Lawyers map
>82
experienced lawyers
Filter by
27 Dec, 2018 by Tabitha
Karen was amazing! She is no-nonsense and won’t sugar coat things, but she will fight for you! I could not have been more pleased with the results I got in my custody case!
Read more
25 Apr, 2018 by Stacy
I hired her to do my divorce. She explained the entire process to me in a way I could understand and made everything so much easier. I would use her again in a heartbeat!
Read more
17 Feb, 2016 by Johnny
Hired her to divorce my ex. She got me a better deal than I thought possible. More time with my kids and better terms in my case. She's a great attorney and well worth it!
Read more
04 Jan, 2017 by Pam
We were promised results, and ended up paying MORE in the end. I feel we were intentionally misled with empty promises so he could make that extra dollar. If you can't help me, just say so, and I will move on. I don't appreciate being fooled into paying attorneys fees, when they knew good and well they wouldn't be able to help. I'm glad to see they don't treat every case (or client) like they have us. I also don't appreciate the fact that (despite several promises) Mr. Murphy NEVER contacted me like I was told he would.
Read more
13 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous
The term "justice" has been over-used in to today's society so much that the term has lost meaning or become ambiguous and subjective. I needed counsel from an attorney who had a firm understanding of the law, an objective viewpoint and one who would seek justice in my case. Justice defined by the laws of this country, state, county and city. Mr Murphy worked diligently on my case, outlining the wrongs of the case, and that i was the true victim. I was rewarded with true justice and I have only Mr Murphy's hard work, ethics and understanding of law to thank. He will be my attorney on all matters in the future.
Read more
29 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
Mr Murphy was extremely informative, respectful, and professional during all matters of handling my case. He explained all aspects of the case from start to finish. He was able to work miracles with my particular situation. I strongly recommend Joseph Murphy if one is ever in need of a lawyer.
Read more
17 Aug, 2023 by John
Had to remove Michael as counsel due to lack of acceptable communication and response.
Read more
31 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Beware.. make sure he does the work before you pay him. Once paid, I guess the file gets moved to the bottom of the pile. Because he took his sweet time, I now have to pay more $$ in court costs and he still hasn’t resolved everything. I’ve been divorced 1.5 years!
Read more
06 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
I am going through a complex custody battle. Michael knows when to go in guns blazing, but only when necessary. He will fight like hell for you even if it’s an uphill battle. He is very attentive to detail, and will pick apart the details until the truth is revealed. He’s aggressive when need be, but on the other hand so, so kind. He knows the law, unlike several other attorneys that I’ve encountered, and will quickly call out and explain his objection. Not once has the judge disagreed with his argument in our case. It’s not over until it’s over with Michael. He has helped in the past, and he is not , IMO, rough around the edges. He’s very compassionate in what he does. He will hug you when needed, but also be honest with you. He’s not a pushy attorney, and will often tell you to think about it before hiring him. I love this about him! Rhonda and Tamara are also a great help! I’ll continue to use Michael, and if you’re in the midst of an impending custody/divorce issue; I suggest that you do too!
Read more
21 Dec, 2021 by Lisa
After hiring this attorney and staff three previous times, we cannot
in good conscience recommend them any longer. This is our personal
opinion only.
Read more
25 Jul, 2019 by Terence
Ms. Heindel and Assistant Molly did a good job. I didn't have to pay out extra. Everything was done in a timely fashion.
Read more
28 Apr, 2019 by Tracy prise
Ms. Heindel and her team are top notch! I will always use them for future legal matters!! While my divorce is still pending through no fault of theirs, they really go above and beyond to be supportive and always return my calls as soon as possible. Cannot thank this legal team enough for going the extra mile and continuing to do so! She was also upfront about legal fees and there have never been any additional or hidden charges. Would HIGHLY reccomend. Thank you so much Ms. Heindel, Mr. Cotten and all other members of this legal team for all you do!
Read more
17 Jul, 2024 by Ashley wilson
Beware of hiring Karen Hughes. Will give more information after the Bar Association reviews our formal complaint against her.
Read more
17 Jul, 2024 by Austin randall
Beware of hiring Karen Hughes. Will give more information after the Bar Association reviews our formal complaint against her.
Read more
06 Mar, 2024 by Marissa m
I hired karen hughes to represent me in my simple divorce, everything went smoothly until the other party decided to not pay what we had agreed to during mediation. Karen notified me we had court I called multiple times, and sent plenty of emails...all unanswered she finally set up a meeting 3 days before finally set a meeting she announced she cant represent me in court then is also billing me fore her time it took her to file thats shes withdrawaling. So if you want to be abandoned during your very first court appearance choose karen it was a blast!!!
Read more
19 Jan, 2023 by Anonymous
Christina is absolutely the worst lawyer ever. During your consultation she sounds amazing and all and then once you hire her, she’s no help whatsoever and doesn’t care anymore about your situation. If I could give her 0 stars I would. I only talked to her maybe once and the rest of the time I talked to everyone else in the building instead of the actual attorney I hired!!!! DO NOT HIRE.
Read more
21 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
Ms. Davis was no better than a Legal-Aid attorney. Poor communication with her client. Rude and sassy with a constant attitude. This Law Firm in general has serious ethical issues. She made all kinds of promises and threw a great sales pitch to get me to hire her. However, once hired she was as useless as a used car salesman. Horrible experience with her and this entire firm.
Read more
21 Dec, 2015 by Reginald
Ms. Christina is an excellent attorney. She worked very diligently on my case. And she won my case. She is also a very caring person.she cares about her Clients. I will recommend Ms. Davis to my Co-workers, Family, and Friends.
Read more
20 Aug, 2024 by Tryphena
She was unprofessional from the time she took my sons case. She doesn't follow up with her client. She belittled myself and my son when we had questions. She will tell you she has other cases to tend to as if you're not a priority as well. She threatened my son to take a plea that he did not want to take in court and if he didn't she was not going to continue with his case. She does not speak like an attorney. She does not dress appropriately in court, in fact she had on a pair of nursing crock shoes with a dress. She was late to court. Not one time before my sons court date did she visit him or contact him about his case. She is rude, talks over you, and her attitude is nasty. This is not the person you would want to represent you or a loved one. She will not fight for you.
Read more
03 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
Hired by my nephew, and she has not contacted him or talked to him. When asked by relatives she got very rude. We don't what to she the money. Should we ask for a refund? Never will she be involved with this family again. I don't know how she makes any money.
Read more
01 Sep, 2023 by Shanda
How on earth this person still has a job is utterly amazing. Never in my life have I been spoke to in a terrible unprofessional way. RUDE is an understatement. But she is the professional?!?!? If you don’t like your life change it!!!!!!! Don’t take it out on innocent by standards asking for help!!Just Amazing how she can get away with speaking and treating HUMANS the way she does. Just Wow. What an EMBARRASSMENT.
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Family Law Lawyer Can Do for You
A family law lawyer provides legal services related to family relationships, including marriage, divorce, child custody, and adoption. Family lawyers help clients navigate emotionally charged legal issues, providing guidance and representation in disputes that affect spouses, children, and parents. Whether you're going through a divorce, seeking custody of your children, or drafting a prenuptial agreement, a family law lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your interests are represented.
Family law attorneys often handle sensitive matters and offer objective legal advice, helping clients reach fair outcomes either through negotiation, mediation, or litigation.
When Should I Hire a Family Law Lawyer?
Hiring a family law lawyer is beneficial in several situations, especially when legal matters involve close personal relationships. Common reasons to hire a family law lawyer include:
- Divorce or separation: When ending a marriage, a lawyer can help you navigate issues such as division of assets, spousal support, and child custody arrangements.
- Child custody and visitation disputes: If you and your co-parent can't agree on custody or visitation, a lawyer can represent your interests and work toward a solution that benefits your children.
- Child support: Whether you’re seeking child support or defending against a claim, a lawyer can help ensure the appropriate amount is calculated and enforced.
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: A lawyer can help draft or review agreements that protect your assets in case of divorce.
- Adoption: Family law lawyers guide you through the legal process of adoption, ensuring that all requirements are met.
- Domestic violence or restraining orders: If you're a victim of domestic violence or being falsely accused, a lawyer can help you obtain or challenge protective orders.
- Paternity cases: If there are questions about the paternity of a child, a lawyer can help establish or dispute legal fatherhood.
Hiring a lawyer early can prevent issues from escalating, and they can offer you the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome in emotionally charged situations.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family law lawyer provides a wide range of services depending on your specific legal needs. Their responsibilities may include:
- Advising on legal rights and options: Helping you understand your legal rights regarding divorce, child custody, support, and other family law issues.
- Filing legal documents: Drafting and filing petitions, motions, and agreements with the court, such as divorce papers, custody agreements, or support orders.
- Representing clients in court: Arguing your case in front of a judge if a settlement can’t be reached through negotiation or mediation.
- Mediation and negotiation: Assisting with alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, to reach agreements on issues like custody, property division, and support without going to trial.
- Enforcing court orders: Helping you enforce court orders related to child support, alimony, or custody if the other party fails to comply.
- Drafting prenuptial or postnuptial agreements: Creating agreements that protect your assets in the event of a divorce.
- Handling adoption proceedings: Ensuring that the legal process of adoption is followed, from filing paperwork to finalizing the adoption in court.
How Are Family Law Lawyers Paid?
Family law lawyers typically charge clients in one of several ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Common payment arrangements include:
- Hourly rates: Most family lawyers charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and location. Clients are billed for the time spent working on their case, including consultations, court appearances, and document preparation.
- Flat fees: For more straightforward legal services, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, some lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements.
- Retainer fees: In cases that are expected to require significant time and attention, such as contentious custody battles, a lawyer may charge a retainer, which is an upfront payment that covers the initial costs of legal services. The lawyer then bills against the retainer as they work on your case.
The exact cost will depend on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s fee structure, which should be discussed upfront.
How Much Does a Family Law Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family law lawyer varies based on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the location, and the complexity of your case. Here are some general cost guidelines:
- Hourly rates: Family law lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour, depending on their experience and the complexity of the case.
- Flat fees: For simpler cases, such as drafting a prenuptial agreement or handling an uncontested divorce, fees may range from $1,000 to $5,000.
- Retainers: For more complex matters, such as contested divorces or custody battles, lawyers may charge a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 or more. The lawyer will bill against the retainer for the work they do on your case.
- Additional costs: You may also be responsible for additional costs, such as filing fees, mediation fees, or expert witness fees.
Always ask for a clear breakdown of the lawyer’s fees and any additional expenses during your consultation.
Top Questions to Ask a Family Law Lawyer
Before hiring a family law lawyer, it's important to ask questions to ensure they're the right fit for your case. Here are key questions to ask during your consultation:
-
What experience do you have with family law cases like mine?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's a contested divorce, child custody dispute, or adoption. -
How will you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer. Ask for an estimate of the total costs involved. -
What are the possible outcomes of my case?
An experienced lawyer should be able to give you a general idea of what to expect based on the facts of your case. -
What is your approach to resolving disputes?
Ask whether the lawyer tends to favor negotiation and mediation or whether they prefer to take cases to court. This can help you determine if their style matches your goals. -
How long do you expect my case to take?
While it’s difficult to predict, the lawyer should give you an estimate based on similar cases. -
Who will be handling my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may do much of the work, so make sure you understand who will be your main point of contact.
How to Check the Credibility of a Family Law Lawyer
To ensure you're hiring a reputable family law lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and reputation:
- Check state bar association records: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and is in good standing with no disciplinary actions.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on websites like Avvo, Google, or Martindale-Hubbell. Previous clients can give you insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and success in family law cases.
- Request references: Ask the lawyer for references from past clients who can speak to their experience with the lawyer.
- Review their website or professional profile: Look at the lawyer’s background, case history, and areas of focus to ensure they have substantial experience in family law.
- Look for professional memberships: Membership in reputable organizations, such as the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML), can indicate a lawyer's expertise and dedication to family law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a family law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s what you should bring:
- Relevant documents: Bring any documents related to your case, such as marriage certificates, prenuptial agreements, financial records, custody agreements, or court orders.
- List of assets and debts: For divorce cases, prepare a detailed list of all assets (e.g., homes, bank accounts, retirement funds) and debts (e.g., mortgages, loans, credit card balances).
- Details of the family issue: Provide a written summary of the situation, including key dates and facts related to your divorce, custody dispute, or support issue.
- Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions you have about the legal process, costs, and potential outcomes.
- Your goals: Be prepared to discuss your objectives, such as custody arrangements, property division, or spousal support, so the lawyer understands your priorities.
Being organized and clear about your situation will help the lawyer evaluate your case more effectively and offer the best advice for moving forward.
