FAQs

Legal advice is typically very specific to an individual business's situation. I can't provide legal advice on my web site, over the phone, or via email, but here are answers to questions about how I work.   

Q: How much will it cost to meet with you?

A: My policy is to provide an initial free consultation to determine whether I can help you.  Should you choose to have me represent you, I will let you know what I propose to do and what my charges will be or how they will be determined.  At some point during the initial meeting, I may inform you that we are at that point, and that going forward will represent billable time.

Q: How do you determine your fees?

A: The nature of my services typically involves time.  In certain instances, I may have done something so frequently that I am confortable providing the service for a flat fee.  In other instances, there may be certain variables, but I can provide you with a range.  In that case, I will always let you know as soon as possible if I expect the fee will exceed that amount. In the event that there are circumstances that I have little or no control over. I will provide my hourly rate and my best estimate based on experience. In all cases, I will respect your wishes and needs.

Q: Will you put your fees in writing?

A: As a general rule, if the expected fee is less than $1,000, I will give you a verbal estimate or a flat fee. If the expected fee will exceed $1,000, I will provide you with a fee notification in writing explaining my hourly rate for the services and my billing procedures. If you wish however, I am always happy to provide you with a written fee arrangement regardless of the amount.

Q: How do you charge for your time?  Will I be charged for phone calls?

A: Because of the nature of my work, the only thing I have to charge for typically is my time.  I therefore keep track of all of my time, including telephone calls.  If I am working on a project, it is not unusual for time on the telephone to add up.  If we have a two minute conversation, and that is my only activity, it is not likely that I will send you a bill.  But, if we have ten two-five minute calls over a two-week period, I may have accumulated an hour or more of time on your project, and I will charge you for that work.  

Q: Do you accept credit cards?

A: I currently accept VISA and MasterCard for payment of legal services and costs.