more then satisfied with my experience.
Read more
18 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
I had a very complicated divorce situation. Heather was the 2nd attorney I hired to help me. It was one of the best decisions I ever made. I was mentally exhausted and didn't have any experience in the process. Heather guided me through every step and made sure I was comfortable and secure with the outcome. I highly recommend her!
Read more
12 Jan, 2021 by Brian
I was in an awful mess with so much stress and then I was recommended to Heather. I knew the second we met that she was just the right attorney to handle my case. As a lawyer myself, I instantly saw the qualities in her that I desperately needed. I was not disappointed. Heather was there for me every time I needed her and kept me on track and focussed. No problem was too difficult for her and I had a very acrimonious divorce. I felt in very safe hands throughout the entire process and this gave me great comfort. Heather is without doubt an accomplished professional. In a very difficult situation she managed to get me the settlement I wanted, that I considered to be fair. Her guidance and actions were invaluable. I simply cannot recommend her enough.
Read more
01 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
It is with great confidence and no hesitation that I recommend Ms. Byrd. She handled my divorce with no glitches and made sure the outcome was satisfactory. Her pleasant demeanor and professionalism were greatly appreciated.
Read more
31 Mar, 2024 by Anna
I am extremely satisfied with the exceptional legal services provided by Natalya Soshnikova. Her professionalism, knowledge, and commitment to her clients are truly commendable. I would highly recommend her services to anyone in need of legal assistance.
Read more
16 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
I had the most amazing caring experience. She is so driven and focused on what is best for my family. I could have never asked for a better lawyer.
Read more
24 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
When getting a divorce you need someone who will be honest with you regarding the decisions you will have make and what the outcome could be. She never left me with an unanswered question and her communication was timely.
Read more
15 Nov, 2018 by Greg
Damian is a great lawyer who actually cares for his clients. He has 20 years experience working with insurance companies, so he knows how to talk to them in order to get your needs.
Read more
15 Nov, 2018 by Keri
I have known Mr. Mallard for over 18 years and had the pleasure of working with him on a case for a family member. He has an impeccable knowledge of the law, amazing commitment to his clients and is truly dedicated to helping those in difficult situations. Most importantly, he is experienced and successful at bringing a case to trial and getting the results needed. There’s no one else I would recommend as highly as Damian Mallard.
Read more
06 Jun, 2013 by Ryan
Mr.Mallard is a knowledge and intelligent lawyer, and came through on what he guaranteed. Overall good experience with Damian Mallard, I would definitely recommend him and his team of professionals.
Read more
20 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
Ms. Simpler is very honest and straight forward. She solved my problem during the free consultation and I was speechless that she didn't charge me anything. She was very honest regarding which steps to take in my divorce process. Great person and a lot of knowledge.
Read more
03 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
I needed a divorce attorney, and Shahla was recommended to me. She was compassionate to my situation and directed me through every step of restraining orders, financial situations, mediation, and represented me honorably in the courtroom. After the final divorce, she again walked me through a stalking arrest of my ex-husband. I would very highly recommend Shahla as a divorce attorney
Read more
20 Oct, 2011 by Bekim
I felt seems as though the whole world was against me, Shahla was on my side. with the knowledge and experience that she provide me with not only an excellent line of defense, but also a personal, caring approach that she let me know what to expect and help ease the stress of my situation.
Read more
05 Jun, 2018 by Dennis
Richard Weissfeld represented my Son and Daughter-in-law in a damage claim against a Wedding Photographer in Sarasota, Florida, who was fully paid at their Reception but failed to provide any pictures after the Wedding (a very upsetting situation). My Son and Daughter-in-law were completely satisfied with the legal representation by Richard Weissfeld and the results he achieved for them. Since that time, I have recommended him to my friends in Sarasota and all of them concur that he is an outstanding attorney.
Read more
01 Jun, 2018 by Phyllis
My consultation with Richard was incredibly useful. He asked questions that enabled me to see a larger picture than I realized, related to my issues and their resolution. He laid out my choices clearly and gave honest pluses and minuses for each of them. He met and exceeded my expectations for our meeting.
Read more
01 Jun, 2018 by Norman
He was very responsive to my needs and solved my problem successfully. I highly recommend him
Read more
31 Jul, 2017 by Heather
Kevin not only told me my legal rights, and process; he actually heard me as a person and mother, and offered a little practical advice that helped me put the emotionally painful decision in perspective and feel confident to move forward.
Thank You
Read more
12 May, 2017 by R.c.
After being wronged by my employer, a good friend thought I might have a case & put me in touch with Kevin Sanderson. I never dreamed I would have cause to pursue this case, but Kevin took it on. Throughout the entire process, Kevin kept me informed & worked for my best interest. It took over 2 years, but Kevin persevered. He used his expert negotiating skills, went above & beyond & procured a nice settlement for me. Without Kevin, I never would have gotten any compensation from my former employer. I can't thank Kevin enough for such a wonderful outcome & standing up for the little guy against a big corporation.
Read more
19 Oct, 2016 by Diane
Kevin Sanderson is an excellent attorney. He is a competent and compassionate champion for his clients.
Read more
12 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
Absolutely the BEST family law attorney. She did what 3 other attorneys couldn't or wouldn't do in a very time efficient manner. Her dedication and preparation at each hearing helped make the difference. Since then, I have recommended her to several of my friends with equal results and satisfaction. THANK YOU STEPHANIE..you helped change the life of one innocent child for the better!
Read more
16 Mar, 2013 by Stacie
Stephanie and her staff were very helpful during our step-parent adoption case. She gave us all of the information we needed so that we were comfortable with the process. She was very sensitive to my son, who was old enough that he was required to consent to the adoption. She helped to make the final hearing a celebration with our extended family. We are very grateful for everything she did for our family.
Read more
22 Aug, 2011 by Kathy
Stephanie is young and eager to help you win your case. God bless Stephanie from Ryan Meredith and his parents.
Read more
12 Aug, 2016 by Christina
Chrystal is HANDS DOWN the best family law attorney I know- I will continue to refer anyone in need to her. She has heart and true passion for what she does, which seems to be so rare. Initially we hired a different attorney and after months of no progress we got in touch with Chrystal and within weeks our daughter was back home. I will be forever grateful for her hard work for our family.
Read more
06 Aug, 2016 by J
I retained Chrystal to take over for another attorney handling a very difficult and highly volatile case in family court. She brought a level head, attentiveness and tenacity - everything I was looking for in aggressive representation for my case. I would HIGHLY recommend Chrystal to handle anyone's family law matter, and will be using her in the future.
Read more
29 Jul, 2014 by Denise murphy
We came to Ms. Koch after a horrible experience with another lawyer. She was caring, and did not miss a beat with our case. She is very wise. We - my husband and I were almost a basket case when we first came to her! She wrapped up everything for us and did it very well! We would recommend her without hesitation. Ms. Koch brought about a very positive end to our problem!
Read more
15 Apr, 2018 by Hillary
Jessica truly cares about her clients! She is a brilliant, knowledgeable, and all around excellent attorney. I will forever be grateful for the phenomenal guidance she has provided me!
Read more
14 Apr, 2018 by Anna
When my identity was used by a local car dealership to finance a Cadillac Escalade for someone else I received the run around every time I went down to discuss matters. When they met Jessica, they met their match. According to their opposing attorney, I received the largest payout ever awarded -- legal fees included. Jessica Wright is the only attorney I would ever recommend.
Read more
14 Apr, 2018 by Shawn
Very caring and helpful. Interested in helping her client's and not just getting parties into lengthy litigation.
Read more
13 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
As a lawyer myself (and with an understanding of one's options among family law lawyers), I can't recommend Bill more highly. As a counselor, he offered sound, pragmatic & knowledgeable advice and guided me through a difficult time with even-handed compassion and incite. As my advocate, he knew when to push, when to stand firm and when to back off. It was accomplished with efficiency, without unnecessarily complicating or prolonging the process and most importantly, in a way that left me feeling okay. In the inherently emotional arena of family law, I tell others, including my own clients, that you want Bill by your side.
Read more
02 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
I was referred to Bill by another attorney. From start to finish he was able to help ease my worries about my case and walk us through it. We got just the outcome we were hoping for. Bill is knowledgeable and easy to talk to.
Read more
01 Jun, 2017 by Dan m
I've worked with Nick both on my own divorce and as a CPA consultant on other divorces. He is an extremely fair and conscientious attorney. He is compassionate with his clients, and very thorough. I refer clinents and friends to him on a regular basis
Read more
01 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Sardelis provided me with great and useful advice in a divorce situation. Saved me thousands of dollars and a lifetime of stress. Highly recommend.
Read more
06 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Darville is an excellent lawyer who cares about his clients. He is very professional and did a great job on my case. My charges (rightfully) were dropped. I recommend him.
Read more
12 Jul, 2012 by Tracy
Wyndell seems a little laid back until you get him in the court room. He is awesome at what he does. He has been working with me on a child support case for sometime now, helping to recover 6 years of non-payment. He always keeps me informed and goes the extra mile to make sure everything is just right
Read more
13 Mar, 2017 by Rob
I hired Anne for a short sale which she represented my interests succussfully. She was also called again to protect my interests again when one of the parties failed to fulfill their agreement and was posting inaccurate information on my credit report. She boldly went where other attorney's failed and again, corrected the situation in short order. I think she is awesome and highly disappointed that this legal challenge went against her. Her plaintiff in this case probably was overreaching in their so-called rights in the First Amendment.
Read more
17 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Mr Crary as my lawyer regarding my divorce and child custody case. He was extremely professional. Mr. crary explained every detail of every situation so that I felt at ease. I was extremely pleased with the outcome. He is an aggressive attorney that I will highly recommend to friends and family.
Read more
25 Sep, 2017 by Ashley
Extremely forth coming with information, he didnt try to sugar coat anything which is refreshing when dealing with legal issues. I feel extremely blessed to have had him as my counsel.
Read more
16 Jun, 2017 by Cmichaelkellypa
Philistine Hamdan is a very good lawyer.
She is very conscious of her client's needs and does everything in her power to see that those needs are met.
Read more
29 Aug, 2014 by Sam
Rob is careful, thorough and a strategic thinker. Having had experiences with several attorneys over the years, Rob has paid closer attention to always remembering the client's primary goal. He has the highest personal ethics and would not compromise them under any circumstances. He is keenly aware of what the true costs of legal action are likely to be and makes sure that the client has few surprises in that regard.
Read more
22 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
I have worked with various attorneys in Sarasota on business matters. Emma was knowledgable, aggressive and practical in settling my divorce and parenting plan. Had I hired the wrong attorney I could have easily spent a lot more money lawyering based on emotion vs planning for the future for me and my three kids. Emma was my voice of reason, it's refreshing to find such a brilliant professional whose ethics match her intelligence.
Read more
26 Mar, 2011 by Anonymous
I have had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Scro over three years ago. In the past four years I have worked with many different attornies for many different reasons and subject matters professionally and personnally. What I have learned over the past few years, it is not the system that lets you down it is the attorney. Mr. Scro continues to demonstrate his overall consistant good judgement and professional conduct as an attorney. Mr. Scro is a rare find and I am thankful to have worked with him and has helped restore trust in the legal profession.
Read more
21 Jan, 2023 by Tanuj banker
Excellent lawyer. Highly professional. Very responsive and I am satisfied with his work.
Read more
28 Aug, 2014 by Travis sizemore
21 Jan, 2023 by Tanuj banker
Excellent lawyer. Highly professional. Very responsive and I am satisfied with his work.
Read more
28 Aug, 2014 by Travis sizemore
29 Aug, 2024 by David
It was May of 2022 and I had finally decided to file for divorce. I called about 15 lawyers in the Lee County area and wasn’t convinced they could adequately handle my high conflict divorce case. I decided to start looking for other lawyers outside the area and came across Jay Seigel’s name. The rest is history. Jay did not only give me what I was asking for, he gave me what I DESERVED and more. I cannot recommend Jay enough. Whether you’re in Sarasota, Fort Myers or ANYWHERE, Please give Jay a call and give him a chance to represent you.
Motion after motion and FINALLY trial after two years, Jay handled my case as good as any top lawyer in the county would-even prevailing against the #1 expert witness in the US (in his field) in one of my ex wife’s motions. Jay was honest, provided me with reassurance constantly and was with me every step of the way.
To Jay: thank you for taking my case: We laughed, we cried and now it’s over. I have told you this many times: YOU saved my life. You helped me through one of the most difficult times in my life. Me and my family are forever thankful for the immense amount of work you put into this case. It wasn’t easy, but you got it done.
Please consider Jay to represent you. You will not be disappointed.
Read more
5.0
20 Reviews
4.9
95 Reviews
18 Aug, 2024 by Michael schwieterman
I have been using Leslie as my attorney since 2019. Before 2019, I had never heard of Leslie, and I know several attorneys practicing within Sarasota. Leslie is kind, understanding, and thoughtful. Divorce is the hardest situation I have every faced in my personal life, and Leslie was there for every set of the way. I had to go back to court in 2023 for child support modification, and once again Leslie was there explaining to me how the process worked. In the end she was there helping me and my children and kept our best interest in mind. To say it simply, Leslie is more than just an attorney, she’s an amazing person. If any of my friends have issues in their marriage, I always recommend Leslie to them. I would recommend that anyone reading this use her services, you won't be disappointed.
Read more
13 Aug, 2024 by Crismas carroll barber
The best. Classy. Experienced. Ethically strategic. Hire her. You’ll be glad you did!
Read more
13 Aug, 2024 by Chris crew
Professional, caring, honest, and genuine. My experience with Leslie goes all the way back to 2010 and continues today. The best family lawyer that I know.
Read more
18 Aug, 2024 by Michael schwieterman
I have been using Leslie as my attorney since 2019. Before 2019, I had never heard of Leslie, and I know several attorneys practicing within Sarasota. Leslie is kind, understanding, and thoughtful. Divorce is the hardest situation I have every faced in my personal life, and Leslie was there for every set of the way. I had to go back to court in 2023 for child support modification, and once again Leslie was there explaining to me how the process worked. In the end she was there helping me and my children and kept our best interest in mind. To say it simply, Leslie is more than just an attorney, she’s an amazing person. If any of my friends have issues in their marriage, I always recommend Leslie to them. I would recommend that anyone reading this use her services, you won't be disappointed.
Read more
13 Aug, 2024 by Crismas carroll barber
The best. Classy. Experienced. Ethically strategic. Hire her. You’ll be glad you did!
Read more
13 Aug, 2024 by Chris crew
Professional, caring, honest, and genuine. My experience with Leslie goes all the way back to 2010 and continues today. The best family lawyer that I know.
Read more
18 Aug, 2024 by Michael schwieterman
I have been using Leslie as my attorney since 2019. Before 2019, I had never heard of Leslie, and I know several attorneys practicing within Sarasota. Leslie is kind, understanding, and thoughtful. Divorce is the hardest situation I have every faced in my personal life, and Leslie was there for every set of the way. I had to go back to court in 2023 for child support modification, and once again Leslie was there explaining to me how the process worked. In the end she was there helping me and my children and kept our best interest in mind. To say it simply, Leslie is more than just an attorney, she’s an amazing person. If any of my friends have issues in their marriage, I always recommend Leslie to them. I would recommend that anyone reading this use her services, you won't be disappointed.
Read more
13 Aug, 2024 by Crismas carroll barber
The best. Classy. Experienced. Ethically strategic. Hire her. You’ll be glad you did!
Read more
13 Aug, 2024 by Chris crew
Professional, caring, honest, and genuine. My experience with Leslie goes all the way back to 2010 and continues today. The best family lawyer that I know.
Read 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:
-
What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases. -
Who will be handling my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.
How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
- Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
- List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
- Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
- Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.
Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.
