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22 Apr, 2021 by Anonymous
Jennifer was a great attorney for me through my divorce. Jennifer was on top of everything and her communication was outstanding. She is very knowledgeable of family law and she will work hard for you without wasting your time and money. Jennifer is a very kind and compassionate person she will work hard for you. I highly recommend Jennifer.
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22 Apr, 2021 by Geoff
I was very pleased with Jennifer’s professionalism and willingness to listen to what I had to say. I hired Jennifer to help me as my ex was unwilling to disclose what was happening to funds set aside specifically for my children. Unlike the lawyer I hired for my divorce, or other subsequent lawyers who disbelieved what I had to say about what was happening, or the irrational actions of my ex, Jennifer listened and was able to work with me to resolve the situation. I felt confident in her advise and she was always willing to explain things in a manner I was able to understand. More importantly, she listened when I disagreed and didn’t try to pressure my decisions (giving me time to work through my emotional reluctance, at times, so that I could make rational decisions regarding the case and which moved the case forward). I would highly recommend Jennifer to anyone in need of a lawyer with regards to family law.
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10 May, 2018 by Samantha
Jennifer was absolutely phenomenal with my case. I was/am dealing with a very narcissistic ex husband and Jennifer was calm, cool and collected while dealing with him and my custody case. She was very to the point with him and extremely helpful to me. She understood that I am a single mother with a single income, she was conscious of the fact that I didn’t have an endless amount of money. Jennifer would tell me all of the options that there were and we would discuss which route was best and she cared about my input. She cared about me and my daughter! I would call or email Jennifer with questions or concerns and I thought I was bothering her so I apologized (all the time!) and she reassured me that I am not a bother. I would recommend Jennifer to anyone dealing with divorce/custody issues. I will hire Jennifer in the future if I need further assistance. I just can’t say enough good things about Jennifer!
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07 May, 2015 by Gerald
We have consulted with Ed and have found him and his staff to always be very professional and knowledgeable. Ed helped us write a contract for our electrical company so we complied with the new CCB regulations. He also advised us on how to collect bad debt from a general contractor that we had dealt with and helped us walk through the process that seems to a layman almost insurmountable.
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07 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Edward was very informative from the start, he told me what to focus on and the 4 or 5 things that I needed to pay close attention to. This allowed me to sleep well at night knowing that he would take care of the business at hand. He seemed to work well with the opposing counsel and was very fair and reasonable . Edward was always accessible and quick to return calls and kept me most informed all along the way. In a divorce there is never a good senario, no one wins, hopefully you can go on respectfully about your life and I feel Ed and his team was very concerned about the personal affect of all involved. I would absolutely recommend Edward Lohman and his team to anyone looking for legal assistance. He was very knowledgable, informative and someone I can trust with my business and I would look to him for any legal help I may need in the future.
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04 May, 2015 by Kurt
Edward Lohman is an excellent attorney. He has handled a few significant matters in my life to very positive resolutions. Edward and his staff are Fast, Friendly, Efficient, Trustworthy and get the results you need. I highly recommend this firm.
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29 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
Being sued was upsetting to me, and I did not know where to turn. Thank goodness a friend recommended David Schermer. He was very professional as well as compassionate and supportive. I recommend him highly.
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26 Jun, 2013 by Kiley
I had Mr. Buccino represent me in my divorce. He always was available and kept me informed immediately with new information and when I had any questions or concerns. Mr.buccino is very hard working, trustworthy and an exceedingly capable lawyer and very personable.
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19 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Nicole was very professional and knowledgeable in the area I was seeking a lawyer for. She was thorough in obtaining the facts and helpful in her guidance of how to proceed with my case. I would recommend her services to anyone needing help and specific information in regard to their own legal needs.
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04 May, 2015 by Curt
Scott provided very useful legal advice to me on a consumer debt matter. He listened to my situation and gave me several suggestions to help resolve my issue. He was professional, courteous and non-judgemental. I highly recommend him for your legal matters.
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25 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous
I started my divorce in 2018 while the divorce was finalized there were many ups and down with my ex. Kristin was ideal with helping my navigate through this as well as keeping our children out of it. Through the years she has dealt with my multiple emails, phone calls, counselors, PC, reunification therapists, the ex, his attorney with SO many people involved in this case you would think she could possibly “drop the ball”. Well she didn’t. She does her best to point out when you yourself may be wrong. (Which makes a good attorney) She tells you to always “take the high road”. Which we all know is difficult when dealing with a divorce. If it weren’t for her guidance, honesty, expertise, years of experience, excellent staff to assist her. My children and I wouldn’t have got the outcome we got. Come court date she had ALL things in order, super organized and went down a checklist of facts. I knew then the other side should be worried that she came prepared to win! I would highly recommend her to anyone. And would use her again if needed.
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14 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
Kristin was hired in my divorce case with an abusive husband and father. I’m not entirely sure what she did on her part as I’m the one who did all paperwork and gathering of discovery. She was routinely rude and unbelievably unorganized and did not address extremely crucial issues that affected my 3 kids IMO. I could share a whole lot more but I won’t , needless to say I wholeheartedly DO NOT recommend this attorney. Be wary.
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23 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
I use lawyers for my businesses every year so I am familiar with many of the industry norms. I am 5 years into a challenging co-parenting situation and another issue arose recently. I contacted Kristin Eaton via her firms website and scheduled a meeting after hearing back from her paralegal. Great I thought. The day of the consult, the paralegal email to say, "Can't do a 1/2 hour free consult - you have to pay for 1 hour" - I said, ok. I value my time and understand she wants to be compensated for hers. I drove 40 minutes to her office for the 1 pm appointment. When I arrived, the paralegal came out and said Kristin can't meet me today, she is too busy - I need to schedule out in 2 weeks. Ouch - what a waste of my time.
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20 Aug, 2022 by Anonymous
Basic attorney, to answer questions you can go to Scott. If you’re looking for someone to fight hard for you I would recommend looking else where. I was referred to him by modest means and was told I wouldn’t be charged more then 60$ a hour but was charged 100$ a hour when his regular rate is only $50 more. When I came to Scott I came with concerns about custody he told me for the time being i should try to modify our current plan. I had him on my case for around 6 months. Scott really didn’t do anything for me except answer some questions and communicate with opposing parties attorney. When it was 2 weeks before our hearing he told me he was ready to fight. Scott told me we would file to see another judge if they were considerate of everything. Just days before our hearing he said he wasn’t sure if I should go through with trying to modify and there was a big chance I wouldn’t get what I was asking for. At trial the judge asked if he had even listened to our entire transcript of previous hearings and he said NO. In the months he had to prepare and fight he didn’t even sit down and listen to the transcript to fully understand everything that had previously happen in my case! I did not get what I was asking for and Scott did not fight hard or bring up in substantial things that had happen in my case since the previous hearing. I was upset and expressed that and expressed what I believed he should have brought up. Scott told me the things I referred to were only going to matter in a custody change but all along Scott told me I didn’t have anything for a custody change. i spent 1700 to have him communicate with another attorney and file for a hearing. I could have gotten advice and saved my money and filed what he did if I knew he wasn’t going to go hard against opposing party or even listen to our transcript to understand our case. Ontop of everything I never met Scott In person or even over video. The first time I saw him was at court and he did not even know who I was , I had to introduce myself. He has no office to meet at and many times his children were in the background of the phone calls i had with him. Overall not happy with my outcome of my case and all my wasted time and money.
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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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