Fees

The complexity and duration of my work varies. For this reason, I cannot provide a price list or even a range of costs. Each engagement requires a unique discussion of client needs and means. These discussions result in an arrangement that best suits what the client requires at a cost the client can afford.

Experience shows client preferences for one (or a combination) of the following three billing arrangements:

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A. Project Pricing: Under this method, the client and I agree on a fixed project price, paid over the life of the project. Historically, a majority of my work has been arranged in this way. Clients prefer its predictability, in both payment amounts and total project cost. Pricing in this way also beneficially forces everyone to explore and understand the project better at the beginning. The result is a more complete assessment of objectives, means, timing and potential obstacles.

B. Retainer Arrangement: Some of my ongoing engagements lend themselves better to a fixed monthly payment. Candidates for this method might be assistance to committees, advice in a particular subject area or ongoing assistance to particular people or departments. This arrangement usually affords a client unlimited access to my services (calls, letters, advice, meeting attendance, document drafting) during the period. It tends to encourage sooner resort to legal help, which in turn solves small problems before they become large ones.

C. Hourly Rate: Clients may prefer, or the assignment may favor, a traditional hourly rate method. Since the final fee total is not fixed in the beginning, a client is entitled on request to a specific written estimate of the final fee likely to be charged. Like all assignments, I believe in thorough discussions at the beginning of hourly rate work and encourage at least verbal agreement on scope and cost in advance. Please call our office at (513) 733-1759 for current hourly rates.

Billing Principles

Regardless of the fee method chosen, the following principles guide my discussions with clients on billing and pricing:

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• I generally do not charge for telephone, photocopies, postage, local travel or overtime except in extraordinary situations that are agreed to in advance.

• I discuss all substantial expenses, such as Lexis charges, out of town travel, court costs, etc. before incurring the expense.

• I will format and tender my bills in manner that suits my client’s audit requirements.

• No bill is final until the client says it is. A client has a clear right to discuss a bill with me without feeling like a nitpicker.