PAY HERE (in increments equal to your retainer or invoice amount)
GENERALLY
How can a lawyer help me?
Lawyers are trained to deal effectively with legal complexities , which frequently change, and court procedures, filing requirements, deadlines and other details that a non-lawyer could easily overlook. There are so many ways to loose your way—don’t let it happen to you! Before meeting, make notes about your problem and bring all related documents. It will hep you present your legal problem in the clearest manner possible and focus on evaluating the lawyer’s responses.
*Evening, weekend, and home appointments are available in some cases
How will I pay?
- Fixed fee: often for routine legal matters, e.g., a lawyer may charge all clients the same amount to handle a “simple will.” Be sure you know what it does and does not include and if there could be additional charges.
- Hourly fee: varies from lawyer to lawyer. Estimate your bill by projecting the amount of time your case will take and typical court filing fees and other costs.
- Retainer: A traditional retainer fee guarantees that a lawyer will simply be available to take a particular case, e.g., perhaps the lawyer would have to turn down other cases to remain available. You may be billed separately for the legal work that is done. However, this firm does not charge this way, but treats a retainer as a down payment on any legal services you may need.
- THIS FIRM ACCEPTS MAJOR CREDIT CARDS
- Contingency fee: is often used in personal injury cases or when suing for money. You pay a percentage of the money received if you win the case or you settle the matter. If you lose, your lawyer doesn’t receive a fee. In some cases, your lawyer may pay some costs that you may have to reimburse. Obtaining a fee agreement from your lawyer is always a good idea; in contingency fee cases they are ethically required.
How can I help my lawyer keep expenses down?
- Gather in advance all information you think your lawyer may need.
- Write down the contact information of all people involved in your matter.
- Bring related materials, e.g., receipts, contracts, medical bills, repair estimates, checks, traffic tickets, deeds, wills, and letters. In some cases, there are aspects of the case that you can handle yourself (e.g., some telephone calls, gathering information or documents)
- Bring a written summary of the facts as you remember them and as the opposing side does.
- Write down the questions that you want your lawyer to answer.
- Avoid calling your lawyer unnecessarily.
- Update us with any changes to your address, telephone number, and any relevant facts
- Ask the lawyer about ways to resolve your case without going to court.
- Reveal all information, even if it may not be in your favor. Remember that your lawyer must keep all information you discuss confidential.
Going without hiring a lawyer?
Small claims courts resolve minor problems without lawyers. Limited to claims up to $2,000 in Mass. and exclude certain claims. Your local Better Business Bureau, credit counseling service, consumer advocacy group, alternative dispute resolution center, or another private agency may be able to assist you.
The state attorney general’s office or the Department of Revenue can answer general business, investment or tax questions. Consult state and local governmental agencies or departments. Consult state boards that regulate health professions, social service professions, contractors, and others, about rules and standards governing such professions or to assist in resolving disputes. Beware of internet-derived advice. Court appointed counsel legal and aid programs can help if you qualify. The Legal Advocacy and Resource Center number is (617) 742-9179.
