FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Hourly Billing—Transparent & Flexible Why hourly? Family‑law cases can shift quickly as new facts, pleadings, or settlement opportunities arise. An hourly structure lets you pay only for the work that is actually required, rather than a flat fee padded for contingencies. How time is tracked. All attorney, paralegal, and support‑staff work is recorded in six‑minute (0.1‑hour) increments. Every task—from drafting a motion to a five‑minute status call—is listed on your invoice so you can see exactly where your resources are going. Retainer & trust account. We collect an upfront retainer that is deposited into a client trust account. We bill against that retainer each month; you receive a detailed statement and replenish only if the balance drops below an agreed threshold. Unused funds are refunded promptly at the close of representation. Fee projections. At the outset we outline likely phases (pleadings, discovery, settlement negotiations, trial preparation, etc.) and give you a range of expected hours for each, so you can budget with confidence. If the scope changes, you’ll know right away—no surprises. Available Discounts Early‑resolution incentive. Matters that resolve in mediation or settlement during the first 90 days receive a percentage rebate on billed hours. Military, first‑responder & educator rates. Active‑duty service members, first responders, and K–12 teachers receive a standing reduction on our standard hourly rates. Hardship considerations. If a sudden financial hardship arises during your case, talk to us. We routinely craft payment plans tailored to individual circumstances. Bottom line: you remain in control of your legal spend. Clear timekeeping, detailed invoices, and meaningful discounts keep your costs predictable while ensuring you get the aggressive advocacy—or settlement‑minded strategy—your matter demands.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Our Client Journey: Step‑by‑Step Initial Call & Conflict Check • A brief phone discussion pinpoints your concerns, confirms we have no conflicts of interest, and schedules a formal consultation. Engagement & Retainer Agreement • Once you decide to proceed, you sign an engagement letter and fund the retainer, which is placed in a client trust account and billed against only as work is performed. Comprehensive Consultation (60–90 minutes) • We delve into the facts, clarify goals, and outline likely legal avenues. Strategy Conference & Action Plan • Together we refine objectives (e.g., custody schedule, support targets, property division) and map out short‑ and long‑term steps. Document Gathering & Initial Filings • Our team requests essential financial, employment, and parenting records and prepares any required pleadings (e.g., Petition, Response, Request for Order). • You review and approve all filings before they are submitted to the court. Discovery & Information Exchange • We issue or respond to formal discovery (interrogatories, document requests, subpoenas) to secure a complete financial and factual picture. • Regular check‑ins ensure you understand each request and deadline. Negotiation, Mediation, or Settlement Conferences • When productive, we pursue early resolution through settlement proposals or mediation, balancing assertive advocacy with cost‑effective compromise. • If settlement is reached, we draft and finalize the agreement for court approval.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Juris Doctor (J.D.) – Thomas Jefferson School of Law (TJSL), San Diego Emphasis on community property, tax consequences of support, and mediation. Bachelor of Arts – The Ohio State University Coursework in economics and psychology—skills now applied to financial tracing and child‑focused custody planning. State Bar of California – Admitted Licensed in all California state courts and the U.S. District Court, Southern District. Continuing Legal Education – 40–50 hours annually (well above the minimum) Focus areas include complex business valuations, digital discovery, domestic‑violence advocacy, and family‑law trial skills.