Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an attorney?

YES, and we don’t say that because we are attorneys. We say so because we have been trained in the law, how to negotiate, and how to interact with the process in a manner that will get your matter to a successful conclusion. We say that because we have seen more than a few poorly drafted agreements, or less than stellar results. We have seen people whose circumstances were generally made worse by going it alone. We genuinely want to see you on a path to a better and brighter future.

How are your attorneys’ fees structured?

We charge hourly rates of between $425.00 and $450.00 per hour for attorney time, and lesser rates for paralegals and support staff. We take retainers, generally not less than $5000 -$7500 per matter against which we bill our hourly rates: Note: we do not charge retainers in advance for Real Estate closings, and generally, Personal Injury Matters are taken on a contigency fee basis. We try to estimate the cost of your matter in an in-person consultation; however, these numbers are not guaranteed, and can vary based on the time, and difficulty of the presentation. We are also available on a limited scope representation basis in Connecticut: That means, we can present part of your case for a lesser, and often fixed, fee discussed with us and agreed upon in advance. Ask us for details.

Do you give free consultations?

In family and civil matters, we take the time to give you a truly well-rounded evaluation. We won’t just tell you whether we’ll take the case, or rush you into a decision. We give you all the information and tools you need to make an informed decision for yourself - no pressure or sales pitches. We’ll discuss the costs and benefits associated with legal action, what approach is in your best interest, and what you can expect as your divorce moves through the legal system. We devote the utmost attention and care to our existing clients, and we want to do the same for you. If we can’t solve your problem, we’ll make sure you understand why we can not.

We do charge for a consultation, generally on a flat-fee basis, and generally less than our hourly rates. We believe the information we provide is worth the dollars charged.  We expect you will too.

Before we speak with you (in-person, over Zoom or Microsoft Teams, or via phone), we ask you to complete our online Intake Questionnaire; the process should take you 10 to 15 minutes and greatly assist us in narrowing down the issues so that we can provide clear and concise answers when possible.

The intake questionnaire appears here.

Disclaimer: This website is a form of attorney advertising. That means that we are seeking to obtain, or keep, your business by virtue of the statements made here. This website contains legal information, and not advice. Use of this website or a request for appointment through this website does not create an attorney-client relationship; that relationship only commences when we have met and defined the terms through a written retainer signed by both of us. 

Do you take contingent fee cases?

YES, we do, with respect to personal injury matters and some disability and collection matters. We can and do advance costs on your behalf in certain circumstances. Generally, these matters require you to pay for our costs but we receive no fee for our time if the matter is not brought to a successful conclusion.

How will you handle my divorce differently than other attorneys?

First, we meet with you personally from case inception to case conclusion, and delegate few if any tasks to support staff. You meet with us and hire us. Second, we have access to a team of accountants and forensic experts to help you uncover assets, and even have developed a few programs to track your financial records to help uncover improper money transfers.

We don’t hesitate to introduce you to former clients, many of whom we’ve known for the lifetime of our legal practice.

You will feel understood, and your wishes will be respected. We will provide you with our assessment, and together we will determine goals and objectives and how to reach them.

Why doesn’t this website look like those of other attorneys?

We know it doesn’t and that is by design. We wanted an online presence that reflects who we are and our approach. Stiff photographs of attorneys with crossed arms tell a formal, unapproachable story that isn’t ours. We can dress for success. We can advocate and will until the sun sets on any opportunity to do so. But, we are real people and really approachable and wanted this site to reflect our attitudes and ideals.

Are there other attorneys in your firm?

We work with other attorneys all the time.  Attorney Maureen Williams is the point of primary contact but she on occasion works with others whose detailed biographies can be provided upon request. We will happily introduce you and discuss the manner in which your matter will be handled at your consultation.

We strive to affiliate with others when the need arises, and are selective in how and when we refer or co-counsel to or with others.

Spanish speaking staff and translation services are available. We also have access to those who can converse with you in Portuguese, Mandarin, and French; advance scheduling for these languages is required.