Will you be encouraging my client to sue me for malpractice?

No. Frankly, I am not an expert on legal malpractice and cannot advise clients in this area. Before beginning representation, I must receive a waiver from your client, acknowledging that I will not be advising them on potential malpractice claims. The waiver refers such questions to the Lawyer Referral Service of the San Diego County Bar Association. My sole concentration is on winning your appeal.

How can your fees be paid if the client's case was taken on a contingency?

If you are defending an appeal, part of the fee can usually be contingent on success. If you are the appealing party, we have to be more creative. I am willing to work with you to create an acceptable financing alternative.

Can you give me a flat rate for the appeal, instead of an hourly rate?

Yes. I can quote both if you wish.

Do you do all of the work yourself, or do you employ others?

I have no employees, but I do use independent contractors to do some of the work. As a general rule, I will not use the services of any attorney with less than 10 years of appellate experience. I supervise all work and am the attorney of record. All work performed is covered by my malpractice policy.

What if I don't need complete representation, but just need some help on procedural details?

I can provide any level of help you feel you need, from assembling the record to reviewing and editing the brief.

What if my appeal is in trouble, and I cannot get any more extensions?

I will work with you to get the best possible product in front of the Court of Appeal, given the time available. Obviously, it is much better to have sufficient time to revise and improve briefs before they are filed.

What information do I need before I contact you?

The names of the parties and the Superior Court case number are needed to run a check for conflicts prior to meeting with you about your case.