How a case runs
From the first note to the last hearing
Every lawsuit moves at its own pace. These are the stages most cases pass through, in order.
- 01
Step 1: A summary
You send the parties, the court and any date coming up. Caspian reads it himself.
- 02
Step 2: A first conversation
You talk through the case, and he tells you honestly whether he can help and what the main questions are.
- 03
Step 3: An engagement letter
Fees, expected costs and what the firm will do are set out in writing. Nothing begins before you sign.
- 04
Step 4: Pleadings
The complaint and the answer set out each side's story. A missed deadline here can be costly, so this stage moves first.
- 05
Step 5: Discovery
Each side asks the other for documents and sworn answers. Most of a case is won or settled here.
- 06
Step 6: Settlement or trial
Most cases settle. If yours does not, the case goes to a judge or a jury, prepared by the same lawyer.
What it costs
Fees and costs are two different things
The fee agreement depends on the case. Defense work is usually hourly against a retainer. A claim by a business or an owner may be hourly, fixed for a defined step, or in some matters contingent on recovery. Which applies to yours is set out in your engagement letter.
Whatever the arrangement, costs such as court filing fees, depositions, experts and copies are separate from legal fees, and you may owe them even if the case does not recover money. Caspian will give you an estimate before you sign.
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