FEE ARRANGEMENTS
During an initial consultation, a lawyer will discuss how our fees for legal services will be billed. For some matters, the lawyer will be able to give an estimate of the total charge, while for other matters the lawyer will explain how the fees will be determined. We offer the initial consultation at a reduced rate.
While it is desirable to meet face-to-face with each person who contacts us with questions face-to-face, this is not always possible. Therefore, we offer telephone consultations. This usually requires an advance appointment and the faxing or e-mailing in advance of copies of documents to be considered during the consultation. Payment for telephone consultations is made by credit card.
Our fees for legal services are based upon the complexity of the matter and the time involved. For some matters a fixed fee is appropriate. For other matters an hourly rate is charged. Our policies require an advance payment, known as a retainer, to be applied toward legal fees and expenses.
Expenses incurred on a client's behalf-such as filing fees, copies, long distance telephone calls, and travel expenses-will be billed to the client. A client will be advised before substantial expenses are incurred.
A client has the option of charging our fees and expenses to a credit card account, if the client has a Visa or MasterCard account with a sufficient credit limit.