From first call to the end of the case
How a case moves through the firm
Most cases follow these steps, whether you're bringing the claim or defending it. Many end at step four.
- 01
Step 1: A free first call
You tell us what happened and send the papers you have. We check for conflicts and tell you which group the case belongs to.
- 02
Step 2: A written case plan
Within two weeks of being hired, you get the goals, the likely steps, the deadlines and a cost range, on one page.
- 03
Step 3: Pleadings and discovery
We file or answer, then trade documents and take depositions. You get a written update at least every 30 days.
- 04
Step 4: Mediation or settlement talks
Most business cases settle here. We tell you what we think the case is worth and why, and you decide.
- 05
Step 5: Trial or arbitration
If it doesn't settle, we try it, in court or before an arbitrator. The plan is updated before we start.
What you get in writing
A case plan before we file anything
Litigation is expensive and slow, and you deserve to know how slow and how expensive before you start. The case plan says what we're trying to get, the steps it will take, the deadlines we're watching, and a cost range with what would push it higher. When something changes, the plan changes, and you get the new version.
On the page
Your goal, in a sentence
The steps and the deadlines
A cost range, and what moves it
Who leads and who is second
About cost and timing
How do you charge?
Most cases are billed hourly against the cost range in your plan. Some collection and lien cases can be taken on a contingency or a mixed fee; we'll say if yours could, and what costs you'd still pay.
How long will this take?
A case that settles early can take a few months. One that goes to trial can take a year or more. Your plan gives a range and we update it as the case moves.
Will I have to testify?
If the case goes to deposition or trial, probably. We prepare you for both, in the room where it will happen when we can.
Start with the first call
It's free, it takes about half an hour, and you'll know which of us would lead your case.
The first call doesn't make us your lawyers; a signed engagement letter does.