Amanda Ayres Smith, Child Custody Attorney in San Diego, California

Amanda concentrates on child custody, dv defense, and family law. Each area below outlines the kind of case Amanda handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Child Custody

  View other Child Custody attorneys

• DV Defense

  View other DV Defense attorneys

• Family Law

  View other Family Law attorneys

Amanda's primary office is at 707 Broadway Ste 1400, San Diego, CA, 92101-5322. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new child custody attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Amanda usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Amanda discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in child custody practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Amanda for a child custody case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Amanda walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Amanda offer a free consultation?

  Amanda charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Amanda's office. Some child custody attorneys offer free consults — check Amanda's current terms during booking.

• How long do child custody cases in California typically take?

  Simple child custody matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Amanda gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Amanda take my case if I'm outside San Diego?

  Amanda is licensed in California. Matters governed by California law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Amanda will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Amanda?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Amanda will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Amanda accepting new child custody clients right now?

  Amanda's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.