Terms & Conditions for Rise Family and Estate Law

1. Formation of the Attorney–Client Relationship

No attorney–client relationship is created with our firm unless and until we are formally retained to represent you in a specific legal matter. Contacting our office, speaking with an attorney, or scheduling a consultation does not, by itself, establish representation.

To formally hire our firm, all of the following steps must be completed:

  1. Firm Agreement to Represent You – We must expressly agree to provide legal representation in a defined matter.

  2. Execution of the Legal Services Agreement – You must review, sign, and return our Legal Services Agreement. Your signed agreement is subject to our review and acceptance upon receipt.

  3. Advance Fee Deposit – You must pay the required advance fee deposit as outlined in the Legal Services Agreement.

Until these steps are completed, you should not expect our firm or any attorney in the firm to take action on your behalf.

2. Initial Consultation Meetings

An initial consultation with an attorney from our firm—whether paid or unpaid—does not create an attorney–client relationship. During this stage, you are considered a Prospective Client under RPC 1.18. The purpose of the consultation is to evaluate your situation and determine whether both you and the firm wish to proceed with representation.

Any comments, impressions, or preliminary opinions provided during an initial consultation are general in nature. They are not legal advice upon which you should rely, and they may require additional information, research, or review before any action is taken.

3. Scope of Representation

If you retain our firm, the scope of representation will be defined in the Legal Services Agreement. Our representation is limited to the specific matter identified in that agreement. Any additional services or new matters require a separate agreement and may involve additional fees.

4. Billing Practices

Our firm bills for legal services on an hourly basis in 0.1‑hour (6‑minute) increments. All time spent on your matter—including meetings, document preparation, communications, research, and court appearances—is billed at the applicable hourly rate.

A 3% document‑production charge applies to cover administrative and technology costs associated with preparing, organizing, and managing case documents.

You will receive periodic invoices detailing the work performed, time spent, and any costs or expenses incurred.

5. Trial Representation

Our firm provides full representation through all stages of litigation, including trial. Trial preparation and courtroom work typically require significant attorney time and resources. These services will be billed at the hourly rates outlined in your Legal Services Agreement.

6. Communication and Client Responsibilities

We strive to maintain clear and timely communication. You agree to:

  • Provide accurate and complete information relevant to your matter

  • Respond to requests for information or documents in a timely manner

  • Keep us informed of changes to your contact information

Failure to provide necessary information may impact our ability to represent you effectively.

7. Conflicts of Interest

Before accepting representation, our firm conducts a conflict‑of‑interest review. If a conflict is identified, we may be unable to represent you. If a conflict arises during representation, we will notify you promptly and discuss next steps.

8. Termination of Representation

You may terminate our representation at any time by providing written notice. We may withdraw from representation as permitted by the Rules of Professional Conduct, including for nonpayment of fees, failure to cooperate, or other good cause.

Upon termination, you remain responsible for all fees and costs incurred up to the date representation ends.

9. Governing Law

These Terms and Conditions, and any Legal Services Agreement entered into with our firm, are governed by the laws and professional rules applicable in our jurisdiction.

10. Website and Informational Content

Information on our website or provided during initial consultations is for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Legal outcomes depend on the specific facts of each case.

11. Acceptance of Terms

By engaging with our firm, scheduling a consultation, or submitting information through our website, you acknowledge that you have read and understand these Terms and Conditions. Formal representation begins only after all requirements in Section 1 have been satisfied.