Christopher Matthew Banas

Banas Family Law was a pleasure to work with in a very difficult personal situation. They were caring, competent and cost effective. Not only did they advocate for my interests, but they did it is a very professional and courteous manner while keeping me timely informed of the status of my case. I... would recommend Banas Family Law to anyone who is looking for a top notch lawyer!

Going through a divorce was the most painful experience of my life, probably because it wasn't what I wanted. All the things that were important to me were up in the air. I didn't know what would happen to my kids--that was the worst of it. But there was more. I worked all my life to buy a nice h...ouse, put away some savings and a college fund, establish good credit. I was beside myself with anxiety. At first I tried to represent myself, but it didn't take long to see I was out of my league. I knew I had to get a lawyer. After a great experience, one of my closest friends recommended Banas Family Law--Chris had negotiated joint custody and the kids were really thriving. They got to spend time with both parents, and nobody was being bankrupted by child support debts. It's hard for me to overstate the difference Chris made in my life. I have a physical disability and I was worried that a judge might not understand that it has no bearing on my relationship with my kids. Chris was able to convey to everyone--including the judge and the other lawyer--that my disability doesn't define me. He met me early for hearings--he always made sure getting inside and through court security was a non-issue--and then that I had a good place to sit in the courtroom, where I could see and hear everything. He was never condescending to me, and as someone who has traveled through this world with a disability, I can tell you that is unusual. If anything, he has a terrific sense of humor, which defused some difficult situations and bitter feelings. During the first part of the proceedings, it looked like we were going to have to go to trial. My ex was being incredibly unreasonable, insisting on exclusive custody of the kids, excessive child support, etc. Chris chipped away at this over time. He regularly contacted the other attorney and began to negotiate--I could see he didn't have any difficulty working with the other side, or even standing up to the judge when he had to. I got to read all the legal papers he drew up, and they seemed intelligent and well-written, and there were lots of references to cases and laws--which he explained to me, because I'm no lawyer! At the same time, he prepared for trial. We went through the whole nightmare together--pretrials, depositions, mediation, you name it. Chris was always calm and reassuring when I was a wreck. He was very knowledgeable about the law and explained everything to me in a way that I could understand. I always felt fully informed about everything--not just the case, but also the way I was being billed. In the end, we went to the courthouse on trial day, and Chris was able to settle the rest of the case without actually going to trial. I know Chris was ready for trial, but he did what was best for me. We were able to work out a fair settlement, and I never thought that would happen. Are my kids having to adjust to their new life? Sure. But they are also doing great because they get to spend so much time with both of their parents. The financial settlement was definitely a compromise--I got some of what I wanted, and I had to give in on some points. I admit it stung a bit, but it was also fair. Chris isn't the type to toot his own horn, so I will do it for him. If you're looking for a courteous, knowledgeable, professional lawyer who isn't a cold-hearted shark, he's your man. If you're looking for a lawyer who isn't always watching the clock and waiting for the next client, but actually cares about you AND your kids, hire Chris. If you want a lawyer who won't put you in the poorhouse with exorbitant bills, call Chris. If you want someone who can try your case OR settle it, contact Chris. If you want a lawyer who knows the law, understands his way around a courtroom, and isn't afraid of anyone--hire Chris. You won't be sorry.

I hired Banas to represent me in a divorce case. At first he seemed very knowledgeable and familiar with the court system. I later realized he puffs his abilities and experience up to attract clients. Once you hire him, he does not deliver. He showed up at court unprepared and clearly unfamiliar with... the details of my case. He did not have a clear strategy for my case and seemed to use a cookie cutter approach. I am very dissatisfied with his service. I will not recommend him to any of my family or friends in Minnesota.

Chris represented me over several years in a family court matter, and did so successfully with knowledge, skill and professionalism. I found Chris to be an honorable person who really cared about my case and listened to my concerns. Being a litigant in family court can be an emotional and frustra...ting experience. Chris listened to me when I felt like I just needed a kind ear while effectively handling the legal matters in my case.

In today’s society where men are underdogs when entering custody disputes it’s refreshing to know there is a lawyer who works as hard for a men’s rights as Chris Banas. Chris and his staff are top notch and knowledgeable. The communication between client and staff is exceptional. They use ever...y form of communication from paper copies to emails. Banas family law is very responsive to emails and phone calls. Chris’s experience with every facet of family law is unparalleled. He seems to have sufficient experience with all types of family law issues. I believe Chris’s rates are within the median of family law practice but what stands out the most is his estimation of cost and the ability to stay within his stated retainer within reason. Chris has a straight forward no “sugar coating” type of approach with it comes to his clients and the case. He takes your case personally and you don’t get the “just another folder is the drawer” feeling. He will tell you what you options are and allow you to make the best decision for you and your situation. Chris doesn’t push his opinion only offers it. He likes to say “do what makes you feel the most comfortable with.” I would gladly (and have done) recommend Banas Family Law to my friends and family.