This means that the money is still your money but it is on account at our office. If the initial retainer is insufficient to pay for all necessary legal services, you will need to pay the balance owing to our firm as reflected on your monthly billing statement. Payment is due by the 20th day of the month. All funds remaining in your client trust account at the conclusion of our representation will be refunded to you within the following 30 days. If we are representing you in an uncontested case, we will make arrangements with you at the start of your case for the payment of the balance of our fees.
Full payment is required before the final decree is submitted to the court.
Most cases do not proceed to trial. However, if your case is assigned a trial date and remains unresolved, estimated trial fees are due 45 days before the trial date. Trial fees vary from case to case, but we will provide you with a written estimate of such fees at the time that your case is assigned a trial date, typically about three months before the trial date. No settlement will be imposed on you through mediation and all mediated agreements are subject to approval by your attorney. There is no fee for these mediation services.