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19 Jul, 2024 by Tom liskey
Adam Crosier and his paralegal Rebecca were THE BEST. They made my WC case go so smoothly and were there to answer any question or concern I had throughout the entire process. They made a horrible situation much more manageable for myself and my family. Thank you so much!
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18 Jun, 2024 by Deshawn lewis
The attorney and staff were very thorough to understand the details of my case. They were extremely patient and thorough.
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18 May, 2024 by Nellie burg (nellieburg)
08 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
This was my first time needing a lawyer, and I was facing multiple charges from various courts, including a misdemeanor of the first degree. I was anxious and felt like my life was falling apart over something that seemed minor and foolish. I reached out to several law firms, but none made me feel as comfortable as the Banks Law Firm did. Other firms made me feel foolish for sharing my situation, but Banks Law Firm simply listened and assured me they could handle it. Attorney Banks was excellent at explaining everything and ensuring I understood the process. Charmaine was also very helpful, answering any questions I had for Attorney Banks.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
I recently hired Attorney Banks for a legal case, and I am thoroughly impressed with his services. His professionalism and meticulous attention to detail were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to explain every step of the legal journey clearly, which made the experience much less daunting. Attorney Banks was consistently available whenever we needed his advice, demonstrating a genuine commitment to our case. Additionally, his fee structure was transparent and straightforward, and he executed the agreed-upon plan flawlessly. I highly recommend Attorney Banks for anyone seeking a dedicated and reliable attorney.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Bernadette
I interviewed many criminal attorneys prior to hiring the Banks law group. There is a sense of profound knowledge to the field and genuine compassion. I deeply worried about my case because I'm a health care professional and the two criminal case will prompt me to lose my health care professional license that I studied and worked for many years.... On top of the maximum years of imprisonment if ever. Well, we won the case. I highly endorse the Banks law group, the team and staff are exceptional. With their unsurpassed expertise, you'll have a better future. Attorney Matthew Banks had given me another life.
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04 Aug, 2024 by Alex
Thanks so much for putting my family back together.
Your service was exceptional, with great communication,
sympathy and patience and all that one could hope for.
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13 Oct, 2023 by Ansumana
When fishing for lawyers on AVVO, Ms. Gray instantly stood out. I didn't look at her credentials, or years of experience, or what have you when it came to choosing her. I based my decision purely from how she was honest on about why she was late responding to my inquiry. Reason being it was some family matter, and I felt that was just really...and unnecessarily...honest. I felt that she could have given me any reason, she could have said it was because of work, or saving a bus full of children. But it was just...honest and from there she has been nothing but honest.
Not only that, she is very responsive and the phone conversations that we have, she makes me feel like I'm a person and I'm just having a conversation with another human. Sometimes I hear the dishes in the background, the fridge opening, her sitting something down, the echo of my voice through a car speaker, versus feeling like another number in some office.
Her professionalism is outstanding. If there is something she can do to help you with your case, consider it already done. I hired Ms. Gray and immediately she went to speak to the opposing attorney on my behalf. She is honest and upfront about what to expect during a trial, the do's and dont's, and how to present yourself in a trial.
I could keep going, but at this point, if you haven't decided you want a lawyer who cares, then why are you still here? Go be just another number to some other attorney.
10/10 will rehire.
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21 Aug, 2019 by Anonymous
I called Robin from overseas to ask about a very difficult, complex immigration case. She took her time and answered all my questions. We stayed on the phone for a long time and never once did she rush me or try to “hustle” me. I felt comfortable and calm with her and just for giving me her time and attention I will absolutely hire her as my attorney when its time. I need someone I can talk to without being scared, nervous or feel like I’m bothering someone. This is my life and my future at risk so it’s very important for me to have someone who understands that.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Todd helped me with a DUI and possession charge I received. Due to the nature of the incident it could have been a very serious. He fought for me and got me ARD being it was my first offense. He is always prompt in response, truly cares and will listen to questions. My near death experience breathed new life into me and Todd helped me to have the best outcome possible in court. Thank you so much Todd!!!
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03 Nov, 2023 by Maryellen
Mr. Mays is by far the best lawyer around. We can't thank him enough for everything he has done for our family. My son was fighting for joint custody of his newborn daughter, and Mr. Mays exceeded everything we thought was possible. He was with us every step of the way, and was always very prepared and professional in and out of the court room. He spent time with us before and after every court appearance to assure that we understood what took place, and he was always so patient and caring when answering our questions. Mr. Mays was very prompt when answering phone calls and emails, and he personally returned all of my son's calls, usually the same day. He was never too busy to address our concerns.
Mr. Mays was able to help my son get shared custody of his daughter and we couldn't be happier! I would recommend Mr. Mays to anyone who wants a top notch lawyer who truly cares about his clients and who is willing to go above and beyond to get them the results they are hoping for. We wouldn't want anyone else beside us in the courtroom! He is the best!
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19 Jan, 2023 by George
Hired attorney mays for criminal and also for custody. He was excellent in both cases. He is a no bs attorney straight and to the point. He also listens and explains the whole process from start to finish. I highly recommend attorney mays to anyone needing a good and highly knowledgeable attorney!
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08 Jul, 2023 by William usher
10 Dec, 2015 by Mike
Attorney Krishock was very effective in handling my case. She showed a lot of care for me as a person. My case has been settled & I am very satisfied with the terms. I highly recommend her to anyone needing legal help.
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19 Oct, 2015 by Yvette
Melissa walked us through both scenarios of what we could expect from our process. We hope to never have to go through this again but if we do she'd be the one we'd call.
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13 Apr, 2022 by Sawsan
I spoke to Mr. Hoffman in a consultation, unprepared and unpaid and yet it was utterly simple to get through to him twice and speak in details and care that even my current paid lawyer and other lawyers (with paid consultation) never showed! He showed extensive experience, genuinely caring attitude and even when he couldn't take my case for reasons pertaining to his current work and a possible conflict he gave me a very candid advise and a potential road map to follow! Where on earth do you find something like that? Most lawyers drain you emotionally and financially before turning you from a human into a case in their files and a number in their bank accounts, I understand it's a business and living to these lawyers so I never judge them on that but I would at least expect honesty to what they or their experience can do for me and the very minimal of care for myself and my family, nothing more (God forbid I ask for a bulldog in the courtroom that's like finding a unicorn!)
Mr. Hoffman doesn't advertise or run flashy marketing campaigns like other lawyers do so I was only able to find him throw a word of mouth, and how I wished I could retain him! He is a gem.
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01 Aug, 2021 by Keith smoker
Excellent unique ice cream and great service
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09 Dec, 2019 by Dale
Had Chris still been with Rowe Law offices, I know we would have won my case and custody of my children. Not only did Rowe not inform me that Chris had left the practice, they waited until last minute to let me know and to get someone new caught up to speed. In the one pre trial Chris had assisted me with, we got to keep the house in the district where my kids go to school. So that was already a win in our favor. Once he left, it all fell apart. My new lawyer who represented me didn't spend 10 minutes defending me against my ex's accusations and spent 0 minutes attacking her and bringing anything to light. Rowe Law offices charges us about 15k and didn't do anything. I know if we had Chris, the way he was the first time I met him, he wouldn't have stood for how this case went down. If I could find him and afford to go back, Chris is the guy I would go with. Instead, I have 15k in debt and basically kids will have to relocate out of state after this school year and we will share 50/50 custody and my son's grandmother with whom his mom lives with was just arrested for biting my son, 2nd degree assault. Sounds like it be a cu and dry case but without Chris, I don't stand a shot. Really missed you Chris
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20 Aug, 2024 by Nichole brink
01 Aug, 2024 by Brittney koharcheck
By far the best decision hiring Nik to represent me in my custody case! - always made sure I understood everything presented to me, was always a phone call or email away from answering any of my questions. If you’re looking for someone to go all in for you, it’s Nik! Thank you Nik for everything! It’s been a pleasure working with you for these past several months. 🙂
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02 Jul, 2024 by Bailey mckeon
05 Nov, 2024 by Michael
Priscilla Natale is a very compassionate, understanding, informative, and productive attorney. She explained the 3 parts of my case: Support, Divorce and Custody in good details through in person meeting, phone consultation and emails. Her hourly rate is on the higher level for professional services, and she is a very busy attorney, but if you need good professional attorney services, have patience, and can afford it, I highly Recommend her for most of your legal matters.
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09 May, 2024 by Sara patton
Although we are still in the process and the matter of my divorce is not finalized, I cannot say enough about the practice of Berman Voss as well as my personal attorney, Priscilla Natale. The communication and attention to detail to keep everyone up to date is above and beyond. The practice is transparent with fees and very itemized, allowing for planning and preparation with regards to payments. Should you need an attorney or a practice that truly cares about their clients and does nothing short of properly representing the client's best interest, this is it!
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02 May, 2024 by Blue skull
Attorney Priscilla Natale is the best lawyer in Pennsylvania! Attorney Natale goes above and beyond to ensure her clients receive exceptional care. Attorney Natale’s expertise and knowledge goes beyond anyone I’ve ever met. She has genuine compassion for her clients and a commitment to justice. Her attention to detail, strategic thinking, and courtroom demeanor is truly impressive! I highly recommend Attorney Natale as she is the very best!
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19 Jul, 2024 by Tom liskey
Adam Crosier and his paralegal Rebecca were THE BEST. They made my WC case go so smoothly and were there to answer any question or concern I had throughout the entire process. They made a horrible situation much more manageable for myself and my family. Thank you so much!
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18 Jun, 2024 by Deshawn lewis
The attorney and staff were very thorough to understand the details of my case. They were extremely patient and thorough.
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18 May, 2024 by Nellie burg (nellieburg)
18 Jan, 2018 by Franklin
I interviewed with several attorneys as I have some upcoming legal matters that need to be addressed. I like the way Jill talked with me. She explained everything in a way that I could easily understand. She conducts herself in a professional manner, unlike some other attorneys that I interviewed. She is also reasonably priced for the level of expertise that she will provide. I feel confident that I found my future attorney!
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11 Jan, 2018 by Brian
I hired Jill on a two occasions and both were criminal. Jill did an amazing job in both cases. The first case I had all of my major
charges dropped which would have resulted in jail time. The second case, Jill did another amazing job. I was looking at a few years in a state facility and Jill ended up working with the DA for me and getting me into a treatment program. Jill is a very knowledgeable person and she goes out of her way to please all of her clients. I, in fact chose Jill over a lot of other high profile lawyers because of her track record and from recommendations from other lawyers in the area that are personal friends.
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04 Jan, 2018 by Heather
Jill was my lawyer for my divorce and custody agreement. I have always appreciated her knowledge of the law, negotiation skills, and professional manner. She never pushed me to make a decision, but presented the facts along with my options and allowed me to decide. She is respectful both to her clients as well as the opposing counsel, which I greatly appreciate, and yet she is not a pushover. I would highly recommend her to anyone seeking legal advice in a similar matter.
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02 Jul, 2015 by Tara
Mr. Fabrizio represented me in my custody case and was very respectful and attentive to my concerns. He is an exemplary attorney because of all the categories above, and he answered my questions any time I did not understand something. I have a lot of confidence in this attorney which is why I want him to handle other areas of legal matters in advising my family.
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11 Jun, 2014 by John
Eric handled every detail of my mother's estate for my brother and I, and made the process simple, even though I was out of state. His fee was very reasonable. Overall, he was thorough, professional, and compassionate. I would recommend him without reservation
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19 Dec, 2011 by Mark
Eric Fabrizio was hired handle my brother’s estate since my brother passed away without a will. This was not an easy set of circumstances and Eric was very meticulous dealing with the various set of problems and concerns. Eric took the appropriate steps to avoid any future liabilities and the kept the family well informed of each step of the process.
From the very beginning, Eric made the family feel very comfortable and at ease. Eric has a very clam and reassuring personally and he takes the time to listen and explain each step of the process.
All legal matters were handled in professional manner and Eric prepared all the required legal documents accurately and were clearly understood by all family members.
Additionally, the attorney legal fess for processing the estate were very fair and there were no hidden surprises.
I would recommend Eric to anyone requiring legal assistance to their legal matters. We are going to utilize his serves in the next few months as Eric will be preparing our wills and estate planning documents.
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4.5
17 Reviews
4.3
117 Reviews
30 Aug, 2024 by Nikki krize
Highly recommend! Rowe Law Offices helped me tremendously when it came to navigating my mother's estate. I wouldn't have been able to do it without them, especially Vicki. Vicki is the best of the best!
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20 Aug, 2024 by Robert “robbie” graves
My experience with this practice has been exceptional. Divorce is hard and everyone’s case is unique, but I think my case has some extraordinarily difficult circumstances. My attorney, Jacob, has gone above and beyond in dealing with some just plain weird developments. He keeps me fully informed and has shown remarkable patience and creativity in handling my case. I know, without any doubt, he has my best interest at heart and will do whatever it takes for me to have the best possible outcome. And everyone at the office is wonderful; friendly and helpful. They are a joy to interact with, and very professional as well. I just had my estate plan done here and Vicki was incredible in preparing everything and sorting all the paperwork when I came in to sign.
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16 Jul, 2024 by Curtis stout
Nothing but a money predator. Charges $175 an email regardless of length or content. She is a crook in my opinion.
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08 Jun, 2024 by Vashti villasenor steckel
Smith is the one I believe who tried representing my baby’s deadbeat father. I wanted to let you know I’m a strong women and thank you for trying knock me down with your smart remarks. I don’t suggest her unless you’re fine with the fact she doesn’t support abused women but instead their abusers.
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15 Nov, 2023 by Angel sanchez
satisfied with Matthew Kopecki as my attorney for my criminal case. i recommend him. very nice guy
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10 Oct, 2023 by Victoria
I lost three years of my child life, and always bent over backwards for the child of my father, till I finally had enough and with the help of my mother in law I found Rebecca! I can honestly say, this woman gave me back my life, she helps you through every step and makes sure you understand what is going on and what you are walking into! On October 4th I won my life back when she helped me gain Physical custody of my daughter. I owe this woman more than a good review I owe her a lifetime of gratitude! If you need a lawyer CHOOSE HER!
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31 Oct, 2017 by Joe bo
Sharon is a lawyer for all the people, she speaks in common language so the client is aware of all coincidences . She helped me, an abused husband, complete a divorce from a adulterous, drug and alcohol abusive wife. Clearly she understands that women do take advantage of their loving husbands. I had my divorce wrapped up in a few months. In an honest effort Sharon is busy with other clients and communication may be slow, but as I found out, good things come to those who wait. I highly recommend Sharon to anyone needing help in a bad situation.
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11 Aug, 2017 by Kelly
This woman is atrocious! She has been handling our case for the last 3 years. Our papers were signed last January, and she stalled, and didn't submit the papers. It gave my husband time after he and I both signed to change his mind on things. We finally are in agreement again, and told her to submit papers at the beginning of April, and we are STILL waiting. She has the papers signed from both parties, and she still won't just go to the courthouse and submit them!!! We are both with other individuals now, after three years, and just want to be able to move on. This one woman is preventing that from happening. My lawyer has stated that in all 35 years she has been practicing law, she has never had a divorce like this, because of Sharon. She doesn't return phone calls, or emails either. She has her money, and I guess thats all she cares about!!!
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15 May, 2016 by Anonymous
Sharon was wonderful from start to finish with my custody and divorce. She always responded asap to the tons of emails and voicemails. I had 2 other attorney's before finding Sharon who were terrible and i wish I would have found her sooner, it would have saved me a lot of money and heartache. I would recommend Sharob to any and everyone.
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05 Aug, 2024 by Natalie jardine
While I'd much rather be leaving a positive review, this experience does not warrant as much. In the spirit of preventing others from receiving the poor service I received, I submit the following:
I came to Julie with a very simple, uncontested divorce matter in which I had done the majority of the preliminary work on. She wrapped up a few necessary, remaining documents, submitted them to the court, and informed me that I should have a final decree within a couple weeks. A couple weeks passed, and then a month, with no correspondence from her or her staff. At that point, I felt a follow-up inquiry was necessary. Her email response told me only what I already knew: that we were waiting for the Judge to sign, and that I would receive a digital and mailed decree once that transpired. She felt compelled to charge me extra for that. At that point, I just continued to wait. I understand that dealing with a bureaucracy can be unpredictable, however, as my attorney, and with the timeline of "a couple weeks", I would expect some follow-up on her part to occur. After a total of 3 1/2 months elapsed, and I was left completely in the dark, I felt certain my case had slipped through the cracks. After a reluctant inquiry to her, since I didn't really have any more funds to casually donate to uninformative communication, she subsequently followed up with her contact at the courthouse, and miraculously my decree was signed that very day. So, clearly my case did fall through the cracks. It wasn't delayed due to insufficient documentation, child custody issues, alimony, or any of the reasons a divorce matter could be complicated. She simply failed to follow through. It was an unnecessarily long and stressful process. I hope my review will serve to prevent an unsavory experience for others. Sidenote: she did credit my account for the uninformative email, but only after I complained and she defended herself by telling me that 'my frustrations were misdirected'. A reply you might expect to receive from a therapist, not the attorney you hired to handle your divorce, and only contact person you have for updates. I exercised a great deal of patience throughout this process, while simultaneously not being kept abreast. I believe my frustrations were directed quite appropriately.
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01 Aug, 2024 by Tim
Julie is a very respectable person in real life. her care and attention to details is impeccable. Julie always responded in a timely fashion and answered any questions in a detailed understandable manner. Julie also always tried to keep legal fees as low as possible. Thank You Julie...Tim
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19 Jun, 2024 by Alex johnson
I have worked with Sal Folino on several personal and business matters, and he always delivers in a timely, and professional manner. I would definitely recommend this firm!
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20 Feb, 2024 by Sally gonzalez-madrid (sallygm)
The most rude attorney ever, does not let you speak or express your concerns just speaks over you and does not show any interest in your needs ! do not even bother !
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20 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
The worst lawyer to ever to even try to have a consultation with because clearly she assumes what your situation might be and raises her tone and speaks over you even though you didn’t even finish explaining your concerns or situation. Wasted my time with her she is rude !
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15 Jan, 2024 by Tone rivera
Do not hire Ms jana barnette esquire she will not fight for you in court she just sits there especially if u are being accused of abuse she will just sait there in court and say nothing after all the good talk she tells you before court
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28 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
If you’re looking to hire an attorney and have him not show up for your hearing, Matt Setley is the guy! Matt Setley texted me the night before my hearing that the Court had postponed the hearing. Turns out it wasn’t true. The following week he notified me that he made a “mistake,” the hearing was held and I now had an judgment against me for eviction and thousands of dollars!! This guy deserves to be disbarred! Stay away from Matt Setley and Bitner Law!! You will regret ever hiring them!
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05 Apr, 2016 by Anonymous
Would not recommend if you want something done right away......I worked with Attorney Setley in order to get unemployment after my job had denied it for me and he won the case, so in that regard he did great....then he was working with me regarding a custody case and it was going very well at first but then he started giving the work to another lawyer in the firm without even letting me know. I understand lawyers get busy and I did not have a problem with another lawyer doing some of the work, but I was paying HIM. Did not answer emails right away or return phone calls right away either. Said he would get the custody order modified "ASAP" and sent out for our signatures (and also charged me $50 to READ the email saying what changes needed to be made and then did absolutely nothing with it)....that was THREE months ago, never heard another word from him. In the meantime my ex-husband and I modified the order and are submitting it ourselves through mediation because this was not the first time he said he would take care of something right away and didn't and we've been wanting to get this moving. I've heard the several people say the same thing about this particular firm, they are more than happy to take your money but clients are not happy with the results, especially regarding family law. I feel like I've wasted a lot of money for nothing.
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29 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Did not deliver what was promised. His assistant literally yelled at me and is not professional and gets emotionally involved. We wish we would have never gone with him with my mom's estate.
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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:
-
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. -
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. -
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. -
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. -
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. -
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.
