FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- Will I be working directly with an attorney?
- What if Mr. Schwartz or Mr. Farer are out of town?
- Will I be asked to sign a retainer letter?
- How are fees calculated?
- Do you charge a retainer fee?
- Do you handle other areas of law?
- Do you receive a referral fee in such a case?
- Have you ever had matters referred to you?
- Do you charge a consultation fee?
- Do you give advice over the telephone?
Q: Will I be working directly with an attorney?
A: Yes you will. Although most day to day matters may be handled by our paralegals Trish Terrault and Christine Spelich, Steven D. Farer and Kenneth M. Schwartz are always available to discuss your matter directly with you.
Q: What if Mr. Schwartz or Mr. Farer are out of town?
A: For those rare times that both Mr. Schwartz and Mr. Farer are both out of town, the staff can usually reach them via cell phone. In the event that they cannot be contacted, arrangements have been made prior to their departure for coverage by capable local counsel.
Q: Will I be asked to sign a retainer letter?
A: Whether the matter is standard real estate closing or complex litigation, you will be requested to sign a retainer letter. By use of a retainer letter clients can know what to expect from the firm in terms of representation. The retainer letter further outlines your responsibilities in that representation.
A: It depends. For residential real estate transactions, a reasonable flat fee is paid, generally at the closing. For commercial transactions, the fee is based upon the work involved to produce the desired result. In litigation matters, an hourly fee is charged.
Q: Do you charge a retainer fee?
A: At this time, a retainer fee is only collected for litigation matters. However, this policy is subject to change.
Q: Do you handle other areas of law?
A: This is a general practice law firm. We prepare Wills as well as advise and represent clients in general business and personal matters. If we do not handle a particular matter, we will work with you to find counsel who can handle your matter.
Q: Do you receive a referral fee in such a case?
A: To date, no referral fees have been received for finding competent legal representation for those matters not handled by Farer & Schwartz, P.C.
Q: Have you ever had matters referred to you?
A: Yes we have. A number of attorneys in the area have referred clients with various legal problems to our office.
Q: Do you charge a consultation fee?
A: Generally, we charge a $75.00 consultation fee for a half-hour consultation. This fee is usually waived if we ultimately represent you in this matter.
Q: Do you give advice over the telephone?
A: Only when there is an established Attorney/Client relationship. Advice to first time callers is not given over the telephone. It is hard to give adequate advice when you haven't had the opportunity to review any documents.
