We work diligently to provide quality legal representation at reasonable rates. Before undertaking any legal work that may result in substantial costs, we will discuss the benefits and anticipated expenses with you so you can make informed decisions about how to proceed.
You are billed for the time we spend working on your case, including your initial consultation. We charge an hourly rate and track time in six-minute increments. This includes time spent on phone calls, emails, court appearances, document preparation, and all other work performed on your behalf.
When you engage our firm, you will pay an initial deposit —a sum of money held in our escrow account (a separate trust account for client funds). As we work on your case, fees are drawn from the escrowed funds to cover our services.
The amount of the initial escrow deposit depends on:
- The complexity of your case
- Your attorney’s hourly billing rate
- The anticipated scope of work
Any funds remain in your escrow account at the conclusion of your case will be returned to you.
Our billing cycle ends on the last day of each month. By the fifth business day of each month, you will receive a detailed invoice showing:
- The legal work performed on your case
- Total time spent by attorneys and staff
- Costs incurred on your behalf, which may include:
- Delivery and postage charges
- Photocopying and scanning costs
- Facsimile charges
Some expenses, such as court reporters, process servers, and expert witnesses, may need to be paid directly by you to those third parties. Your fees and costs are deducted from your escrowed funds at the end of each billing cycle.
If your case is in litigation, your attorney will estimate the costs to prepare for and represent you at trial. The deposit of the estimated trial funds will be due 90 days prior to trial.
Taking an active role in your case can help minimize expenses. Here are a few practical steps you can take:
Except for emergencies or urgent matters, try to save up multiple questions or updates before contacting your attorney. This is more efficient than reaching out every time a single question arises.
The more thorough information you provide initially, the less time (and expense) we will need to spend gathering details from other sources.
Make your own copies of documents when possible to reduce staff time and copying fees.
Write down your questions in advance of calls or meetings. This helps ensure that you cover everything efficiently and that you do not forget important items.
Assist with the discovery process by promptly providing copies of financial documents and keeping meticulous records during your separation and throughout the divorce process.
Family law matters can trigger strong emotions. When possible, take time to process your initial reactions before making decisions. Focus on your long-term goals rather than immediate emotional responses.
We will provide honest assessments about settlement options and likely outcomes if your case goes to trial. Litigation should be a last resort, used only after exploring and attempting other resolution options.
Cooper Ginsberg Gray’s Divorce Coach, Dr. Leah Nathan, helps our clients navigate the emotional and practical challenges of divorce, from communication strategies and co-parenting support to goal setting and finding closure. She also provides support through a complimentary 30-minute initial consultation, additional one-on-one assistance at her hourly rate, a free weekly support group and periodic free seminars on a variety of relevant topics such as “Divorcing a Narcissist” and “Negotiation Tips for Mediation and Trial.” We have found that clients who work with Dr. Nathan on the emotional side of divorce are often able to reduce the overall legal fees associated with their case.
We believe in complete transparency regarding legal costs. If you have questions about our fee structure or your invoice, please do not hesitate to reach out. We are here to help you understand every aspect of your case, including the financial side.