Are you limited to only handling cases in Fannin or Gilmer Counties?

No. Our practice includes most of the mountain counties and some Metro Atlanta counties. We do not mind traveling to represent a client. If there is extensive travel involved, the cost may be built into the fee or billed as a separate charge, but the attorney will discuss that with you prior to taking your case or charging a travel fee.

Do you charge a Consultation Fee?

There have been cases in which we have met with clients to consult about their case and we have not charged a consultation fee. You need to talk with the attorney before scheduling your appointment. By speaking with you prior to your appointment, the attorney can judge the complexity of your case and have some idea if a consultation fee will be charged.

If you take my case, how much will my retainer be?

We cannot know how much your retainer will be in advance. Once the attorney has consulted with you on your case, the attorney will go over the fees and charges that will be involved in handling your case.

Do you ever accept “partial payments” or work with clients on a payment schedule?

Yes, we can work with you to calculate a payment schedule for your fees. There must be an initial amount paid up front, but the attorney will be happy to work with you on paying the fee.

Do you require a retainer to handle a real estate closing?

No! Retainers are not charged on real estate closings. All fees of the attorney are collected at the closing. There are no “upfront” legal fees.

Do you mind handling cases for clients from out of state?

Absolutely not! We have many clients who are not from this area. Part of being an attorney in a “tourist” area is representing clients from many different states. However, we do NOT represent clients IN other states. We are licensed to practice law only in the State of Georgia and our efforts are limited to the State of Georgia.

I can’t physically come to the closing as I am in another state. Is it possible to send the documents to me to sign?

Yes, this is known as a “Mail Out” and the documents can be sent or emailed to you for you to sign. There is a “Mail Out Fee” for this service as it does require extra effort and time on the part of the attorney and the staff. It is also required that you go to a title company or an attorneys office to execute the documents.

Can I write a personal check or a money market check for the down payment I need to buy the house?

No. We must have a bank cashier’s check or a wire from your bank. Georgia law states that a closing attorney cannot accept anything other than “good funds” for the closing in excess of Five Thousand ($5,000) dollars. This has been interpreted by the State Bar to mean cashiers checks or cash/wires only

How often should I have a new will?

There is no set time for when you should consider writing a new will. It is a
general rule, however, that every will should be reviewed every five years. Think about how much has changed in the last five years. The attorney can meet with you and you can decide, after the consultation with the attorney, if you think you need to write a new will.