Lawyers map
>55
experienced lawyers
Filter by
16 Jun, 2019 by Atanas
My ex wife is what people call “helicopter mom.” She would not let me see my daughter. She accused me of ridiculous thigs and asked for 100% of any decision-making because I cannot be trusted. From the very beginning Fedor Kozlov told me that it would be a fight and he took the case to the trial. Everyone was against me, including the child representative. I think that he won trial. I have shared custody now and I see my baby every week. Highly recommended!
Read more
15 Jun, 2019 by Julia
After a year and half of being with another firm during my terrible divorce and very little progress, I made a decision to change the law firm and hired Law Office of Fedor Kozlov. This ended up being the BEST decision I could have made. I reached out to Law Office of Fedor Kozlov at the point where my case was hopeless. Mr. Kozlov and his team are amazing group of lawyers with high professional knowledge, experience and personal respect for a client. They fought for me as if I was a member of their family, while being very conscious of my financials and using time and money in MOST efficient way. They protected me from unnecessary drama, and ALWAYS kept me posted about my case.
Mr. Kozlov is smart, honest, reliable lawyer with strong negotiation skills, great communication skills and most importantly - he will get the job done without wasting your money and time! Another lawyer in practice, Kendall Monson, fought in court for me on more than one occasion and was able to turn around the case in my favor several times. Both Fedor Kozlov and Kendall Monson were able to change the outcome of my divorce, which seemed closed to impossible. They are more than just very experienced and educated professionals; they are best People that you can absolutely trust. Thank you all for hard work and emotional support!!
Read more
12 Jun, 2019 by Mathias
Out of pure revenge my ex filed fraudulent chargers against me accusing of child abuse. DCFS became involved. This was a nightmare. Before I hired Kozlov, I consulted with at least three other lawyers. Kozlov showed a good knowledge of the law and understanding of the procedure. It was very important to me to know everything that was going on in court and Kozlov kept me informed every step of the way. This hell is over and I have my child back. He is not cheap but Kozlov chargers only for actual work. Not BS chargers like travel time. He keeps his word. If you work with him he will get you the result.
Read more
20 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
Mr. Gardi is an excellent attorney. He assisted us in a real-estate purchase/sale which both closed the same day. We had several speed bumps along the way, including up to the last day before closing. However, Mr. Gardi helped us navigate through all of the issues, and we closed successfully on both properties.
I would recommend him and his team to anyone seeking legal representation.
Read more
07 Oct, 2015 by Moe patel
Excellent services. Very Timely and Informative.
All associates in Group are extremely Helpfull to
resolve your issues.
I have used their services for last 15 years. Hiten Gardi
started with one man operation and Grown to staff of
(5) Attorneys with several staff employees to support
the operations.
I highly Recommend to use His services
Read more
07 Oct, 2015 by Mahendra
I have been dealing with Hiten Gardi and His Associates
for Last 15 Years. My profession is Real Estate Broker and
Loan Officer. I need Attorney all the times
His services were excellent very Timely Informative
I will recommend Highly for his services
Read more
31 Mar, 2016 by Valerie
Rajvi fought for me and my kids every step of the way between mediation and court. I would hire her again if I needed representation because I was very happy with the outcome and the way she handled my case. Rajvi was always on top of everything pertaining to my case and responded to my calls always as soon as possible. She put me at ease every step and that is exactly what I needed while going through my situation.
Read more
14 Mar, 2016 by Allen
Rajvi does an excellent job with making sure you are covered. She is fearless and is willing to stand toe to toe where necessary.
I am very happy with the services she has performed on my behalf.
Read more
03 Mar, 2016 by Richard
Rajvi Dhiren Gandhi, was very helpful in helping me refinance my home.. And she was very good at it. She went to bat for me against one of the biggest mortgage lending banks in America and never backed down until my refi was approved. Thanks to her, and president Obama's home refinance program, I was able to save my home.. Thank you again, Rajvi... Mr. Richard M.
Read more
30 Mar, 2010 by Anonymous
I have worked closely with Viren on several different cases, from patent searches on consumer products to business entity selection (LLC, Partnership, etc.) on incorporation, to contract review. Viren was very knowledgeable and talked to me as a partner as opposed to a subordinate. Most importantly, he has a knack for technology and seeking information when an answer is not known.
I work with a large base of sophisticated clients and high-net worth individuals, and having access to Viren on my team makes me feel very comfortable when his services are needed in front of my client. You can feel confident that Viren will represent you well..
Read more
01 Mar, 2010 by Anonymous
Thanks for your professional, kind and thoughtful service. It is a pleasure and a comfort for us to work with you.
Read more
17 Nov, 2013 by Anonymous
Have used Mr. Seidler several times for both myself and my family. We know that he and his firm are very knowledgeable of the law and always consider their clients interests. I have recommended them in the past and will continue to in the future. Good firm with caring people.
Read more
18 Mar, 2011 by Adam c
I had a very serious dui case with multiple tickets, and these guys got my case dropped. It was incredible. I will never recommend a different lawyer. They are the best!
Read more
21 Dec, 2015 by Joolee
Jason Pappas is an excellent lawyer. He is very familiar with the intricacies of the law and--perhaps more importantly--he genuinely cares about his clients' best interests. Jason's rates are extremely reasonable, and once you hand over your case to him, you can be confident that you are in good hands.
Read more
02 Jun, 2017 by Stephanie
Richard Miller went out of his way to help me get paid by a Chicago employer who was refusing to pay me. After trying to deal with the illinois department of labor (it takes way to long), I was referred to Miller. He took over all contact with the employer (who was very inappropriate towards me) and was successful in getting me paid the money I owed. He sent a strongly worded letter and talked with him on the phone. Miller obviously has the skills and power that is much needed when working with employment law. I would HIGHLY recommend him to anyone.
Read more
07 Jun, 2023 by Lucille strickland
07 Jun, 2023 by Lucille strickland
25 Oct, 2024 by Arunkumar balasubramanian
I highly recommend the service. The responses were quick, lawyers were knowledgeable. Were helpful throughout my journey.
Read more
24 Oct, 2024 by Afzal karim
Law office of Mary Kennedy was very professional and friendly , Attention to detail , responsiveness and very knowledgeable, My process has been extremely smooth and I would highly recommend them . Thank you for all your support
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Agathya prabhu
Very approachable and well-informed. Carefully explained different options regarding my visa, offering clear guidance and helping to improve understanding. Highly recommend.
Read more
15 Oct, 2024 by Shiva shankar reddy
We are first time home buyers,
Our realtor recommend Ben as our lawyer,
Ben helped us for closing,
Ben and his team are very committed to there work
We rate Ben and his team 5 🌟
Read more
11 Oct, 2024 by Jillian clarke
19 Aug, 2024 by Julie levey
05 Jun, 2024 by Atul trivedi
top notch law firm
Read more
03 May, 2024 by Maria arteaga
Christopher was amazing handled our case with professionalism and rapidly.
Read more
27 Apr, 2024 by Amy p
I cannot speak highly enough about Christopher Ackeret. Initially upon reaching out to him, I found not only a professional, but a compassionate man. His communication is prompt and thorough. Never once did I feel as if I was talking to an attorney, rather someone who truly cares about his clients. His dedication is superb. He kept me completely informed throughout my case and encouraged me to ask questions. One thing worth noting is unlike some other attorneys who seemingly make empty promises, gearing you up for false outcomes before even taking on a case, Christopher did no such thing. He was very clear about what he felt may happen, but also made no inaccurate guarantees. He walked me through everything so I had a full understanding. If you are looking for a fair, honest, humane and talented attorney, look no further!
Read more
05 Jun, 2024 by Atul trivedi
top notch law firm
Read more
03 May, 2024 by Maria arteaga
Christopher was amazing handled our case with professionalism and rapidly.
Read more
27 Apr, 2024 by Amy p
I cannot speak highly enough about Christopher Ackeret. Initially upon reaching out to him, I found not only a professional, but a compassionate man. His communication is prompt and thorough. Never once did I feel as if I was talking to an attorney, rather someone who truly cares about his clients. His dedication is superb. He kept me completely informed throughout my case and encouraged me to ask questions. One thing worth noting is unlike some other attorneys who seemingly make empty promises, gearing you up for false outcomes before even taking on a case, Christopher did no such thing. He was very clear about what he felt may happen, but also made no inaccurate guarantees. He walked me through everything so I had a full understanding. If you are looking for a fair, honest, humane and talented attorney, look no further!
Read more
08 Apr, 2024 by Dana voulamandis
I have both sold my home and purchased a home with Witas Law Group. Both Ed and Ashley provide phenomenal service to their clients. They made the entire process seamless and their expertise, punctuality, kindness, care and patience is extremely admirable. I highly recommend Witas Law Group, they are amazing!
Read more
11 Dec, 2023 by Jasmine herrera
Second time working with Edward and Ashley and I honestly cannot say enough how much I appreciate their hard work! They communicate everything fast and clearly and look out for the best interest of their client. They explain everything in a way that makes the process less stressful and easy to understand. Love working with them!
Read more
08 Aug, 2023 by Amanda mazur
Ed and Ashley were so wonderful to work with! They made it really easy for us to understand and we got it done quickly. It was so nice to work with people who want what’s best for you… they are just good people! We will definitely be using them again in the future. :)
Read more
12 Aug, 2024 by Vraj 4919
Patrick is very good at customer service
Read more
17 May, 2024 by O.j boldoo
Best immigration lawyer in town. Drove all the way from downtown for her she is the best.
Read more
19 Mar, 2024 by Al-naz ****
Amazing and professional lawyer, we used her services with my wife and we are satisfied. I also recommended her to my friend and he’s very satisfied as well
Read more
06 Jun, 2023 by Agnes
I'm extremely greatful for meeting Stacey. She isn't only knowledgeable in many areas of law but she is very professional and compassionate.
Her representation will restore your faith in the justice system.
Read more
26 May, 2023 by Marie
I've known Stacey Lynch for several years. She has years of experience in her field, and is a terrific advocate for her clients. She is a thorough and stategic lawyer, and treats her clients with care and compassion. I often refer people to Stacey as I know they'll be well taken care of.
Read more
25 May, 2023 by Sam
Stacey is a top tier attorney that not only has the expertise, but the compassion that truly sets her apart from other lawyers. Stacey advocates for her clients and is a partner to them each step of the way. My consultations with Stacey has always resulted in stellar legal recommendations and advice that stems from years of experience and passion for her work. I would highly recommend her as anyone's top attorney of choice.
Read more
12 Sep, 2024 by Lee russell
Jack and Crawford were great. They're sharp and energetic and just what you want on your side.
Read more
12 Sep, 2024 by Lindsay turchan
Both Attorney Braaten and Claire S. were wonderful. They were both highly communicative and did a great job explaining the process and answering all of my questions. It was great having a team that was both so knowledgeable and also so personable to guide me through my divorce. I would highly recommend Attorney Braaten, Claire, and Sterling Lawyers, LLC.
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Dave f
I used this firm to terminate my alimony after my retirement. My ex used a very difficult to work with attorney who constantly delays all proceedings. Patricia was able to cut through a lot of delay tactics to get to my desired result. I cannot recommend her enough.
Read more
12 Sep, 2024 by Lee russell
Jack and Crawford were great. They're sharp and energetic and just what you want on your side.
Read more
12 Sep, 2024 by Lindsay turchan
Both Attorney Braaten and Claire S. were wonderful. They were both highly communicative and did a great job explaining the process and answering all of my questions. It was great having a team that was both so knowledgeable and also so personable to guide me through my divorce. I would highly recommend Attorney Braaten, Claire, and Sterling Lawyers, LLC.
Read more
04 Sep, 2024 by Dave f
I used this firm to terminate my alimony after my retirement. My ex used a very difficult to work with attorney who constantly delays all proceedings. Patricia was able to cut through a lot of delay tactics to get to my desired result. I cannot recommend her enough.
Read more
22 Jul, 2024 by Costel lungan
Mr Iurie Oancea is a very truthful and honest lawyer.Is hard to find these days a honest lawyer.I will recommend him 100%.He deserves 10 stars.
Read more
22 Jul, 2024 by Dan chorzempa
Brian and the team were excellent on my recent real estate transaction. Thanks!
Read more
22 Jul, 2024 by Dmytro yarovyy
…very professional specialist working here ! Claudia very nice to me and other people !!!
Read more
22 Jul, 2024 by Costel lungan
Mr Iurie Oancea is a very truthful and honest lawyer.Is hard to find these days a honest lawyer.I will recommend him 100%.He deserves 10 stars.
Read more
22 Jul, 2024 by Dan chorzempa
Brian and the team were excellent on my recent real estate transaction. Thanks!
Read more
22 Jul, 2024 by Dmytro yarovyy
…very professional specialist working here ! Claudia very nice to me and other people !!!
Read more
12 Aug, 2024 by Vanessa solis
Robert was very informative in the whole process and kept me in the loop at all times. He helped me bring my divorce to an end really quickly as soon as he started working on it. I couldn't be more happy. Definitely recommend him.
Read more
11 Apr, 2024 by Debra lynn
Very professional, friendly and very knowledgeable
Thank you
Read more
07 Dec, 2023 by Robert van duyse
Robert did an excellent job preparing and executing my will and trust. Robert's wife Shannon was also very instrumental in helping me prepare my documents. Thank you!
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by Evgenii
He did a great job with me, he prepared me well for the court. And did a great job with it.
Read more
10 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Lost my case because of him. Try to avoid this “lawyer” and find somebody more professional.
Read more
17 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
My experience with attorney Brian Kholodovsky has been deeply disappointing. Communication was consistently lacking, with delayed or nonexistent responses. His legal expertise was questionable, leading to misguided advice and uncertainty. The attorney’s demeanor lacked empathy, treating me as just another case number. Questionable billing practices further eroded my trust. I cannot recommend this attorney for reliable and competent representation.
Read more
12 Aug, 2024 by Vanessa solis
Robert was very informative in the whole process and kept me in the loop at all times. He helped me bring my divorce to an end really quickly as soon as he started working on it. I couldn't be more happy. Definitely recommend him.
Read more
11 Apr, 2024 by Debra lynn
Very professional, friendly and very knowledgeable
Thank you
Read more
07 Dec, 2023 by Robert van duyse
Robert did an excellent job preparing and executing my will and trust. Robert's wife Shannon was also very instrumental in helping me prepare my documents. Thank you!
Read more
12 Aug, 2022 by Michael g
Michael Minton has been my saving grace. Michael Minton and his firm have been representing me since 2013 in my divorce & child custody arrangments. Mr. Minton pays attention to detail and effectively hones in on the most pertinent information. He is professional and is sensitive to my situation. Choosing the Minton Law Firm has been the best decision I could have made.
Read more
10 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Minton almost ten years ago.. he was extremely patient and understanding with my particular case.. he was able to formulate a document that suited my needs before my marriage ..just a month away.. my future husband and I came to the office to pick up my documents and Mr Minton in his very generous way invited us both in for a chat. With each of us having children from previous marriages .. he was very open about our children and the importance of being kind and available to our children and to each other .. that has stayed with me for all these years.. And as I needed Mr Minton again for documents 10yrs later he was as gracious as he was the first time I meet him.. thank you...
Read more
11 May, 2016 by Anonymous
I too hired Minton based on his former reputation for being an advocate of a woman’s contribution to the marriage. He may have been good long ago but now e-mails and questions go unanswered…lots of last minute work and deadlines are nearly missed…he is not a fan of settling and would rather fight every controversy…that’s what is best for his bottom line. HIs invoices are sky high and the results are underwhelming. I think you can do much better elsewhere and avoid the frustration by researching through AVVO. There are some great attorneys out there. Don’t go on past reputation or personal referrals. Just do your homework with the AVVO ratings and you’ll do ok. If you do find a good one...come back and rate them here so others can find them too. I wish you luck.
Read more
02 Mar, 2023 by Paulius
In a divorce, you need advocates. Advocates that are willing to listen, empathize with your situation and quickly ascertain what rights and entitlements one has.
I was fortunate enough to be paired with Arkady Reifman. From our first meeting, I felt Arkady was the right person that I was lookin for. He helped me not jus like a professional, but like a real human being. I recommend Arkady Reiman to people I know and I will do it inn the future. Thank You Arkady.
Read more
08 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Stay away from him! He was recommended to me by a friend and I was hesitating between him and another attorney. He seemed very professional until he got paid (the whole amount) and then he is hard to reach, doesn't pick up the phone, doesn't call back etc. Anyone else could've been better than Arkady Reifman. It took him 8 months to finalize my very simple divorce case which was supposed to be done within 3 weeks according to what he has said. He kept lying about the court dates and postponing them for many reasons and after all it turned out that he had never filed my case. After several emails, voicemails and text messages I finally got my date and got divorced. Of course to receive the judgement from Arkady took me another 2 weeks. If you need a divorce attorney find someone else! He's the worst possible choice! Zero stars would've been more accurate.
Read more
29 Aug, 2017 by Irina
Arkady is an excellent attorney. He took my complex divorce case and handled it with compassion and pure professonslism. The result was far better then I had expected. Arkady handled my case effectively and made the process as painless as it could have been. I am very grateful for Arkadys dedication and the amazing results that he obtained for me.
Read more
02 Jul, 2021 by Shawntel
Jessica was so helpful and patient working with me on my personal injury lawsuit! She took the time to explain everything to me along the way and set my mind at ease! I have used her services on my family’s estate since then. Highly recommend!
Read more
29 May, 2021 by Nikolay
Whether it be closing on a property, contract negotiations, or handling an estate Jessica has been my go to for years! I highly recommend her for all of your legal needs
Read more
05 May, 2021 by Joe
Attorney Jessica Oefelein has been my family and corporate attorney for many years now. I highly recommend her. She has extensive trial experience and is an experienced attorney in negotiating settlements as well. She returns phone calls and emails in a very timely manner. She has empathy for her clients, and as a result, you will feel better after conferring with her, not more stressed. Joe C
Read more
27 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
I hired him for a very simple divorce case and provided him with a retainer fee of 500.00. He said the entire fee would be no more than 1000.00 but his bill was 2400.00. We had no assets to divide, no custody issues, no property so it was a very simple case. I asked for my retainer fee to be returned and declined his paperwork since he could not represent me without being licensed. He never returned my retainer and told me I owed him another 1900.00. He came to my place of employment at least 3 times demanding his money, called and text me nonstop. Horrible experience.
Read more
26 Dec, 2023 by John
Hands down the worst experience of my life. Patti represented me in a personal legal matter and personally vouched for the character and integrity of opposing counsel. About three months into the process opposing counsel began accusing me of fraud. Patti was outmatched and outmatched at every turn. The fraud allegations were false. Avoid this individual at all costs.
Read more
21 Apr, 2020 by Mary
Bob Marder took my retainer and then spent months just to get me temporary maintenance. Could not remember facts I'd remind him of 5 minutes before going before the judge, I'd have to speak up myself. When after 2 years of not moving any closer to a resolution I asked if he was telling me the only out come was I get screwed over, he YELLED at me saying "well you shouldn't have gotten a divorce". When confronted he lied and said he never said it...... Trying to get rid of one abusive man I hired another big mistake.
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.
