Why do I need an attorney?
There are a number of reasons you may need an attorney. An attorney can play a significant role in the legal proceeding that include knowledge, counsel, and advocacy. An attorney can make sure that you are not using inaccurate or false information that you may find on the Internet or hear from misinformed friends and family. Legal matters can quickly become complicated and confusing if you are not familiar with both the law and how the legal system is structured. An attorney can help you navigate the complexities of your case and protect you from being taken advantage of or making a mistake.
Why hire Catalyst to be my attorney?
Catalyst attorneys are trained in a number of legal disciplines. We work hard to understand the needs and desires of our clients. Unfortunately, many attorneys make big promises, under deliver, and leave clients with a large bill and small results. Catalyst was founded on the belief that clients are a priority above all else. We are passionate about our clients and advocating for the best interests of our clients. We love what we do, and we are proud of the ways we take care of our clients.
Why doesn’t Catalyst charge by the hour?
Catalyst doesn’t charge by the hour because we believe that hourly billing fails to incentivize attorneys to work efficiently for clients. We have heard innumerable stories about law firms sticking their clients with enormous bills that clients didn’t expect. Catalyst doesn’t charge its clients by the hour. Rather, we operate on flat fee or contingency agreements. A flat fee agreement makes the cost of representation transparent to the client. Our clients know what they are going to pay and are not surprised by a bill!
Is the Flat Fee offered by Catalyst a discount?
A flat fee does not necessarily mean a discount. Often, clients find that a flat fee is cheaper than paying an attorney by the hour, but that’s not why Catalyst attorney’s offer flat fees. We offer flat fees so that clients know what they are going to pay and are not surprised by an unexpected bill.
Is a free initial consultation offered?
Yes, Catalyst offers free initial consultations. At an initial consultation we will listen to you, learn about your case, and discuss possible solutions and strategies to solve your problem. Contact us to set up a free initial consultation.
What is the next step after the initial consultation?
After an initial consultation, your Catalyst attorney will prepare a written strategy to resolve your particular issue. In conjunction with the strategy, an engagement letter will be prepared that reflects the fees and costs of the services to be provided by Catalyst. After you execute the engagement letter and pay any fees that are due, Catalyst will immediately execute the proposed strategy.
Can I pay with a credit card?
Generally, Catalyst accepts payment by debit card, credit card, check, and bank transfer. In some cases it may not be ethical or proper for a client to use a particular payment method or a particular account to tender payment. Your attorney will discuss those issues with you if they relate to your particular matter.
Can I make payments on my bill over time?
In general, Catalyst is willing to allow a client to pay for services over time. Please discuss the particulars of your matter and your need to make payments with your attorney prior to the preparation of your engagement letter.
Will Catalyst help me prepare court documents and then let me be my own attorney?
Catalyst is willing to enter into limited scope engagements that allow Catalyst to “ghost write” or only prepare documents for a client who does not want or cannot afford representation by an attorney in court. This service may be slightly more expensive than a reputable form preparation service because Catalyst’s attorneys will take the time to be certain that the forms and documents meet a client’s individual needs. On the whole this can be a cost effective solution for a client to receive quality advice and the correct documents for court.
What if I need advice or coaching as I work to resolve an issue?
Occasional advice or coaching is another example of a limited scope engagement offered by Catalyst. Sometimes it can be helpful for a client to understand their options at various stages of a dispute. Catalyst is willing to spend the time to understand the entirety of the issue and counsel a client in both legal options and methods to negotiate a solution. Fees for this type of engagement vary with the complexity of the issue and the amount of coaching required. Your Catalyst attorney will discuss this option with you if this will meet your individual needs.
Do I have to come to your office or can you meet me?
Catalyst attorneys are willing to meet at our office, your office or your home. Often there are sensitive issues and legal strategy discussed at a meeting with your attorney. For this reason, we hesitate to meet in a public location like a restaurant or coffee shop to discuss those sensitive or confidential issues.