William J. Halaz III said being able to help a father claim his rights with regard to custody of a child is one of the more enjoyable parts of being a family law attorney.
“It’s rarely an ideal situation; just a father trying to do the right thing,” he said of these cases.
In order to advocate for a client’s best interests, Mr. Halaz said open lines of communication between an attorney and client are key.
“If a client is not open and honest with you it’s difficult to prepare and represent their interests as fully as possible,” he said. “You need to develop a relationship with them so that way we can both trust each other and present their case the best way possible.”
Mr. Halaz said patience is the most important trait to have during a family law case.
“This area of law is wrought with emotion, and rightly so,” he said. “However, keeping a cool head when things get heated can be invaluable.”
Certified Mediator
Awards
Mr. Halaz was recently included in the 2026 edition of The Best Lawyers in America® for Family Law.
Mr. Halaz was recognized in 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2024 as a Missouri Rising Star in the family law practice area by Super Lawyers, a Thomson Reuters rating service of outstanding lawyers.
Publication
Mr. Halaz has written many articles on divorce on DadsDivorce.com. He also authored the article, “Role of Religion in Custody Disputes: A Missouri Case Study.”
Watch Mr. Halaz’s lecture from Cordell & Cordell’s 2018 Continuing Legal Education seminar on “A Circus Act – Juggling the Directions, Comments, and Assumptions of the Updated Form 14.”
Watch Mr. Halaz’s lecture from Cordell & Cordell’s 2017 Continuing Legal Education seminar on “Re-creating a relationship: Co-parenting counseling and changing the dynamics within post-dissolution families.”
Mr. Halaz appeared on KMOV’s Great Day to provide back-to-school tips for separated families.
Miscellaneous
Mr. Halaz is a coach for a youth basketball team, enjoys cycling and camping.
