Are my discussions and communications with my attorney confidential?
YES. The attorney-client privilege is one of the oldest known to law. An attorney can not reveal information relating to a client. There are few exceptions. You should be assured that all information which you disclose will be kept confidential. However, if there is something that you are particularly concerned must be kept confidential, please let your attorney know the sensitive nature of the material.
How long will my initial interview last?
The initial interview with an attorney can last anywhere from thirty (30) minutes to two (2) hours. At Morton Family Law, LLC, the initial interview is approximately one (1) hour. The initial interview has the following purposes:
- To determine your legal issues and the scope of the work to be performed.
- To find out the basic facts necessary to begin work.
- To allow you to determine if you feel comfortable working with a particular attorney.
- To provide initial advice, warning, and counsel.
- To establish the financial terms of the representation.
Please make sure your attorney is provided with accurate and detailed financial information. It is Critical.
Will my attorney ask for a retainer?
If you retain an attorney, you will be given a retainer letter (or contract) to sign. The contract explains the financial understanding between the attorney and client. Attorneys are required by the Rules of Professional Conduct to provide a retainer letter.
Most attorneys will require a retainer when you retain their services. This is payment made in advance of the fees or costs being incurred. The attorney will bill against the retainer (taking fees, as earned) and if the retainer is exhausted (used up), seek an additional retainer. When the case is concluded, any unused retainer should be returned to you.
How will my attorney bill me?
The are many different ways attorneys can charge. With a "flat fee", one charge is given for all of the work, no matter how much or little time it takes. With an "hourly billing" system, the attorney charges for each hour or portion of the time actually expended in doing the work. Make sure you have a clear understanding with your attorney. Most family law cases are billed on an hourly basis.
Your attorney should send you a bill on a regular schedule showing the work performed, the time, and the amount billed (if hourly).
If you have a question about a bill, call your attorney. There are occasions where a mistake is made on the bill. Call your attorney when you have a question, not at the end of the case.
What other expenses will be involved?
In addition to the attorney's fee, almost all attorneys charge for all actually expenses incurred such as court filing fees, deposition expenses, medical report fees, travel, copying, and long-distance telephone.
How much will it cost?
This depends on each particular case. Make sure you discuss with your lawyer at different intervals what the projected cost will be so that you are not surprised. However, the ultimate cost will depend on you, your spouse, and the ability to negotiate and resolve issues, rather than litigate. LITIGATION IS COSTLY, BOTH FINANCIALLY AND EMOTIONALLY.
Will my attorney cooperate with my spouse's attorney?
It is expected that attorneys will cooperate with each other whenever possible. This saves time and expense. It is not a sign of weakness by either side. Sometimes, of course, cooperation is not possible, and motions must be filed with the Court to resolve difference.
Never Assume. When in doubt, ask your attorney.
For a family law attorney in West Chester, contact the law firm of Kim Denise Morton at 610-692-3999, toll free at 888-498-5602 or email us online.