FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Pricing depends on the nature and complexity of the case. For some cases COOK LAW gives an hourly quote, in others, such as criminal defense, quotes are given in one single amount to defend the charge(s) up to trial, and then an additional flat fee for defense at trial. Still, other quotes are contingent upon reaching an acceptable settlement or award for the client; for example in personal injury cases the client is not charged up front. Finally, COOK LAW may be retained by a fee paid monthly by clientele in the wine business, assuring them a limited range of services during that month if they need it.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Sitting down with them and listening to what it is they want. Letting them know if COOK LAW can help them and how, and asking if and when they want to proceed.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
A Juris Doctorate from Portland's own Lewis and Clark Law School. Extensive practical experience gained in the legal field before, during and after law school. Overseas legal study of Anglo American Law and the English Common Law; the roots of our current legal system in the US.; significant education, experience and training in negotiation. Experience taking multiple cases to trial and winning in Portland's downtown Multnomah County County. Experience working for and with some of the top trial attorneys in Oregon who also worked as deputy district attorneys. Over the years, they shared the insight they gained from working for the state of Oregon as prosecutors with me, and as the owner and operator of COOK LAW, I often turn to that insight when practicing criminal defense.