> frequently asked questions

F.A.Q.

What are your fees?
Attorney fees depend on the type of case. The standard rate for office work is currently $125/hour and for court appearances is $165/hour. More detailed information can be found by following the link.
What is your retainer?
My standard retainer is $3,500 in all contested family law cases. This may be negotiated, but nearly all contested cases are going to cost more than $3,500, and so there is little incentive to reduce the retainer.
How long does a case take?
Contested cases can take more than a year to finish. Time can depend on which county the case is located in and how crowded the docket is. Uncontested cases can take as little as 6 to 8 weeks.
How do I choose a lawyer?
There are as many ways to answer this as there are lawyers and clients. Not all clients have the same needs, and not all attorneys offer the same types of services.
How do I schedule an appointment?
It is the easiest thing in the world. Call me at 651/210-9409, or check the calendar and submit an appointment request.
What if I can't afford an attorney?
I take a limited number of clients on a pro bono basis. However, if you are in need of family law services that you cannot afford, and if I cannot help you, there are other sources of legal help for persons of limited means. Feel free to contact me for more information.
What types of law you practice?
I am, by nature, a general practitioner. It is my feeling that specialists have made the legal profession too compartmentalized. While I focus on certain areas, such as family law, real estate transactions and litigation, and criminal defense, I am also willing to consider a wide variety of other types of cases. By practicing a broad range of the law, I am able to charge lower fees because I am able to take on a greater variety of clients than specialists are.
What is a Counselor at Law?
Attorneys are charged with representing their clients in transactions and in courts. Attorneys are also charged with counseling their clients, according to the rules of professional responsibility, on all aspects of their clients' lives when their clients need such assistance and guidance. If you, as a client of mine, ever need help or advice outside of the case we're working on, then please ask and I will offer whatever assistance I can.
Who designed your web site?
I designed it. I hope you like it. I welcome and appreciate comments. I also offer a limited amount of web design services, if you are interested.