We do charge a small fee for the initial consultation. If you choose to retain our firm, we'll credit the amount back toward your legal fees.
We set aside 90 minutes for each consultation to provide you with ample time to describe your situation and receive legal advice.
You are not required to bring anything to the initial consultation. It's helpful to have a good idea about your assets and debts if you are separating from your spouse. You are welcome to bring any financial or other documentation with you, but it is not required. Additionally, if you have been served with Court documents or have current Court Orders, those could be useful for our attorneys.
We prefer initial consultations to take place in person at our office. However, if you're unable to come into the office, we can also accommodate meetings via Zoom or telephone.
There is a street-level parking garage conveniently located under our building, offering plenty of visitor spaces for you to park in. In the rare event that no visitor spaces are available or your vehicle is too large, metered parking is conveniently located on the surrounding streets near our office.
We prefer that your children do not come with you and ask that you make alternative childcare arrangements. We feel it's important to minimize their exposure to the legal process and to limit distractions.
You will be billed for the value of the time we expend on your behalf. Our hourly rates vary from $200 - $375 according to the individual attorney's experience in family law. We'll often have our legal assistants and paralegals work on your case to help keep costs down.
It depends! The cost and the time involved in any family law proceeding varies depending on the issues involved, the parties involved, and the factual disputes at issue. It’s important to consult with an attorney to help get a better understanding of what may be involved in your particular case. At Wood & Long, we will take the time during your initial consultation to understand your particular matter so we can help guide you through the process.
Absolutely. Seeking a second opinion in legal matters, especially concerning family law, can provide you with valuable insight and clarity. Ultimately, it's essential to feel confident and well-informed about your legal representation, and seeking a second opinion is a proactive step toward achieving that peace of mind.
Hiring an attorney who focuses in family law can greatly benefit you in navigating the complexities of your case. Family law encompasses a wide range of legal issues, including divorce, child custody, support, adoption, and more. An attorney who focuses in this field will have a deep understanding of the relevant laws, procedures, and precedents that apply to your specific situation.
If you’re unable to locate your spouse or if they are unwilling to participate in the divorce process, it can certainly complicate matters, but it does not necessarily prevent you from obtaining a divorce. Consulting with a knowledgeable family law attorney can help you understand your options and develop a strategy tailored to your specific situation.
1) To get started, schedule a consultation at a time that works best for you—either at our office or via a Zoom call. This initial meeting is your chance to discuss the unique details of your situation and outline your goals or ideal outcomes.
2) We will work together to develop a tailored legal strategy that empowers you to make informed and confident decisions about your future. During this step, we will also review the associated costs, ensuring you have a clear understanding of what to expect.
3) Once you retain our services, we will guide you through the process of moving forward and help you take the steps necessary to rebuild and move toward the life you want to live.
It’s important to choose the right attorney for you and your case because the outcome can significantly impact your future and the well-being of your loved ones. The ideal attorney not only offers expertise and experience but should also be someone you feel comfortable with. If your case involves sensitive and private issues, it’s important to find an attorney who combines compassion and empathy with the strength to effectively advocate for you, especially against a harsh or aggressive opposing counsel.
A good attorney will communicate clearly, set realistic expectations (even when they’re difficult to hear), and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you. By selecting an attorney who aligns with your goals and priorities, you ensure that your legal representation is both effective and supportive, giving you the confidence and peace of mind to move forward with your life.