Consultation Fees, Explained (and What You Get for It)

Many people reach out during an extremely stressful time and understandably want quick answers: “Can you help?” “Is there an issue?” “What are the chances?” In post-conviction work, responsible answers require more than a brief conversation, they require analysis.

A paid consultation helps ensure I can give you focused, professional attention.

In a consultation, I typically:

• identify the type of post-conviction matter you are describing (appeal, habeas, resentencing, RJA, or another remedy);

• ask targeted questions about procedural history and deadlines;

• flag what information I would need to evaluate the case responsibly (e.g., key documents, transcripts, prior filings); and

• outline realistic next steps, including whether the situation sounds like something my office handles or should be referred elsewhere.

A consultation is not a guarantee of representation, and it is not a promise of a particular result. Post-conviction litigation is fact-specific, record-specific, and governed by detailed procedural rules. In many cases, meaningful evaluation requires reviewing transcripts and court filings.

If you are scheduling a consultation, it helps to gather what you can beforehand, such as the sentencing date, case number, court, and any notices or orders you have received. The more accurate the information, the more useful the consultation will be.

Disclaimer: This post is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship.