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2
Experience & Focus
1. What percentage of your practice is family law?
You want someone who focuses primarily on family law — not a generalist who occasionally handles divorces.
2. How many custody cases have you handled in MA Probate & Family Court in the past year?
You want someone who's in that courthouse regularly and knows the judges.
3. Have you handled cases involving fathers seeking 50/50 or primary custody?
Some attorneys primarily represent mothers and may not understand the father's perspective or strategies.
4. Have you handled cases with false abuse allegations / 209A defense?
If you're facing false allegations, you need someone experienced in 209A defense specifically — not just general family law.
5. Are you familiar with the MA Child Support Guidelines (2025)?
The guidelines changed Dec 1, 2025. Your attorney should know the current formula and how to use it.
3
Case Strategy & Approach
6. Based on what I've told you, what are the strengths and weaknesses of my case?
A good attorney tells you BOTH — not just what you want to hear. Beware of anyone who guarantees a specific outcome.
7. What's your approach — do you try to settle first or go straight to litigation?
Litigation is expensive. Good attorneys try negotiation/mediation first and reserve court for when it's necessary.
8. What evidence do I need to gather to strengthen my case?
They should give you a specific list — not just "bring everything."
9. What outcomes should I realistically expect?
An honest attorney manages expectations. If they promise you 50/50 custody without knowing the full story, that's a red flag.
10. Are there any issues in my case that could cause problems?
You need to know your vulnerabilities BEFORE the other side exploits them.
4
Fees & Billing
11. What's your hourly rate?
MA family law: $300–$850/hour. Know the number. Ask if paralegals do work at a lower rate.
12. What's the retainer amount, and how is it applied?
Typically $5K–$15K. The retainer is a deposit — the attorney draws down as they bill hours. Ask what happens when it runs low.
13. Do you offer Limited Assistance Representation (LAR)?
LAR lets you hire them for just one hearing or motion — much cheaper than full representation. MA officially supports this.
14. What's your estimated total cost for my type of case?
They should give you a range, not just "it depends." Ask what factors could push it higher.
15. How often will I receive bills, and what detail is included?
You should get itemized bills showing every 0.1 hour billed. Vague billing = overbilling.
16. What happens if I can't afford to continue? Can I switch to LAR?
Life happens. Know your exit options before you commit.
5
Communication & Representation
17. Will you personally handle my case, or will it be passed to an associate?
Some firms hand cases to junior associates after you sign. Know who your attorney actually is.
18. How quickly do you return calls and emails?
24–48 hours is standard. If they take a week during the consultation phase, it'll be worse once you've paid.
19. What's the best way to reach you — phone, email, or portal?
Some attorneys prefer email, some use client portals. Know their preferred method.
20. Will you attend all court hearings yourself?
If they send an associate you've never met to your hearing, that's a problem.
21. How will you keep me informed about what's happening in my case?
You should never have to wonder what's going on. Regular updates are standard.