Frequently Asked Questions
Diver, Grach, Quade & Masini, LLP has the answers
The attorneys at Diver, Grach, Quade & Masini, LLP know how unsettling it can be to face a legal problem on your own. We are here to help our clients navigate Illinois’ complicated laws and see your case through to the best possible resolution, in or out of court. Some of the most frequently asked questions we hear from clients are:
- What should I expect from a lawyer?
- Do you have free initial consultations?
- How will I be billed?
- Is a lawyer needed for real estate transactions?
- Do I need a will?
What should I expect from a lawyer?
You can expect conversations with your attorney to remain confidential. Your attorney should help you analyze your problem, explore possible solutions, and determine the cost effectiveness of various strategies. Your attorney cannot and should not guarantee an outcome. However, you can expect your lawyer to be your best advocate and represent you in a competent, professional manner.
Do you have free initial consultations?
Only personal injury and criminal matters have free initial consultations. There is usually a charge for all other initial consultations due to the value of the attorneys’ knowledge, experience, and time.
How will I be billed?
Generally, personal injury cases have contingent fees. This means attorney fees are charged only when the client wins. Clients and attorneys typically sign a written contingent fee agreement at the outset of the case.
Flat fees are sometimes charged in criminal and traffic cases and other matters not requiring an extensive amount of time.
Most often, an hourly fee is charged for legal services performed. The amount charged per hour is discussed by the attorney before any work is done. Bills are generally sent out on a monthly basis, showing what work was performed and how the attorney’s time was spent. There are certain matters that are billed at the conclusion; however, the attorney can usually estimate the fees at the outset and discuss which variables may affect the overall cost.
An attorney may ask for a retainer fee at the outset. You will still receive monthly bills to keep you informed of the work that has been done. When your case concludes, if there are retainer funds remaining, they will be refunded to you.
Is a lawyer needed for real estate transactions?
While it is not required to have an attorney for real estate transactions, a skilled real estate attorney can prevent you from making a mistake that could cause you a lot of trouble and cost you money later.
Do I need a will?
A will is a document stating exactly how you want your assets to be distributed at the time of your death. If you die without a will, you are leaving it up to state statutes to dictate how your assets will be distributed without regard to your desires or the needs of your heirs. In addition to a will, our lawyers can assess your financial situation and determine which other estate planning documents, such as a living trust, may be in your best interest and in the best interests of the loved ones you leave behind.
Serving clients in Lake County and the surrounding Collar counties
Contact our firm today to speak to one of our seasoned lawyers about your legal matter. We offer free initial consultations for personal injury and criminal cases.
You deserve quality legal representation. You deserve Diver, Grach, Quade & Masini, LLP.
