Filter by

star star star star star
08 Nov, 2018 by Mandi erickson
I don’t know a single attorney to challenge allegations by Yakima Police Department, State Farm Insurance Associates, Department of Social Health Services licensing Department in both Administrative and Likely Criminal proceedings and negotiate them all down to even receive verbal apologies. If you need a legal advocate this is your guy! He is very intelligent and knows his stuff. Be honest with him and upfront and he will have your back the entire way! Highly recomended!!!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
04 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
Took my case after representing my child's mother. I told him her name and even showed him pictures. After finding out he had a conflict of interest he dropped me and changed me an outrageous amount for the amount of work that was done.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
27 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
Contacted Chris Tait to help with a business law issue and he constantly wants more and more money to pad his retainer. After two years of unresponsiveness and getting nothing done I fired him. Still have never seen a statement of charges or the balance of my retainer.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
12 Apr, 2017 by Chris
I retained this Attorney for a divorce. She charged me a LOT of money and in the end I had to fire her, and completed my divorce myself. She LIED in court. I had to keep giving her paperwork because she kept loosing it. She did NOT listen to what happened and TOTALLY misrepresented me. She told me in court to SHUT UP. She provoked my now former spouse over and over again, to make us continue to go back to court more times than were necessary. Which drives the cost up for me HER CLIENT. She did NOT keep me informed as to when court dates were changed or postponed, I went to court a few times just to find out it had been postponed. While she was representing me I was loosing in my battle, once I fired her I came out ahead and a LOT more fare of a conclusion. While she represented me the divorce drug out for TWO YEARS, after I fired her, it was resolved within a couple months of my former spouse and I working out the details ourselves. Please don't waste your time and money on this attorney.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
24 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
It really depends on if you women are drug users, drinkers, or lousy moms. Elle has zero tolerance for sustance abuse. We went for 3rd party custody because my granddaughter was being left at drug houses. Elle knows her stuff and what the judge needs to feel comfortable moving that child. Shes smart, well liked, and runs a tight ship. Very professional.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
29 Jul, 2013 by Mathias
From my experience with her she is absolutely the worst attorney i have ever employed, do not trust this person! she will never do anything you ask of her, she wont follow through with things she discusses with you. She wont file motions and this is in no way anyone you want working on your family court case.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
07 Sep, 2023 by Cash
Do not go to TMAnderson for your legal problems. After paying a few thousand dollars for a representative in a case where I wasn’t able to make the court date, I was just met with stress and stupidity from the firm. After delaying my court date, I had randomly received a phone call alerting me that I have a mandatory court appearance the next morning, them being completely oblivious to the fact that I had already mentioned that I cannot make it due to living on the other side of the state. When I appeared via zoom call last minute, the judge on the case tore into Tom Dunn, my representative, for failing to provide any signed documents stating I approved of the zoom appearance, as well as failing to provide evidence of my completed traffic course of which I sent evidence to weeks in advance. After court, I wasn’t given any instruction to the process of paying the fines and was ignored by Elizabeth Fish and Tom Dunn when I sent countless emails asking about the payment process. Elizabeth Fish had a horrible attitude when she wasn’t ignoring my emails or phone calls, and I still haven’t heard anything from Tom Dunn. When requesting for some sort of reimbursement for their lack of effort, I was met with a email telling me that it wasn’t possible, and that basically my thousands of dollars had gone down the drain.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
25 Mar, 2015 by Jane
Thomas Dunn made my divorce simple and smooth. Was very efficient and helpful. It was a hard time that was made easier by having such compassionate, effective council. Thanks.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
14 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
Gave me bad legal advice regarding my ability to get into Canada with a plea bargain. I researched it myself and when I called to ask about it, was spoken to very dismissively by Thomas and his staff and told they would be charging me for the call. Convinced me to take a standard plea deal even though there were several aspects of the case that would have worked in my favor. Other attorneys I have spoken with since have said I made big mistake and should have either gone to trial or gotten a much better plea agreement. I shake my head every ime I drive by their office downtown. Do not use Thomas Dunn.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
17 Aug, 2014 by Michelle
Paula was hired to my case and she began by a phone call. During our phone conversation she was very responsive as well as open to everything I had to offer the situation. She has continued to keep me well informed as well as stayed in constant contact with me. I would definately reccomend her and have had personal experience with san juan countys attorneys. The simple fact is she stands at the top of her class and deserves the respect of our community.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
13 Nov, 2013 by Patrick
Upon my Sister's retaining of Plumer I began to question her ability to formulate a comprehensive argument respective to my defense. Not only did she fail to consider my input regarding my case, she seemed intent on a defense that had little to nothing to do with MY case. At one point she informed me that I could NO LONGER CALL her, and as for my "defense" she failed to file the usual challenges, failed to object to stipulations that are outside the authority of the court to allow.... not ONE HOUR of time was applied to my case by a private investigator... when I found myself beginning the process of selecting a jury and was informed by her that she could either select a jury or describe how she intended to present my defense, I chose to enter a STTDFG Alford Plea which I will withdraw once I am able to develop a comprehesive defense... I would NEVER recommend this person. It was like watching a horrific accident happen right before my eyes
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
17 Feb, 2008 by Anonymous
i want to warn the general public about the practices of this person. I retained her as my lawyer. Her skills as a lawyer are truly pathetic. I would like the public to know that she failed her fiduciary agreement with me her client. She shared with the "victim" in private very confidential information that is strictly between client and attorney. I'm currently in the process of filing a bar complaint against Ms. Plumer and also filing a law suit against this lawyer for breaching her client confidentiality that has destroyed my family's life. Ms. Plumer's actions have costs me my personal freedom, and the loss of my two kids. I will never forgive this person for her lack of trust and lack of advocacy for her client. She simply sold me out her client at the 11th hour of the case. On top of all this, she pretends to be a divorce lawyer, and in fact she is a criminal lawyer and pathetic at that too. Ms. Plumer is the most incompetent and unethical person I have ever met. Beware NEVER to meet or do business with this person. You will regret it.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
06 Dec, 2023 by Matt duggan
Very helpful organization. Friendly staff who is full service and go out of their way to help. Highly recommend.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Oct, 2023 by Jerry quinn
The online referral tool does not work or has not been maintained. No one answers the phones. Not sure what value this bar association provides. I can't see any reason to ever go here except to be frustrated.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
22 May, 2023 by Brenden loucks
It was not a helpful experience at all. Despite me giving the information he asked for He just replied with "That's all I can give you with the information you provided" All without asking me questions for what information he needed. The person was clearly preoccupied with typing and despite him stating he didn't have access to the online portal he was somehow able to see what had been filed under the case #. I am beyond disappointed with how I was treated and dismissed. Its pretty clear the SPOKANE COUNTY COURTHOUSE is in dire need of a revamp and house cleaning. It is 100% a racket.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
05 May, 2023 by Zacharias
This fool represented me on my child custody case I told him right from the start that wasn't going to just take this line down we'll go to the box basically. Did you call this guy Rich the truck buechell because he totally rolled me under the bus and helped Kittitas County violate my rights.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
03 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
Richard handled a criminal case for me in which I was wrongly accused. He at first seemed on top of it, but later seemed like he was perpetually annoyed. Case was resolved to a lesser misdemeanor but he was supposed to have at least tried to arrange an Alford plea and he never bothered. There were other HUGE problems with the plea agreement that he should have foresaw and I later had to return to court to fix, and when I tried to meet with him he made me follow him out to the parking lot to speak to him while he chain-smoked and then literally had an aneurysm about my case and was extremely rude.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
20 Jun, 2014 by Lucinda
Rick was extremely helpful to me. He represented me first pro bono, 7 years ago on a DWI charge and got it reduced to a Reckless Driving conviction. I failed to do my probation and a bench warrant was issued. I let it go for 6 yrs and finally did something about it this year. I hired Rick, the cost was reasonable and I knew from memory that Rick had good rapport with the court at the time when he got my charge reduced. We went into court and probation wanted a year of my life in jail for this violation. I was stunned. Rick argued successfully for me and I was given 90 days on electronic home monitoring or jail. No other sanctions, no probation, no new fines, and no evaluations. It was a god shot. I am home now doing my time, no jail. I am extremely grateful to him.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
07 Jul, 2020 by Anonymous
She helped me get out of WA, but didn't fully read the parenting plan. She definitely didn't help me understand the fine print. Her price was nice but she was disorganized. Other lawyers didn't have very nice things to say and mostly rolled their eyes. I had to keep up on what I paid otherwise she wouldn't count it towards my bill. I would not recommend her for family matters especially in cases of domestic abuse. She told me I shouldn't have slept with someone I didn't know. I reminded her we knew each other for 5 yrs before getting engaged and having child. I had to chase her down to get things done.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
22 Oct, 2016 by Anonymous
I went through a horrible divorce this year and was referred to Margot through the military. I was frustrated through the entire process. She was extremely unorganized, and never had set hours and would not return my calls for weeks. At one point, she and her assistant went on vacation for an entire week and never notified me directly, and never posted a note on the door of her office. I genuinely feel like Margot never represented my character accurately in court, and without any specific reason at all, the court only awarded me every other weekend custody of my son. Margot continuously gave me false hope as to how there was no way the court would award my wife what she was asking, but then would come back from court and email the decision, which was outrageous spousal support and child support numbers, and minimal custody of my son. I would never refer this attorney to any man whose spouse is trying to take his livelihood and his child. Margot also never sat me down to explain my final divorce decree, but simply had her assistant email the final documents to me.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
13 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
Ms. Bjork has given poor representation/ lack of services in my Husbands Criminal case! With Amitys short time of being his Lawyer, she did nothing but give false hope for my Husband and his future. Granted it takes time to gather information on a case, but... there was no movement forward even with-in these few months... Amity proved NOT helpful .... She never showed up at my Husbands last Omnibus Hearing, So it was continued the following day. She decided to show up for court and have my Husband sign a 45day continuance. He was thinking she needed more time to gather info before his next court date in Feb 2013. She did not respond to his letter, and didn't show up for the last visit she scheduled with him. Lastly she withdrew from his case 4 days ago! Way to go on horrible representation, and lack of being professional.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
03 Jan, 2010 by Anonymous
Pretty much just vanished before we could actually proceed with anything. wouldn't return my calls or emails. Have been trying to retrieve my paperwork from her to no avail. She assured me our initial consultation that my search for legal counsel was over and that she was going to help me then suddenly changed tone when spoken to later telling me that there wasn't much she could do. Have been trying on and off every couple months to see if I owe her any money and trying to get my paperwork back. She worked with me for about six months but i'm still not sure if I was technically her client thus my several inquiries asking her if I owed a balance for her services.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
28 Jun, 2019 by Anonymous
Dolores WILL NOT protect your children. My experience with her was one of the worst situations because she refused to research extensively and my children, who were being abused by a family member, were re-victimized by them because she failed to protect them. I had a very similar experience to some of the other reviewers who were traumatized by Dolores and I wish she was never allowed to practise law again or be involved with family law.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
27 Jun, 2013 by Anonymous
If this woman is assigned to your case......RUN! Her and her mouthy secretary, Michelle, were absolutely horrible to deal with. There is no communication at all. It would seem as if Ms. Sarandos is more interested in "padding her income" all the while having Ms. Nicks do the majority of the work. It does not matter how you try to contact, there will never be a response. The only time I received responses is when I went into a court and talked to a judge. Then like magic there was a response.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
09 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
If you get this woman assigned to your case run like H. Both her and her mouthy secretary were absolutely horrible to deal with. The only thing that she had to do was to request a psychological evaluation for my ex son in law whose family was molested my granddaughter while my ex son in law watched. The results from his psychological evaluation would have put him in supervised visitations and kept my granddaughter safe. Instead Dolores allowed the family that was molested her to have visitations with her where they molested her again. She told the court that this was just a family feud even when there were several third party professionals willing to go to court for my granddaughter. She had the power to make a difference but she basically said that she had already written her review and wasn't going to do anything else about it. Several people called her to let her know what they had heard out of my granddaughters mouth but she never called them back. I sent her an eight page email begging for help for my granddaughter but she actually complained about that in court. Just say NO, NO and No if you are ever forced to use her. She did an extremely bad job and never protected my granddaughter like a guardian at litem is supposed to do. I certainly hope nothing ever happens to one of her grand children.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
23 Dec, 2022 by Anonymous
Jennifer Walker is very passive aggressive. She acts like she has your best interest in mind. But when she goes to court for you she folds and then makes excuses. If you question her she turns on you.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
28 Apr, 2015 by Anonymous
She was assigned to me for dependency. Flat out told me she didn't have time for my case, never answered phone calls or emails, wouldn't sign over attorney rights to a different lawyer. She also treated me like I was 5, and not as an adult or client.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
26 Jul, 2021 by Anonymous
He for some reason refused to file the proper paperwork which was a four page letter in which my child admitted to lying about the circumstances he stated in court to be out of his mother's house, resulting in my teenage son being placed with an adult couple he found on Facebook! Wtf?!!! Your inaction has caused another unnecessary wedge in the fractures of our very damaged relationship. This will literally affect the rest of both our lives, and you were so careless about it Please dear gods, don't try to "help" anymore ppl. You should probably not even be practicing law, what a disgrace
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
05 Jun, 2007 by Anonymous
This "attorney" is suppose to work for the state in the child custody/support division. So to be fair to both clients is critical. As it involves childrens well being. But Ms. Vincent is very lazy and will not review information pretaining to the case until the hearing dates. Then she arrives late, (after court has started) which makes it impossible to even discuss anything with her. She follows her opinions and feelings that she wants done, not by the law. So never, never make her mad. She will bad mouth and degrade you at court. No matter how it will affect the child. She plays "dumb" when the court asks her knowledge of facts that have been addressed. "What, I don't recall and not to my knowledge" are her favorites. I would ask to be reassigned to a different lawyer to handle your case, but the Proscuters office will NOT do this. So I'm sorry but you are at her mercy when going to child support hearings when she is assigned your case in Tacoma Washington.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
28 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
Ms. Schumacher was opposing counsel in a drawn-out family case which went to trial. She misled and misrepresented her client. Her lack of knowledge in procedural law caused many significant delays and superfluous legal fees on both sides. Her client was ruled against on all but one complaint.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
11 Apr, 2022 by Anonymous
We cannot give Atty Thimons a decent review after consulting with him as he was very unprofessional in speaking with us. He would not answer our questions and even got an attitude after we asked for clarifications. Very unprofessional. And disrespectful. Would not recommend to anyone!
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
01 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
She doesn’t fight for you case and is a very hard person to get a hold of especially if you don’t have parents help with the court system
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
23 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
3000.00 COST TO HAVE HIM TO BE MY LAWER ,TOLD ME HE GET ME OFF ,MY WRITE WERE VILATED,SO HE SAID WELL SUPPRESS AND DISMISS, THE FIRST DAY OF TRIAL THE OFFICER DID NOT SHOW ,IT SHOULD OF BEEN THROWN OUT,BUT HE LET THE JUDGE MOVE TO ANOTHER DAY,2 DAY OF TRAIL 1 OFICER PERRY SHOW GAVE STATEMENT THAT HE GOT A CALL RANDY DUNAWAY SAID HE THOUGHT HE SAW A DRUG DEAL WHENT DOWN, I WAS THERE TO PICK UP A 99 FORD F150 PICKUP TRUCK TO REPLACE TRANSMITTION IN IT ,LADY GAVE ME MONEY DOWNTO START WORK,WELL MY TRAILER WAS TO SMALL ,WEEL BACE WAS TO LONG IT WAS CLUB CAB TRUCK,SO WE UNLOADED THE TRUCK,TOLD HER BE BACK TOMARROW,WITH18' CAR TRAILER,SO I WHENT INTO APARTMENT WROTE OUT RECEIVING DOWN ON ESTIMENT,SO ME NICK HEADED ON HOME,AT THE BOTTOM BELOW THE APPMT OFFICER PERRY AND LOWER WHERE WAITTING, THEN THEY PULED OUT BEHIND ME, I HAVE LICENSE, REGERSTATION AND TABS WHERE CURRENT TABS, MY LIGHT WORK,HE PULL ME OVER,PERY CAMEUP AND SAID YOU BEEN DRINKING TONIGHT I SAID NO, I CAME TO PICK UP A TRUCK,HE SAID COULD YOU STEP OUT , SO I GOT OUT THEN PERRY SAID HE HAD I WITNESS RANDY SAID HE THOUGHT HE SAW A DRUG DEAL WENT DOWN THAT I PUT IT IN MY RIGHT PANT POCKET,SO I TOLD HIM IF I SHOW HIM WHAT I HAVE IN MY RIGHT POCKET CAN I GO HOME HE SAID YES, 400.THAT I GOT DOWN PAYMENT ON JOB AND TOLD HIM MY ESTIMATE WAS IN TRUCK, HE DIDN'T EVEN LOOK TO SEE,OFFICER LOWERY SAID HE AINT GOING ANYWHERE THAT THE DOG ON IT WAY, I SHOULD BEEN ABLE TO GO ON MY WAY ,BUT I WAS CUFFED AND BODLY SEARCH,BUT IN COURT THE SAID I WAS FREE TO GO AT ANY TIME ,BLAIR JUST SAT THERE LIKE A BUMP ON LOG, SO I GOT SENTECING RANGE6-12 I GOT 9 MOUTH IN JAIL $2,000.IN FINES $2,818. IN FEES AND 12 OF D,O,C INC,MY SO CALLED DONALD ALLAN BLAIR LAWER $3,000.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
03 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
Didn't listen to my side at all ,barely returned a phone call and tricked me to sign documents by telling me I didn't have a choice. This here is a court appointed attorney, and one that's burnt out and views your case as a number only. If you get her ask for someone else
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
10 Jan, 2013 by Anonymous
court appointed attorney who takes on too many cases and is going in too many directions, she keeps it altogether alright and gets things done, its just if your a defendant your probably not going to get much of a denfense
Read more Avvo
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Juvenile Law Lawyer Can Do for You

A juvenile law lawyer specializes in legal issues involving minors, including those facing criminal charges, child welfare matters, or status offenses (like truancy or curfew violations). Juvenile law lawyers aim to protect the rights of minors and advocate for rehabilitation rather than punishment in criminal cases. They also help families navigate child custody, abuse, neglect cases, and other legal matters involving children.

If your child is facing criminal charges, or you are involved in a child welfare case, a juvenile law lawyer can help protect your child’s rights and work toward the most favorable outcome.

When Should I Hire a Juvenile Law Lawyer?

You should consider hiring a juvenile law lawyer in the following situations where minors are involved in legal matters:

  • Juvenile criminal charges: If your child is accused of a crime, such as theft, assault, or drug offenses, a juvenile lawyer can represent them in juvenile court, advocating for leniency and alternatives to detention.
  • Delinquency proceedings: A lawyer can help navigate delinquency charges, defending your child’s rights and seeking rehabilitative outcomes like counseling, probation, or diversion programs instead of incarceration.
  • Status offenses: If your child has committed a status offense, such as truancy, running away, or underage drinking, a lawyer can help you resolve these issues in juvenile court, often focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment.
  • School disciplinary issues: If your child is facing school suspensions, expulsions, or other disciplinary actions, a lawyer can help protect their educational rights and challenge any unfair or unlawful school policies.
  • Child protective services (CPS) investigations: If your family is being investigated by CPS for alleged abuse, neglect, or dependency, a lawyer can represent you and protect your child’s rights throughout the investigation.
  • Custody disputes: A lawyer can help in cases involving child custody or guardianship disputes, ensuring the child’s best interests are prioritized and advocating for the child’s rights.
  • Emancipation: If your child seeks legal emancipation from their parents or guardians, a lawyer can assist in navigating the legal process and help the child understand their rights and responsibilities.

Hiring a lawyer early in the legal process ensures that your child’s rights are protected and that the best possible outcomes are pursued.

What Does a Juvenile Law Lawyer Do?

A juvenile law lawyer provides various services to help minors and their families navigate the legal system. Their responsibilities often include:

  • Representing minors in court: A lawyer will represent your child in juvenile court, advocating for their rights and seeking rehabilitative outcomes rather than punitive measures.
  • Filing motions and legal paperwork: The lawyer handles all necessary legal filings, including petitions, responses, and motions to dismiss charges or suppress evidence.
  • Negotiating with prosecutors: In some cases, a lawyer can negotiate plea deals or diversion programs that prevent the child from having a permanent criminal record or serving time in detention.
  • Advising on rehabilitation programs: Juvenile law lawyers often focus on alternatives to incarceration, such as counseling, community service, or probation, helping minors avoid long-term legal consequences.
  • Handling CPS and child welfare cases: If your family is involved in a CPS investigation or child welfare case, the lawyer can advocate for your child’s safety and well-being, ensuring that their rights are upheld.
  • Defending minors against school discipline: A lawyer can help challenge unfair or excessive disciplinary actions taken by schools, ensuring that your child’s educational rights are protected.
  • Advising families on legal options: A lawyer will explain the juvenile legal process to families, offering advice on the best legal strategies and what to expect during the case.

How Are Juvenile Law Lawyers Paid?

Juvenile law lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the time involved. Common payment structures include:

  • Hourly rate: Many juvenile law lawyers charge by the hour, with rates ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
  • Flat fee: For simpler cases, such as status offenses or school disciplinary hearings, a lawyer may charge a flat fee that covers all legal services related to the case.
  • Retainer: In more complex cases, such as defending against serious criminal charges or handling a long-term CPS investigation, a lawyer may require a retainer, which is an upfront payment billed against as they work on the case.
  • Sliding scale or pro bono services: Some juvenile law lawyers offer sliding scale fees based on income or may provide pro bono (free) services for families who cannot afford to pay full legal fees, especially in cases involving child welfare or delinquency.

Discuss the lawyer’s fee structure during your consultation to understand the total cost and payment options.

How Much Does a Juvenile Law Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a juvenile law lawyer depends on the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the time involved. General cost estimates include:

  • Juvenile criminal cases: Legal fees for defending a minor in juvenile criminal cases can range from $2,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the severity of the charges and whether the case goes to trial.
  • Status offenses: For cases involving minor offenses such as truancy or underage drinking, legal fees typically range from $1,500 to $5,000.
  • CPS or child welfare cases: Legal fees for representing families in CPS investigations or child welfare cases can range from $2,000 to $8,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case.
  • School disciplinary hearings: Legal fees for representing students in school-related issues may range from $1,000 to $3,500, depending on the legal work required.

Make sure to get a clear estimate of costs during your initial consultation to ensure you understand the full scope of fees and services.

Top Questions to Ask a Juvenile Law Lawyer

Before hiring a juvenile law lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the experience and expertise to handle your child’s case effectively. Key questions to ask include:

  1. What experience do you have with juvenile law cases?
    Make sure the lawyer has handled cases similar to yours, whether it’s juvenile delinquency, child custody, or CPS investigations.
  2. How do you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, offers flat fees, or requires a retainer. Ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost.
  3. What is the likelihood of success in my child’s case?
    Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of the case, including potential challenges and likely outcomes.
  4. How long will the process take?
    Juvenile cases can vary in duration, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last and what factors might affect the timeline.
  5. Will you personally handle my child’s case?
    In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of the case. Make sure you know who will be managing the case and representing your child in court.
  6. What rights does my child have?
    Ask the lawyer to explain your child’s legal rights, including their rights during police questioning, school disciplinary actions, and court proceedings.

How to Check the Credibility of a Juvenile Law Lawyer

To ensure you are hiring a reputable juvenile law lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and experience:

  • Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no history of disciplinary actions.
  • Look for juvenile law experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in juvenile law and have successfully handled cases similar to yours.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and success rate in juvenile cases.
  • Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on juvenile law matters.
  • Check for certifications or memberships: Look for memberships in organizations like the National Juvenile Defender Center (NJDC) or certifications in juvenile law, which can indicate a lawyer’s dedication to representing minors.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first consultation with a juvenile law lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:

  • Court documents: Bring any legal documents related to your child’s case, such as summons, complaints, or court orders.
  • School records: Provide any relevant school records, including disciplinary reports, attendance records, and communications from school officials.
  • CPS or investigation reports: If your case involves child welfare, bring any reports or documentation from CPS or other investigating agencies.
  • Timeline of events: Prepare a detailed timeline of events related to your child’s legal issue, including interactions with authorities or school officials.
  • Questions for the lawyer: Write down any questions about the legal process, your child’s rights, and potential outcomes for the case.

Being well-prepared will help the lawyer assess your child’s situation more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice tailored to your needs.