​How does Podlaski Attorneys explain fees and keep clients informed about legal costs?

Fees are set out in a written engagement agreement before work begins. The agreement describes the scope of the representation, how fees are calculated, what costs and expenses you are responsible for, and how billing works. Depending on the matter, we charge hourly fees, a flat fee for defined work such as document preparation, or, in appropriate cases, a contingency fee. Hourly matters are billed in tenths of an hour for the time actually spent, and most hourly engagements begin with a retainer that is held in the firm’s trust account and applied or returned in accordance with the agreement.

During the representation you receive itemized invoices, generally monthly, showing the work performed, the time spent, and any costs advanced on your behalf, such as filing fees or court reporter charges. Whenever practical we discuss significant expenses with you before they are incurred, and we encourage you to raise any question about an invoice promptly so that it can be addressed. Invoices and payments are available through our secure client portal, and payments are accepted by check, ACH, credit card, or e-check.

Consultations are free for most matters. A $100 consultation fee applies to certain matter types, including vehicle purchase or repair, family law, and landlord-tenant issues, and is credited toward your first invoice if you retain the firm.