The first step is to schedule an initial consultation with the attorney to discuss your case. This can be done in person, by Zoom, or over the phone, depending upon your preference. Prior to your consultation, the initial intake form will have to be completed and the consultation fee submitted. All consultations are confidential. The consultation fee is to ensure that a party or spouse is not intentionally meeting with the attorney to create a conflict so that the other party or spouse is unable to hire the attorney. Although this may still happen, the fee minimizes this from occurring. You will also receive legal advice regarding the specifics of your case. The consultation fee is $300.00 and paid prior to the consultation to reserve your appointment.
Retainer:
If you decide to retain the firm, a retainer agreement will be executed and a retainer will be paid (retainer amounts depend upon the complexity of the case and the estimated time involved). The retainer is deposited into a trust account and you will be billed at an hourly rate on a monthly basis. Any unused portion of the retainer is refundable. If the retainer is depleted, we may ask for an additional retainer or you may be billed monthly. We accept credit cards, cash, and checks as a form of payment. We also offer ClientCredit, powered by Affirm, which allows you to pay for legal services at your own pace.
The Next Steps:
Depending on your particular facts and circumstances, the attorney will advise of your next steps during or after the consultation. These steps may be responding to a petition that was served upon you, preparing and filing pleadings for a new case, or filing a notice of appearance in a pending case.
This website is for informational purposes only and does not provide legal advice. Please do not act or refrain from acting based on anything you read on this site. Using this site or communicating with Michelle Klinger Smith PA through this site does not form an attorney/client relationship.