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29 Oct, 2018 by Jennifer
Melissa is amazing! Her experience in Bell County courts is outstanding and she is tough in the courtroom. I have won every motion, even those filed against me. Melissa at Blanchard & Thomas knows the law inside and out and I couldn't feel more confident with my contested divorce case. With family and business at stake, hiring Melissa gave me a huge sense of relief and reduced my anxiety ten-fold. Melissa made this a winning situation for my entire family!
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30 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Melissa was referred to me by a family friend after I had contacted two others in the area. I sought a divorce attorney that was familiar with Military families and the different regulations that get mixed up with a civilian divorce. After our initial consultation, I knew I found the one that would be worth every stressful thought and pinched penny. Melissa is very knowledgeable and patient when explaining "legal-ese" concerning the process and progress of the case. Despite knowing that all of her time spent on matters of my case is compensated, I never once felt that my case was only a source of income. She always went above and beyond to accommodate my concerns and questions. I never felt as if I was being an inconvenience and her quick responses via phone and email was a reassurance that my case was just as important for her as for me. Melissa is genuine and addressed all I needed and things I did not know I needed. I am thankful for her and she will be highly recommended to all of those in my circle that are looking for an attorney.
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26 Jul, 2018 by Anonymous
Melissa is amazing to work with. She is smart, dedicated, and compassionate toward her clients. She is always prompt with inquiries and proactive in making sure the client always knows what is happening, what is needed, and what to expect next.
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22 Sep, 2023 by Jose alex zamora benitez
She was amazing did her job and thank her so much she did what she had to do and beyond got everything that I needed and wanted I definitely recommend her to everyone and anyone she is the best much love for her
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13 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
It’s been weeks that I’ve called whomever answers the phone for this lady because she sure doesn’t. Left messages and nothing! I’m sure someone else out there wants this retainer. Save your hard earned money Becky I’d she doesn’t returns calls I been only imagine the service provided throughout a case!!
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15 Apr, 2021 by Julissa
Excelente Abogada! Desde el primer momento puso todo su empeño en mi caso, hubo muy buena comunicación poniendome al tanto de todo. Ella supo defenderme de la mejor manera y Gracias a Dios y a ella hoy estoy de nuevo con mis hijos. GRACIAS
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11 Jul, 2024 by Azythrom (azythromycin drives a lot)
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11 Apr, 2024 by David watkins
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14 Mar, 2024 by Frank riggle
Great customer service, highly knowledgeable staff
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18 Apr, 2020 by Carlos delbrey
works hard and helped us
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19 Jan, 2020 by Fileza hairston harden
The Attorney didn't really address my Dad's needs nor an alternative of help.
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04 Feb, 2019 by Lorraine valetta
Wonderful and very helpful
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27 Jul, 2024 by Jamaal gist
Solid very knowledgeable
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19 Jun, 2024 by Brian ashby
I appreciate this man.
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06 May, 2024 by Tad allen
Andrew is a knowledgeable trustworthy and skilled advocate
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22 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
With my friend's life hanging in the balance, this lawyer was assigned to her by the court. He didn't even go see her and dispel her fears. He didn't even called me back. He sends text messages like an unconcerned teenage child. His assistant is condescending with a pompous attitude. He must only care about a paycheck. But from the comments on the other site I guess he doesn't care about anything. Why are you even a lawyer? For those of us who are living paycheck to paycheck this so-called lawyer is a death sentence. When he did a video conference with my friend on February 12 he threatened her with 20 years in prison. With lawyers like that who needs the prosecution? He found out that another lawyer was hired and rescinded her bail reduction hearing to reduce the half a million dollar bail put on her without proper cause. You didn't need to do that. Which only shows how much of a creep you really are. When people's lives are at stake you can't just pretend the issue will go away and neglect your oath. We need capable, effective attorneys that talk to us and help us. Where is your compassion? Where is your sense of Duty? Show us that you are competent. Help us believe in a system that many claim isn't broken. Fight for your client. Be the champion we need you to be in our time of distress
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11 Sep, 2019 by Brian
I hired Mr. White for a juvenile case. He worked tirelessly to obtain the desired results for his client! I’m very pleased that I decided to hire him to represent my son! I think he is the best juvenile attorney in bell county!!!
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02 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Hired Mike after my ex started a custody battle. DRAMA of all sorts ensued and he has handled it all! From bogus criminal charges to the various dramas of the custody battle(s). The ex's drama through all this resembles something more befitting a Lifetime TV Movie! If he can handle this situation he can handle yours . He's effective, incredibly knowledgeable, and aggressive. He's going to stand up for you. He won't sugar coat things and tells it to you straight. I've never felt like "just another client" they actually care. I can't imagine going through any of this with any other attorney. If you find yourself facing a contentious divorce custody battle or ANY criminal charge you want this guy and his team on your side! Worth every penny!
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12 Sep, 2020 by Joe
Going into a custody case, as a father, you don't expect much, due to the misconception that mothers always get custody. Lynn went above and beyond on my case, from the time of our initial consultation through after our case was complete. He answered all of my questions within a matter of hours. He was attentive to all information that was provided and ensured that the judge was able to see that I was the more fit parent. Lynn continued to look out for the best interest of my son, throughout the entirety of my case. His paralegal, Toni, was also a pleasure to work with throughout everything.
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01 Feb, 2017 by Tobbie
Mr. Libersky and everyone in his office always took the time to answer my questions, no matter how many time I asked the question. They walked me through the entire process of my divorce, they were very professional, and the fees were reasonable.
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30 Jan, 2017 by Tim
After meeting with several attorneys, I knew Lynn was the attorney for my case. He and his staff care very much about each case and work not only in your best interest but in the best interest for your whole situation for the long term. He and his staff have decades of experience and it shows. He handled my case with a very difficult opposing side who has been more interesting in mud-slinging than doing what's best for the situation. He was able to get a very good resolution in my case. He and his staff showed abundant care and knowledge about my case. There was never an issue contacting him or his staff and communication was quickly returned. In legal cases, emotions can run high. He and his staff not only help you manage that but also will tell you the truth (which may not always be what you want to hear, but it will be what you need to hear). If you want an attorney with integrity, respect, and who will fight for you; then Lynn, Nita, and Toni are the team you want to have on your side.
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Carol E. Prater, experienced Family Law attorney in Temple, TX with 5 reviews
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4.0/5
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3.5
2 Reviews
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4.3
3 Reviews
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18 Apr, 2020 by Carlos delbrey
works hard and helped us
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19 Jan, 2020 by Fileza hairston harden
The Attorney didn't really address my Dad's needs nor an alternative of help.
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04 Feb, 2019 by Lorraine valetta
Wonderful and very helpful
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26 Aug, 2024 by Tyreese hunt
Ms Chelsea roseman did the most exceptional job she worked very hard and always made sure I was in the loop always responded to emails and made sure I was up to date with anything that was going on I was with her for over a year and she has been by far the best legal counsel I have ever aquired thank you so much for how easy you made this very stressful even in my life
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23 Jul, 2024 by Victoria loveless
This place is a joke. My case got passed off to three different lawyers from them “no longer being with our firm” and just found out today that the paralegal on my case is also “not with the firm”. I’m not sure why they can’t keep people there but somehow they have drained my entire $5,000 trust and I have absolutely nothing to show for it. I was given bad info and misled by 2 of the lawyers, 1 who also showed up to my court date late and giving me an attitude as is I wasn’t paying him to be there. Terrible experience, getting a lawyer did absolutely nothing for me. I wish I had read the reviews and spent my money elsewhere.
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23 Jul, 2024 by Mandiidel
0/5 START TERRIBLE EXPERIENCE- Unprofessional and Incompetent Service I am extremely disappointed with the service I received from this attorney. My experience was nothing short of a nightmare. From the outset, it was clear that professionalism and competence were not priorities for this attorney. I wish I could find these reviews before signing a contract with these people. First, communication was abysmal. Despite numerous attempts to get clear and advanced updates on my case, my calls and emails were often ignored or answered with a vague and unhelpful response. The LACK OF TRANSPARENCY and accountability was incredibly frustrating and left me in the dark for 7 months. Additionally, the first attorney (I wasn't aware was someone different from Mr. Barina) seemed completely disorganized and unprepared. 5+ months later after I signed a contract with the attorney, I found out that the attorney running my case was no longer working in the office and whoever would be in charge of my case needed time to catch up on the case. Important deadlines were missed, and crucial documents were incorrectly filed. Their blatant disregard for detail and lack of diligence was appalling and severely jeopardized the outcome of my case. Overall, Bobby Dale Barina's office provided the worst legal service I ever experienced. Their unprofessionalism, incompetence, and lack of basic communication skills made an already stressful situation infinitely worse and incomplete. Hours before I got on a plane for military purposes, I found out that they were unwilling to represent me for my case due "absence of jurisdiction." Information that, they probably knew, for a long time ago and they held on shared with me. 7 months after I am in the same place where I started with the case, with $5,000 less in my bank account, and waiting to finish with my military obligations to go back to the States and restart the process due to their hiding of information. I WOULD STRONGLY ADVISE ANYONE CONSIDERING THIS FIRM TO LOOK ELSEWHERE FOR LEGAL REPRESENTATION. P.S. Incredibly diligent in replying to a bad review and remembering a client. For future reference, next time I suggest providing straightforward and consistent information from the beginning. This will ensure that new clients have clear and realistic expectations. This is crucial for foresting trust and confidence between both parties. CLEARLY, you didn't complete the task. As a result, of your performance, it hurts my trust in your competence and services.
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23 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Need to be investigated asap.And client Myrtle Clemson So called niece.My love one's we're taking the advantage of . Because of my past.My farther signiture should be exspamed And his sister Myrtle Titta Anderson
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18 Apr, 2020 by Carlos delbrey
works hard and helped us
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19 Jan, 2020 by Fileza hairston harden
The Attorney didn't really address my Dad's needs nor an alternative of help.
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06 Oct, 2024 by Butch
Horrible attorney, lazy and a liar. I hired James M. Whorley for my daughter’s child custody case. Upon our first consultation I paid his consultation fee and my daughter and I provided all the facts pertaining to the case. He stated the only way to handle the case was with a jury trial and agreed he would represent my daughter for a flat fee of $30,000 dollars with $15,000 paid down and the remainder $15,000 paid before trial. I paid the initial $15,000 dollars. He failed to answer or return calls on numerous occasions, my daughter was often told they were busy with a new client intake and couldn’t come to the phone. He failed to properly represent her to the best of his ability and continuously was afraid to stand up to the court on clear violation by the court under Texas Family Law. He continuously violated client attorney privilege, failed to file motions and subpoenas, and was always late to court. He also confirmed deals without clients consent and knowledge. He Demanded additional fees (or early payment?) stating it was taking more time than he could spend without additional fees (or early payment?) and that he made $400.00 dollars per hour and would withdraw from the case if it wasn’t paid. An additional payment (or early payment?) was made by my daughter for $5,000 yet he filed a motion to withdraw telling my daughter he no longer had time to spend on her case due to his eyesight, secretary in hospital with cancer, yet Whorley continued to take on additional clients. He Stated we could file a complaint with the bar association for he had 40 (30??) years experience practicing law. He failed to return any monies paid to him. A certified letter return receipt was mailed to him with statement of facts and pending intent to file suit which he refused to accept and was returned to sender. He runs a one man office without the resources to properly handle a case and will not challenge the judge even knowing the judge violated Texas and Federal Law, he represents himself rather than his client and don’t expect to see him unless it is the day before court or the morning of court and expect him to be unprepared for hearings. Refused to file a Writ of Mandamus even though there were clear violations of law and stated he had to practice law here and was a friend of the judge.
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28 Jul, 2022 by Paul
-5 Stars. James Whorley was my Divorce Lawyer. When I first discussed the case with him he gave me me his cell phone number and I felt comfortable with him.Come to find out he would never answer any of my calls or voice mails emails or text. If I left a message on their office voice mail no response. But when they wanted money. They would call nonstop.My ex-wife did so much harm to me.So how did she end up with $65,000 worth of Amish furniture about $80,000 worth of art. And I was awarded some art how. How did Jim just get me three paintings hight one with $900.00and not the $20,000 one? And the money from the house we sold in Ca? How was she able to keep my $25,000 in tools my sons gifts he gave me over the last 12 years my bible collection worth $7,000. Anytime we had to appear in court Jim was always late. I would call his office and the office would say he's proberly talking-to other lawyers.Why is he talking to anybody and not discussing the case with me. Im the one paying him $400 an hour. During court the last of the divorce. Jim was contacted by her lawyer that they wanted 2 credit accounts but Jim never did tell me. So he begged The Judge to het us get them by 5pm that day. She said no because we had plenty of time to get them.He never did say we dropped the ball and I'm sorry. I am very disabled. When I was in the hospital a few times and I would call his office and tell then I was in the hospital and they said it was fishy. And wanted the hospital to send the a letter.Her lawyer in the closing said I should go a foodbank if I needed food and she should not have to give support. She lied big time and got a restaining order. I called the local police to help me get some clothes and my credit cards. She came out and had a fit. Well they arrested me. How I dont know.Jim told the Judge that he would have it dropped. Well that's not what he did and I did a year probation because getting it dropped would have not made him anymore more money. Of course he charged me $1,500.00 to take the plea deal deal. Total cost was about $10,000. I know Jim would say but you got the house. Yes but if she would have put in up for sale in the first 30 days I would have had to give to her because the equity was only about $20,000 and with closing cost and realtors fees I would have had to pay to sell the house. So we sued her to sell the house. Well, a month before that. She took me to court say I was driving around the house. Well, It was not my truck. Not the color not the model. Well Jim charged me $1,500.00 to defend me. How come he didn't ask the court to make her pay it since it was a lie? Well, when we sued her the Judge to sell the house the Judge and if we wanted jail time? Jim said no I talked to her and she is good. WHAT? That was not Jims call to make it was mine. She destroyed my life and Jim gives her a pass. I can't tell you how upset I was.Well my ex-wife wrote him an excellent review before the truck court case. when the house was finally sold I had to pay $3709.00 in taxes to the new buyer. Well she got a refund check and I was owed that money so I called Jim and his office for 7 months to get this taken care of. Jim finally responded to it at 7:30 am one morning and said he will send out a demand letter. Well I called his office for 5 weeks and the said the would talk to him 5 weeks??? Finally his office sent out the demand letter because ehe never did.Well no follow up at all. I finally had to contact her lawyer and get half.My ex wife wrote a review Jim and said he's an excellent lawyer and a kind man. What was he doing talking to her when Well he is either an horrible divorce lawyer or she flirted with him or she paid him because he was on her side the whole time.I founds still has my service dog that she said died. Did Jim confirm that? No he did not. I do no recommend Jim Whorley as a divorce lawyer. If you want to loose everything hire Jim.
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24 Sep, 2019 by Sherrie
Mr Whorley has represented me several times over the last 3 years. Each time he has been levelheaded and quick thinking. He has a brilliant mind and can think outside the box. In addition, I can see that he is well loved by the staff at the courthouse and respected by other attorneys, which speaks volumes about his character and reputation. I highly recommend Mr Whorley.
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27 Nov, 2018 by Paul
Barbara Young and her team are fabulous. They are caring and compassionate as well as tops in her field of law. I highly recommend Mrs. Young for any of your family law needs.
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23 Sep, 2018 by Jennifer
I have hired Barbara 3 times for modifications to my custody with my son’s father. She has always been the utmost professional. She is strategic and highly intelligent. She has integrity and will always be honest with you and with the court. While she may be more expensive than some attorneys in the area, she is worth every dime. I hired a less expensive attorney for my original custody fight & regretted it. I would have come out cheaper in the end had I hired Barbara from the beginning. I can’t sing her praises enough! I highly recommend her. You won’t regret hiring her! Her staff is also always friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable.
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21 Sep, 2018 by Antonio
I was completely bewildered at the thought of divorcing I love my family. However, since my divorce was unavoidable and Young & Libersky was the right place for me. They were consummate professionals and explained everything until I understood. They took care of me and my interest very well. I would recommend anyone Y&L without reservations to anyone who needs a divorce attorney. As a matter of fact I already have.
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16 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
He calls only between midnight or 3 am and expects responses.. 10 out of 10, do not recommend to any party in need of legal assistance.
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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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