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24 May, 2016 by Robles
I highly recommend attorney Steven Ibarra and his amazing staff. My husband and I have been using Steven and his staff for years now. He helped my family and I with a serious financial dilemma and he exceeded our expectations. We are forever indebted to him. Thank you guys!
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23 Sep, 2015 by Dan
I have nothing but good things to say about Mr. Villegas. Mine was a simple case but he helped me resolve it quickly with some very strong, yet simple advice. Thank you Armando!
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11 Sep, 2024 by Estanislao cayetano
Está vien
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10 Sep, 2024 by Viivid media
Alvarado Law is excellent. They helped me through hard financial times with my bankruptcy case and were quick, responsive and knowledgeable. I very much recommend them.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Sonia quinonez
Buenos abogados te dan lo máximo en accidentes de auto me quedé muy conforme después de un accidente que tuve de auto
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11 Sep, 2024 by Estanislao cayetano
Está vien
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10 Sep, 2024 by Viivid media
Alvarado Law is excellent. They helped me through hard financial times with my bankruptcy case and were quick, responsive and knowledgeable. I very much recommend them.
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05 Sep, 2024 by Sonia quinonez
Buenos abogados te dan lo máximo en accidentes de auto me quedé muy conforme después de un accidente que tuve de auto
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09 Apr, 2024 by John coleman
The service I received was very professional thank you
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09 Mar, 2024 by Frank
Very helpful with the Probate process and very professional, and nice always! And they know what they're doing.
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03 Feb, 2024 by Jaime hernandez
Incredible service, great communication, would highly recommend!
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05 Jun, 2023 by Frank luna
It was ok. Not great
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21 Dec, 2021 by Tatiana muro
Mr. Arenivar was a great lawyer who helped with everything I needed in my family court case. He made sure to double check everything with me and answered any and all questions I had.
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09 Oct, 2020 by Jenny ortiz
Mr. Arenivar was very clear about my case from the beginning, he explain in accordance in accordance with the Law the rights and benefits that I could acquire. I would recommended with a full security and confidence
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09 Apr, 2024 by John coleman
The service I received was very professional thank you
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09 Mar, 2024 by Frank
Very helpful with the Probate process and very professional, and nice always! And they know what they're doing.
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03 Feb, 2024 by Jaime hernandez
Incredible service, great communication, would highly recommend!
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05 Jun, 2023 by Frank luna
It was ok. Not great
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21 Dec, 2021 by Tatiana muro
Mr. Arenivar was a great lawyer who helped with everything I needed in my family court case. He made sure to double check everything with me and answered any and all questions I had.
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09 Oct, 2020 by Jenny ortiz
Mr. Arenivar was very clear about my case from the beginning, he explain in accordance in accordance with the Law the rights and benefits that I could acquire. I would recommended with a full security and confidence
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05 Jun, 2023 by Frank luna
It was ok. Not great
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21 Dec, 2021 by Tatiana muro
Mr. Arenivar was a great lawyer who helped with everything I needed in my family court case. He made sure to double check everything with me and answered any and all questions I had.
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09 Oct, 2020 by Jenny ortiz
Mr. Arenivar was very clear about my case from the beginning, he explain in accordance in accordance with the Law the rights and benefits that I could acquire. I would recommended with a full security and confidence
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13 May, 2024 by Cynthia swaim
Attorney Koestner helped me so much with legal matters for my father when nobody else could doit. She figured everything out and has been taking care of business for me for the last four years. Her attitude was let me figure this out versus saying no I can’t do it.
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02 May, 2024 by Daniel gallegos
As I had a long fight in family court since 2017 I’ve had many experiences unfortunately not good I came to meet Marie Koestner In 2022 My lawyer at the time Christopher Ayala was blown away from all the evidence I had messages from my daughters of the mental verbal and even sometimes physical abuse from there mother his reply was you will for sure get full custody Mr Ayala recommended we request for minors counsel It was approved so naturally me and my children were very excited that they will have there opportunity to be heard and want more time with me there father All the evidence was forwarded to Marie koestner Before she even heard my side of the story first thing she said to me was looks like you manipulated your children I was blown away so big red flag My children were also interviewed and they felt good like they were going to get what they wanted high hopes all around making plans for the future Court date came and as I hear Marie Koestner speak nothing but lies fabricated lied twisting everything me and children said to her I couldn’t understand why As we take a 15 minute recess to see if I want to change my mind on what my children wanted We were supposed to talk between the mother of my children , Marie Koestner my lawyer and my self My layer Mr Ayala tells me to wait and the 3 of them go talk without me His objective changed and tells me when he comes back that he doesn’t really work in family law mostly in immigration law after fact that we have already been going back and forth to court and paid him thousands of dollars My children lost there wishes were never honored Everything got worse for my children being exposed to dangerous events with there mom more and more abuse and her step grandfather touches one of my children in a very inappropriate way and tried to hurt her self They were in hell all cus the corruption in family courts and Marie Koestner and Mr Ayala I know there is a good lawyer out therethat really cares for fathers rights and for the children But most lawyers treat issues like this as a business for there benefit Minors council Marie Koester My previous layer Mr Ayala Mothers lawyer Mr Garber All corrupted only interested in there personal benefits I later came back again in 2023 without a lawyer and only hired a paralegal with more evidence from child protective services and my children therapist As of 2021 I’ve had custody of my youngest child just made official In 2023 There mother has never complained cus the only thing she wanted was the child support she was receiving for my children even though I had custody she kept it for her self She stole everything from my children memories and time that you can never get back Lawyers like Marie Koestner Mr Garber Mr Ayala Need to be exposed and fase the consequences for there corruption and all the permanent damage they have caused all the children and families they have encountered and destroyed And there is definitely a lot more
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16 Dec, 2023 by Maritza guaderrama
Thank god for Marie! She really listen to my daughters and got justice for them. Now my daughters are happy again and live a healthy peaceful life again. I highly recommend her in family law.
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22 Oct, 2024 by Breana rodriguez
Chen Law Group and his team have been tremendously helpful guiding me through the entire process. The team was great to work with. Chen Law Group was able to get me a settlement for my injuries!
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22 Oct, 2024 by Nicole baker
Michael and his team have been absolutely amazing and professional. They helped us get the most money back and held our hand throughout the entire process. Thank you Chen Law Group!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Carolyn mcnamara
They took $1,000 from my parents and have not finished the work and do not pick up the phone or return calls. Carolyn McNamara
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13 May, 2024 by Cynthia swaim
Attorney Koestner helped me so much with legal matters for my father when nobody else could doit. She figured everything out and has been taking care of business for me for the last four years. Her attitude was let me figure this out versus saying no I can’t do it.
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02 May, 2024 by Daniel gallegos
As I had a long fight in family court since 2017 I’ve had many experiences unfortunately not good I came to meet Marie Koestner In 2022 My lawyer at the time Christopher Ayala was blown away from all the evidence I had messages from my daughters of the mental verbal and even sometimes physical abuse from there mother his reply was you will for sure get full custody Mr Ayala recommended we request for minors counsel It was approved so naturally me and my children were very excited that they will have there opportunity to be heard and want more time with me there father All the evidence was forwarded to Marie koestner Before she even heard my side of the story first thing she said to me was looks like you manipulated your children I was blown away so big red flag My children were also interviewed and they felt good like they were going to get what they wanted high hopes all around making plans for the future Court date came and as I hear Marie Koestner speak nothing but lies fabricated lied twisting everything me and children said to her I couldn’t understand why As we take a 15 minute recess to see if I want to change my mind on what my children wanted We were supposed to talk between the mother of my children , Marie Koestner my lawyer and my self My layer Mr Ayala tells me to wait and the 3 of them go talk without me His objective changed and tells me when he comes back that he doesn’t really work in family law mostly in immigration law after fact that we have already been going back and forth to court and paid him thousands of dollars My children lost there wishes were never honored Everything got worse for my children being exposed to dangerous events with there mom more and more abuse and her step grandfather touches one of my children in a very inappropriate way and tried to hurt her self They were in hell all cus the corruption in family courts and Marie Koestner and Mr Ayala I know there is a good lawyer out therethat really cares for fathers rights and for the children But most lawyers treat issues like this as a business for there benefit Minors council Marie Koester My previous layer Mr Ayala Mothers lawyer Mr Garber All corrupted only interested in there personal benefits I later came back again in 2023 without a lawyer and only hired a paralegal with more evidence from child protective services and my children therapist As of 2021 I’ve had custody of my youngest child just made official In 2023 There mother has never complained cus the only thing she wanted was the child support she was receiving for my children even though I had custody she kept it for her self She stole everything from my children memories and time that you can never get back Lawyers like Marie Koestner Mr Garber Mr Ayala Need to be exposed and fase the consequences for there corruption and all the permanent damage they have caused all the children and families they have encountered and destroyed And there is definitely a lot more
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27 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
This man was appointed as minors counsel for my case. He met with my children twice over a nearly three year battle. He met with the father of the children and their attorney several times yet refuses counsel from the children he represents, their therapist or mother’s attorney. My oldest and the others have experienced a lot of trauma during their times with father. Medical records and therapists have entitled the expressions of their experiences as “traumatic”. Without investigating or meeting with these professionals he has deemed these professionals’ and my children’s-words as holding no credibility. The only time in all of the years he supposedly “represented” my children/ that he even tried to talk with the children’s therapists was for no more than five minutes DURING the last court hearing! The therapist for my children had many words to speak and was trying to be cooperative and helpful for her clients but was not able to speak on their behalf. When my son tried to express fear and reasons for why he wanted less time with his dad, my son was shamed and educated on why my son’s thoughts were unacceptable. I spent thousands of dollars for this man to fight for their father’s rights and against the desires and wishes of my children. He called CPS on my case (information only he and my attorney had was discovered in the CPS files), denied it in court and blamed me for antagonizing and calling CPS to investigate their father.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Efrain gramajo
Exelente trabajo esoy muy feliz con el trabajo de estos abogados se los recomiendo movieron mi caso muyrapido y la verdad estaba muy conplicado gracias muchas gracias 👍
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24 Jun, 2024 by Isaac reveles
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14 Apr, 2024 by Jcan navarez
Buenos abogados
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17 Sep, 2024 by Efrain gramajo
Exelente trabajo esoy muy feliz con el trabajo de estos abogados se los recomiendo movieron mi caso muyrapido y la verdad estaba muy conplicado gracias muchas gracias 👍
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24 Jun, 2024 by Isaac reveles
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14 Apr, 2024 by Jcan navarez
Buenos abogados
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05 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
He did the same to me. He didn't properly serve me. He was my landlord/slumlord. Years later he is using the courts and abusing his power as an attorney to get money out of me. And we're talking thousands. He put an illegal detainer and lien on me. All for cleaning services. As far as I knew we were done, after he evicted me in court with his buddy judge. I paid first and last months rent. You would think that covered his cleaning cost, who btw, he pays cheap labor to Samantha's husband, who doesn't speak a word of English. So he has advantage all around saving him money and extorting money out of his former clients and residents. He is a con, using the courts, and how the courts don't catch on after his hundreds of liens filed. Is beyond me? Must benefit the Courts he is filing at. Because we'll over 10 years later and he still trying to get thousands out of me for cleaning a rental out.
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05 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Richard did a better then average job for my divorce case back in 1998. He can be a little abrasive at times and he will tell you the more time you call and get in his way, the more money he makes. Bottom line, time is money, so have your questions ready to go and get to the point.
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06 Feb, 2021 by Mike
If I could negative stars I would. I hope this review saves one unsuspecting parent. I went through a divorce and custody hearing many years ago and made the mistake of hiring Miller. Needless to say I ended up paying over $20,000 to this guy, and he didn't even finish the job. Basically he will drag out your case, costing you way more then it should. Also you will be charged a high interest rate for his service, making you owe him for years to come. In the end, I retained different lawyer and had my case settled for less then a quarter of what I paid him. Buyer beware.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Lauren
She was retained for a case but she was overwhelmed with vacation and other cases as she verbalized when she removed herself from my husbands case less than 2 weeks before he had to attend court leaving him with no lawyer to appear in court for a nasty custody battle. He was unable to find a new attorney last minute due to the severity of his case. In the end he lost joint custody of his son and Attorney Carina Reyna knew how crucial her appearance was. This company is unprofessional, the attorney didn't really have any time to fight the case and she spreads herself too thin. She definitely should work on the quality of work and not the quantity of retainer fees she obtains, because the first time and only time she attended court for the case she was kinda lost and unprepared. Hopefully in the future this never happens to anyone else as she sharpens her skills and becomes more knowledgeable in her craft.
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08 Mar, 2024 by Anonymous
People of Whittier! Just because she's in Whittier, doesn't mean you need to hire her. Yes, we're all desperate for resolution and advice but PLEASE! Stay away from this lawyer! She's terrible at her job. Her service is way below average. The amount of money she charges for her so called services, you can get yourself a way better attorney in DTLA. Please message me directly, I'd be more than happy to give you more information. She should be disbarred. Paralegals do better paperwork than she does, and they charge waaaay less! Also, all the so called positive reviews are more than likely friends and family she has to burry negative posts. She also has a response / excuse for everything.
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29 Jun, 2022 by Nava
Contrate a Karina porque necesitaba un abogado que hablara español pero realmente el día de mi audiencia mostró interés únicamente por terminar rápido sin preocuparse porque venía después .. ese día le comenté que necesitaba un abogado para mi divorcio y por su actitud mostró poco interés y hoy confirmó que ella quiere ganar dinero fácil porque la contacte para que me explicara que podía hacer ante lo que firme como ella me dijo y hasta el día de hoy no tuvo la educación de regresarme la llamada .. No la recomiendo desde su actitud deja mucho que desear.
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11 Oct, 2013 by Athomas
She never returned my calls. She showed up late to court and then was not prepared. She continued my case 3 times and charged me for each time. It was crazy. Nothing got done. I paid over $4000 and ended up having to hire another attorney. Her staff was rude and never seemed to know what was going on. My advise......run to another attorney. I am so happy I got out of there!!!!
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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.

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