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07 Jun, 2023 by Matthew
I will admit that I am a difficult client. I am hard headed, quick tempered, fast to act, and I think I know better. Gary worked with me through my two plus year divorce even though I am that difficult client. He talked me through different issues, gave me options and sage advice. We got the result we were looking for. Gary is a smart, seasoned lawyer that will give you good advice in a timely manner. He put up with all my BS, but got me through my divorce. For that, I will be ever thankful.
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15 Jan, 2023 by Brad
Mr. Gottfried handled my case for three years now. My son’s mom filed to reduce my time, which we had 50/50 for the last seven years before she filed. Meeting with Mr. Gottfried for the first time I knew he was my guy. He is very prompt in returning calls and e-mails and I can say this promptness has not dropped the slightest over the last three years (even on his days off). He made sure when the trial date finally came that we had everything lined up to negate everything she filed plus things that could come up in trial so we were ready to present them to fight. He makes sure you are prepared for any questions and have evidence to back you up. We have gone through a magistrate appeal and now seven more months later it is looking like she will appeal the judge’s decision. Not only did Mr Gottfried have a rebuttal for all of her bogus claims, we actually asked for an additional over night to which it was granted. When this is dragged out over three years so far, there are times to which you question yourself. Mr Gottfried would reassure me and talk me down from those times. He is honest with you, some attorneys are there to collect a check, but not him. He gave me his opinion when I asked, based off his career in these cases, but also said it’s up to you Brad. I cannot say enough about him or give him the praise he deserves. I have referred friends to him because he is the best…period! If you are in need of an attorney for custody cases, call him. You will not be disappointed, trust me.
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16 Aug, 2022 by Jacob
Gary represented me phenomenally as an expert witness, he was highly astute and Incredibly cognizant and professional. Although my case ended before it went to trial I felt that his contributions made a huge impact and I was so thankful to have received his services, he would be the first person I go to if I find myself in that situation again.
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12 May, 2020 by Fred
Colin went the extra mile to ensure our motion was processed correctly and it was done right! After we got over that hurdle, it was down hill from there. Great work is an understatement!
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08 Jan, 2016 by Drew hensel
Colin is my 'go to' attorney for all things real estate. He has assisted in preparing notes and mortgages for several transactions that I've been involved in. He also helped me create an LLC for my real estate company. His expertise and experience is second to none. His follow through and execution is why we keep coming back!
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21 Aug, 2019 by Brandi
I am so grateful to have had Gregory as my legal consul during the loss of my grandmother. He was very straight forward and never misguided me. Always kept me informed with everything regarding probate, and always had the best help with any issues that came about. I would recommend him to anybody needing a probate attorney or needing to make any plans regarding their final wishes. I cannot thank him enough for all the help he did for me and my family during our time of need. Thank you!
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26 Mar, 2024 by Alex lombardo
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23 Mar, 2024 by Alexander wright
After enduring a lengthy and emotionally draining divorce process, I was at a standstill until I sought assistance from Einstein Law. From the outset, it felt like the entire practice was firmly in my corner, dedicated to helping me reach a settlement. They not only alleviated my anxieties but also provided clear explanations of my options and entitlements. I had been shouldering unnecessary blame for aspects of the divorce that were beyond my control. However, Dianne, Megan, and the entire team at Einstein Law were steadfast in their support, guiding me back to a place of confidence and clarity. My family affectionately refers to them as the 'Amazon Warriors,' a title they've truly earned by fiercely advocating for me. Einstein Law played a pivotal role in restoring my confidence and helping me navigate through one of the most challenging periods of my life. I am immensely grateful for their unwavering support and guidance during my darkest days. Thank you, Einstein Law, for being my beacon of hope when I needed it most!
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01 Mar, 2024 by Jud voorhees
Took care of all our needs, both personal, and business. Great staff! Highly recommend.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Lauryn mosley
Brian Duffy was wonderful to work with. He worked so hard for me after my car accident and gave us an outcome more than what we expected. He was diligent and so personable. He will definitely be our attorney in the future if anything else comes up! We definitely recommend!!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Young bandit j
I would like to start off and say this process couldn’t have gone any smoother!! From the moment we spoke on the phone to meeting in the office, Brian was there every step of the way fighting for me. Brian checked in on me during my recovery and again fought to make sure I got what was deserved. If I could rate Brian and CaJacob any higher I would! I will never forget the care and time that was put into my case and beyond grateful and thankful that I put my trust into CaJacob & Brian. 10/10 experience! Thank you all so very much!!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Bug little
Brian- Thank you for a quick outcome, taking the time to understand my concerns & for responding in a timely manner when I was in a car accident last year. I definitely appreciate your help!! :)
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19 Sep, 2023 by Amit kumar
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23 Jun, 2023 by Aaron anderson
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11 Apr, 2022 by Cassandra newell
After a slow start with e-mail, we were able to converse with the paralegal who was extremely friendly and helpful.
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14 Sep, 2023 by Dontell watson
A gem. Don’t look any further if you’re looking for an attorney that truly cares.
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20 Aug, 2022 by Ugaaska ceelka
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19 Apr, 2022 by Barwaqo
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08 Jul, 2024 by Paul semeraro
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08 Jul, 2024 by Jeff bowen
As a single dad going through child custody it is not fun at all. Allison and her team did a great job for a fair price. They were always quick to get back to me and were always on top of things. She got me a fair resolution in a timely matter. Highly recommend. -J
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08 Jul, 2024 by B meiling
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21 Mar, 2024 by Julie ott
I reached out to WSM Law after family offered to help me pay for a lawyer to help me through my divorce. Having someone on my side who knew how to navigate the curveballs being thrown at me alleviated so much stress. I truly feel like my situation was evaluated and treated with personal care. I did not feel like just another case file on a desk. I would absolutely recommend looking to WSM Law to a friend searching for a lawyer for a divorce or custody case!
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14 Feb, 2024 by Claire duesdieker
I would highly recommend WSM, Natalie and Logan were great to work with. Very prompt, professional, and helpful during a tumultuous time in my life!
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14 Dec, 2023 by Miranda groh
Going through a divorce is not fun. Somehow Hari and his team managed to bring joy to the process. So kind, thorough, responsive, and timely. I highly recommend!!
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29 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Ive been married 33 years. I am 61 years old. This is a first marriage for both my husband and I. I have 7 children. Two are engineers, one is a professional Chef, one has his own business plus he just was promoted into supervision, one is deceased (he was 11, (traumatic accident), one is a high school junior, and one adult daughter who is a mess! Only 1 child lives at home. Five kids are independent. I graduated from college with a BSN and graduate school in social services. I stopped working 7 years into the marriage. I was making 50K per year. Twenty-six years ago I quit my job to stay home and homeschool (est 18 yrs) Since my sons death 10 years ago, Ive had numerous health problems. Some still affect me. Breast Cancer since Fall 2011 with sx, chemo, rad, and new medication protocol. I achieved stabilization going on 4 years. New medication protocol has inhibited progression. This is not remission, or cure. The tumors are numerous, still present, non growing or spreading. There is no pain or obvious physical abnormalities. I do have hideous under clothes scarring from r breast sx. Ive had 2 total knee sx (1, 3 mos. ago, 1, 4 yrs ago) with great relief (arthritis). I have mental illness starting at age 8 yo. (This mental illness waxed and waned until my late 20’s). Medication even at this time was poor at best. I began medication for this illness in my early 30’s. I had stabilization of my mental illness without any hospitalizations until my sons death (31+years) After his death I had several hospitalizations for depression and anxiety. I had not experienced depression until my son died. My husband is an engineer at AEP with an est salary of 115k per year. By choice he spends 2 weeks per month with his aged father (94 years old) in Florida. No other family members participate in his fathers limited mobility and other age related difficulties. Several members live within 3 to 15 miles of my father in law. My mother in law is deceased. This is the dilemma. My husband is requesting a separation in 2 years when my daughter graduates from High School. Should our home be sold now, he would relinquish all proceeds to me. Although our marriage is far from enjoyable, this has shaken my world! His demands for a separation are questionable at best. Unfortunately my husbands extended family had and still has many secrets. In brief, this family was the “armpit” of both sides. My husband was not as well cared for as was and is his brother and his friends. His parents all but ignored our children. They preferred extra marital liaisons, verbal ugliness, stealing, lying, excessive alcohol use and cheating. Sadly, I am well aware of way, way too, too much! It is all but ridiculous! After marrying him I became aware of how much my husband has always relished any and all attention he could receive from them. Our family has not received monetary gifts, cars, etc, like his brother. Sadly his parents relinquished much of their income to his brother and had limited retirement resources from this, and recently have. Moving out of Florida almost 20 years ago has suppressed our knowledge of the many things they have done. His parents are cynical of individuals who have good retirement assets. Recent time spent with his aging father has reprised my husbands longing for attention. My husband has also become cynical of others retirement. He is using monetary resources reserved for updating our house to put it on the market I have limited income from him at this time. He has verbally threatened to “ cut me off financially”. He identifies this as joking. His comments are not unlike the verbage of his Dad. It is truly annoying. Rude name calling is also common. My parents were not “terrific”. They had difficulties also. To my knowledge there was no extra marital relationships, stealing, etc. or alcohol use. They were frugal with their financial resources.
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20 Sep, 2018 by Rhonda
Alison represented me in my divorce.She is an excellent attorney.Very good at what she does.She is trustworthy and really cares about her clients.I would highly recommend her to anyone.
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21 Jun, 2013 by Kris
Alison is the most trustworthy and knowledgeable lawyer I know. I trust her with my most valuable assets being my children. She went way above and beyond the call of duty with my case and it was just a pleasure to watch her work.
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13 Jan, 2020 by Crystal
He is very reliable and very nice and understands. Always answered my calls give me the best advice on what I should do. I do recommend him to everyone his Law firm is the best.
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27 Feb, 2017 by Nathaniel
Eric is professional, courteous and efficient. His billing was fair and as indicated, and the process was much more expedient then I'd originally anticipated.
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04 Nov, 2016 by Anonymous
he looks into every detail and will do what it takes to get you the best results. i would recommend him to anybody. even his prices are resonable
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18 May, 2018 by J foster
I was represented by Anna Bates in my very sticky divorce and she represented me flawlessly. I had a Tentative Order issued from Magistrate Sanford which was about 95% of what I wanted and only issues the Magistrate could not decided on where left. Anna said that this is the best Tentative Order in a contested divorce case she had ever seen (and she was not tooting her own horn); it was the best and I was awarded sole custody and $2,500/month child support and my ex husband was placed on visitation. I was managing my child with ADHD and it was very difficult with a husband who left me for another woman and wanted to take every thing and our precious child and move his new girlfriend of two months into the house. Anna is an outstanding attorney and I have referred her many cases as well as her husband also (Bankruptcy lawyer). Go get 'em Anna. You are a GEM!
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13 Jul, 2012 by Sable
If not for Anna and her staff I wouldn't be able to see my kids, let alone have custody. Thanks to her willingness to fight for me, my kids and I are able to be together. Thanks Anna!
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08 Jul, 2012 by Paul
Hired Anna Bates to administer a trust for my ailing grandmother. Anna led me along the process, and seemed very knowledgable. However, when we arrived in court, Anna Bates showed up looking as though she had not slept in 3 days. Her attire was grungy, stained and no pressed. She seemed confused when the magistrate asked questions pertaining to the case, and struggled with some questions. It was later determined by the courts that Annas representation of the trust was questionable at best, and put me in a position to explain some very difficult questions. Sent an itemized bill (after I secured other representation after our first court debacle), and bill included various services which didn't even PERTAIN to the case. I'm not sure if she was trying to pull a fast one, or if she got my case confused with another. Could not reach anyone at Annas office (which I believe she runs from home) to discuss. Ended up paying entire bill.
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14 Jan, 2022 by Nick
I hired Jodie to represent me in my divorce case and she suggested a plan of attack for the case. She then came down with a knee injury, no contact for months, then she sends me an email saying she is withdrawing because she doesn’t agree with the plan she came up with. Spent $$$$ and she isn’t worth a dime.
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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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