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Reviewed by Lau, Community Manager · Last reviewed: September 2026
Latest reviews for family lawyers in Lisbon
Real, phone-verified reviews from the expat community.
10
Filipe
Lisbon, Aug 2026
I have been working with Teresa's office for many years, first with right to work matters and then when I needed help bringing in people from abroad, employing them, and giving them training. Since then, in the various types of business I have, I always ask for the support of her office for legal situations, even for something as simple as a work contract, because it is much safer and I am much more comfortable with that support. She communicates well, is attentive to what is being done, and makes the changes that are necessary at the necessary time. It is a bit expensive, but it always pays off, and it is better to be well supported than to be at risk.
10
Calvin
Lisbonne, Sep 2026
For a month, my residence permit application had been taking a long time, even though I had an urgent business trip abroad.
She simply used the right words to write to AIMA, and two days later my file was unblocked; my residence card is on its way to my home.
Joana is a very considerate lawyer, and she gives good advice on the implications that each action taken may have.
I can reassure you that she does not help people for money, but truly cares that the service she provides can succeed and that we are satisfied.
I am very satisfied with her service, and I already plan to contact her again to help my wife with her AIMA appointment, and she speaks French well, which was the icing on the cake. 😃
9
Talha
Montijo, Jun 2026
I had a tax-related case and a consultation meeting with Jorge, and it was quite a great service. He explained all of the elements and basically what to do in the next step, so I got clarification on most of the things and the next action steps I would possibly take. Overall, the communication was really great and he was really helpful. The price felt a little bit excessive, but I could understand it given the quality of the service and his expertise around tax matters.
How much do family lawyers cost in Lisbon?
Real price ranges from the jobs our vetted family lawyers actually do. Updated July 2026
Alimony and maintenance
How much does a maintenance claim cost in Lisbon?
Priced hourly, quoted after reviewing the circumstances.
Hourly
€60 to €220 an hour
Average hourly
€75 to €89
Typical matter
€30 to €1,200
Child custody
How much does a custody case cost in Lisbon?
Priced hourly and quoted per case. Mediation is usually cheaper than court.
Hourly
€60 to €220 an hour
Average hourly
€75 to €89
Typical matter
€30 to €1,200
Divorce proceedings
How much does a divorce cost in Lisbon?
Family lawyers in Lisbon charge €60 to €220 an hour. An uncontested divorce is far cheaper than a contested one, and often quoted as a fixed fee.
Hourly
€60 to €220 an hour
Average hourly
€75 to €89
Typical matter
€30 to €1,200
Property division
How much does dividing property in a divorce cost in Lisbon?
Quoted per matter, and the complexity of the assets decides it.
Hourly
€60 to €220 an hour
Average hourly
€75 to €89
Typical matter
€30 to €1,200
Visitation rights
How much does a visitation case cost in Lisbon?
Priced hourly, quoted per case.
Hourly
€60 to €220 an hour
Average hourly
€75 to €89
Typical matter
€30 to €1,200
Prenuptial agreement
How much does a prenuptial agreement cost in Lisbon?
Usually a fixed fee per document, plus notary costs.
Hourly
€60 to €220 an hour
Average hourly
€75 to €89
Typical matter
€30 to €1,200
Cohabitation agreement
How much does a cohabitation agreement cost in Lisbon?
A fixed fee per document in most cases.
Hourly
€60 to €220 an hour
Average hourly
€75 to €89
Typical matter
€30 to €1,200
Power of attorney
How much does a power of attorney cost in Lisbon?
A short document, usually fixed-fee plus notary. Common for newcomers handling affairs abroad.
Hourly
€60 to €220 an hour
Average hourly
€75 to €89
Typical matter
€30 to €1,200
Inheritance disputes
How much does an inheritance dispute cost in Lisbon?
Litigation quoted per case and priced hourly.
Hourly
€60 to €220 an hour
Average hourly
€75 to €89
Typical matter
€30 to €1,200
Inheritance proceedings
How much does inheritance proceedings cost in Lisbon?
Quoted per estate, and cross-border estates cost more.
Hourly
€60 to €220 an hour
Average hourly
€75 to €89
Typical matter
€30 to €1,200
Will drafting
How much does drafting a will cost in Lisbon?
Fixed fee per will plus notary costs. Worth doing if you hold assets in more than one country.
Hourly
€60 to €220 an hour
Average hourly
€75 to €89
Typical matter
€30 to €1,200
Adoption
How much does an adoption process cost in Lisbon?
Quoted per case, and the process is long regardless of cost.
Hourly
€60 to €220 an hour
Average hourly
€75 to €89
Typical matter
€30 to €1,200
Family mediation
How much does family mediation cost in Lisbon?
Priced per session and usually far cheaper than litigating the same dispute.
Hourly
€60 to €220 an hour
Average hourly
€75 to €89
Typical matter
€30 to €1,200
Guardianship
How much does a guardianship application cost in Lisbon?
Quoted per case.
Hourly
€60 to €220 an hour
Average hourly
€75 to €89
Typical matter
€30 to €1,200
Frequently Asked Questions
What expats want to know before hiring family lawyers in Lisbon.
Are there English-speaking family lawyers in Lisbon?
Yes, and more do as the expat community grows. The hard part is knowing who is reliable before you book, so every one we list is reviewed by other expats who have actually used them.
What should I check before hiring family lawyers in Lisbon?
Read recent reviews, be clear about exactly what you need, and agree the scope and an estimate in writing before any work starts. For anything regulated, check they hold the right credentials for the job.
Are these lawyers properly registered in Lisbon?
Yes. Practising lawyers must be registered, with the Ordem dos Advogados in Portugal. It is fine to ask, and a reputable firm will confirm it.
What should I avoid when hiring family lawyers in Lisbon?
Avoid paying the full amount up front (a deposit can be fair), anyone who will not give a clear quote, and unusually cheap prices that get padded with extras later. And never use someone who cannot show the right certification.
How do I explain what I need if my Portuguese is limited?
A photo, a short video or a written list does most of the talking, and the professionals we list are used to international clients. Booking an English-speaking one takes the stress out of it entirely.
How do you say family lawyers in Portuguese?
In Portuguese, family lawyers are usually called advogados de familia. That is the word to search for or to ask a neighbour, though many professionals here are used to the English term too.
How do I find family lawyers I can trust in Lisbon?
Check the reviews and any credentials before you book. On Locallista the reviews are phone-verified and the ranking is based on real expat experience, not who paid the most.
Choosing the right family lawyer is critical during what can be a challenging time in your life. The process involves trust, empathy, and strong communication. By adhering to these dos and don’ts, you’ll be able to navigate your options effectively, ensuring that you connect with a legal professional who not only understands your unique situation but also has the experience and compassion needed to guide you through. Remember, the right lawyer can provide the support you need as you move forward, paving the way for a more positive resolution.
Dos and Don’ts as an expat
Smart choices: dos and don’ts for finding the right family lawyer
Do’s
Do Seek Experienced Family Lawyers
Look for family lawyers with extensive experience in handling cases similar to yours. An experienced attorney can navigate complex legal situations effectively, providing valuable insights and fostering a more efficient resolution.
Do Prioritize Responsiveness
Select a lawyer who maintains open lines of communication and responds promptly to queries. A highly responsive attorney will ensure you feel supported throughout the legal process and help alleviate stress through timely updates.
Do Check for Personal Approachability
Choose a family lawyer who is friendly and approachable. A personal connection can significantly ease uncomfortable legal situations, allowing you to trust your attorney to handle sensitive matters with empathy and professionalism.
Do Verify Payment Flexibility
Opt for a lawyer who understands financial constraints and offers flexible payment options. This consideration can make legal services more accessible during challenging times and demonstrate the lawyer's commitment to supporting their clients.
Dont’s
Don't Settle for Unresponsive Lawyers
Ensure your lawyer is responsive and communicates effectively. Reviews emphasize the frustration of working with unresponsive attorneys who delay the process. You need someone who can be reached easily and who prioritizes your case to avoid unnecessary stress and complications.
Don't Choose a Lawyer Lacking Empathy
Working with a family lawyer can be emotionally challenging. Avoid lawyers who do not demonstrate empathy and understanding toward your situation, as this can make the process more difficult. You need a legal representative who can handle sensitive matters with care and compassion.
Don't Ignore the Importance of Experience
When selecting a family lawyer, do not overlook the significance of their experience. Experienced lawyers are more likely to navigate complex situations effectively. Reviews highlight instances where inexperience led to unsatisfactory outcomes, making it vital to choose someone with proven expertise in family law.
Don't Choose a Lawyer Without a Solid Record of Success
Be cautious of attorneys who cannot provide evidence of successful cases. Reviews often reference previous negative experiences with other lawyers who failed to deliver results. Always seek references or testimonials to ensure your lawyer has a history of achieving favorable outcomes for clients.