What this costs, before you ask
Most firms make you call to find out. Here is how we charge, what we pay for along the way, and the situations where we'll tell you not to hire us at all.
Contingency
You pay no attorney fee unless we recover money for you. Our fee is a percentage of the recovery, and the percentage is in writing before you sign anything.
- Free first consultation
- No retainer to start work
- No attorney fee if there's no recovery
Quoted up front
We quote your fee in writing before you decide, so you know the number before you commit. Call and we'll walk through your specific situation.
- Free first consultation
- Quoted in writing before you decide
- Ask about the DOL case — it's separate
Explained first
Family matters vary more than any other kind of case we take. We explain the structure for your matter before you commit to anything.
- Free first consultation
- Structure explained before you commit
- We won't create conflict to run up hours
- Medical records
- Expert fees
- Filing fees
- Investigators
On injury cases we typically advance these so you're not paying out of pocket while your case runs. They're reimbursed from the recovery, and the agreement spells out exactly how.
When we'll tell you not to hire us
We only take a contingency case when we believe we can increase your net recovery — the amount that actually ends up in your pocket. If we don't think we can add real value, we'll tell you straight.
Minor injuries
If the claim is small, our percentage may cost you more than we add.
Limited coverage
When the at-fault policy is at its limit, there may be little for a lawyer to unlock.
An offer already close to fair
If the insurer's number is reasonable after bills and liens, we'll say so.
In those cases we explain your options and may suggest you handle parts of the claim yourself. The goal isn't to win a case — it's to help you come out ahead.
Do I need money to hire you?
No. There's no retainer on an injury case and the first consultation is free in every practice area.
How is the percentage decided?
It's agreed before you sign, and it's in the written fee agreement. You'll see the number before you commit to anything.
What if we don't recover anything?
Then you owe no attorney fee. That's what contingency means.
Can you just tell me over the phone?
Yes. Call and we'll walk through your situation before you make any decisions.
You don't have to figure this out alone.
One free conversation, no pressure, and a straight answer about where you stand.