Why do I have to pay a fee for a consultation?

It is standard to pay a consultation fee in order to take time to meet with you, review documents related to your case, and discuss the best possible way to move forward. Sometimes you may learn that the best way forward does not yet require lawyer involvement or can be handled in a different manner. The $150 fee compensates for that time spent. If BLG determines it is not the right law firm to handle your case, we can refund your consultation fee. A consultation fee may also be refunded for contingency and injury cases.

What is a retainer?

A retainer is payment towards future work and expenses. After your consultation, BLG will be better able to estimate the time and work it may take to accomplish your goals in the case. Your initial retainer will reflect that estimation and will be placed into BLG’s trust account. The retainer will remain in the account until it is spent through work billed or used to pay any other authorized expenses.

How do I know how my retainer is being spent?

As work is performed on your case, BLG will keep track of the time spent by the tenth of an hour. Once a month you will receive an invoice that will contain a breakdown of who performed work on your case, what their hourly rate is, date the work took place, how much time was spent working on your case, and a description of the work performed. The invoice will show the total amount that was paid by your retainer and how much of your retainer is left. 

What happens once my retainer is spent?

Once your retainer has been spent, it will need to be replenished in order for BLG to continue to work on your case. In some situations, instead of replenishing your retainer, BLG may bill monthly invoices to you. Monthly invoices will then need to be paid within 30 days of receipt.

Is the retainer refundable?

If your case is handled in less amount of time than what was estimated, up to 50% of your retainer may be refunded.

Why are retainers and litigation so expensive?

Ultimately, costs are high due to multiple factors. A lawyer’s education, expertise, demand, and experience will be reflected in their hourly rate. Most often lawyers bill clients at their hourly rate. Generally speaking, the more complex your case is, the more hours will be spent working on it. Work is also often a direct result of what the opposing party creates. There may also be additional expenses such as filing fees, court fees, etc.

Is BLG upfront about the costs associated with litigation? 

Absolutely. BLG’s main goal is to ensure that the pursuit of your case is a good decision for you! We let you know upfront what your case may potentially cost you and we are transparent with our fees. Though your fees are often a result of how much work the other side creates, BLG is familiar with the tactics they may use to inflict monetary pain on you. We do our best to inform you of those potential tactics. We always do our best to keep you informed, every step of the way! Before any major steps are taken that could lead to increased fees, BLG will ensure you are fully informed and agree with the strategy of your case.