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22 Aug, 2024 by Rodrigo gomez
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12 Aug, 2024 by Karina martinez
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04 Jul, 2024 by Skylar heiner
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22 Aug, 2024 by Rodrigo gomez
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12 Aug, 2024 by Karina martinez
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04 Jul, 2024 by Skylar heiner
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09 Nov, 2023 by Flipside games
Not helpful at all.
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26 Sep, 2023 by Christine olvera
I would recommend Keathley Law Office for any legal problems you may have. Very professional and honest. Just let them know the situation and if they can’t help you they will direct you in the right direction.Very pleased with their work ethics.
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22 Aug, 2023 by R hawes
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09 Nov, 2023 by Flipside games
Not helpful at all.
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26 Sep, 2023 by Christine olvera
I would recommend Keathley Law Office for any legal problems you may have. Very professional and honest. Just let them know the situation and if they can’t help you they will direct you in the right direction.Very pleased with their work ethics.
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22 Aug, 2023 by R hawes
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29 Jan, 2021 by Christian porter
The receptionist was extremely rude i was shocked at the way she spoke to me very unprofessional i guarantee they loose a lot of business because of her i was excited to work with them from all the recommendations i received
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12 Oct, 2020 by Taylor hartstack
Dedicated and tough. Exactly what you need in a family law attorney. I can't recommend her highly enough
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08 Feb, 2020 by Joe joe
Betty is an extremely efficient and no nonsense attorney. Strongly recommend
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04 Feb, 2023 by Delfido cavazos
A few decades ago, Russ fought tooth and nail for me, and I am free this day because I chose to have him represent me. He continues to hold his standards of representing people the same as he did when he started his practice, and he is the best courtroom brawler that I have seen in a jury trial. I highly recommend Russ Sr. in the Waco area and his son, Russ Jr. in the Williamson County area. Thank you Russ Sr. for never giving up on fighting my cases.
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02 Sep, 2022 by Layton marrs
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17 May, 2022 by Mikah robertson
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26 Nov, 2019 by Shannon
To anyone who has been in search of a damn good attorney ? you can end your search rt here * rt now. Sam Martinez is hands down the best there is. I say this because majority of lawyers don't put there heart into; not just you, but the whole of you such as you and your family. It was as if he literally put his self in my shoes and his kiddos in my kiddos shoes. And he paved a way for me and my children to be a family again. When everything and every one was against me. And the evidence and or my past history w cps was piling up against me. And I saw no silver lining in my most darkest of storm clouds. God answered my prayers and blessed me with an amazing attorney Mr. Sam Martinez..He was my second attorney after a year of fighting cps. I wish he would of been my lawyer the entire time. But I was blessed to have him when I got him because he was also my criminal lawyer as well. So here him and I are in two diff court rooms all in the same day or week time frame..and I'm think n to self "no way this man understand me and my situation ?? I bet he thinks I'm a complete idiot cuz who gets there self in situations as awfully as mine was? I wasnt everything that was being said about me and he knew it..He fought for me when I couldnt for myself. All though it had been years 14 to be exact since I had a felony. The fact remained I was and or still had priors and had been down twice before when I was younger. At first the state wanted to give me twenty years for pocs w intent to deliver a little more then a gram of meth..I was floored and shocked to the core of my being. I knew probation wasnt a possibility. He diligently worked my case and after 9 months of pleadings. I signed for 5 years TDC..And while I was in county waiting to pull chain. I still had him as my family attorney in ref to my cps case. He came to see me in jail. He was my only visitor and more loyal then any blood at the time. He told me not to worry he would make sure my children were safe and to send there letters to him and he made sure they got them. He didn't have to do that but he did. He didn't have to do a lot of the things he did for me and the kids best interest but he did..He didn't have to pick up the pieces a prior attorney I had before him left behind, but he did! But here's the part that wrote his name on the tablet of my heart and the hearts of my kids..He hand wrote me short letters to every unit I was transferred to while in TDC..Who does that these days? Who in the middle of there day stops and sais " hey how are you hope all is well and this is what's going on out here but don't worry etc etc etc" nobody does that, , but Sam did and that's why hes the best. He don't half ass you to death. He don't sugar coat things cuz he just wants to get paid. He gets paid way more in blessings then any dollar amount set on any table any day of the week. Because his heart is right and hes an attorney for the people. I did 7 months on that 5 and got out and we went back at it w CPS in family court. They wanted to take my rights but he didn't let them. He did what no other lawyer could do and was court appointed at that. He fought against the state because he knew in his heart of hearts what they were trying to do and it wasnt right. Sam is a winner and he made sure as my lawyer that I was and a winner too..If it wasn't for him I would still be in prison and I would not be with my kids. He is a wonderful person and the best attorney you could ever have. I have more respect for this man then he will ever know. And I will be thanking him until my last breath. The state striped me down to a naked I couldn't fathom. Sam, wasnt having it and he went to batt for me and he will for you too! Just be honest and I promise you that you won't be disappointed by retaining him as your lawyer. Sam if your reading this please know I will never forget you and my kids said "thanks for giving them there Mama back" God Bless You and your Family AlwaysS huh Shannon Hudson Torrez
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04 Apr, 2018 by Gensis hibbard
Martinez was an excellent attorney. He was very upfront and honest and answered all our questions. He represented my husband and saved him from getting a life sentence. We would suggest anyone to hire him.
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10 Jul, 2017 by Valeria
He repesented my son in a murder trial in McLennan county. Never questioned on witness, was not present when the district attorneys prosecuting the case came to talk to my son at the county jail. Lied to my son and our entire family for 2 years stating if my son would plead guilty he would only be convicted of making a false statement and tampering with evidence. If not, he would get a life sentence. He coerced my son who has a learning disability into pleading guilty to show taking responsibility for what happened. My son had no previous felony convictions. Two other men were also charged in the same crime. One was a sexual offender and had previously served time in TDCJ. Needless to say, my son did receive a life sentence and the other two received 20 years. I truly do not know how he sleeps at night!!
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11 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
Completely disappointed in her poor representation. Complete waste of money and time.
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10 Apr, 2015 by Wiki
Competent, knowledgeable, assertive, indefatigable, invested in client and compassionate. Very professional demeanor and appearance. Not easily intimidated. My case was handled extraordinarily well by her.
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29 Mar, 2024 by David winfrey
The lawyers and their team are very professional. They did an awesome job. They did EXACTLY WHAT THEY SAID THEY WOULD DO! I am grateful for all they did for me and my family! I will be using Callahan & King for now on.
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16 Feb, 2024 by Rebecca browder
I recently had the opportunity to work with Chris and his law firm on a very lengthy and complicated case. My experience with the Law Firm was very pleasant, and the attorneys were great to work with on all counts.
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09 Feb, 2024 by Galaxy note michael kasten
The experience was a fine one. I was facing a very serious situation. 1 phone call from the lawyer, letting me know he was representing .2 short conversations with paralegal 1 follow up conversation ,from ,lawyer letting me know of "The most desirable outcome". Top notch.
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03 Nov, 2023 by Shelly
There are good attorneys and then there are scumbags. Denny Lessman definitely falls under the scumbag category. We were in his office for (his words) a peaceful discussion. That was until we spoke our feelings and he did not like it. He then proceeded to get in my face aggressively and then when my husband stood up and told my son and I we needed to leave, this scumbag told my husband to “get the f*ck out of” his office. Then proceeded to shove my husband. Then opened the door and shoved my husband to the ground. In his parents defense, my MINOR son went after this scumbag and he thought it appropriate to hit my minor son. When I told him I was calling the police he told me “no you aren’t”. I did call the police Mr Scumbag told them he just used reasonable force to remove us from his office. We were trying to leave when he attacked. The guys from a neighboring office came to check on us and advised they had been warned he was crazy before he moved in. My suggestion…. Steer clear!!
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28 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
Dennys, which I was always directed to call him ripped $3000 from my family while I was in County Jail. Needless to say he unfairly advised me I would have to "just accept" the first offer of 2 years TDCJ or I would do 40 years on a very small amount of a drug. My husband got scared and told me to take it, and my family was ripped in shreds by my transfer to a transfer unit since I had under 2 years left to serve and then my husband was "magically" removed from my visitors list as well as my son. I've been out for several years but the damage it did to my family and my mental health is unfathomable. Never thought a criminal defense attorney would just basically kanive someone of their money, but this was my first offense and very naive and now know why attorneys get paid big bucks, but they are also the biggest crooks. And he preached his spirituality. I didn't learn "jailhouse religion" I learned God is our Savior, protector, and forgives all. And upon release found a wonderful Church Ministry that I am very proud to be a part of. God Bless Mr Dennis Lessman, I bless not curse you. Thanks in Jesus's name!
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14 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
I had a bad feeling about "Denny" the first time he told me to call him "Denny" through a cheshire smile. Wish I had done my research on this guy first, and his son who he practices also has a pretty bad reputation. Apple doesn't fall far unfortunately.
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17 Apr, 2015 by Karen
contacted Curtis W Lucas in May 2014 for help with my case. He took the case with a great outlook on the end result. I left numerous messages and I may have spoken to him four times in almost a year. My questions were left unanswered and last week April 2015 I get a letter saying he is pulling out of my case and now I have to scramble to find someone else!! I know the review guidelines more or less say good things but for the life of me there is nothing good to say! I am told a couple of weeks prior to getting my letter that Mr.Lucas no longer is with the firm! I just wanted answers but I am only left with questions. I have been very ill and I did not need all the headaches that came with my choice of lawyers!! VERY BAD EXPERIENCE AND NOT EVEN AN APOLOGY!!!!
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28 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
Mr. Fanning is very professional and trustworthy. He has successfully taken care of several problems on my behalf. He is well versed in all aspects of the law. It seems that nothing is beyond his areas of expertise. His honesty is sometimes difficult to hear but even then he has a solution which is comfortable to accept. This man is a genius!!
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07 Apr, 2010 by Angela
it took them over 2 weeks to decide they was not going to take my case. i do not understand that. this is not business llke. i did not even talk with the attorney i talked to the person that takes the information
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02 Feb, 2024 by Chloe
If I could give these people 0 starts I would. He treated my husband like he was just another file on his desk. He purposely gave me and my husband false info just so we could leave him alone. As soon as he got payment he quit answering questions and also the receptionist Veronica or whoever her name is, is RUDE and disrespectful. They are completely unprofessional and I wouldn’t touch this law firm with a 12 inch pole. Highly disappointed. I would not recommend at all.
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02 May, 2015 by Justin
Was great. Wanda his receptionist is very good and will call back. First charge was DWI with poss of Marijuana, PDP. Got it reduced to probation. Five months later I got a second DWI with possession of a dangerous drug, was tazed and everything. That made me in violation of previous probation. Sibleys connections helped us to settle with a great Deal. Very highly recommended.
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22 Sep, 2014 by Abraham
Mr Sibley was very professional the first visit. It became apparent quickly he either does not speak to his staff or they are incompetent. Missed court dates, lying about meeting with DA and the last mistake he made before being fired was he just did not show up for a court date. Over priced junk lawyer. I have had to hire different attorneys but with much better success. Don't waste your time or money.
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28 Jul, 2023 by Lori
He did no investigation, would not look at evidence that I gathered. Had a court date on a Monday, he called my HR department and my boss. I told him if I plead the deal I would still lose my job understand Moral turpitud. He just wanted me to have to at the very least get probation and have to go every month to pay the county and pee in a cup. It was an outrageous failure in our justice system. After he spoke with HR, as soon as I got to my desk, he called ME to tell me the case was dismissed. If I had plead the deal, I would have been out of a job and whatever THEY decided would be my punishment!
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28 Dec, 2019 by Shannon
Darren represented me in a family law case in 2004. He returned my phone calls, gave updates on my case and very professional in court. I would recommend him for family law cases without hesitation.
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24 Dec, 2017 by Lori
I would like my money back! Never returned. I did ALL my own research he didn't want to see it. Twice in his office. Paid 2500. I had the proof! The jerk called me at work on a Friday asking me to plea from agg. assault to simple assault! No! I was going to plea anything! I wanted my day in court! The call on that Friday, had a court date on MONDAY! He called my HR dept. and my boss. I was in the room, I had already told him I would still be fired if I had any kind of ASSAULT! They claimed they couldn't find the lying Amber Russell! After my HR lady told him I would be fired even if I plead to simple assault! It's called moral turpitude! He was the worst lawyer I ever had to deal with. After the call to my work place, wasn't but just a few minutes, he called me to say there was no court on MONDAY! It had been dismissed! He threw me under the bus! He helped me not at all except he screwed me and took my money! So Merry Christmas you worthless lawyer!
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09 Mar, 2024 by Monica rose
Ms. Thummel assisted us with the adoption of my daughter. She was so helpful, knowledgeable, and kind. She answered all of our questions and remained in contact throughout the process. I would definitely use her services in the future!
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25 Apr, 2019 by Holley
I am now a single mom of 2 boys and she handled my divorce 5 years ago...unfortunately I was ignorant and trusted her. My ex-husband did not hire a lawyer and was hardly involved. He didn't even show for the final hearing. I had to proof read my own decree, highlight, and make the corrections. It took longer than it should and the kicker is...I am now spending more money to have a geographical restriction of Texas (that she recommended) lifted so that I may move 50 min over the OK/TX state line for a better job and my fiance. She seemed so friendly but failed me and my kids.
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29 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
I had to do all the work and produce all the documents and was nickel and dimed. I would have to keep calling for an update. She and the opposing lawyer were friends and they had a plan to sit on our case until we were both broke. Divorce case lasted one month shy of two years which was very mentally taxing. I could have represented myself with the same results and saved ten grand. So disappointed. Couldn't switch because I'd lose my retainer and the other attorneys have some kind of loyalty so be very careful.
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12 Mar, 2014 by Anonymous
I had a horrible experience with Carmen Smith. Never returned phone calls, emails or anything for that matter. Went to court to find out a class needed to be taken ( that I was unaware of ) She was my attorney for almost 1 year! Divorce decree was wrong by a year and we had to file a "nunc pro tunc" to get it straightned out. ( So, from the AG standpoint, it looks as if I have back child support that needs to be paid) ;/ If you have never dealt with the AG consider yourself lucky!!! It took almost 3 years for the AG to finally understand that I am not behind. I would advise to spend your money elsewhere. I wish someone would have given me that advice years ago.
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25 Mar, 2021 by Glenda
Ms. Milam never returns phone calls or text messeges. She's suppose to represent the children in CPS cases but is infact on the side of CPS. I would say she's would have a future in politics with Joe Biden. A puppet.
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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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