Howard Lloyd Thomas, Child Custody Attorney in El Cajon, California

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

• Child Custody

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• Criminal Defense

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• Family Law

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• Litigation

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Howard's primary office is at 275 East Douglas Ave Suite 103, El Cajon, CA, 92020. 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 Howard usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Howard 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 Howard for a child custody case?

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

• Does Howard offer a free consultation?

  Howard charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Howard's office. Some child custody attorneys offer free consults — check Howard'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. Howard gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Howard take my case if I'm outside El Cajon?

  Howard 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 — Howard 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 Howard?

  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. Howard will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Howard accepting new child custody clients right now?

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