Cordell & Cordell is a law firm that represents men in divorce, custody, and support cases
Cordell & Cordell is a private law firm with offices across the United States that focuses on representing fathers and men in family law matters. The firm handles divorce cases, child custody disputes, child support and spousal support issues, and related family court proceedings. Unlike a government agency, Cordell & Cordell is a for-profit business — you pay them directly for legal representation, and they do not handle cases for free.
The firm markets itself specifically to men, positioning itself as an alternative to what it describes as family court bias against fathers. If you are considering hiring Cordell & Cordell or want to understand what the firm does, you should know upfront that it is one option among many law firms, and the choice of attorney matters more than the firm's brand.
Key Takeaways
- Cordell & Cordell is a private law firm that charges hourly rates or flat fees for representation — it is not a government program and does not work for free.
- The firm has multiple office locations and handles divorce, custody, support, and related family law cases in state courts.
- You can find other family law attorneys through your state bar association, local legal aid organizations, or referrals from people you know.
- Before hiring any attorney, ask about their experience with cases like yours, their fee structure, and what you can expect to pay.
- If you cannot afford a private attorney, your county may have legal aid services that handle family law cases at no cost or low cost.
How Cordell & Cordell charges for representation
Cordell & Cordell operates on a fee-for-service model. The firm typically charges either an hourly rate for attorney time or a flat fee for specific services. Hourly rates and flat fees vary by location and the complexity of your case, so you will need to contact a local office directly to learn what they charge.
When you first contact the firm, you will usually speak with a intake coordinator who gathers basic information about your situation. If you decide to move forward, you will sign a retainer agreement that spells out the fee structure, what services are included, and what happens if you run out of money before your case ends. Read this agreement carefully — it is a contract between you and the firm.
Some cases cost more than others. A straightforward divorce with no children and no dispute over property may cost less than a contested custody battle or a case involving significant assets. Ask the firm for an estimate based on what you expect your case to involve.
What Cordell & Cordell handles in family court
The firm represents clients in divorce cases, which includes dividing marital property, deciding on spousal support (alimony), and establishing custody and support arrangements for children. They also handle modifications to existing court orders — for example, if you need to change a child support amount because your income has changed.
Cordell & Cordell also takes on cases involving paternity (establishing legal fatherhood), relocation disputes (when a parent wants to move away with the child), and enforcement of existing orders (when the other parent is not following a court order). The firm's stated focus is on representing the father's interests in these disputes.
The firm operates in multiple states, but family law is handled in state courts, not federal court. This means the rules, procedures, and judges vary by state and sometimes by county. An attorney at Cordell & Cordell in your state will know the local rules and judges in your area.
How to find and compare family law attorneys
Cordell & Cordell is one option, but it is not the only one. Your state bar association maintains a directory of licensed attorneys and often includes information about their practice areas and experience. You can search by location and family law to find other firms in your area.
Ask for referrals from people you know who have gone through divorce or custody cases. Personal recommendations often lead to good matches because someone can tell you about their actual experience with an attorney — how responsive they were, whether they explained things clearly, and what the final bill looked like.
When you contact any law firm, ask specific questions: How many cases like yours have they handled? What is their track record in your county? Do they charge hourly or flat fee, and what is the range? How do they communicate with clients, and how often? What is their policy if you run out of money mid-case? These answers will help you compare firms and make a decision based on your actual needs and budget.
Legal aid and low-cost alternatives if you cannot afford private counsel
If you cannot afford to hire a private attorney, your county likely has a legal aid organization that handles family law cases at no cost or on a sliding scale based on income. Legal aid attorneys are licensed lawyers who work for nonprofits funded by government and private sources. They handle divorce, custody, and support cases for people who meet income limits.
To find legal aid in your area, search "[your county] legal aid" or visit the Legal Services Corporation website, which maintains a directory of local programs. Call ahead and ask whether they handle family law cases and what the income limits are. Some programs have long waiting lists, so contact them early if you think you may need help.
Some law schools offer free or low-cost representation through clinics where law students work under attorney supervision. Bar associations sometimes run pro bono programs where attorneys take cases for free. These options vary by location, but they are worth exploring if cost is a barrier.
What to expect when working with a family law attorney
Once you hire an attorney, they will gather information about your situation — your income, assets, debts, children, and the other parent's situation. They will explain the law in your state, what outcomes are realistic, and what your options are. They will also discuss strategy: whether to try to settle, what to ask for, and what you might have to give up to reach an agreement.
Your attorney will handle communication with the other side's attorney, file documents with the court, and represent you in court hearings. You will need to provide documents (tax returns, pay stubs, bank statements, property deeds) and be honest about your situation. Your attorney cannot help you if you hide assets or lie to the court.
Family law cases can take months or years depending on whether the other side agrees to settle. If you and the other parent reach an agreement, the case moves faster. If you disagree on major issues, the case will go to trial, which takes longer and costs more.
Questions to ask before hiring any family law attorney
Before you sign a retainer agreement with Cordell & Cordell or any other firm, make sure you understand the fee structure and what you are paying for. Ask whether the initial fee covers the entire case or just the first phase. Ask what happens if your case takes longer than expected or if new issues come up. Ask whether you will be charged for phone calls, emails, and document review, or whether some of that is included.
Ask about the attorney's experience in your specific situation. If you are fighting for custody, ask how many custody trials they have done. If spousal support is a major issue, ask about their experience negotiating or litigating support cases. An attorney who has handled cases like yours many times will have a better sense of what is realistic and what judges in your area typically order.
Ask about communication. How often will they update you? Can you call or email with questions, or do you have to schedule a meeting? Some firms charge for every communication; others include a certain amount of contact in the fee. Know what to expect so you are not surprised by the bill.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Cordell & Cordell work in my state?
Cordell & Cordell has offices in multiple states, but not all of them. Visit the firm's website or call their main number to find out whether they have a local office near you. If they do not, they can often refer you to another attorney in your area.
How much does Cordell & Cordell cost?
Costs vary by location and case complexity. The firm typically charges hourly rates or flat fees, but the exact amount depends on your situation. Contact a local office directly for a fee estimate. Ask whether the estimate includes the entire case or just the initial phase.
Can I get a free consultation with Cordell & Cordell?
Many law firms, including Cordell & Cordell, offer an initial consultation to discuss your case and fee options. Call to ask whether a consultation is free or whether there is a charge. Use the consultation to ask questions and see whether you feel comfortable working with that attorney.
What if I cannot afford a private attorney?
Contact your county legal aid organization — they handle family law cases for people who meet income limits and charge little or nothing. Search "[your county] legal aid" to find the local program. Law school clinics and bar association pro bono programs may also be available in your area.
How do I know if Cordell & Cordell is the right choice for me?
Compare Cordell & Cordell with other family law attorneys in your area. Ask about their experience with cases like yours, their fee structure, and how they communicate with clients. Choose based on experience, cost, and whether you feel confident in their ability to represent your interests — not on the firm's brand or marketing.