Overview
The idea of contacting a law firm to seek help may immediately bring concerns regarding cost.
- How much is this going to cost?
- Can we afford it?
- Is it worth it?
- Are the costs clearly outlined?
- Will there be surprises?
It is important to us to clearly communicate costs and help you weigh the benefits versus costs. Questions? Contact us and we will gladly assist you.
Free Information
Please look through our legal information, articles, and guides. These are designed to help you understand your rights, roles and advocate on your own. They are free of charge.
Paralegals/Advocates
Our passionate paralegals/advocates assist parents and caregivers with IEP’s, representation at meetings and much more. Their fees average $175-275 per hour. Each paralegal/advocate works with the assistance of an attorney.
Attorneys /Advocates
Attorneys focus on finalizing a resolution through the mediation process and, if needed, hearings and appeals.
Costs vary when seeking full legal representation. While our families are ultimately responsible for legal fees, we ask for a percentage along the way. Our expectation is that the district will eventually pay a large percentage of legal fees as part of a final settlement.
At the outset, clients are asked to pay a $2000 retention fee. This amount is directly applied to any future fees. Atorrneys fees range from $250-650 per hour
In the unlikely event of a due process hearing, we cap our fees at $40,000 and ask for $25,000 in advance; at least four weeks prior to the hearing. If we prevail you have the right to seek recovery of your fees and we will assist to make sure all applicable fees are recovered. This may include filing a fee complaint in federal court.
Around 94% of special education cases settle and do not proceed to a hearing.
Depending on the complexities of your case overall fees typically range from $3,500 to $15,000.
Listen to Richard’s interview all about paying for legal services.