Barber Emerson

Barber Emerson, L.C., established in 1934 in Lawrence, Kansas, stands as one of the oldest and most respected law firms in the State of Kansas. With over 90 years of continuous service to the Lawrence community and throughout the Midwest, this law firm has built an exceptional reputation for excellence in family law, litigation, real estate, and estate planning. The firm's longevity, combined with contemporary legal expertise and genuine commitment to clients, has made Barber Emerson a trusted resource for individuals and families facing complex legal challenges.

The firm's founding in 1934 places it among Kansas's most historic law practices. Law firms established in the 1930s represent a unique era in legal history—before modern bar associations, continuing legal education requirements, and many contemporary legal specializations. For a firm founded in that era to remain active, respected, and relevant nearly a century later demonstrates extraordinary commitment to quality and genuine value to clients. Each generation of Lawrence families has trusted Barber Emerson with critical legal matters, and the firm's continued operation reflects that trust.

Barber Emerson is recognized by Best Lawyers as one of the best law firms in the country. Best Lawyers, one of the oldest peer-review publications in the United States, selects law firms for recognition based on attorney voting about the legal abilities of fellow practitioners. This peer-based recognition is particularly meaningful because it comes from other lawyers who understand legal practice. When attorneys across the country vote to recognize Barber Emerson as one of the best law firms in the country, it reflects genuine respect for the firm's legal abilities and professional conduct.

The firm carries the highest rating attainable according to Martindale Hubbell standards of excellence, an AV rating that recognizes both legal ability and ethical standards. Martindale Hubbell ratings, which have existed for over a century, represent comprehensive peer and client reviews assessing attorney competence, responsiveness, and integrity. Achieving the highest possible rating reflects the firm's demonstrated excellence.

Barber Emerson's family law practice includes two attorneys: Bethany Roberts and Marc A. White. Bethany Roberts practices in the areas of family law, divorce, and child in need of care. These practice areas cover the full spectrum of family law matters, from dissolving marriages through property division and support arrangements, to cases where children's safety or welfare requires court intervention. Bethany's practice shows comprehensive involvement in family law.

Bethany's educational background includes preparatory education from Bethany College (B.A., 1980), where she developed foundational knowledge and analytical skills that inform her legal practice. Her continued practice in family law for decades reflects deep commitment to this practice area.

Marc A. White's family law practice encompasses the broad spectrum of legal issues related to family relationships, including divorce, child custody and support, and related matters. Marc's educational background includes legal education from the University of Kansas School of Law (J.D., 1989), one of the nation's respected law schools. With a law degree earned in 1989, Marc brings over 35 years of legal experience to his practice.

Beyond family law, Barber Emerson's broader practice areas are valuable for comprehensive client service. The firm's litigation expertise means family law matters can be aggressively prosecuted if negotiation and settlement don't produce fair results. The firm's real estate and trusts and estates practices mean clients can address property division issues and estate planning matters within a firm they already trust.

The firm has represented clients in routine and highly complex matters. The firm's decades of experience mean the attorneys have handled diverse situations and developed strategies that work in Kansas courts. Whether clients are facing straightforward divorces or highly complex property division matters involving multiple assets and business interests, Barber Emerson has the experience to provide skilled representation.

What truly distinguishes Barber Emerson is the combination of over 90 years of continuous service, recognition by Best Lawyers as one of the best law firms in the country, the highest possible Martindale Hubbell rating, and dedicated family law practitioners with comprehensive experience. This is not a fly-by-night operation—this is a historic, respected law firm with deep roots in the Lawrence community and extensive experience serving families across Kansas and the Midwest.

For families throughout Lawrence, Douglas County, and surrounding areas facing divorce, custody disputes, child support matters, or other family law challenges, Barber Emerson, L.C. represents an excellent choice. The firm's combination of 90+ years of service, Best Lawyers recognition, highest Martindale Hubbell rating, and experienced family law practitioners makes them one of Kansas's finest law firms.

Contact Barber Emerson, L.C. today at 785-843-6600 to discuss your family law needs. When you need representation by attorneys from one of Kansas's oldest and most respected law firms, recognized by Best Lawyers as one of the best in the country, you deserve Barber Emerson's exceptional representation.