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Fees, Expenses, & Retainers
Working with Richard O’Neill, Jr. & Associates,
P.C. begins with an initial consultation, free of charge up to the
first half hour. We view this initial meeting as a two-way interview.
First for O’Neill & Associates to learn about the client’s case and
whether or not we can help. Second, for the potential client to get to
know and feel comfortable with us.
Should a potential client decide to retain our
services, we require a signed fee agreement. This document outlines the
fee structure per attorney and per support staff and lists the retainer
needed. O’Neill & Associates accepts checks as well as all major credit
cards (Master Card, Visa, and American Express).
Though we do our best to estimate how much a case might cost, it is very
difficult to give an approximate amount. Each case is unique and many of
the outlying issues are out of our control. The complexity of the issue,
methods and strategies pursued by adverse parties, and scheduling
conflicts within the court system can all impact the fee. We do notify
clients should there be any changes in the fee structure as a case
progresses.
For cases taken on a contingency basis, such as
personal injury, the fee is based on the outcome of a settlement or a
trial verdict and will not be calculated until the matter has been
concluded.
Work begins once there is a signed fee agreement
and the client has paid the retainer.
Telephone Calls & Appointments
Richard O’Neill, Jr. & Associates, P.C. prides itself on
communication with our clients. If the attorney is not available, we
encourage clients to leave detailed messages with a member of the
legal team so that the client’s issues can be dealt with as soon as
the attorney can turn his/her attention to the matter. Many times, the
support staff can relay information to the attorney to help facilitate
the communication channel. Under these circumstances, however, please
understand that the support staff cannot give legal advice.
Richard O’Neill, Jr. & Associates, P.C. also encourages clients to
schedule appointments with their attorney to ensure that all clients
concerns and issues are addressed. Clients also have the option of
e-mailing their attorney for answers to questions.
Client Responsibilities
Honesty and trust are critical to achieving the client’s desired
outcome. To that end, Richard O’Neill, Jr. & Associates, P.C.
expects full cooperation and disclosure from our clients during
the course of our legal relationship. Part of that pact means
keeping us apprised of any changes in your address and telephone
number and paying retainers and other fees in a prompt and
businesslike manner. This will not only help us serve you the
client better, but will ultimately decrease overall legal costs. |
