5.0
Over 200 5-Star Reviews
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Columbia Family Law Child Custody
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    Columbia Child Custody
    Call for More Information Today!
    704-289-3250

    Serving Richland County, Columbia, Lexington County, Lexington, West Columbia and beyond Custody Attorney Columbia

    Going through a separation or divorce is challenging, especially when children are involved. Fortunately, a child custody lawyer at Collins Family & Elder Law Group can help. Collins Family & Elder Law Group understands the sensitivity of child custody matters. Each family's situation is unique, and we are committed to finding solutions that serve the best interests of the children while also respecting the rights of our clients. At Collins Family & Elder Law Group, we navigate the legal system to address your child custody concerns, including legal custody, physical custody, visitation rights, and custody modifications.

    To discuss your case and how a child custody attorney at Collins Family & Elder Law Group can help, call (704) 289-3250.

    Trusted Family Law Feedback
    5.0 200 Reviews
    • L
      "Professional and excellent in handling my case"
      I definitely recommend her and will use her again in the future for any legal needs I may have.
      LaNetta Littlejohn
    • B
      "Really trust this law group"
      Really trust this law group and couldn’t be more pleased.
      Bobby Mills
    • E
      "Collins Family Law has been so supportive!"
      They were very detailed and so responsive.
      Eric Ginkel
    • P
      "Savanna is a great attorney"
      I always recommend people to her for estate planning work!
      P T
    • T
      "She is very knowledgeable and responsive."
      She is very knowledgeable, responsive, and genuinely cares about her clients.
      Taylor Pulley
    • J
      "They treated me like family!"
      They treated me like family! And guided me through everything!
      Jerry Davis
    • B
      "Handled My Needs Thoroughly and Quickly"
      One call to this law office handled my needs thoroughly and quickly.
      Bobby Mills
    • K
      "Always acted in the most pleasant and professional manner."
      Their office was able to assist me and always acted in the most pleasant and professional manner.
      Katryn Gould
    • T
      "Spencer did a wonderful job"
      Spencer did a wonderful job with my case in Cabarrus County.
      Tiger Gamble
    • S
      "Madison was thorough and very dedicated"
      Madison was thorough and very dedicated throughout the process.
      Sara Yousif
    • L
      "She fought tirelessly to protect my rights"
      She fought tirelessly to protect my rights and my future, and I always felt reassured knowing someone so knowledgeable was in my corner.
      Lilliam Rios
    • s
      "I was empowered and genuinely supported"
      I never felt like I didn’t have her full attention. Shayna met me where I was at and truly became my advocate.
      susanne GROSJEAN
    • C
      "I gained full legal and physical custody"
      After a year with her and 9 hours in court, I gained full legal and physical custody of my child.
      Chelsea LeClair
    • D
      "Divorce is no fun and it is messy."
      Instantly likeable and very thorough, this team worked tirelessly to represent my position.
      Doug Stewart
    • B
      "Best Decision I Made"
      In the end, I had my children back.
      BJ Mullinax
    • S
      "Amazing Attorney Stephanie Smith"
      Stephanie Smith has gone above and beyond to get me more time with my son.
      Stefan Sharpe
    • J
      "Highly Recommend Alexa and the Firm"
      Alexa Litt assisted with our matter professionally, courteously, and expeditiously. I highly recommend Alexa and the Collins firm.
      John Stanfield
    • P
      "Friendly and Professional"
      Patti was responsive, thoughtful, and a pleasure to work with.
      Peter Hall
    • C
      "Smooth as Silk"
      Melinda Taylor epitomized professionalism during my divorce proceedings.
      Cedric Capps
    • e
      "Very Good Service"
      Very good service, Attorney Melinda is very good.
      elizabeth pineda
    • A
      "Living Her Purpose and Passion"
      Stephanie walked me through the toughest experience, giving confidence and calm.
      Ashley Dean
    • M
      "I had sole custody by October"
      She's sharp, responsive, passionate, and realistic.
      Matthew McDaniel
    • S
      "Fantastic Custody Representation"
      Stephanie Smith is attentive, passionate, and knowledgeable. Highly recommend her and her firm.
      Shawn Heyward
    • K
      "Great Experience with Christine Houston"
      Christine was very calm, cool, and collected, keeping discussions comfortable.
      Keri Thompson
    • J
      "They're excellent."
      Thanks to the entire team of lawyers. They've helped me a lot with my case.
      Jenny Karol Cornejo Ternero
    • C
      "A Lasting Impact from Shayna Matheny"
      Shayna's support during challenging times was remarkable. Her attention to detail and genuine care made the experience comforting.
      Caleb Villalta
    • P
      "Outstanding Service and Attention"
      The service and attention that Kristen gave me was outstanding.
      Patricia Hall
    • J
      "Such a Great Firm"
      They really care not only for your rights but your kids' rights.
      Justin Wright
    • R
      "Delivered a Win for Custody"
      Amber at Collins Family Law was wonderful. She delivered a “Win” for my custody requirements.
      Rod
    • M
      "True Professionals Who Genuinely Care"
      I can't say enough about them, from Amy to Mamie to Attorney Lockerman.
      Michael DiPiero
    Professional and excellent in handling my case
    Kaitlyn Yost was professional and excellent in handling my case. I definitely recommend her and will use her again in the future for any legal needs I may have.
    LaNetta Littlejohn
    Really trust this law group
    Very fast response. Positive outcome. Really trust this law group and couldn’t be more pleased.
    Bobby Mills
    Collins Family Law has been so supportive!
    Collins Family Law has been so supportive! They were very detailed and so responsive. They will 100% be my go-to for legal support.
    Eric Ginkel
    Savanna is a great attorney
    Savanna is a great attorney and I always recommend people to her for estate planning work!
    P T
    She is very knowledgeable and responsive.
    I have had the pleasure of working with Attorney Savanna Earles in the past. She is very knowledgeable, responsive, and genuinely cares about her clients. I’m glad I had her in my corner during difficult times.
    Taylor Pulley
    They treated me like family!
    Collins Family Law helped me get my life straight after a terrible divorce! They treated me like family! And guided me through everything! I highly recommend them to anyone needing legal advice!
    Jerry Davis
    Handled My Needs Thoroughly and Quickly
    One call to this law office handled my needs thoroughly and quickly. Couldn't recommend them enough.
    Bobby Mills
    Always acted in the most pleasant and professional manner.
    I needed someone who could accommodate my mobility issues and come to me. Their office was able to assist me and always acted in the most pleasant and professional manner.
    Katryn Gould
    Spencer did a wonderful job
    Spencer did a wonderful job with my case in Cabarrus County. Thank you.
    Tiger Gamble
    Madison was thorough and very dedicated
    My case was straightforward, with very little pushback from the other party. My main concern was billing, as routine emails sometimes felt a bit high and a few could have been combined. Madison was thorough and very dedicated throughout the process. Even though I was personally frustrated that the court focuses more on procedures and finances than the mental and emotional impact of a situation, I’d definitely recommend this firm.
    Sara Yousif
    She fought tirelessly to protect my rights
    Going through a divorce was one of the most difficult times of my life, and I will always be grateful to have had Attorney Spencer Schold by my side. From day one, she treated me with compassion, respect, and genuine care. I never felt like “just another case.” Attorney Spencer Schold took the time to understand my situation, listen to my concerns, and guide me with both honesty and empathy. What impressed me most was her ability to balance compassion with incredible strength as an advocate. She fought tirelessly to protect my rights and my future, and I always felt reassured knowing that someone so knowledgeable and determined was in my corner. If you're looking for a dedicated, knowledgeable, and trustworthy divorce attorney, I highly recommend Attorney Spencer Schold, the best!
    Lilliam Rios
    I was empowered and genuinely supported
    Any lawyer can take your case, but with Shayna Matheny at Collins Law, it's more than just that. I was empowered and genuinely supported on all fronts during the process. Before I went with Shayna, I had a failed mediation that left me emotionally drained and unsure. Shayna met me where I was at and truly became my advocate. I never felt like I didn’t have her full attention. She actively listened to my story, understood the layers of my situation, and instinctively pulled out important or useful points. It was empowering to have someone remember details that others overlooked so that I didn’t have to repeat or re-explain later. She used this to offer tailor-made options that would actually fit the situation. It wasn’t just a superficial approach; she sought my input on strategies and responses. I was never given unrealistic expectations or frivolous avenues but rather kept me grounded during the high-stress moments. Her familiarity with court personnel and local procedures was reassuring. Shayna gave me resources specific to what I needed throughout the process that were practical and guided me through the issue at hand. She is also still available to answer questions or scenarios that come up, which give me confidence going forward, and she remains available even after the court decision. Overall, I feel at peace with closing this chapter in my life, knowing I had the best representation and all the effort possible on my side.
    susanne GROSJEAN
    I gained full legal and physical custody
    I had been told by several other firms what I had presented was never going to happen given the custody agreement I had in place for 7+ years. After meeting with Shayna Matheny, I was told it would be a fight, but a fight she was willing to take on. After a year of working with her and 9 hours in the courtroom, I gained full legal and physical custody of my child. We were both in such shock given the verdict was not given at the end of the hearing, but thanks to her I was given what I sued for, and then some! She never stopped working, always had my back, and was constantly reassuring me I was doing everything right. She is the needle in a haystack when it comes to family law. This firm has gained a lifelong client!
    Chelsea LeClair
    Divorce is no fun and it is messy.
    Divorce is no fun and it is messy. I was fortunate to work with the team of Lee Christian-Clinton and Amber Morris as my counsel. Instantly likeable and very thorough, this team worked tirelessly to represent my position. I urge you to call Collins and start getting your life and dignity back.
    Doug Stewart
    Best Decision I Made
    I had a civil family court case brought up on me and for about 6 months tried to act as my own lawyer. I can't begin to say how stressful it was; dealing with the court, opposing counsel, and guardian ad litem. It was horrible. I felt as though I was being run over by a steamroller. Finally, I was able to retain Collins Family Law Firm. Best decision I made during that whole ordeal. I had a consultation with Jennifer; she said to me, "No worries, I got you." When she started navigating through the mess I had made by representing myself, I could feel the relief from stress almost immediately! I was no longer being harassed by the opposing counsel nor the guardian. Jennifer and her team acted quickly and effectively. In the end, I had my children back. I pray that I never go through family court again; but if I do, I will be taking Collins Law Firm with me! The entire team at Collins Law is very professional and sympathetic with your circumstances. Thank you Collins Law!! Your team was heaven sent!!
    BJ Mullinax
    Amazing Attorney Stephanie Smith
    I have worked with Stephanie Smith multiple times in the past and she has been amazing. As a father, it is nice to have someone who is willing to take on the tough cases for a win. Stephanie Smith has gone above and beyond to get me more time with my son. If the need for an attorney comes again, I will be contacting this law firm to have Stephanie Smith represent me again.
    Stefan Sharpe
    Highly Recommend Alexa and the Firm
    Alexa Litt of the Collins Family & Elder Law Group assisted with our matter in a professional, courteous, and expeditious manner. Alexa also followed up frequently to ensure a timely closure of our matter. I highly recommend Alexa and the Collins firm. I will also use the firm in the future as other matters arise.
    John Stanfield
    Friendly and Professional
    Worked with Patti Tutone on a prenuptial agreement. It was all handled very friendly and professionally. Patti was responsive, thoughtful, and a pleasure to work with.
    Peter Hall
    Smooth as Silk
    My experience with Collins Family & Elder Law Group was indeed a phenomenal one. From start to finish, the process was smooth as silk. I was assigned to Melinda Taylor and she epitomized the importance of being the consummate professional during my divorce proceedings. She explained everything in great detail and reassured me that everything was going to be fine. She definitely delivered, and I’m definitely a very satisfied client. I highly recommend her and this law firm.
    Cedric Capps
    Very Good Service
    Very good service, Attorney Melinda is very good.
    elizabeth pineda
    Living Her Purpose and Passion
    Stephanie walked me through one of the toughest experiences of my life. She not only gave me confidence, but also made me feel comfortable and kept me calm. She heard what I needed and went above and beyond to ensure I got exactly that, and more. It is clear that she is living out her purpose and her passion through her work. I’m so very thankful to have had her by my side through it all.
    Ashley Dean
    I had sole custody by October
    Stephanie Smith represented me a few years ago when she was with Cordell & Cordell. I had been fighting for primary custody of my son off and on for about 13 years. I retained Stephanie to represent me in May or June, and I had sole custody (not primary—SOLE) by the end of October of the same year. Since then, I have referred multiple friends and family to her, and they've all been thrilled with her results. Once a situation is resolved, you always hope you never have a reason to see your divorce/custody attorney again, but... I recently found myself in need of Stephanie's counsel and was relieved to find that she hasn't changed a bit. She's still sharp, responsive, passionate (but realistic), and not the least bit afraid to ruffle feathers to get the job done. I don't know much about the firm she's with now, but I don't really need to. I would absolutely recommend her to anyone without hesitation.
    Matthew McDaniel
    Fantastic Custody Representation
    Stephanie Smith did a fantastic job when she represented me in my custody case. She is very attentive, passionate, and knowledgeable. She was quick to respond to any concerns I had. Made sure I was aware of anything going on in the case. I highly recommend her and her firm.
    Shawn Heyward
    Great Experience with Christine Houston
    We worked with Christine Houston at Collins Law Firm and paralegal Anna Skaggs and had a great experience! We called them in an emergency custody situation, and they jumped onboard right away. They guided us through every aspect, from collecting info, preparing for hearings, continuations, what to expect. Christine was very calm, cool, and collected, which kept discussions with her and the hearings themselves very comfortable and less anxious. She was also very professional but very personable. If we have any further issues, we will definitely be reaching out to Collins Law Firm, even though Ms. Houston is no longer with them.
    Keri Thompson
    They're excellent.
    Thanks to the entire team of lawyers. They've helped me a lot with my case and, above all, have always provided the best advice. They're excellent.
    Jenny Karol Cornejo Ternero
    A Lasting Impact from Shayna Matheny
    Choosing this law firm has been a turning point and the best decision I've made. From the very beginning, the professionalism and compassion of the entire staff made all the difference. Their sincerity and honesty created an environment that was both reassuring and supportive, and for that, I am profoundly grateful. I can't express enough how thankful I am to have had Shayna Matheny as my representative. Her unwavering support during challenging times was nothing short of remarkable. Shayna's keen attention to detail and her genuine care made the experience not only manageable but also comforting. Her dedication is evident, and I felt truly heard throughout the process. I trust no one else to represent me or my loved ones. This group will fight for what is right and fair. My heartfelt thanks go out to Shayna and the whole team for their kindness, support, and commitment to helping me and my family. You have made a lasting impact, and I am deeply appreciative.
    Caleb Villalta
    Outstanding Service and Attention
    Kristin and her team were attentive professionals. I am glad that I called Collins Family and Elder Law. The service and attention that Kristin gave me was outstanding.
    Patricia Hall
    Such a Great Firm
    Such a great firm they really care not only for your rights but your kids' rights too, building a better life with you. Thanks Collins firm. Justin Wright.
    Justin Wright
    Delivered a Win for Custody
    Amber at Collins Family Law was wonderful to work with. She was thoughtful, prepared, and delivered a “Win” for my custody requirements. Thank you, Amber!
    Rod
    True Professionals Who Genuinely Care
    The team at Collins Family Law are true professionals. They genuinely care. You are treated with respect and compassion. I can't say enough about them, from Amy to Mamie to Attorney Lockerman. They were very prompt and clear with communication and advice. Also very transparent in everything they said and wrote to us, no surprises. Knowledgeable team of lawyers, Attorney Lockerman knows her stuff. We highly recommend their services. Thank you! Michael & Kathleen.
    Michael DiPiero
      Why Choose Collins Family & Elder Law Group

      At Collins Family & Elder Law Group, we provide dedicated legal representation across North and South Carolina. With over 200 years of combined experience, we prioritize our clients' well-being through compassionate and assertive legal solutions tailored to their needs.

      Why Choose Us:

      • Expertise in family and elder law matters
      • Compassionate, client-focused approach
      • Remote consultations via phone or video
      • Comprehensive services from mediation to Medicaid planning
      • Personalized guidance through emotional legal processes
      • Comprehensive Legal Services

        From mediation to Medicaid, we've got you covered.

      • Convenient Consultations

        Offering phone and video meetings for your ease.

      • Client-Focused Representation

        Your family's well-being is our top priority.

      • Experienced Legal Team

        200+ years of combined expertise in family and elder law.

      Meet Our Dedicated Collins Family & Elder Law Group

      At Collins Family & Elder Law Group, we are committed to providing exceptional legal representation in family and elder law throughout North and South Carolina. Our team's 200 years of collective experience ensures that we expertly guide clients through complex legal issues, always prioritizing your family's well-being and best interests. Specializing in areas like Medicaid planning and estate administration, we offer a compassionate yet assertive approach to legal guidance. Our personalized service and remote consultation options make us a trusted partner, staying by your side every step of the way to achieve the most favorable outcomes. Whether you're dealing with mediation or guardianship issues, our board-certified specialists and mediators are here to help you navigate life's challenges with confidence.

      Legal Help Where You Need It
      • Columbia
      • Richland County
      • Lexington
      • Cayce
      • West Columbia
      • Irmo
      • Forest Acres
      • Seven Oaks
      • St. Andrews
      Call Us Today! 704-289-3250
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