FEES

Fixed Fees . A fixed fee arrangement accommodates most estate planning. During the first meeting clients describe their situation and goals, and Chris educates them about their suitable planning options. On determination and selection of the desired plan and accompanying documents, Chris can then suggest a fee. It is difficult to anticipate what will be the proscribed plan and corresponding fee until after this information exchange takes place in the first meeting. The work is commenced only upon agreement. If clients choose not to proceed, the only fee charged is a reduced nominal fee of up to $250 to cover the legal and tax advice (often extensive) that is imparted in the first meeting.

The fixed fee estate planning package encompasses: a meeting for the exchange of information and for education about appropriate specific planning options and legal and tax issues; preparation of drafts of documents, accompanied by a briefer outline ("the English translation"); opportunity by phone to discuss questions or changes to the draft document; and a meeting for signing and review of the documents and any other steps in the plan.

Hourly. For situations that are less defined or more open-ended, the amount of legal time expended would be tracked at the rate of $325 per hour for attorney time and $150 to $170 per hour for legal assistant time.

OFFICE HOURS. We are available by appointment during general business hours of Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. However, we are willing to be flexible for those whose schedules may require earlier morning or later afternoon/early evening appointments. Home visits can also be arranged for those unable to meet at our convenient office.

PARKING. We offer free parking on a surface lot immediately adjacent to our first floor offices.