Because Law++ follows a client-centric approach, litigation in our firm looks a little different. With our clients, we understand there’s more to a case than winning. All litigation has the potential to be complicated, expensive, and incredibly stressful. These aspects are all taken into account when we take on a case.
Let’s dive in!
The Litigation Intake
As we generally stick to breach of contract and similar cases, our intake process is generally straightforward. We need to know the answers to two questions:
- What happened?
- What would you like to happen to make things right?
When I get these answers, we have a conversation about what the litigation process might look like. Usually the technical details aren’t as interesting as how this might impact my client. Part of my intake includes talking about the mental stress, public relations impact, and the business impact of a case. If I think there is a better business or PR strategy, I will let my clients know. Litigation is a huge money maker for me, so my advice to pursue a different route should hold a lot of weight.
For example, I had a client whose employee broke their non-compete and started attempting to directly solicit past customers. Instead of suing, I convinced the client to take every client out to lunch to expand their business. The cost was less, and it was a huge boost to my client’s business.
These strategies are on a case-by-case basis. This is also a huge advantage I have over other firms because I have the business, public relations, and legal backgrounds all combined.
Litigation Complaint
Broadly speaking, every case starts with a complaint. The complaint needs to include each cause of action you’re suing for plus enough facts to satisfy the elements of those causes of action.
I always tell my clients this is where I spend the most time and focus. If we submit a really well drafted complaint, the rest of the case is easier. The complaint becomes the foundation for your entire case.
Post Complaint Process
From there, the defendant(s) have the chance to answer the complaint, countersue, or file motions.
After filing, there’s discovery and more motions. Discovery is the process of collecting evidence under oath. Depositions, interrogatories, requests for production of documents, and requests for admission are all types of discovery.
If your case is for over $25,000, the court will require you attend mediation before going to trial. If it is under $25,000, the court will require you attend an arbitration. Especially in breach of contract cases, these are valuable tools to resolve cases without taking up too much of the court’s time.
Cost
The cheapest I can do a breach of contract case is around $2,000. Most easy cases are between $4,000 and $10,000. Complicated cases are easily over $20,000. A large portion of the price is impacted by how hard the other party fights. If the other party is constantly filing motions to dismiss, I have to fight against each and every one of them.
No matter what the cost ends up being, I give estimates from the start and continually keep my clients informed when new things come up that may impact the overall price. It’s up to you whether to continue going forward with a case. My jobs are keeping you fully informed and advocating the best I can on your behalf using the law and facts we have.