Tierney Stauffer LLP

Before you call about family law / divorce

General guidance for this kind of matter, not advice about your situation and not specific to this firm.

Questions worth asking

• Do you push toward settlement or mediation first, or straight to court?
• What is your realistic estimate of total cost for a matter like mine?
• How are decisions about the children handled if we cannot agree?
• How quickly do you respond, and who do I contact when you are in court?

How this work is usually billed

Family work is usually hourly against a retainer you top up as it is drawn down. Uncontested separations are sometimes offered as a flat fee. The cost gap between a negotiated agreement and a contested trial is very large, so ask about both.

What to have ready

Dates of marriage and separation, a rough list of assets and debts, recent pay information for both parties, and any agreement already signed.