Filter by

star star star star star
23 Nov, 2017 by Lenny schwartz
The Michigan Legal Team is my go to. They have helped on numerous occasions. Whether it was a Traffic Ticket or an accident, they were always there for me. Very professional and great results. Thanks for all the hard work and caring about me and my family.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
19 Mar, 2012 by Anonymous
Josh worked diligently to protect me from my insurance company. His passion helped me get the benefits I needed.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
19 Mar, 2012 by Anonymous
Josh and his staff are the best ever.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
19 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
A friend of mine was going through a very difficult divorce. My friend had been abused by his bi-polar alcoholic wife. Mr. Linden was very patient and helpful to my friend. He understood my friend's situation and worked with him all the way through this very difficult ordeal.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
27 Mar, 2012 by Anonymous
I am a colleague of Mr. Linden. He is my mentor and as an attorney I can look at him in a different light than a client. I can sum up his knowledge by stating that I would put any legal issue my family or I personally had in his hands and know that my legal rights were protected. I just hired him for a family matter.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
07 May, 2010 by Sharifah aun
This is a lawyer that goes above and beyond for his clients. He's taken the time to listen to my concerns and advise me on varies stratagies. Many times I stop by ( without appt.) he drops everthing for my concerns. He's a attroney I can trust. And I can rest assure that I'm in good hands and you can too.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
18 Aug, 2016 by Erica
Great family and criminal attorney. Tom worked very hard for me while I was going through a terrible divorce. He got me everything I wanted including custody of my daughter. He also was a lifesaver for my step-son who needed a criminal attorney. You will not find a more honest, trustworthy attorney that will fight for your rights! Thanks Tom!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
30 Jul, 2016 by Vicki
Jennifer is truly one in a million. It is great to know that there are attorneys here that care about their clients and their needs. Jennifer is well respected within the legal community and came highly recommended to me. She helped me understand all the issues and is an extremely knowledgeable and excellent attorney. So if you need good professional advice from a great attorney - Jennifer is it! I thank her for all that she did for me. I am happy with the outcome and I am so glad you represented me! Thank you again. Vicki
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
05 Mar, 2023 by Christina
On my way home from a family vacation I had been charged with an OUI in Clare county. A long way from home and scared my family hired Russ to represent me in my case. He went above and beyond every step of the way to help me understand the legal process. I admit at first I was unsure of his ability, but I am super glad that I stuck with him throughout my case he cared about the outcome and me as a person and I am truly thankful that my family found him to help me. He helped push me to go above and beyond finding help for myself and ultimately assisting in the outcome of the case. I am grateful to have had him to represent me throughout the process and while I hope to never find myself in a similar situation, if I do he will most definitely be on speed dial! Thanks Russ!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
24 Mar, 2022 by Angel
Eric reached out to me immedately after posting my inquiry here. I had interviewed other attorneys for my case; however he seemed a better fit for my situation. A previous lawyer I hired to assist me who would have been my court appointed attorney for a criminal case after being hired later resigned himself from my case while halfway through with no resolution. Eric invited me to his office to discuss my case further. He listened intently, asked questions, took note of what I was telling him, looked up my case docket while I was there and reviewed it with me before even being hired. My daughter’s father had taken my daughter and refused to return and while not having a custody order already established I was unable to get assistance from the police. I took matters into my own hands by threatening him with a weapon and was charged with a criminal charge along with being sued for custody. Although the criminal charge had been established by the time I got to Eric, the custody case was ongoing with my parental rights being suspended temporarily, including visitation with my 2 year old then 3 year old daughter. I had facetime communication with her only for minutes in a day. I had also at this point accepted the offer from the child support referree to a standard custody which was every other weekend with my ex being the custodial parent since he stated that was the best I could expect to be offered with no explaination as to why. I was a great mother to my childen and a good citizen up until this point. Eric, jumped on the case withdrawing my acceptance of that recommendation since it was not officially filed. He then began to work on getting me visitation with my daughter. Although I was offered supervised visitation at first for a month or so since our custody trial was scheduled, he did all the necessary work the other lawyer failed to do to get me closer to my daughter. Visits went great and because my ex had not evidence toward his claims, Eric facilitated settlement with my ex and his counsel superbly. Two days before the trial the matter was settled. Two months of Eric’s hard work, offset 8 months of hell with the other lawyer and court system. After settlement, Eric immediately filed all necessary paperwork and later sent final invoice. I am unable to pay all at once since I had to max out every option to pay him for his service, I reached out to him and asked him to allow me time to pay him if I made consistent payments monthly. He agreed; I have kept my word to pay my balance monthly and he has kept his word to abide by the agreement. Eric was fair, consistent, returned phone calls, communicated well with me even when I was distressed, diligently working to resolve the issues, and extremely professional. I would recommend him for family law matters/custody cases. Although offered a lot of information since the case had been ongoing, things such as transcripts of previous hearings, all court documents obtained during the case, custody proposal I had written, etc., Eric was very thorough in reviewing said documents; he diligently worked on my case for resolution, he saw errors in the procession of the hearing, the hearing, he even hired another attorney to assist him for review (which I was agreement with), by the time my case got to Eric it was at a point of necessary paperwork that needed to be issue and attending/appearing in court. He came in at the meat and potatoes and he did an excellent job. My case was resolved only a couple of days before trial on a Saturday. I now have 50/50 shared custody with my ex and I spend time with daughter regularly. Eric has followed up with even after the settlement to see how things are going and even offered other advice regarding the new order. If you want a lawyer that will not get angry when you asks questions or inquire, receives your assistance to assist him, returns phone calls and emails as promptly for most attorneys…He is the attorney you want.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
04 Mar, 2021 by Stella
Eric has shown professionalism throughout the whole length of my divorce. He is knowledgeable in all aspects and has been a valuable guide through this painful process. Even though my former husband and I started with a conflictual situation, by the end of the divorce we managed to establish a respectful relationship, which is the best outcome for our young child (who is doing much better than before separating). Thank you, Eric, for representing our best interests.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
12 Sep, 2020 by Anonymous
Very Professional and knowledgeable. I needed an attorney for my Divorce. I talked to a few and Eric Lumberg was my choice. When I was emotional he was rational and calmly explained things to me. It was a tough Divorce as a young child was involved. I had a very favorable outcome and have Eric L. to thank for that
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
06 Sep, 2024 by Vance essak
Dan Weberman was an absolute joy to work with. My ex wife and I went through some terrible times and we finished our divorce coming up with an agreement together through Dans amazing guidance. If anyone comes across needed legal help I highly recommend Mr Weberman. Dan’s the man!!! Thanks Dan for all your help!!! 🙏🙏🙏🎉🎉🎉
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
27 Jun, 2024 by Travis jobe
Daniel Weberman does not care about his customers or the people he represents. It’s all A money game.!! I understand he’s in the business of making money but he charged me $4000 for an FOC hearing where my soon to be ex-wife and I already came to terms before the meeting lol he asked for a retainer of almost $7500 and when I would not give him the rest of the retainer, he dismissed me as a customer. He likes to call and text you after hours about him sailing and his trips so he can charge you extra. Very strange individual
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
20 May, 2024 by H l
Daniel helped me out of a complex legal jam with skill expertise and reasonable fees Hire this guy!!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
03 May, 2024 by Darlene russell
I am so thankful to have found Dan. He helped me from giving up when I thought my situation was crashing down around me with no good outcomes. He fought for me through out the whole process. He was a wonderful family law lawyer for me in my crazy custody situation. He truly cares about helping, not just about the money involved and wants what’s best for my kids like I do. I 100 percent will use him again if another situation arises and legal help is needed. Thanks Dan for helping me through this tough situation.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
24 May, 2022 by Gerald zielinski
One of the worst lawyer I hired. He did not do my son justice. I feel he did not represent him self as a professional lawyer.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
28 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous
Mr. Weberman was very professional but also personable. He was firm about what he felt was fair terms of my divorce, but in the end left the final decision of terms to my discretion. He has followed up with me after the finalization to check up on how I am doing. Thanks
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
18 Sep, 2024 by Sade johnson
Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Sep, 2024 by Jamie
Google Maps
star star star star star
13 Sep, 2024 by Miki truchan
Marc answered my call while he was on vacation. Thank you for everything you did for me.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
06 Sep, 2024 by Vance essak
Dan Weberman was an absolute joy to work with. My ex wife and I went through some terrible times and we finished our divorce coming up with an agreement together through Dans amazing guidance. If anyone comes across needed legal help I highly recommend Mr Weberman. Dan’s the man!!! Thanks Dan for all your help!!! 🙏🙏🙏🎉🎉🎉
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
27 Jun, 2024 by Travis jobe
Daniel Weberman does not care about his customers or the people he represents. It’s all A money game.!! I understand he’s in the business of making money but he charged me $4000 for an FOC hearing where my soon to be ex-wife and I already came to terms before the meeting lol he asked for a retainer of almost $7500 and when I would not give him the rest of the retainer, he dismissed me as a customer. He likes to call and text you after hours about him sailing and his trips so he can charge you extra. Very strange individual
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
20 May, 2024 by H l
Daniel helped me out of a complex legal jam with skill expertise and reasonable fees Hire this guy!!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
29 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
Thank you for responding to my question so promptly. I was looking for an actual dollar amount which wasn't offered but at least she responded and I appreciate that.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
29 Nov, 2015 by Peter
I was very nervous about alimony. I make a lot of money and my wife never worked. We were married a long time. Laurel was very honest and told me that based on my case, I needed to plan for paying alimony. She said the real question was how much and for how long? She was right and worked hard to make sure I didn't pay more than was fair. I was very satisfied with Laurel's advocacy and her honesty.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
22 Nov, 2015 by Lillian
I found Laurel through Avvo. The first time I met her, I was impressed by her kindness. She really understood how painful planning for a divorce was for me. She also was able to answer all my questions, and it was obvious she had a lot of experience. She involved me throughout the process so I knew what was happening and I was very pleased with the outcome.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
05 Mar, 2023 by Anonymous
Danielle is a very nice person and was responsive to all communication. Unfortunately, I found her attention to detail lacking. She used cookie-cutter agreements that she didn't read over thoroughly before sending me to sign. I understand that using standard verbiage and forms are common, but in this particular case she had me listed as the plaintiff instead of the defendant. Had I signed it without catching the mistake, it would have benefitted my soon-to-be ex. I also had to write things into the divorce agreement that she didn't think of. Sadly, she also didn't put in a failsafe and I ended up paying a ridiculous amount in taxes that SHOULD have been paid by my ex (they were due to the ex's unemployment). Lastly, my older child aged out of the child support payments so I received a notice that my child support case is being closed, even though I still have a minor. She didn't put verbiage in that continued to cover the younger son. Very nice person, but not too attentive to detail. You will definitely have to be your own advocate. And do not expect a bulldog if that's what you are looking for. Danielle's process is all about keeping the peace -- which is GREAT, and can help you avoid court, but this really only helps when you are divorcing a reasonably collaborative person. The collaborative process is not that great when you are dealing with someone who is unreasonable and combative. In the end, she mostly encouraged me to give in to the demands just to get the divorce over with.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
28 Jul, 2017 by Joe
Danielle is outside the box of what you expect a lawyer to be. She is kind, patient, attentive, fair and professional. She remained helpful long after the divorce was settled. I have recommended her to friends and family.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
28 Jun, 2017 by Kate
Danielle is not like any other attorney I have ever met. I hired her during my divorce after my previous attorney did not live up to expectations. She took over my case and was a tower of strength to me throughout. She was honest with me, always, even when she knew it wasn't what I wanted to hear. She always put things in perspective for me and above all, I felt like her number one priority was my children and their best interests. She was always completely focused on all parties reaching agreements themselves and trying to avoid the court intervening and making decisions which would affect all of our futures forever. My divorce was final 5 years ago but I still reach out to her with questions occasionally and know I will continue to do so. I am and always will be 100% satisfied with her services and know I can trust her completely.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
07 Nov, 2017 by Aj
We hired Rob Starkman to settle a case against a large company and he really came through for us. He gave us personal attention and kept us informed until got us our win.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
13 Sep, 2015 by Janet
Mr Starkman has been very helpful over the last 10 years that I have had to call on him. Gives it to you straight from the beginning and does not over charge. Mr Starkman is our Union lawyer and I have called on him for a Tenant Eviction. Thanks for all your help Rob.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
23 Jul, 2015 by Elisabeth
I needed help with several things but the most pressing was a crooked contractor who started a lawsuit rather than face an insprector. He didn't get even half what he requested and we got several things lifted off our shoulders. We contact him whenever we need legal services and his prices are straight out and reasonable.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
06 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
As a mediator, 'Shel' dragged out our divorce case for over one year and over $100,000. In the end, he made decisions that were in direct opposition of what either my ex spouse or I wanted, and most tragically, created undue chaos for our children. For reasons that are still unclear to me, he created a rotating parenting schedule for our somewhat large family, that includes 2 individuals diagnosed with ADHD. It was, and remains to a certain extent, a nightmare that has had an especially deleterious effect on the children. I will never understand what motivated him to put our family into such a chaotic schedule. I deeply regret that 'Shel' was the mediator for our divorce. His influence will unfortunately follow my children for the remainder of their lives.
Read more Avvo
See 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:

  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.

Scroll to top