From your first call to the last signature
Every case moves through the same four stages, so you always know where things stand and what comes next.
The four stages, in full
What happens at each one, and what I need from you. The first three stages usually take about two weeks.
STAGE 01
First call
30 minutes · usually within two days
You tell me what happened, in your own words. I ask the questions a judge would ask, then tell you honestly whether it’s worth pursuing. If it isn’t, I’ll say so, and you won’t pay a thing.
WHAT I NEED FROM YOU
The names of the other side, for the conflict check · any letter, contract or court paper you have · twenty minutes somewhere you can talk freely
STAGE 02
Case assessment
In writing, within 48 hours · $3,500 fixed
I read everything, research the law, and write down your strongest claims, the defences they’ll run, and a realistic range of outcomes, including the one where you walk away.
WHAT I NEED FROM YOU
The full document set, even the parts that hurt · a timeline of what happened, however rough · any deadline someone has given you
STAGE 03
Strategy & fee plan
Agreed within a week
We choose the route together: which court or forum, what I file first, and when we try to settle. You get a fixed or capped price for every stage, and nothing starts until you sign.
WHAT I NEED FROM YOU
A decision on the route, with my recommendation · your budget, and what matters most to you · a signed engagement letter
STAGE 04
Resolution
Weeks to months, depending on the route
Settlement, mediation, arbitration or trial. I prepare every case as if it will be tried, which is usually why it doesn’t need to be. You get my view on every offer, and the number I’d take.
WHAT I NEED FROM YOU
Your availability for the key dates · a decision on each offer, with my advice · patience in discovery: it’s where cases are won
IF IT GOES TO TRIAL
Rare, but never a surprise
Most of my cases end before a jury is seated. The ones that don’t are the reason the others settle well: the other side knows I’m ready to finish it.
of my cases since 2019 reached a verdict. I prepare every one as if it will.
WHAT A TRIAL LOOKS LIKE
01
Pre-trial conference
Exhibits, witnesses and a trial budget, capped monthly and agreed in writing.
Months before
02
Motions in limine
What the jury may and may not hear. Often where trials are won.
Weeks before
03
Jury selection
I choose with you; you’ll see every questionnaire.
Usually one day
04
Trial
With me at the table every day, and a written summary every evening.
3 to 8 court days
05
Verdict and after
Post-trial motions and appeal options, explained in writing, with prices.
Weeks after
STAGE ONE IS FREE
Start with a thirty-minute call.
I read every enquiry myself and reply within one business day, usually sooner. If a court deadline is close, call instead of writing.
Contacting me does not create an attorney–client relationship.