How it works
Six stages, one written plan
Every case follows a written plan that we rewrite as it changes. These are the stages most business lawsuits pass through, and what you do at each one.
- 01
Step 1: A thirty-minute first call
We check for conflicts, hear what has happened and flag any deadline running against you. Free, and it does not make us your lawyers.
- 02
Step 2: The written plan
Within a week of signing, you get the likely path of the case, a budget for each stage and the settlement range we would aim for.
- 03
Step 3: The opening papers
We file the complaint, or the answer and any counterclaim. Early motions can end a weak claim here.
- 04
Step 4: Discovery
Both sides trade documents and take depositions. It is the longest and most expensive stage, so we keep it to what proves the case.
- 05
Step 5: Mediation
A neutral helps the sides negotiate. Most of our cases settle at or soon after this step.
- 06
Step 6: Trial or arbitration
If it doesn't settle, we try it, and you know the cost of that before you decide.
What it costs
Budgets, in writing, by stage
We bill by the hour and give you a budget for each stage before it starts: the opening papers, discovery, mediation and trial. If a stage will run over, we tell you before it does, with the reason.
Demand letters and contract reviews are flat fees, quoted on the first call. We do not take business cases on contingency, so you will not owe a share of any recovery.
Court filing fees, deposition transcripts, experts and an arbitrator's fees are costs on top of our fees, and they are yours whatever the outcome. The plan lists the ones we expect.
Before you sign an engagement letter
What do you need from me at the start?
The contract, anything you have been served with, and a rough timeline of what happened. We will tell you how to send documents once we have cleared conflicts.
Who will work on my case?
One of our three lawyers leads it from start to finish, with a second who knows the file. You will always know who to call.
How often will I hear from you?
Whenever something happens, and at least monthly with a short written update against the plan.
Thirty minutes, and a clear next step
By phone, video or in our North Loop office. Bring the questions the guides left open.
A first call is free and doesn't make us your lawyers; a signed engagement letter does.