Custody Lawyers

By the child's best interests — each parent's involvement, stability, the child's needs and sometimes the child's wishes.

Yes, usually when circumstances change significantly. A lawyer can tell you if your situation qualifies.

Not always, but a lawyer can make sure the agreement is complete, fair and enforceable — especially when children, a home or retirement accounts are involved.

Most charge hourly against a retainer; some offer flat fees for uncontested matters. Ask for the fee structure in writing at your first meeting.

Any court papers, a list of assets and debts, recent pay stubs and tax returns, and notes on your children's schedule if custody is involved.

Start with what you need help with above. That narrows the list to attorneys who practice that area. Then compare ratings and reviews, and talk to two or three before you decide.

It depends on the case. Criminal and family cases are often billed hourly or as a flat fee. Personal injury attorneys usually work on contingency — a share of what you recover, and nothing if you don't. Ask each attorney how they charge before you hire them.

Many do, especially in personal injury, criminal defense, bankruptcy and immigration. Ask when you call — a first meeting is the best way to see whether an attorney is a good fit.

Anything about your case: letters, court papers, contracts, police reports, photos, bills and a short timeline of what happened. The more the attorney sees, the better the advice.

Usually you need one licensed in the state where your case is. Federal matters like immigration, bankruptcy and patents can be different — ask the attorney.