Your Rights

The right to confidentiality. You've probably heard of the attorney-client priviledge. This means that a lawyer - or any member of his or her staff - can't reveal most things you say or show to him or her. This is true (a) if you've hired that lawyer, or (b) if you're thinking of hiring the lawyer when you communicate this information. There are exceptions. For example, if your communication involves anything which may become illegal, like a scheme to defraud or give perjured testimony, then it's not priviledged.

The right to full fee disclosure. Hiring an attorney means contracting for his or her services. You may shop around and bargain over fees. There's no set fee schedule in the legal profession. You also should know that it's unethical for a lawyer to charge an unreasonable fee.

Some lawyers charge nothing for an initial consultation. You may want to ask about initial fees before you discuss your problem. If an attorney decides to take your case, he or she may bill you by the hour or be paid on a percentage of any recovery (known as a contingent fee). Either way, the lawyer should tell you all the facts about the billing procedure. For example, if the lawyer requires a retainer, you should ask whether the retainer is a down payment on future billing or is non-refundable as a fee for taking the case.

Any contingent fee agreement must be in writing. The lawyer must state whether the contingent fee is based on gross or net recovery (that is, before or after expenses). Certain types of cases, such as divorce or criminal, can't be taken on a contingency basis.

We have established reputations among our peers and opposing counsel as no-nonsense attorneys. They know we are not the kind of people who make frivolous, nonsensical arguments. Cases that should go to trial go to trial. If a case is not fit for trial, we negotiate the best deal possible. Fortunately, we are experienced enough to know the difference.

When we represent clients, we examine all available options. Our knowledge and experience gives us the edge we need to make the system work for our clients. We offer aggressive advocacy that does not end until the final hearing.