Devon BrooksSeparation from your spouse is never easy. Aside from the emotional stress, you are lucky if you don’t hate each other and can peacefully agree on some terms.
Unlike my co-worker, who went through a divorce, and her ex was being more difficult than the legal proceeding itself. He refused to cooperate and didn’t take it seriously until she retained an excellent family lawyer in Columbus, and things began to turn around.
It turns out he was hiding assets and downplaying his income to understate his child support obligations, but her attorney ensured everything was properly accounted for.
With the right guidance from firms like these in the list, negotiations become fair, and they can also fight fiercely in court when necessary to protect your rights and your family’s future.
How much do family lawyers charge in Columbus?
Family lawyers in Columbus typically charge $100 to $500 per hour. However, the final cost still depends on the case details, the attorney’s qualifications, and the location.
1. Panico Law Group
Address: 155 W Main St STE 100A
Phone: +16143264074
Business Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 AM–5 PM
Panico Law Group exclusively focuses on family law, including separation, child custody and support, paternity, and related matters. Their legal approach is custom-fit according to your needs.
The founder, Paul Panico, has over 30 years of experience and is recognized for excellence in both contested and uncontested cases.
Meaning he’s a skilled negotiator who tries to resolve cases that can save you money and stress, but he also doesn’t back away from fighting fiercely in the courtroom if it’s in your best interest.
And it’s not just him; apparently, all the attorneys here have experience handling various family matters, such as asset division and prenuptial agreements.
It also appears that the team is skilled in delivering resolutions quickly. Some clients have reported securing custody arrangements in as little as one month, which is rare, especially in the United States.
However, a few people found their rates slightly higher than those of other firms. The initial consultation is free, though.
Without any hesitation, I award them ten stars
“My experience with Paul and Panicko Law Office was nothing short of extraordinary, and I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone seeking a knowledgeable, attentive, and trustworthy attorney. From the very beginning, the team demonstrated professionalism and efficiency, instilling confidence and clarity at every turn. They took the time to explain my options in straightforward, accessible language, ensuring I fully understood each detail. Every question I had was answered thoroughly and thoughtfully, and they managed my case with remarkable precision and confidence. Communication was consistently prompt, expectations were clearly set, and I always felt that my case was treated with the utmost seriousness. If you’re in search of a law firm that not only possesses real legal expertise but also prioritizes exceptional client service and meticulous attention to detail, look no further than Panicko Law Office. Without any hesitation, I award them ten stars!”
– Ellie D., Google Review
They are ready to help you
“Paul and the office got back to me quickly after submitting an online request for a quote. Paul called me back and had a quick chat free of charge that was super-helpful. I am not saying they give out freebies to anyone, but they are ready to help you instead of fishing for money right off the bat. I appreciate that and it helps me assess what steps I want to take next in the legal world, of which I am not as familiar. I appreciate their generous and helpful disposition and recommend anyone dealing with topics they handle to reach out and give them a call.”
– Michael Heringhaus, Google Review
2. Cordell & Cordell
Address: 10 W Broad St #1550
Phone: +16149079200
Business Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 AM–5 PM
Cordell & Cordell is a major name in the legal world, a national firm with over 100 offices in the U.S. They have been in business for more than 35 years and have served around 100,000 clients overall.
Their practice areas are comprehensive. It covers divorce, child custody, and specialized areas, including military divorce and post-decree modifications.
While they handle all facets of family law, the firm is best known for representing men and fathers in a system that hasn’t always been balanced in custody and support decisions.
For instance, one client cited finally feeling “fair” after switching to this firm, especially after feeling bullied by opposing counsel.
However, the firm doesn’t offer free consultations like smaller firms, but their so-called “Cordell Consult” is designed to give you a clear roadmap of your case—whether negotiation or litigation is more fitting.
It also goes without saying that, as a national powerhouse, their rates are more on the premium side. Some people did mention that some attorneys will compromise and work diligently to minimize their billable hours, which we find commendable.
Worth every penny
“Mark is the second attorney to handle my divorce and custody proceedings. I had to fire the first lawyer because my case deteriorated from being a matter of my former spouse and me settling on home sale profit distribution to nearly losing everything a guy can lose in a divorce. However, since retaining Mark Hogan, my case is back on track, and I no longer feel like my ex-wife’s attorney is bullying me. Mark’s professionalism and hard work, which have been instrumental in achieving balance in this case and are a testament to his dedication and competence. This experience has taught me the importance of experienced representation in family law, and Mark has been worth every penny.”
– 90E4300S, Google Review
Easily the most competent lawyer I have worked with
“Cassie is easily the most competent lawyer I have worked with. In my case, she understood the issues that were happening and came up with solutions that made sense. She is excellent at listening and breaking down the facts and the issues so you can get past any emotional response to painful arguments. Would pick her again, hands down!”
– Jaden Swenson, Google Review
3. Reckard Law
Address: 257 E Livingston Ave
Phone: +16142855221
Business Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 AM–6 PM
Reckard Law is a smaller yet reliable anchor for many families seeking legal guidance in divorce, custody disputes, and other domestic matters.
Though relatively new in the field and having a smaller team (established in 2021), they are known for being attentive and client-focused.
They are particularly active in helping with parenting agreements and visitation schedules that align with each family’s dynamics. Additionally, they can provide support with protection orders and disputes as needed.
According to clients, responsiveness and compassion are most appreciated. They said that the team will listen attentively to the details and then explain the options clearly.
Results-wise, the firm is known to deliver fair outcomes that do not escalate conflict. After all, they are a firm believer that mediation keeps costs down. But if a fair middle ground can’t be found, they are ready to litigate as well.
Although pricing varies by case and negotiation, many clients value the firm for offering some of the most affordable and accessible legal services in the city.
They are extremely professional
“I highly recommend Reckard Law LLC if you’re looking for a great divorce attorney. They are extremely professional, knowledgeable, understanding, and work for you to receive the best outcome. They are quick to respond to your questions and concerns. I felt extremely comfortable telling them about my situation. They showed compassion and explained in detail, step-by-step, how the divorce proceedings will work. After speaking with them, I felt confident and proceeded with my divorce. Thank you, Jared and Colin, for helping me start a new chapter in my life. I highly recommend using Reckard Law LLC.”
– A Kauffman, Google Review
Professional, and had my best interest at heart
“I must say reviews are one of the most effective ways to find a business to fit your needs. I needed help with a protection order that was placed on me out of malicious intent, and I checked the reviews for this law firm and decided to look no further; they were everything I was looking for. Collin Finn is the one I hired to represent me, and he was phenomenal. He was just downright courageous in my situation and also knowledgeable about it. He knew he would win without telling me he would win, and I trusted him. And boy did he deliver. Hopefully, I don’t ever need to hire a lawyer again, but in the event that I do, he is the person I’m calling. Professional, and had my best interest at heart. Thanks again, Collin.”
– Nails By Lady V, Google Review
4. Einstein & Gibson LLC
Address: 615 Copeland Mill Rd #2a
Phone: +16147340000
Business Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM–5 PM
Einstein & Gibson LLC is a well-regarded firm that’s been supporting families through divorce, custody disputes, and other related issues for nearly two decades.
Their services primarily focus on the family unit, particularly in financial forensics. To put it simply, they are the experts in cases where a spouse may be hiding assets or where separate properties need to be traced.
If your divorce involves a family business, multiple real estate holdings, or a custody battle that requires psychological evaluations, the firm can handle it.
It was impressive to learn that they prioritize early discovery and aggressive preparation to ensure your side is the most informed party in the room.
Many clients find this intensive reassuring, as it signals the team is a step ahead of the opposition, especially for those with an uncooperative spouse who seems to have many secrets to hide.
However, it’s also worth noting that they are generally considered a premium firm that charges by the hour. They do offer free consultations, but only to select cases.
Amazing job
“Amazing job from Taylor during my stressful divorce situation. Available at all times to answer my questions and concerns, keeping me informed of all updates about my case. Very friendly, knowledgeable, and able to defend my case with determination. I highly recommend Einstein and Gibson Law to friends, family members, and anyone who is looking for help with a divorce case.”
– Juliana, Google Review
Every decision I made was respected and honored
“Megan and her team, including Sadie, Morgan, and even Debora,h all had a hand in assisting with my case. Megan did a fantastic job of guiding me through my divorce. Einstein and Gibson LLC is what you expect from a law firm in a good way. When seeking out a lawyer to help during one of the hardest times in my life, professionalism and knowledge were at the forefront of my checklist, and they served it up on a silver platter. Very clearly, I was made aware of everything that was within my rights. Every decision I made was respected and honored. I was kept in the loop. And something that is also high on my appreciation list is that I was talked to plainly and on par with me. Thank you once again!”
– Hilary Fisher, Google Review
5. Petroff Law Offices
Address: 140 E Town St #1070
Phone: +16142224288
Business Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM–5:30 PM
As one of Ohio’s leading domestic relations law firms, Petroff Law Offices has earned an impressively long list of awards and affiliations over the years. These include being named one of America’s Top 100 Attorneys and receiving multiple ratings on Avvo.
Their practice focuses exclusively on family law, so they can handle everything from standard divorces to multimillion-dollar cases involving hidden assets and businesses.
But what really sets them apart is that they also support LGBTQIA+ divorces, military families, and third-party custody. This shows that they can also tap into modern and unique family structures.
On pricing, we understand the firm is among the most cost-effective options. Clients frequently lauded them for keeping fees low by staying well organized during meetings, thereby minimizing billable time.
Some patrons also mentioned spending only a fraction of what they paid at their previous firm.
However, the experience varies depending on the attorney handling the case. For instance, a few people said that their attorney didn’t respond promptly to emails.
Thank you for all of your help and for keeping my mind at ease
“I am beyond happy with the representation I have received from this firm. I have a somewhat complex case and have felt at ease throughout the whole process. I hired Elizabeth Mitchell for part of my case, and she was very informative and walked me through all the different scenarios and outcomes that were possible. In the end, she was successful in helping me get the outcome that was needed. I have recommended this firm to many of my friends and family already! I am also working with Attorney Petroff as well as Aaron Larson in my pending divorce case, and they have addressed all concerns in a very timely manner and helped me feel at ease in this difficult time. Again, this firm is hands down the best there is! Thank you for all of your help and for keeping my mind at ease knowing you have my back and best interests in mind.”
– Samantha Knapp, Google Review
He was absolutely dedicated
“I highly recommend Aaron Larson of Petroff Law Office for anyone, especially men, going through a divorce. From start to finish, Aaron was remarkably efficient and fast, respecting my time and pushing the process forward effectively. He explained everything with clarity and patience, ensuring I understood every step and option, which made working with him easy despite the stressful circumstances. Aaron is a fierce advocate who doesn’t back down. He was absolutely dedicated to ensuring the playing field was fair, providing strong, balanced representation that addressed the specific dynamics men often encounter. He achieved a great outcome for me.”
– Vonzell Hagans, Google Review
