Frequently Asked Questions
Do you offer free consultations?
We offer a brief free initial consultation. Complex matters may require a paid consultation.
What documents should I bring to my first meeting?
Bring all relevant legal documents, ID, and any communication related to your case.
How are your fees structured?
We offer flexible billing: hourly, flat-rate, or contingency (where applicable). We’ll discuss this upfront.
What are the main duties and responsibilities of an attorney?
An attorney has two main duties: to uphold the law and to protect a client’s rights.
Are there things I can do to help reduce my legal costs?
Yes, answer all of your attorney’s questions fully and honestly. If you tell your attorney all of the facts as you know them, it will save on time that might be spent in later investigations of your case. It will also help your attorney to do a better job. Remember that an attorney is bound by ethics of the profession to maintain what you reveal in strict confidence. Also be prepared to share any documents and records that are related to your matter. It is important to tell your attorney facts about your case that reflect poorly on you. These issues will almost certainly be revealed during trial.
When do I need a lawyer?
Many people believe they need an attorney’s services only to solve a problem or to get out of a difficult situation. Often‚ the best time to see an attorney is not when you are in legal trouble but before that trouble occurs. Preventive law is one of the most valuable services that a lawyer can perform. By eliminating potential problems, preventive law can save you time‚ money‚ and needless worry.
Can I change attorneys?
You may discharge you attorney simply by informing him/her of your wishes. Giving notice is a matter of courtesy and may be necessary so that if a lawsuit has been filed‚ the attorney may ask for the court for permission to withdraw. Even if you discharge your attorney‚ you are still obligated to pay for any services which have been performed already on your behalf‚ and costs which have been incurred.
Should I have a lawyer with me?
It is advisable to speak with a lawyer and have him/her with you when you appear in court. The judge must inform you of the charge against you and of your right to have a lawyer‚ if you do not have one. The judge must allow you a reasonable time to send for a lawyer‚ even to the point of postponing the hearing so that you can get one.
Can I be released on bail?
Bail is the posting of security to ensure your appearance in court. The amount of bail is determined by the court but in most cases‚ you may be released without bail on your own signed promise to appear in court.
Can i get out of a contract?
In some cases‚ yes. Certain types of consumer sales contracts must have provisions allowing you to cancel within a specified period of time. If a contract is not legally executed‚ it may be possible to have it invalidated. Some circumstances that may lead to the cancellation of a contract include fraud‚ misrepresentation‚ or coercion.
Simply changing your mind or deciding you cannot afford that for which you contracted however‚ is generally not a sufficient reason to release you from a contract. If you break a valid contract‚ the other party may be able to sue you and be awarded damages.