FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
My usual attorney's fees range from $100 to $175 per hour, depending on the subject matter and complexity of the case. At times I evaluate a potential client's circumstances to determine whether a reduction in fees is warranted. I do this on an individual basis and at my sole discretion. I am very open and honest and will not judge someone that comes to me in search of help who honestly needs access to the justice system at a reduced price. However, I do consider my fees very reasonable and will need to get personal to determine a client's level of need. I also perform paralegal-type work at a reduced cost, such as drafting a letter or filling out documents, if I or the client deem(s) that the matter does not require full representation or simply to get a client started on a matter. However, the client submits the work as representing himself and I do not offer legal advice. If legal advice is needed to perform the work, the time spent assessing the case, researching the issues and counseling the client will incur attorney fees. I may offer my full representation if it is later determined that the client cannot resolve the matter on his/her own.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I speak with the potential customer on the phone regarding the general nature of the case and to obtain sufficient facts to assess the same. If necessary, I follow up with another telephone conversation with more specific feedback or to answer specific questions that were asked in the initial conversation. I avoid giving an in-depth assessment of the law or of the specifics of the case on these initial contacts to avoid making unintentional misrepresentations based on a lack of information. At this point, I like to set up an in-office consultation where I can better develop a knowledge of the facts of the case and have had the opportunity to prepare questions that would elicit necessary information. I do my best to clearly explain the different issues involved and possible outcomes based on the facts given. However, in order to accurately assess a case, and avoid snap judgments that later may prove counter-productive or inaccurate, many times an attorney needs more information than that which can be gathered in a quick telephone interview. If I an attorney is not careful enough to treat your case with the time, effort and respect it deserves s/he may make representations or promises they later may not be able to keep, thus leaving a client ill-informed, frustrated and possibly with an outcome s/he was not prepared for. If, after the initial conversations and free consultation, the person retains my services I keep the client informed of the steps that need to be taken proceed with the case and the different options available to resolve the matter. The client is thoroughly informed and prepared to make the decisions for his/her case as needed. It is my opinion keeping the client informed and in charge results in motivated and satisfied and clients. I work hard to earn my clients' trust and respect.
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I hold a Juris Doctor degree from the J. Reuben Clark, Jr. School of Law. During law school I completed a summer externship with the Guardian ad Litem's Office, worked as a research assistant for a Real Estate and Property Law professor and earned an invitation to be a member of the Moot court Program. Post-graduation, I worked as a law clerk to a district court judge and I have been in the private practice since 2002. Being in private practice allows me the freedom to determine the best way to spend my time and skills in helping others. I have helped clients with contract matters, insurance claims, personal injury related to car or bicycle accidents or slip and fall, landlord-tenant issues, family law issues such as divorce, child support, and property division, and criminal matters from traffic or other infractions to possession of drugs, DUI, assault, domestic violence and other criminal matters. I have been successful using motions to suppress in criminal matters to identify government illegalities and protect an accused's individual rights.