Wrongful Discharge • Discrimination • Sexual harassment • Wage issues • Contracts Family, Health, and Leave issues • Competing with current and former employers
Do I have to schedule an appointment to discuss my case?
Do you do phone consultations?
Why do I have to speak to your assistant first?
Do you charge a consultation fee?
Why should I pay a consultation fee if I don't know whether I have a case?
How long is the consultation?
What should I bring to the consultation?
If I agree to pay the consultation fee, will you take my case?
Can my spouse/child/friend come?
Is it all right to consult with more than one attorney?
Do I have to schedule an appointment to discuss my case?
Yes
Do you do phone consultations?
Only in rare circumstances, such as where the client is out-of-state or immobile for reasons of disability or illness. Phone consultations are typically scheduled in advance after receipt of the consultation fee.
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Why do I have to speak to your assistant first?
The initial screening discussion with my assistant is important in allowing us to identify whether potential conflicts of interest are present (before you pay for a consult). In addition, the questions she asks allow us to assess whether a consultation is appropriate, what fee is reasonable for the consultation, and whether another attorney may be better suited for the issue (in which case we provide referral information at no charge to you).
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Usually. The amount varies depending upon the complexity of the matter, such as the number of documents that need to be reviewed. The particular amount will be discussed prior to the consultation so you can decide whether to schedule an appointment. We have done free consultations where individuals are truly unable to pay and it appears that their matter has significant merit that needs to be addressed.
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Until a lawyer has a full opportunity to review your particular situation, he or she can't tell you whether there is anything that can be done. Employment problems cannot be resolved with a "quick question" over the phone or with a quick exchange of e-mails. They are far too important and deserve close attention, not flippant advice on the phone based on scant information.
We maintain a relatively small number of cases so that we can devote the time needed to pursue them properly. As a result, we limit our interest to cases involving clients who are willing to commit their time, energy, and resources to their claims.
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The length of consultation depends on the problem. We take whatever time is necessary.
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All documents that relate in any way to the problem that you are having. If you can get a copy of the employee handbook or applicable policies, bring those as well. Also bring copies of any other documents that the employer might point to in challenging your claim (e.g. warnings). If in doubt as to whether a document might be helpful, bring it. It really helps if the documents are well organized before you arrive!
If we schedule a consultation with you, we will send a confirmation e-mail that contains important rules about the consultation. This includes Do's and Don'ts for handling documents (e.g. do not write or highlight on them).
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The consultation fee is simply for the consultation. There is no agreement to represent unless we specifically agree on terms and execute a written fee agreement.
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Children should not be brought to the consultation or be left unattended in the waiting area. Generally, we can consult only with the individual needing legal assistance to preserve the attorney-client privilege. At times, an exception can be made for spouses, parents and children, especially in cases involving minors or where the family member assists the person with their affairs. If you intend to bring someone, ask beforehand to see if the circumstances will permit for someone else to be present during the consultation.
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Absolutely. The attorney-client relationship is a complex one. You should select an attorney with whom you feel most comfortable. You should consult with other attorneys experienced in this area if you are not comfortable with the advice you obtain.
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