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11 Dec, 2024 by James johnson
I recommend Alex Adkins highly enough. From start to finish, Alex provided exceptional legal representation and guidance. He is not only highly knowledgeable and skilled in his field but also incredibly compassionate and understanding. As a mentor louded with guidance, Alex took the time to thoroughly explain every step of the process, ensuring I felt confident and informed throughout.
What truly sets him apart is his attention to detail and unwavering dedication to his clients. He was always responsive to my questions and made me feel like a priority, no matter how busy his schedule was. Thanks to Alex's expertise and strategic approach, my case was resolved successfully, exceeding my expectations.
If you're looking for a lawyer who is professional, dependable, and truly cares about achieving the best outcome for you, Alex Adkins is the one to call. I’m deeply grateful for his help and would not hesitate to work with him again in the future."
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17 Nov, 2024 by Joshua craig
My name is Joshua Craig, I am a Missionary of Christ and an Electrician. After searching for a Lawyer for a long time through a series of events I found The Christian Injury Law Firm and Ryan went out of his way to help me with a case that he doesn't even specialize in! I thank God for answering my prayers and leading me to the people I needed!
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11 Nov, 2024 by Cakes and desserts cafe
Dan was professional and informative regarding my divorce issues. He researched the issues and provided the court detailed information and precedence go support the case. The case was ultimately found in my favor. I would highly recommend him to work with.
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31 Aug, 2024 by Kj
Attorney Maiya of Safikovs handled my Divorce case she told me what to expect of the process from the beginning to the end she’s Brilliant her knowledge in Ga Law is astounding her exuberance of confidence made me feel relaxed in knowing my case was in good hands the way she navigates will result in a PEACEFUL resolution Thank you Attorney Maiya of Safikovs Law for being my Care Bear I Pray your Law Firm grows into Forbes Billionaire Status
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04 Feb, 2024 by Chase f.
Just reflecting on Maiya and the blessing she was to my kids and I. It’s been now been 4 years since I first hired Maiya. She worked wonders from day 1. Now my kids are 6 and every minute spent is a reflection of what I always hoped for. With Maiya’s help my prayers were answered.
HIGHLY RECOMMEND
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05 Apr, 2023 by A
Mrs. Safikovs and Callie are just AMAZING people who care about you as a person and not just as a client. I am grateful that God brought them into my life. Mrs. Safikovs is a zealous advocate and gives it her all for justice. Even stayed up very late to prepare me for trial. Very down to earth team! I highly recommend them!
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19 Sep, 2018 by Anonymous
I am another happy former client. My situation was handled very quickly and professionally. Bankruptcy isn't an easy thing for anyone to go through, but she made the process so seamless. I am so grateful to have found Ms. McDuffie.
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19 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
I called Shannon with questions about filing Chapter 7 probably six months before actually hiring her. She spent no less than a half hour on the phone with me, allowing me to ask questions and responding with loads of valuable information I had no idea I needed. After hiring her, I was always amazed with how knowledgeable, professional and timely she was with absolutely everything involved in my case. I am also very grateful for the professional guidance she provided me on matters that overlapped into other legal areas. She made a very difficult and overwhelming time manageable for me and always made me feel like my questions or concerns really matter. I highly recommend her.
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18 Jul, 2017 by Yusef
...I do know that Shannon is excellent at her job. I came into her office with my wife and two kids and she didn't make us feel out of place at all, answered all my questions in the office, on the phone, and in emails. If there was a time i didn't know what to do its because i totally forgot and she reminded me within the day. I felt a lot more confident with Shannon there at the case too. One lady went without a lawyer and found out she forgot things and had to come back NEXT MONTH. Not me. Very positive experience for a bankruptcy.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Lily duong
Our process was smooth and efficient. Mrs. Little-Hill and staff were very patient with all our questions and concern. Everyone at office very friendly and respectful. Thank you do much.
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15 Nov, 2024 by T b55
I’m not someone who typically writes reviews, unless I’m really frustrated by a negative experience. After my mom passed away recently, my life felt completely chaotic. Thankfully, I discovered Latawsha, who guided me through the probate process during this tough time. If I had chosen that well-known probate firm I initially spoke to, I would have paid five times more for the same bottom line service. I hope I never have to face probate again, but if I do, I’ll know exactly who to turn to first.
Thank you to the entire team over at Georgia Will and Probate.
Travis
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13 Nov, 2024 by Donna patterson
I recently worked with Latawsha Little-Hill to get my will prepared. She was very professional and knowledgeable. She answered all my questions and gave me some helpful advice. The whole process was efficient from the time I contacted her office for an appointment to the final signing of documents. I'm very happy I chose this law firm.
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04 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Ms. Azar was referred to me by my estate planning attorney for a counseling regarding a divorce settlement which involved child custody and property settlement matters. I interviewed several attorneys before selecting her. I chose her because she was confident in the outcomes I desired. Other attorneys interviewed came off as arrogant and doubtful of my desired goals. She knew what I needed and she made sure I understood my rights under family law and the obligations of my former spouse. She navigated me through a difficult process and helped to keep the best interests of myself and my child in the forefront of my decisions and negotiations. She spent numerous hours, at my request and at hours that accommodated my work schedule, in telephone consultation. I understood her fee structure and her billing was fair and straightforward. Without Ms. Azar I would not have obtained the divorce agreement that I feel was fair and also provided the protection and security I needed to carry on my life after the divorce. Subsequent to my divorce I returned to Ms. Azar for consultation on several family law matters. Each time I found my investment in her professional advice and service was well spent. I am very grateful that I had Ms. Azar representing me and I would highly recommend her legal services related to divorce, child custody and support, and property settlement.
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06 Aug, 2013 by Paul
Back in 2007, when I asked a friend for a good lawyer to help me with child support and custody issues, she heartily recommended Dana Azar. My first meeting with Dana was not exactly smooth, because she insisted on no emotion, and highlighting the issues and exactly what needed to be done. With this focus, she came in and beat a very experienced lawyer on his home turf. Since then, my ex has field charges several times, and I have had to file counter charges. We have won every single time, and in fact, I have had to hold Dana back on several issues, because I did not want my ex to be hurt too much financially or incarcerated. She worked with witnesses, one of my children, a therapist, and hundreds of emails to ensure that I was able to get positive results. I recommend Dana without reservation.
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06 Aug, 2012 by Kenneth
she showed us how a real attorney does things and wins
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18 Nov, 2024 by Lily duong
Our process was smooth and efficient. Mrs. Little-Hill and staff were very patient with all our questions and concern. Everyone at office very friendly and respectful. Thank you do much.
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15 Nov, 2024 by T b55
I’m not someone who typically writes reviews, unless I’m really frustrated by a negative experience. After my mom passed away recently, my life felt completely chaotic. Thankfully, I discovered Latawsha, who guided me through the probate process during this tough time. If I had chosen that well-known probate firm I initially spoke to, I would have paid five times more for the same bottom line service. I hope I never have to face probate again, but if I do, I’ll know exactly who to turn to first.
Thank you to the entire team over at Georgia Will and Probate.
Travis
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13 Nov, 2024 by Donna patterson
I recently worked with Latawsha Little-Hill to get my will prepared. She was very professional and knowledgeable. She answered all my questions and gave me some helpful advice. The whole process was efficient from the time I contacted her office for an appointment to the final signing of documents. I'm very happy I chose this law firm.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Lily duong
Our process was smooth and efficient. Mrs. Little-Hill and staff were very patient with all our questions and concern. Everyone at office very friendly and respectful. Thank you do much.
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15 Nov, 2024 by T b55
I’m not someone who typically writes reviews, unless I’m really frustrated by a negative experience. After my mom passed away recently, my life felt completely chaotic. Thankfully, I discovered Latawsha, who guided me through the probate process during this tough time. If I had chosen that well-known probate firm I initially spoke to, I would have paid five times more for the same bottom line service. I hope I never have to face probate again, but if I do, I’ll know exactly who to turn to first.
Thank you to the entire team over at Georgia Will and Probate.
Travis
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13 Nov, 2024 by Donna patterson
I recently worked with Latawsha Little-Hill to get my will prepared. She was very professional and knowledgeable. She answered all my questions and gave me some helpful advice. The whole process was efficient from the time I contacted her office for an appointment to the final signing of documents. I'm very happy I chose this law firm.
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24 Oct, 2024 by La'bianca champion
Do Not Use This Law Firm. This woman filed my paperwork incorrectly. I had to pay filing fees online and in person for the same case. After she agreed to fix the issue and pay the filing fee to “re-file” they still messed it up. I had to go down to the court house to file it again and pay another fee on my own. After all of that come to find out the attorney filed the wrong case all together and now I am having to re-file again. As an attorney you should not what to file and what not to file. The attorney is trying to make me pay all fees again even though it is her fault that everything is delayed. This is a custody case so I would not use this last. STAY AWAY!!
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04 Oct, 2024 by Brindusa negritoiu
Writing a public testimonial for the person who helped save me from a toxic marriage is loaded with emotion. Nobody comes to this most important decision of their lives lightly. I was terrified when I started the process.
From my first interaction with the firm, everybody took the time to get to know me as a human, my story, and my priorities. Even though I was referred to Dawn Smith, Sandy gently recommended Laura as a better fit for my personality and case. This recommendation locked me in - I knew everybody there would take care of me and my daughter's wellbeing first. I also knew I could go about my divorce the way I wanted - with dignity, civility, and *not* a tit for tat mentality.
Laura always allowed me to make my own choices, advising me of all the pros and cons. She prioritized me when circumstances escalated, and ensured my safety. The process was grueling, but I had unwavering confidence in her as my counsel. Her extensive experience with GA cases, specific judges and counties, and nuanced interpretations of evidence, gave me a hard, much needed look at how things really go in divorce. My ex and I were able to settle in mediation, in huge part due to how she negotiated with (multiple) opposing counsels. Settling a divorce (hopefully) means each party gets what is most important to them. Not that they get *all* they want. What a lesson that was! Laura and I strategized for hours leading up to mediations about my priorities. We keept the big picture and our desired outcome in mind. Laura helped me keep my emotions steady, helping me make sound decisions to craft the future I envisioned for my family.
Laura is the most detail oriented, prepared, professional I know - nothing escapes her eye. Her ability to work efficiently through long hours of mediation and turn things around in a matter of hours is beyond impressive. She caught problems in the opposing party’s drafts. She dotted every I and crossed every T, to the smallest detail. She created elaborate spreadsheets with incomes and options, ahead of substantive conversations. It’s hard to overstate her level of preparation. She saved my mental health and put me on a much better path.
Laura is an angel from heaven in an attorney’s body, put here to protect people going through this life change, especially women who have been mistreated and are trying to rebuild their lives. This firm’s passion for their clients oozes in every conversation. I will always have tremendous gratitude for everyone at Evolve and their deep impact on mine and my child’s life. I am almost one year out from my divorce and I am living the life of my dreams, with ease.
I recommend Laura to everybody who comes to talk to me about what direction they should take.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Corinne nicole
A divorce was not something that I ever expected to be involved in, and when I decided to go that route, I was lost and pretty emotional about it. I remember calling one evening, definitely after their closing time and leaving a short message, and later that night I got a text that they would call me that next day, and they did. I won't ever forget the first time I spoke with someone from that firm - Sandra. I don't think she'll ever realize just how much better I felt just knowing someone was there, even before they had taken me on as a client, she was the best first introduction I could've had. I ended up working with Laura, and I just have to say that she's amazing - she was so compassionate (they all were!!) and so knowledgeable and I knew that I was going to be OK. I moved out of state during the process and unfortunately never got to meet any of them, but even through voice and video calls, I felt protected, like they had my back even though we will likely never meet. Personality and friendliness aside, they were incredibly helpful, professional and knowledgeable, and I never felt duped or left in the dark. Respectfully, I hope to not have to work with them again, but if I ever needed someone, I know they'll be there. 10/10 recommend. Thank you, guys, thank you Sandra, thank you Laura, thank you everyone there.
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24 Oct, 2024 by La'bianca champion
Do Not Use This Law Firm. This woman filed my paperwork incorrectly. I had to pay filing fees online and in person for the same case. After she agreed to fix the issue and pay the filing fee to “re-file” they still messed it up. I had to go down to the court house to file it again and pay another fee on my own. After all of that come to find out the attorney filed the wrong case all together and now I am having to re-file again. As an attorney you should not what to file and what not to file. The attorney is trying to make me pay all fees again even though it is her fault that everything is delayed. This is a custody case so I would not use this last. STAY AWAY!!
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04 Oct, 2024 by Brindusa negritoiu
Writing a public testimonial for the person who helped save me from a toxic marriage is loaded with emotion. Nobody comes to this most important decision of their lives lightly. I was terrified when I started the process.
From my first interaction with the firm, everybody took the time to get to know me as a human, my story, and my priorities. Even though I was referred to Dawn Smith, Sandy gently recommended Laura as a better fit for my personality and case. This recommendation locked me in - I knew everybody there would take care of me and my daughter's wellbeing first. I also knew I could go about my divorce the way I wanted - with dignity, civility, and *not* a tit for tat mentality.
Laura always allowed me to make my own choices, advising me of all the pros and cons. She prioritized me when circumstances escalated, and ensured my safety. The process was grueling, but I had unwavering confidence in her as my counsel. Her extensive experience with GA cases, specific judges and counties, and nuanced interpretations of evidence, gave me a hard, much needed look at how things really go in divorce. My ex and I were able to settle in mediation, in huge part due to how she negotiated with (multiple) opposing counsels. Settling a divorce (hopefully) means each party gets what is most important to them. Not that they get *all* they want. What a lesson that was! Laura and I strategized for hours leading up to mediations about my priorities. We keept the big picture and our desired outcome in mind. Laura helped me keep my emotions steady, helping me make sound decisions to craft the future I envisioned for my family.
Laura is the most detail oriented, prepared, professional I know - nothing escapes her eye. Her ability to work efficiently through long hours of mediation and turn things around in a matter of hours is beyond impressive. She caught problems in the opposing party’s drafts. She dotted every I and crossed every T, to the smallest detail. She created elaborate spreadsheets with incomes and options, ahead of substantive conversations. It’s hard to overstate her level of preparation. She saved my mental health and put me on a much better path.
Laura is an angel from heaven in an attorney’s body, put here to protect people going through this life change, especially women who have been mistreated and are trying to rebuild their lives. This firm’s passion for their clients oozes in every conversation. I will always have tremendous gratitude for everyone at Evolve and their deep impact on mine and my child’s life. I am almost one year out from my divorce and I am living the life of my dreams, with ease.
I recommend Laura to everybody who comes to talk to me about what direction they should take.
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16 Sep, 2024 by Corinne nicole
A divorce was not something that I ever expected to be involved in, and when I decided to go that route, I was lost and pretty emotional about it. I remember calling one evening, definitely after their closing time and leaving a short message, and later that night I got a text that they would call me that next day, and they did. I won't ever forget the first time I spoke with someone from that firm - Sandra. I don't think she'll ever realize just how much better I felt just knowing someone was there, even before they had taken me on as a client, she was the best first introduction I could've had. I ended up working with Laura, and I just have to say that she's amazing - she was so compassionate (they all were!!) and so knowledgeable and I knew that I was going to be OK. I moved out of state during the process and unfortunately never got to meet any of them, but even through voice and video calls, I felt protected, like they had my back even though we will likely never meet. Personality and friendliness aside, they were incredibly helpful, professional and knowledgeable, and I never felt duped or left in the dark. Respectfully, I hope to not have to work with them again, but if I ever needed someone, I know they'll be there. 10/10 recommend. Thank you, guys, thank you Sandra, thank you Laura, thank you everyone there.
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24 Jun, 2024 by Ericka ajcalon
Estuve a punto de mi deportación y ella limpió mi récord
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27 May, 2024 by Joel g
21 May, 2024 by Corsosdeherrera
La peor abogada solo le importa el dinero es súper grosera
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20 Nov, 2019 by Sarah
I wish I could say something positive about this attorney. However my experience could not have been worse. She is careless and made numerous legal mistakes in my case. I had to fire her and hire another attorney to correct the mistakes she had made which costs me thousands of dollars.
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14 Jan, 2019 by Tony
If you are looking for a good divorce attorney, I recommend Tahira Piraino. She is an attorney that will be looking out for your best interest. From my experience she is an attorney that is easy to talk to, and that is what you need when you is getting a divorce. My rating for her would be a ten, that’s how good she is. I wish a divorce on no one, but if you need a good attorney you better call Tahira Piraino.
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31 Jul, 2017 by Michelle
I was referred to Ms. Piraino by a friend. She was everything as described if not more. Ms. Piraino is confident, creditable, experienced, kind, patient and understanding. Things are handled in a timely manner and you aren’t kept in the dark. She explains step by step the process. I would definitely refer her!
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24 Oct, 2024 by La'bianca champion
Do Not Use This Law Firm. This woman filed my paperwork incorrectly. I had to pay filing fees online and in person for the same case. After she agreed to fix the issue and pay the filing fee to “re-file” they still messed it up. I had to go down to the court house to file it again and pay another fee on my own. After all of that come to find out the attorney filed the wrong case all together and now I am having to re-file again. As an attorney you should not what to file and what not to file. The attorney is trying to make me pay all fees again even though it is her fault that everything is delayed. This is a custody case so I would not use this last. STAY AWAY!!
Read more
04 Oct, 2024 by Brindusa negritoiu
Writing a public testimonial for the person who helped save me from a toxic marriage is loaded with emotion. Nobody comes to this most important decision of their lives lightly. I was terrified when I started the process.
From my first interaction with the firm, everybody took the time to get to know me as a human, my story, and my priorities. Even though I was referred to Dawn Smith, Sandy gently recommended Laura as a better fit for my personality and case. This recommendation locked me in - I knew everybody there would take care of me and my daughter's wellbeing first. I also knew I could go about my divorce the way I wanted - with dignity, civility, and *not* a tit for tat mentality.
Laura always allowed me to make my own choices, advising me of all the pros and cons. She prioritized me when circumstances escalated, and ensured my safety. The process was grueling, but I had unwavering confidence in her as my counsel. Her extensive experience with GA cases, specific judges and counties, and nuanced interpretations of evidence, gave me a hard, much needed look at how things really go in divorce. My ex and I were able to settle in mediation, in huge part due to how she negotiated with (multiple) opposing counsels. Settling a divorce (hopefully) means each party gets what is most important to them. Not that they get *all* they want. What a lesson that was! Laura and I strategized for hours leading up to mediations about my priorities. We keept the big picture and our desired outcome in mind. Laura helped me keep my emotions steady, helping me make sound decisions to craft the future I envisioned for my family.
Laura is the most detail oriented, prepared, professional I know - nothing escapes her eye. Her ability to work efficiently through long hours of mediation and turn things around in a matter of hours is beyond impressive. She caught problems in the opposing party’s drafts. She dotted every I and crossed every T, to the smallest detail. She created elaborate spreadsheets with incomes and options, ahead of substantive conversations. It’s hard to overstate her level of preparation. She saved my mental health and put me on a much better path.
Laura is an angel from heaven in an attorney’s body, put here to protect people going through this life change, especially women who have been mistreated and are trying to rebuild their lives. This firm’s passion for their clients oozes in every conversation. I will always have tremendous gratitude for everyone at Evolve and their deep impact on mine and my child’s life. I am almost one year out from my divorce and I am living the life of my dreams, with ease.
I recommend Laura to everybody who comes to talk to me about what direction they should take.
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Corinne nicole
A divorce was not something that I ever expected to be involved in, and when I decided to go that route, I was lost and pretty emotional about it. I remember calling one evening, definitely after their closing time and leaving a short message, and later that night I got a text that they would call me that next day, and they did. I won't ever forget the first time I spoke with someone from that firm - Sandra. I don't think she'll ever realize just how much better I felt just knowing someone was there, even before they had taken me on as a client, she was the best first introduction I could've had. I ended up working with Laura, and I just have to say that she's amazing - she was so compassionate (they all were!!) and so knowledgeable and I knew that I was going to be OK. I moved out of state during the process and unfortunately never got to meet any of them, but even through voice and video calls, I felt protected, like they had my back even though we will likely never meet. Personality and friendliness aside, they were incredibly helpful, professional and knowledgeable, and I never felt duped or left in the dark. Respectfully, I hope to not have to work with them again, but if I ever needed someone, I know they'll be there. 10/10 recommend. Thank you, guys, thank you Sandra, thank you Laura, thank you everyone there.
Read more
19 Aug, 2009 by Anonymous
When I was first introduced to Mark Segal I thought he would be able to handle my case in a reasonable amount of time. It turned out that Mark Segal did more to hurt my case than help it. To start off, we had a decent settlement that the insurance company had offer. Mark decided to turn down the offer for a better one. During the end of his service, the insurance company decided to offer less than a quarter of the original offer. Second, Mark failed to keep me informed of my case on a regular basis. Third, Mark is not trustworthy. There was many times when Mark had the chance to tell me the truth about my case and failed to do so. Fourth, Mark was finally dismiss from my case when my investigation turned up that Mark was working with the same insurance company that I had a case against. Last but not least, I try to obtain a copy of my file from Mark; it took 7 months and the act of the Georgia State Bar to step in. I would not recommend this lawyer to anyone.
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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.
