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18 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
My ex wife violated are divorce decree Dominic was able to settle everything out of court I would highly recommend this attorney he kept me well informed threw phone and email very happy
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26 May, 2015 by Tyler
My friend who is a great person, and friend to everyone had some legal issues due to his mental illness. He had a tough life, and Dominic helped him to get the help that he needed. My friend is now enrolled back in College, and doing very well, and its all because of Dominic fighting to get him a second chance. He is not just a great lawyer, but an all around good guy.
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23 May, 2015 by Brian
I had gotten myself into some trouble, and I didn't really know who to turn to. It seems like most lawyers do not care about you, and are just in it for the money, and to get your case done with as quickly as possible. I met Dominic, and he was different than the rest of the lawyers I talked to. He kept me informed, and was able to get me an outcome that was pleasing to all. I do not write reviews on a lot of things, even if I do like the product, but I feel like people need to know about this great lawyer . He will fight for what's right , and he will try his hardest. He always kept me informed, and guided me every step of the way, and for that I am forever grateful. If you want a lawyer then hire any lawyer in the phone book, but if you want a great lawyer, and a great guy then hire Dominic Mastri III.
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10 Apr, 2011 by Craig
Attorney Karam is outstanding! She is honest, motivated, and very dedicated to helping. It has been great having her represent me. I do not have to stress because I know she will take care of me.
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16 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous
I have used attorney Marcin to handle my parent's estate planning as well as my wife and my own estate planning. I have also consulted with him regarding family law. He has proven to be quite knowledgeable, responsive, listens to his clients, and is very thorough. Overall I am extremely pleased with my experiences with him
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24 Sep, 2009 by Anonymous
excellent lawyer that describes everything to you in a language you can understand. very informative and kept me up to date with all that was going on. Very happy with this attorney, he fights for what is right and will not sell you out in the political arena of Lackawanna County.
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31 May, 2024 by Anthony parise
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31 May, 2024 by Anthony cencetti
Stephen is an intelligent, committed, and determined individual. Gives 100 percent effort in everything he does. Will definitely be successful. Highly recommend!
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31 May, 2024 by Benny pritchyk
I know Stephen for quite some time and he is extremely knowledgeable and professional. I know he will fight hard for whatever it is you need because that’s the kind of person he is.
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Paul Sotak, experienced Family Law attorney in Scranton, PA with 15 reviews
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4.8/5
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5.0
1 Reviews
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4.7
14 Reviews
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20 Feb, 2024 by Kevin gonzalez
Great communication really go above and beyond for his clients
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13 Dec, 2023 by Simon r lipchus 3rd
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12 Jul, 2023 by Ayalissa rivera
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13 Jun, 2023 by Cab boyer
Polite , courteous and prompt responses
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21 Feb, 2023 by John rz
The office was easy to find and there was plenty of parking. The staff were very professional and friendly. Lawyers were very knowledgable and explained scenarios concerning our case.
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13 Apr, 2022 by Rachael frutchey
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28 Aug, 2024 by Amanda garcia
I would recommend Corey to anyone in need of an amazing lawyer. He helped my family tremendously. Thank you Corey for all of your help!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Judith reesey
Tom Munley's expertise with my personal injury case was exceptional. His personal touch and availability were reassuring. I would highly recommend him to anyone in need of an attorney with a vast knowledge of the law.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Sunnie laybourn
Very knowledgeable and helpful. Have no complaints about his service. Highly recommend
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09 Jul, 2024 by Sean clark
Matt Perry is top notch!
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05 Jun, 2024 by Michael lambert
I've been a client of O'Malley & Perry Law for many years in different types of legal situations. Mike and Matt Perry are brilliant attorneys - they get results!! I wouldn't want to be on the opposing side - but as your representatives they are the nicest people you'd want to meet. I can't recommend them enough!
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30 May, 2024 by Eric d.
Ann was excellent. She helped us research property records to resolve a dispute with a neighbor. Kind, courteous, and professional!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Hussam aziz
Great service with friendly welcoming
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12 Jul, 2024 by Marcin fasiecki
Catherine Gallagher is a great and effective attorney! I used her in my custody matter and she delivered beyond my expectations. I will recommend her to everyone.
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07 Mar, 2024 by John hart
Working alongside the accomplished and highly capable team at Gallagher Law on several cases has been an enlightening experience, showcasing their extensive legal expertise and consistent success across a myriad of complex cases.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Kym balthazar fetsko
I reached out to Attorney Santomauro for a consultation, and I was impressed by his promptness and thoroughness. He took the time to answer all of my questions clearly and comprehensively. While I hope I'll never need his services, I feel confident that if I do, I'll be in excellent hands. Highly recommend!
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09 Aug, 2024 by Patricia price
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30 Jul, 2024 by Chris farrell
Great courtroom lawyer.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Brad
I’ve used Tom Jones for almost 15 years in both personal and business matters. Tom is an extremely knowledgeable attorney and has always performed above my expectations. I highly recommend him for any legal issues.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Jessica
14 years ago I called Tom to help me with custory of my then infant child. I was young and Tom helped me for 3 years...we won multiple times... Last Summer i reached out to Tom to help me with my same child but with Adoption! My husband who has raised my son for 13 years was going to adopt my son! I could send an email anytime during the day and Tom would respond back immediately! He also has a wonderful paralegal named Jillian who was been amazing to work with. THIS PAST MONTH TOM HELPED MAKE THIS ADOPTION HAPPEN! Thank you Tom and Jillian for going above and beyond to help!
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09 Mar, 2023 by Gretchen
Attorney Tom Jones is so professional , empathetic, and efficient. Have had the privilege of him helping me through many years. My child needed him, buying of real estate, presently will and more! I would not call on anyone else. His family, including his father are pillars in our community!
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10 Sep, 2024 by Sean j
Always responsive, knowledgeable and friendly. As the family member of many notable attorneys, and have been the client of many notable attorney’s, Tullio will fight for you.
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16 Aug, 2024 by George noone
I was in a very difficult situation that I and everyone around me thought was completely hopeless. To my amazement and joy Attorney Deluca was able to use his brilliant legal acumen to rectify my problem. I would strongly recommend Attorney Deluca to anyone facing any kind of legal dilemma.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Mike
Tullio’s office took my case after a different law office filed inaccurate documents! His office really saved the day for me !! Throughout the process they answerer all my questions promptly, patiently & accurately. Everything went exactly like they told me it would and my case closed without any problems. I highly recommend Tullio and his team to anyone looking for professional legal representation.
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29 Jul, 2024 by Catherine berardelli
Please DO Not have John Mascelli represent you! Extremely greedy!
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24 Jun, 2024 by Cathy berardelli
John Masselli received $7,200 for representing me. He then sent me a bill for $426.00 stating I owe him for a ride to Wilkes-Barre. He never told me he was charging me. Some attorney's are extremely greedy. Becareful who represents you.
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31 Oct, 2023 by Tyler peregrin
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29 Jul, 2024 by Catherine berardelli
Please DO Not have John Mascelli represent you! Extremely greedy!
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24 Jun, 2024 by Cathy berardelli
John Masselli received $7,200 for representing me. He then sent me a bill for $426.00 stating I owe him for a ride to Wilkes-Barre. He never told me he was charging me. Some attorney's are extremely greedy. Becareful who represents you.
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31 Oct, 2023 by Tyler peregrin
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03 Apr, 2023 by Nzinga callendar
Mr.Willams was great for my case very down to earth guy helped me get all 3 of my kids back as a black woman he knew just how to handle my case he was calm not to expensive and very well put together .. this is not a scam review my name is Nzinga callendar my case was all over the news n the news lied on me yet no matter what I still got custody n im blessed thanks to this man hire him he’s great for family custody
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21 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
John was always there for me! My divorce went quickly and smoothly. He made this difficult process so much easier, I couldn't be happier. Very knowledgeable and dedicated!
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20 Sep, 2016 by Marie
He could not have delayed my case anymore than he did. I could never get in touch with him. But still charged me money.
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25 Sep, 2024 by Honest john
Going back a number of years ago my wife and I consulted with Marjorie about possibly filing a bankruptcy. At the consultation Marjorie happily Accepted a check for A retainer of over a $1000 from us. The only reason we had that money was from a tax return. Shortly after we decided not to go through with the bankruptcy and asked for the refund. Let me add, There were no papers filled out and no paperwork filed for a bankruptcy. No work on her part was rendered at any time. Her assistant acted as if she knew nothing about it so I provided them with a copy of the cashed check. I followed up with the assistant/secretary many times leaving voicemail messages and talking to them directly over the phone. I was always given the run around that they had to discuss it with Marjorie. They literally had a copy of the cash check that they cashed. What more would they possibly need to prove they owed it to us. After over a year of getting the run around and being ignored we finally gave up. She took the money, Never provided any services for it And refused to acknowledge us. She is a piece of garbage in my eyes and not worth the space she takes up or the money she steals. Literally taking Over a $1000 from someone who is SO down and out that they are considering bankruptcy. What a despicable human being. After looking through the reviews it appears that we were not the only victims.
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28 Aug, 2023 by Karen pasqualicchio
Just met with her for an estate. She was very good and gave us a step by step plan.
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05 Mar, 2023 by Eric t
Marjorie is an amazing Attorney and person. She's very direct and forthcoming with her thoughts and ideas and doesn't pull any punches. I appreciate all that's she's done for my friends and my family, and consider her a dear friend.
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04 Dec, 2018 by Tom
attorney gene Riccardo helped me out with my problems and did a grteat job doing it too
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04 Dec, 2018 by Bob
Attorney Gene riccardo helped me with my problems and is a great lawyer I loved what he did for me and he is a freest lawyer and I recommend him if you need a lawyer for what kind of work he does
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03 Dec, 2012 by Joe
Hired Riccardo a few years back, he dropped the ball all the time. I guess he found a home in the DA's office because he was terrible as a working attorney.
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21 Jul, 2023 by Kelly
Was truly disappointed in regards to how he handled things with my husband’s federal white collar case. His lack of knowledge of the changes with the First Steps Act of 2018. Making me feel that my concerns were not priority, and not explaining why they should or shouldn’t be.
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18 Mar, 2019 by Diane
Ernie Preate is in my experience the best prosecutor Lackawanna county ever had. He put Joseph Aulisio in jail for life. He was very professional and made sure he took Mr. Allison off the streets for life. My family is very happy and stands by him for every thing he has done for us.
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29 Mar, 2018 by Jennifer
Upon consulting Mr. Preate regarding allegations made against my 11 year old son - he eased all my worries and gave our family the confidence we needed to proceed accordingly. We hired him and breathed a sigh of relief knowing we had him on our side. The case is still on going however every step of the way he has proven to be the perfect fit for our case. He has shown us that he is willing to fight for my son just as hard (if not harder) than I ever could. Extremely intelligent and a straight shooter. I would highly recommend him to anyone in need of a good criminal defense attorney.
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17 Sep, 2022 by Nevaeh rosencrance
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04 Mar, 2020 by Debraann debra
Be very careful with this attorney! Make sure you check with other attorneys in the area for the cost of a case similar to yours. He definitely over charges! He must think he is still in Philadelphia. Reels you in with big talk and after you sign on he “implores” you to take a plea deal even if your innocent. Then has the nerve to get mad at you when you refuse the plea. What’s the point in paying thousands of dollars for a lawyer to fight your case for you if he is just going to beg you to take a plea deal. Seriously you can do that for free. We did go to trial! He did not present all of our evidence and was still found not guilty. And he wanted me to take a plea deal where I was looking at many many years in prison. All I can say is WOW! Hope this helps. Good luck!
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26 Jul, 2019 by Art machler
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07 May, 2019 by Johanna
Okay turns out Matt isn’t reliable and actually is the worst I’ve ever had. He knows all the right things to say to string u along but wen it comes down to it, he’s only about money and will screw u at trial by not showing up. This guy actually had the balls to offer to help me pro-bono w/custody of my 2 yr old baby girl but never showed up to court on the day trial was starting. If I wasn’t able to come to an agreement w/my ex that day I could have lost custody of my child b/c of this twatwaffle atty Matt. How r u gonna offer to help me n then leave me hanging high n dry. I didn’t ask for his crap representation. U can’t just go around messing w/ ppls lives like that. Especially wen kids r involved. That’s just the lowest of the low. IF I COULD HAVE GIVEN HIM 0 STARS, I WOULD HAVE...
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13 Aug, 2018 by Chris
I retained him for driving on a DUI suspended license, (Even tho I was found not-guilty on said DUI) but nevertheless I wondered into his office and retained him because he's known as a fighter in mostly the federal arena so he's not to worried about stepping on MDJ's toes he got the case tossed on a bad service, well he sent an associate to handle his dirty work which was my only issue with his services but he was probley busy trying to save some other poor soul. I'd recommend him.
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15 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Attorney Kochis is unprofessional. She ignores clients and never calls one back
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06 Mar, 2021 by Iris pagan
Very professional
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20 Feb, 2024 by Kevin gonzalez
Great communication really go above and beyond for his clients
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13 Dec, 2023 by Simon r lipchus 3rd
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12 Jul, 2023 by Ayalissa rivera
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12 May, 2022 by Anonymous
I have worked with Kim on 2 other cases and I was blessed to have found her beyond the scopes of just paper and she made sure things were done right and fair
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07 Apr, 2021 by Yvonne worman
I contacted this attorney to advise her that my nephew is potentially the father of a child she represents. She laughed at us, ignored our request for Dna, and looked the other way. She continued to try and advocate for the adoption of child in question out, against legal protocol. She states she will not cooperate and will fight claims, even though no legal father has been established in this case. The child had blood relatives willing to step forward and she ignores the legal rights of the potential father, and “doesn’t recall” a phone conversation stating potential paternity.
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02 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Always yelling at me, took advantage of the fact I'm addicted to drugs and accuses me of being high when I'm not ( even in COURT!!!) says she is on my side and wants to help me but lies to me and fights against me in every way possible and took my visits away because i brought my significant other around took complete advantage of my age and situation and had sign papers she only expanded 10% of for what I believe is her own benefit and liedALLOT shhe talks to me like in a drug addicted piece of scumand talks about me in that manner and make sly insulting comments constantly I asked if I had any other options she said no then scared me into signing something I didnt want to I feel taken advantage of and wish I could take back this whole nightmare
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What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You

A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.

Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.

When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?

Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:

  • Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
  • Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
  • Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
  • Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
  • Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
  • Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
  • Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.

Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.

What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?

A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:

  • Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
  • Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
  • Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
  • Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
  • Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
  • Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
  • Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.

How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?

Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:

  • Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
  • Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
  • Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.

The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.

How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:

  • Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
  • Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
  • Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
  • Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.

Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.

Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer

Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:

  1. What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
    Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption.
  2. How will you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved.
  3. What are the possible outcomes of my case?
    An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case.
  4. What is your approach to resolving disputes?
    Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals.
  5. How long do you expect my case to take?
    While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases.
  6. Who will be handling my case?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.

How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer

To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:

  • Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
  • Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
  • Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
  • Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
  • List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
  • Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
  • Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
  • Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.

Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.

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