Each attorney sets his or her own fees. Costs and payment arrangements can vary quite a bit. I usually refuse to give a specific “price” or estimate for the costs of a specific piece of work because there are so many factors that influence the amount of time it will take to complete the work for my client. There may also be court costs, depending on the type of case it is.
Fees are based on an hourly rate. The amount of time I spend on a case will increase with the number of issues which are disputed, the complexity of those issues, and the court in which the action is brought (if it goes to court at all).
Once I have a better understanding of the situation and it’s complexities, I will be able to give you a ball park figure of the costs you can expect.
Factors that affect the amount of time required, and thus the cost of my legal services are:
Whether or not the parties are inclined to work together to reach a conclusion.
If the parties can agree it typically takes much less time to complete the negotiations, and finalize the paperwork. Therefore the costs are less. Tools like collaboration or mediation are often very useful when working with parties who are committed to reaching an amicable settlement. That can cut the time needed to reach resolution to a minimum. Often business matters can be resolved with a formal communication and/or limited negotiations.
If there is a great deal of contention, the process is more expensive. If the parties wish to argue with one another, hearings are missed, and/or the negotiations become protracted, the time expenditure increases.
Whether or not the issues are complicated. If research is required for unusual issues, or a great deal of historical information must be assembled the time expenditure can increase. If the case goes to trial, the preparation time is high, and the time in court may be extensive, depending on the issues involved.
It is necessary to discuss fees with me during the Initial Interview. Once I have a better understanding of the situation and it’s complexities, I will be able to give you a “ball park” figure of the costs you can expect. I am totally committed to explaining the charges involved, including retainers and hourly rates, court costs, and payment arrangements. I will not file any paperwork with the court, or take any action on any case until I have received an agreed-upon retainer, and we have both signed a Fee Agreement.
