FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
In all cases in Missouri, attorneys are required to bill by the hour and for expenses associated with litigation. So, the price varies based upon the number of hours invested and the expenses. In personal injury and workers compensation cases, attorneys are required to keep track of their hours, but represent clients on a contingent fee basis. Under this arrangement, the attorney does not receive a fee unless they are successful. Contingent fee arrangements are not allowed in family law cases. Fixed price services are also not allowed. However, for very small matters, e.g., traffic tickets and minor criminal matters, an attorney usually charges one price because they know that the matter will take a modest, set amount of time.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
We meet on the telephone. We then meet in the office and complete a thorough intake form, complete mandatory documents and launch the client's case. I deal with out of town clients by way of email, cellphone and text messaging. I attach forms that I need completed to emails and send them to the client to complete, sign, scan and return to me by email.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have required continuing legal education. I also learned that I really need to learn things over and over again. There is really too much law to have a complete mastery of it at all times. I know where to find answers, and I have maintained a curiosity and interest in what I doing. I was told a long time ago that legal research was fun. It is. Being thoroughly prepared with the facts and the law, allows me to do things in court for clients that I am very personally proud of.