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25 Apr, 2017 by Toni
Joseph Shanahan is a strong, vocal and direct attorney. He reviews all information leading into the hearings and cone prepared with a plan and sees it through to completion. He is not intimidated and will advocate for what is right. Our family is incredibly grateful to Joseph and his team for ALL of their hardwork and dedication to our family, our daughter and our grandson. Because of his dedication and hard work, we will get to see our grandson and daughter be deservedly reunited. We would give 10 stars if we could!
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16 Mar, 2017 by Jessika
Attorney Joseph Romiro-Shanahan is a very approachable, clear communicator with unwavering sound judgement and all that we hope a lawyer to be. He heard me as a mother, listened as a fellow human being and took action and pace that brought my daughter rightfully back home to me. One can safely entrust their children and parent rights and legal matters into his hands. Without exaggeration, the Law Office of Joseph Ramiro-Shanahan, which includes attorney Jessica Strain and staff, delivered legal representation services with incredible kindness and generosity of heart. This only matched by their effectiveness. We had a right and good outcome; something possibly achievable 5 attorneys ago but that's the difference between right and possible and seeing it through until a mom and daughter are together again.
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23 Feb, 2017 by Priscilla
I am 48 and have been dealing with attorneys for a long time. Mr. Joseph Ramiro-Shanahan is the very best one I have hired. We was always very professional, answers calls. Court demeanor was the very best but yet he is also sympathetic and understanding. He always made us feel like we were his most important clients. His assistant Jessica is also always on point. You can not go wrong with team.
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18 Dec, 2017 by Mike
I have been a client of Diana's since the 90's. She handled my dissolution with children. It was a horrible time for my family and I. Diana was aggressive and didn't stop until my children were safe. I was awarded sole custody of my four children and this was when it was almost unheard of that the man have sole custody of his children. Unfortunately life happens and 17 years later I needed Diana again. Diana welcomed me like I was family and ensured me that everything would work out and she would protect my best interests. She did just that in my dissolution I was awarded everything I asked for without stepping foot in a court room. I would highly recommend Diana March to handle your case.
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13 Mar, 2016 by Sarah
Diana was recommended to me by one of her associates. It was an overwhelming time so I took the advice and proceeded, though I wish I had not. My impression is that Diana either expected me to understand the process or she did not listen to what I was saying...or maybe both. She would forget things I had told her and I thought were very important, and then get furious with me for not doing something that I had no idea was expected. Our communication was horrible and though I am sure that was partially my fault, she blamed it 100% on me with rages and insults. She suggested a realtor that did not know my area at all when we in court in front of the judge so I couldn't look into him. I would have liked to have had a better realtor for our house. I did not get a fair division of assets in my opinion, or things that were very important to me like art work I had since I was a child. I would never recommend Diana to someone going though this difficult time.
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14 Jul, 2015 by Richard
Diana came to us by recommendation of a past client, which in my opinion is the best kind of reference. When we first came to her office, the environment was warm and inviting. It presented a strong presence of knowledge and understanding. We sat in Diana’s conference room and the case discussion began. She already began making suggestions to my spouse not only in the legal area but immediately became a comfort factor. Diana was kind, and thoughtful, however presented a mantra of strictness when it came to the rules. This appealed to me and we decide to retain her.
From ordinary to extraordinary the case took a left turn, and my spouse calls Diana in a panic late one night. Diana picked up and took the call, even though it was well past midnight. Apparently the defendant in the case had accused her of kidnapping and informed a local law enforcement agency. Without even skipping a beat, the actions to take flowed from Diana along with next steps, and what she was going to do in order to protect my spouse. The rest was solved in the courtroom, in which we won, and recouped some of the unexpected legal costs.
Diana will keep to your best interests while maintain both within the bounds of the law and what is most ethical. Quite often people forget that what is legal may not be ethical and what is ethical may not be legal. Diana demonstrated incredible skill at maintaining the highest level of ethics while staying within the bounds of the law.
Having worked with many lawyers, I would recommend Diana to anyone who needs a strong, strict, ethical, and caring lawyer.
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09 Aug, 2024 by Lm
Yvette Ansel is beyond incompetent. Men, go elsewhere. Yvette wrecked my case in favor of the ex-wife. She was either incompetent or colluding with opposing counsel. I wouldn't recommend her to fix a speeding ticket yet any case of importance. I have talked to six other attorneys informing me how ineffective and that she could have easily won but ignored motive and factual evidence.
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06 Sep, 2021 by Michelle
Just ending a nearly 2 year custody and child support hearing that included one special action appeal. I hired Yvette as an appeals attorney. I knew I needed a female, and I knew I needed someone strong. I watched her youtube litigation at least 5 times before calling her (it is on her website). Although Yvette came late to the game, she was very quick to learn the details of my case. Yvette didn't let me get bullied by my exes attorney the way my 1st attorney would. After A LOT of thought, (it's hard to start over with a new attorney, but can also be detrimental if you don't) I decided to let my 1st attorney go and continue to use Yvette for the Superior court custody case as well. My first attorney rarely answered calls and when he did, we had to talk over a screaming baby/toddler. He would only answer emails after 11 pm (true story) and to be honest, he just wasn't that good.
The reason I am writing this review is bc Yvette ALWAYS made herself available. ALWAYS. I needed assistance twice after hours. Once involved speaking with the police at 10 pm and Yvette responded right away. The other thing I love about Yvette is spending time to "prep" me before court. She would go over her questions and potential questions from the other side.
She also knew when I'd come close to the breaking point and say something as simple as "it's ok. take a rest, call me tomorrow"
You're going to spend a lot of money on an attorney. Make sure to obtain one that is there when you need them...
I would one million percent recommend Yvette as a family or appellate attorney.
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30 Mar, 2017 by Russ
Yvett and her firm are amazing! First of all they care about their clients, truly care and it's shows in how they handled my family needs. They are on top of things in every aspect of detail such to extent of pointing out things that the opposing side does incorrectly hence putting us in a better position with the court. She is commanding in court with a respectful demeanor that gets results desired. Strong negotiator, thorough with detail and support backup needed to get the job done. Takes no nonsense from opposing side and holds them accoutable. Definitely want her on your side. Highly Recomend.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Kathy
I acquired Joe for family services. I was divorced already with a child. The other party kept refusing to do what was ordered by the judge so needless to say the outcome was beneficial for me.
I did not only use Joe for the family circumstances. Without his expertise I can honestly say, I would have been given a harsher outcome. Comparing what I was sentenced to what it could have been it blows my mind.
Thank you Joe!!
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30 Jan, 2024 by Dj
I am forever grateful to Joe for helping me with his 38 years of legal experience with my divorce. He was outstanding in every imaginable category be it response, experience, cost or efficacy. Without Joe I would be without paddle or life jacket way, way up S*** Creek. Thank you Joe for your experience and savvy navigating my case. I couldn't recommend Joe enough,
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09 Dec, 2022 by Galleryandrea scottsdale
If you are looking for an amazing attorney look not further. Bill Black is a very experienced attorney with winning results. He is great to work with and will make you feel confident and at ease during the process. He has a great personality and might make you laugh too.
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30 Aug, 2021 by Rochelle
Very understanding and helpful always there when needed he also went up and beyond to help me and was very up front
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29 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
5000 dollars for him to show up and pretty much bend over for the prosecutors. He will not fight, he’s not a fighter at all and takes no interest after he’s been paid. Eyes always red and nose always dripping. Find someone else, you’ll thank yourself later. Don’t let the 5 reviews here fool you folks.
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04 May, 2018 by Early
I spoke with Ronald Washington this evening regarding an incident with my son. The information was very enlightening and helpful. I feel that he is guided us in the right direction. This gentleman was both competent and confident. And I look forward to seeing the outcome of the situation. Thank you for your help Ronald it is greatly appreciated!
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07 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
He did not represent me fairly or file motions that were required by the court and I was almost held responsible for his negligence. I would have been better with a public appointed attorney and most likely I would have received the better or at least same results. He is dishonest, lazy and tells you what you want to hear until you hire him.
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11 May, 2015 by Kyle
I hired Andrew For my traffic tickets and he got them all reduced or dismissed, he knew the judge well so I lucked out hiring a job with many connections in the court system. I knew right away when I had trouble in Scottsdale I needed to hire a guy with lots of friends and buddies always getting drunk and Duis in Scottsdale. Andrew had the experience getting half of ASU greek life oUT of their tickets. I knew he was the dirty lawyer I needed. Good price too. But when I needed him again couldn't get him on the phone again. Someone said he went to rehab, makes sense. But so sad a bright young man. So I guess he doesn't practice law anymore.
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12 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
I had hired this attorney on 10/2/14 for a traffic violation from four years ago. He has taken three payments and disappeared. No motion filed, no response, and phone disconnected.
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14 Sep, 2023 by Anonymous
I wish i could put zero star for her. She failed to complete the job we paid her for. Karen never answered phone calls and didn't return messages in a timely matter . Do to her lack of knowledge, our divorce cost us so much more. She is just there for money. I absolutely not recommend her to anybody.
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17 Aug, 2023 by Matt
Attorney Karen Schoenau at Guymon Law has done a great job in my family case. Her knowledge, relationships, and abilities were all on display in my hotly contested matter. She has been responsive to email, phone and when needed, in-person meetings. I especially enjoy her hearing and trial abilities. Most attorneys are good at writing pleadings and negotiating issues but it takes a special lawyer who can win at hearings. Her support staff is helpful and friendly. I highly recommend her and her firm.
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03 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
The women create more work for herself then to try to finish the job. Stay as far as you can from her. Lawyer like her gives bad names to other lawyers.
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28 Jan, 2017 by Nm
Donna helped guide me through the divorce process with 2 small children. She took all of my concerns/questions into consideration and responded timely to my requests. She was able to get me and my children the support we needed to get on our feet. She is very knowledgeable about family law and explained the process in great detail. She was very compassionate and had my children's best interest at heart.
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29 Dec, 2016 by Jessica
Donna representing me in a family law matter. She did an amazing job and she even used the opposing attorney's statements against him.
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03 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Had Donna Jewett represent me in a Family Law Case for about 5 months, she charged 10,800.00 sent out about 2 subpoenas and talked with the judge once by phone. She sat on my case and alowed my doscovery time to run-out, all while I had asked her AGAIN and AGAIN to bring in someone who could help her.
SHE DID NOTHING! I had money owed back to me, and she found away to bill me for more...
Picking Donna Jewett was a HUGE MISTAKE! Please think twice about hiring her, huge disappointment and to top it off she is WEIRD just like the person before me stated.
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01 Apr, 2024 by John
Terrible attorney who should have her bar license revoked. No way to get in touch with her as nobody answers the phone or their email accounts.
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27 Jun, 2012 by Jessica
Allyson did a great job of helping us prepare our estate planning documents. She was very good at explaining legal concepts so that we knew what we were doing and didn't get lost in the jargon. She kept us focused, and she and her staff followed up to make sure that we funded our trust and made all of the changes accurately.
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13 Jul, 2020 by Janice
Stanley Murray was a God-sent for my post-divorce care. When my ex appealed the divorce Ruling, Stan Murray was efficient, effective, calming and compassionate. He was quick to respond to my questions, calls and emails. He always explained issues in terms that I could understand. I was so impressed with his abilities for the appeal that I hired him for the remainder of the post-divorce details, which were extensive. At times, I was emotional and scared. He has talked me off the ledge on several occasions, in a compassionate manner. In the end, he was an effective diplomat during the crisis management of helping me and my ex to negotiate the best possible deal for each of us. I recommend Stan to anyone needing a strong and steady hand through the ordeal of a difficult divorce.
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07 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Failed to carefully review critical documents
Failed to identify errors
Failed to prepare for hearings.
Failed to file documents on time
Filed decree of dissolution without client review
Filed decree of dissolution with errors
Prepared common document incorrectly
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26 Sep, 2019 by Sami shelly
Maria Lawrence handled a heartbreaking case concerning our son Tim Shelley. She was very through...professional and at the same time compassionate and competent.
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07 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Only cares about making money. Doesn’t care about Justice. Dropped my case when I needed her the most.
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31 May, 2018 by Anonymous
We hired Howard Gaines to draw up our family trust, etc. He tacked on charges every chance he could. He even tried to get us not to have our parking lot pass validated because it would cost him money, we just spent a couple thousand dollars on this paperwork...cheap, cheap, cheap!!! Let's face it, we all work for the paycheck, but this shyster is a joke. Maybe he has to nickel and dime because he's not that good, I'm not sure. I would NEVER recommend him, EVER!!
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19 Jan, 2018 by Michael
I hired him to do a set aside and he cancelled meetings and then said I didn’t show up, then basically said he was done with me and I had to file a case against him with the AZ Bar to even get my documents back. He’s a loser, spend your money elsewhere.
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22 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Howard to defend a criminal traffic ticket. Initially, he was rapid to respond and seemed interested in taking on my case. After he was hired and paid, it became extremely clear that he was only interested in taking my money. I had to initiate every call with him. Even after sending all relevant documents and speaking multiple times, he still did not know the facts of my case. It was clear that he was completely uninterested in defending me and my rights. In addition, he spoke to me completely condescendingly and refused to defend me on a charge related to the traffic ticket. I lost both because I did not have adequate representation. I am so disappointed I did not read his reviews prior to hiring him. Do not make the mistake I did. There are plenty of good attorneys out there and this is not one of them.
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19 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
I would give this attorney zero if I could because of her ethics. She is willing to represent deadbeat parents who abandon their children.. She uses the law and the system to benefit them and encourages bad behavior to keep the case going. She bounces around from law firm the law firm having worked for several over the last eight years. This attorney does not care about right and wrong in my opinion. She is simply a tool of the industry that loves to recommend/encourage useless services and keep a case going. All to the detriment of all parties involved except for her pocketbook, of course.. I never talked to this attorney personally, but I know people who have worked with and against her, and it is all the same outcome. The divorce industry wins and the people lose.. if care about your children in a divorce steer clear from this attorney.
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07 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
I won’t recommend this lawyer to my worst enemy. Doesn’t meet commitments, quality of work is lacking
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18 May, 2015 by Barbara
My husband's conservator, the firm of Fiduciary Solutions, is awful. She represents them and both my husband and I live in the State of Georgia. She in Arizona constantly files bogus court documents, has spread vicious rumors about me the wife, and has never responded to any calls or e-mails, She does talk to my husband's ex-wife and totally believes the ex who has no contact with us in years. She is young and not very savvy. Horrible service to the "ward" who is ill and doesn't even live in Arizona.
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01 Mar, 2021 by Anonymous
Horrific. Could not be more biased, sexist, female and woman oriented. She was a judge in Seattle Family Court. I have no idea under what Kafkaesque nightmare that is even remotely possible. I graduated Notre Dame law school and have practiced law for 20 years. I have in my life never encountered a more horrific judge in my life. God help you if you are not a female l. This woman should be disbarred. How she ever became a judge is a complete mystery/nightmare. If you’re a female, hire her. If you’re male, God help you.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
-
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.
