FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
I provide most intellectual property legal services on a fixed fee schedule. Patent preparation including drawings and preparation of filing formalities can range from as little as $4,000 up to $8,500 (plus filing costs). Trademark preparation and filing ranges from $750 per mark up to $1,000 depending on your needs. Business formation and counseling for most small enterprises is $500, and can range up to $1500 for more sophisticated business startup legal needs. I also work on an hourly arrangement if your project calls for it or you prefer that price structure. My hourly rate is generally discounted at $300 for my Thumbtack clients. The hourly fee for my paralegal team ranges from $100-$150 per hour. If requested we can provide a fee cap for hourly billing. We always discuss estimated costs in advance and in writing - you will never be surprised about a bill. Every client that works with me will pleased with the value created, no exceptions!
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I generally provide a no-cost consultation via phone call to discuss your legal needs and answer any preliminary questions. When we both determine that my practice is a perfect fit for your matters, I will send you a signed Engagement letter that formalizes our working relationship. The letter outlines the scope of my engagement, discusses any financial concerns, explains how and when our relationship is completed, and other important details. You're invited to request changes to our Engagement Agreement (though most do not require any), and you add your signature to the Engagement to launch your matter. New clients are typically asked to provide an advance trust payment that is kept in a third-party trust account. Monies paid into the trust account remain yours until we've earned them. Legal fees are drawn from the trust account after your project(s) are completed. For ongoing engagements having multiple legal projects, the trust account may be replenished by you over time as your fees reduce the balance. Although I have met in person with local clients, typically most work is performed remotely, with meetings conducted via telephone or Zoom video conferencing. I keep my schedule flexible in hours to accommodate your other responsibilities, so evening and weekend meetings are held frequently.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a bachelor of science in electrical engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology and a Juris Doctor from Georgia State University College of Law. I am also a registered patent and trademark attorney, licensed to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Prior to my career in the law I have years of experience in mechanical engineering and design. With my unique background in mechanical engineering and manufacturing, coupled with electrical and software engineering, my clients routinely rely on my expertise protecting their electro-mechanical technologies that span from simple mechanical patent work to sophisticated artificial intelligence and machine learning systems.