Rates
How much will this cost?
This is a common and fair question for a prospective client to have. The simple answer is that the firm bills at $425 per hour in 5 minute increments. However, it’s more complicated, realistically impossible, to estimate cost in a family law matter. For instance, if we ask opposing counsel for a bank statement and they email it to us in a day or two, that costs very little. If we ask the same question, are told no, must bring formal discovery, a motion to compel and request sanctions, that is relatively expensive. The other side may end up footing the bill, but they may not. In sum, cost is directly proportional to conflict. More conflict, more cost and vice versa.
How does a retainer system work?
We work on a retainer system and your retainer will be held in trust and billed against as work is completed. Most initial retainers are between $10,000 and $20,000 depending on case complexity. However, there are always exceptions, both on the lower and higher end. There can be flexibility around retainers and the firm is likely to agree to a plan for funding a retainer that we believe will happen. If your retainer is exhausted, you will be asked to replenish it at similar increments. All work is invoiced in detail and those invoices are provided at any time upon request by the client.
How are consults billed?
Typically, there is an initial informal phone conversation. If we both decide we’d like to move forward we will schedule a more formal consult which is billed at the regular rate and usually lasts one hour. There is flexibility here and we encourage you to give us a call at 831-316-7660.