Our Payment Models

Hourly Billing

How it works: You pay for the time spent on your matter. The time spent by our lawyers, paralegals, and (where applicable) other staff and reimbursement of expenses incurred in your representation will be the basis for the total price. Time is recorded in standard billing increments and summarized on each invoice. Your engagement letter will always state the current rates that apply to your matter.

Flat-Fee Services

For some projects, we may offer a flat fee. For work performed under a flat fee schedule, the fee schedule describing the type and nature of work, established project benchmarks, and reimbursement of expenses incurred in representation will be the basis for the total price. Each flat-fee engagement clearly states what’s included/excluded and any third-party costs you’ll owe (e.g., state filings). Your engagement letter will always state the current rates that apply to your matter.

Retainers, Invoicing & Payments

• Retainer: All matters require an upfront retainer placed in trust and applied to future invoices. Unused retainer funds are refundable under the terms of your engagement letter.

• Invoicing: We issue itemized invoices showing time entries (date, task, time spent), our fees, and third-party charges.

• Payment methods: We accept major cards. Card processing fees will be disclosed before you pay.

• Mandatory payment fees (if applicable): NSF fees, check return fees, or chargeback fees.

Third-Party & Government Costs

Beyond our fees, some matters require external costs that you pay (when applicable):

• Court filing fees, recording fees, secretary of state fees, service of process, couriers/postage, notaries, title/closing fees, and similar.

• Expert, mediator, or investigator fees.

• Government penalties or taxes.

They are listed separately on your invoice or paid directly by you to the third party. If a cost is optional (e.g., expedited filing), we’ll ask first and get your consent prior to action.

Estimates, Scope Changes & Informed Consent

Legal work can evolve. If facts change or you request additional work:

1. We’ll tell you what changed and how it affects time/cost.

2. We’ll request your approval before proceeding.

3. We’ll update your retainer (if needed).

Refunds & Disputes

• Retainer refunds: Any unused retainer is refundable under your engagement letter after final billing.

• Billing questions: If something looks off, contact us within 10 days of your invoice. We’ll review the entry and correct any error.