Do you give free consultations?

No. Our consultation fee is $200.00 for one hour with the attorney. This consultation fee is charged because I want to give you an informed and well-rounded evaluation on your legal matter. The firm is committed to providing honest representation. I will never rush you into a lawsuit or convince you that you have a case that is not there. I will give you all the legal advice and information for you to make a well-informed decision for yourself – no pressure or sales pitch. During this consultation we will discuss the cost/benefit analysis associated with pursing legal action, whether legal action is in your best interest, and the steps that will need to be taken to pursue any claim. If you don’t have a case, I will explain why and discuss other options that may be available to you.

What are your fees?

Each case requires varying degrees of time and preparation. Thus, the fee for each case is evaluated on a case by case basis. A majority of our services are billed on an hourly basis. At the beginning of our representation you will pay a fee to retain our services. The hourly rate will be billed against this retainer. Additional funds may be required as the case progresses. Our goal is to make the billing process as easy and understandable as possible. I always encourage my clients to reach out if they have questions regarding the billing process.

How do we retain you as our attorney?

After the initial consultation, our services will be officially retained once the retainer fee is paid and Engagement Agreement is signed by client and attorney. The Engagement Agreement is a contract between the client and the attorney that details the services provided by the attorney to the client. It also details the expectations of both the client and attorney to each other.

How long will my case take?

The length of your case, from the consultation through the resolution of the case, whether that be by settlement or a decision by a judge or jury, depends on several variables. As such, it is not possible to predict how long your case may take. Some cases require extension discovery and evidence gathering, while other may settle quickly once attorneys get involved. Further, some courts have a backlog of cases and therefore it may take a longer period of time to get in front of a judge or jury. It is important to remember, that a majority of cases settle prior to going in front of a judge or jury.

Do all cases go to trial?

No. A majority of cases settle. Settlement provides the parties an opportunity to be in control over what happens with their case/issue. Judges and jury can be unpredictable in how they rule or delivery verdicts on cases. This unpredictability lead many cases to settle.

How will I be kept informed on my case?

At the outset of your case you will be provided the names and contact information of all attorneys and staff working on your case. You will be immediately notified of significant developments in your case. We will also routinely keep in contact with you if no significant developments have occurred. You may also contact the attorney or staff member working on your matter to ask questions and we will reply within 24 hours.

Does it matter how long I wait to file a lawsuit?

Yes. North Carolina has statutes that require lawsuits for various claims be filed within a certain timeframe. These states are called “Statues of Limitations” and vary depending on the type of claim you are filing. If the Statue of Limitation has passed for your claim, then your claim can be easily dismissed by a Judge. Therefore, it is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible if you believe you have a claim.