How fees work
I bill hourly. My rate is set at your consultation and confirmed in a written fee agreement before any work begins. I bill in tenth-of-an-hour increments and send a detailed invoice each month, so you always know where your case stands.
Unlike many firms, I do not generally require a large advance retainer to begin work. I bill monthly for work performed, and I expect invoices to be paid when due. The exception is a case with immediate court proceedings, where I ask for an advance deposit of roughly ten hours of work, held in trust and applied to your invoices.
Flat fees
Certain matters are offered at a flat fee, agreed in advance: premarital and post-marital agreements, uncontested dissolutions where terms are already agreed, judgment packages, and adult name changes. Ask at your consultation.
Attorney's fees from the other side
California law allows the court to order one spouse to contribute to the other's attorney's fees when there is a significant disparity in income or access to funds. If that applies to you, we will discuss it at the outset and, where appropriate, request it early in the case.