A lawyer by your side will give you the best chance to win your case. Read about how to find the best child custody lawyer, and how they can help you today.
Let’s be honest: going through a divorce or separation can be stressful, both financially and emotionally. Deciding where your kids will live and how to divide your shared possessions can also be overwhelming.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 21.9 million children have a parent who resides outside their home. Child support helps sustain the lives of these children together with their custodial parents. However, it may require a legal battle for financial aid to be disbursed.
No matter how complex your custody battle is, you will always want the best for your kids. You want to ensure that they enjoy a certain standard of living for their improved well-being.
A child custody lawyer can come to your rescue at this challenging time. In this guide, we’ll highlight the necessary steps for finding the best child custody lawyer. You will learn how legal counsel can help your custody case.
When Do You Need a Child Custody Lawyer?
Hiring a good child custody lawyer will be ideal if you have a history of alcohol or drug abuse. The attorney will help you battle the custody case if your ex-spouse’s lawyer brings this issue to court.
A child custody attorney may also help you when you believe that your kids’ lives are in danger. Their help would come in handy if you were in a violent relationship. They can also help you get a restraining order against the abusive ex-spouse and get them to pay for child support.
If your ex-partner tries to prevent you from visiting your children, get a lawyer to represent you. Keep a detailed record of any behaviors that the ex-partner displays towards you. You should also have a file of all text messages, emails, phone calls, and any other forms of communication with you.
Finding a Child Custody Lawyer
Your likelihood of winning a custody case lies in your ability to find the best child custody lawyer. Online referral sites and personal recommendations can help you get started. Here are practical tips that will help reduce the stress involved in finding an experienced family lawyer for your case.
1. Familiarize Yourself with Child Custody
Through the internet, you can learn the basics about child custody cases. Search for the frequently asked questions about these legal battles to sharpen your knowledge. You can also visit websites of law firms that specialize in child custody.
Informational online videos on child custody can also help you understand how your case may go. Gather information relating to child custody cases before hiring a lawyer. It will be easier for you to understand some of the terms used by legal counsel when they help you with your case.
2. Look for a Law Firm Specializing in Family Law
Find a firm with several years of experience in helping clients navigate family law-related cases. Their lawyers should be familiar with your local child custody laws.
You should also inquire whether they have dealt with unique circumstances surrounding your legal battle. Find out their success rate in handling child custody battles to determine whether they can get you a good deal.
3. Visit Online Referral Sites
Check out online referral sites for help on the best child custody lawyers in your area of residence. These sites usually rank the attorneys and firms based on their success rates, reputation, and location. They also attach contact information and website links for the referrals.
Count on lawyer referral services for insights on a legal counsel’s philosophy and qualifications. Most of these services thoroughly screen attorneys before listing them on their site. They only list legal experts with state bar accreditation and particular qualifications.
4. Ask for Personal Referrals
Talk to people in your household or neighborhood who have encountered the same legal battle you’re facing. Ask them what they think about their lawyers. Use these child custody lawyer recommendations to decide whether a particular attorney or law firm is worth hiring.
Since some personal referrals may be biased, it’s important to do your own background research. Visiting their website, speaking to their customer support staff, and reading online reviews can help.
5. Evaluate the Legal Fees
Most family lawyers charge upfront retainer fees before assuming the duties as your legal counsel. Thoroughly research the applicable rates for the kind of legal help you need. Only consider law firms that explain their fee structure in detail and respond to any questions regarding the pricing.
On average, a child custody lawyer will charge you $100 to $500 as hourly fees. You may also find one that charges a flat fee or requests an advance payment. Either way, these rates vary depending on the complexity of the battle, attorney’s experience, and location.
6. Verify Their Expertise and Competence
A competent custody lawyer will publish their testimonial statements and case results on their site. They will also be available for inquiries or requests on this type of information if it isn’t posted online. Find out more about their trial experience if you think your case may proceed to trial.
Check their listing in the relevant state’s bar association directory to determine whether they’re licensed. You should also check if the license is up to date and relevant to your area of residence.
Since child custody legal proceedings take time, your lawyer should have a well-trained legal team. The team will collaborate with you to achieve fair outcomes. Ensure that the law firm provides you with multiple contacts when seeking clarification on your case.
Your attorney should also be willing to support and advise you in case of a life-altering situation. They should understand and address your individual needs with empathy.
7. Interview Prospective Lawyers
When interviewing a potential child custody lawyer, your questions should revolve around their personality and style. They should also focus on the attorney’s experience with your unique case.
Ensure that the legal counsel’s style and personality match yours so you get along with them easily. They should make you feel comfortable for you to disclose your innermost thoughts and feelings regarding the case.
In your consultation meeting, find out whether the lawyer charges for initial interviews. Ask them if they have ever faced disciplinary action and what measures they take to avoid it. They should also inform you about their current caseload and whether they have time to commit to your case.
8. Prepare Relevant Documentation Needed for Your Case
Gather your medical records, arrest records (if any), and child custody/support orders before approaching a lawyer. You should also have safety plans, school records, birth certificates, and paternity acknowledgment forms for your case.
Carefully write out your sentiments at the onset of the legal battle. That’s because the case may take an emotional toll on you and prevent you from thinking clearly as it proceeds. The child custody lawyer’s advice will cover other documentation needed to prove your case.
How a Child Custody Lawyer Can Help Your Case
A child custody attorney helps ease the burden that comes with custody battles. You can count on them to meet deadlines and handle all paperwork needed in the case. Here are some of the proven ways you’ll benefit from their expert legal help.
They Understand the Custody Laws
Your lawyer will determine the best course of action after reviewing your case thoroughly. With their deep knowledge of custody laws, they will develop a legal strategy for better outcomes. They’ll also help you evaluate several options for your children’s safety and well-being.
A child custody lawyer is also proficient in courtroom procedures and out-of-court dealings. If your case goes to court, they will prepare all the paperwork needed. They will also inform you about the court dates and advise you on what to say if you must testify.
Present Your Side of the Story
Child custody disputes usually involve unnecessary back and forth and victim-blaming. You need someone who can tell your story to improve the outcomes. A lawyer will single out the vital issues in your case and align their defenses along with these issues.
The attorney will also help you negotiate a custody agreement with your ex-partner. You get to agree on co-parenting and the children’s financial support.
Help in Negotiating Child Support Payments
If you and your ex-partner fail to reach a custody agreement, your lawyer will help in the negotiations. They will serve your ex-spouse with a valid child support order that requires them to offer financial support. The legal counsel will also follow up on the case until the other party makes the payments.
An attorney helps protect your legal rights in a custody battle since you are entitled to financial support and proper visitation. Their goal is to get you a fair share to avoid overpaying or losing custody of your child.
Looking for the Best Child Custody Lawyer Near Me?
With this information, finding the best child custody lawyer will be less stressful. Remember that your children’s physical and emotional well-being depends on the outcome of the case. A lawyer can help you settle the differences thoughtfully without putting your kids at great risk.
We are here to uphold and protect your legal rights and assets when battling a custody case. Our attorneys bring several years of experience to your case to solve the dispute effectively. Check out our case results and see why many clients trust us.
