How a case runs

From the first phone call to the final order

Every family is different, but most cases move through the same six steps. Here they are, with what you do at each one.

01
Step 1: The first call
A short, private call to check for conflicts and book your meeting. Tell us a safe number and a safe time.
02
Step 2: One hour with a lawyer
In person on Speedway or by video. You tell the story; we explain the law, the likely costs and the timeline.
03
Step 3: Your one-page plan
A written plan with the goal, the steps, the dates and a cost estimate. If you hire us, you sign an engagement letter.
04
Step 4: Filing and temporary orders
We file the papers, serve the other side, and ask for a temporary arrangement for the kids, the house or support if needed.
05
Step 5: Disclosure and mediation
Both sides exchange financial records. Then we try to settle, usually with a mediator, with you prepared for every question.
06
Step 6: The final order
An agreement signed by a judge, or a trial if one is needed. Afterward we explain what the order means for daily life.

How we bill

What you pay for, in writing

We bill by the hour, and you get an estimate before any work starts.

A written estimate
After the first meeting, an estimate for each step of your plan, not one big number.
A retainer, explained
An advance held in a trust account and drawn down as we work. Anything unused comes back to you.
Monthly statements
Every charge listed by date, task and lawyer. Questions answered without a billing call.

It’s a short, private call. We’ll take it from there.