People are afraid of lawyers. Not because of lawsuits—but because of billing.

They’ve heard the stories. You ask a question, and an invoice shows up. You send an email, and somehow you’re billed for the partner, the associate, and the paralegal who all read it. You schedule a call, and by the time you say hello, the meter’s already running.

So let’s start here: Yes, you can talk to me without getting a bill.

I offer free consultations for exactly this reason. You shouldn’t be penalized for asking whether I’m the right fit, or whether your issue even requires legal work.

A consultation is just that—a chance to talk. No clock. No pressure. No invoice.

Why the Fear Exists

Legal billing has earned its bad reputation. In many firms, even the most casual client contact is treated as “billable.” That includes reviewing your intake form, reading your email, confirming your calendar appointment, and routing your message to the right department.

Worse, you may not know who’s actually doing the work—or how many people are touching it. One senior lawyer assigns it to a junior. The junior asks a paralegal. The paralegal runs it by admin. Everyone bills. You pay.

That’s not myth. That’s how large-firm systems often work. And if you’re not a large client, it can feel like you’re subsidizing someone else’s priority.

The Difference in a Solo Practice

When you reach out to me, you’re speaking directly to the person who’ll be doing the work. I don’t have associates. I don’t pass you off. And I don’t bill for correspondence or background reading or checking my own calendar.

When I do charge, I charge for actual legal work. If you’re on a flat-fee arrangement, that’s the price. If we’re working hourly, it’s at a published rate, scoped in advance, and tracked honestly.

But if you’re just reaching out to ask, “Is this something you handle?” or “How does this typically work?”—that’s not billable. That’s how trust starts.

What to Expect from a Free Consultation

A free consultation doesn’t mean I’ll give you a legal opinion without understanding your situation. But it does mean we’ll talk. I’ll ask a few questions. I’ll listen carefully. And if I can help, I’ll tell you how—and what it would cost.

If I’m not the right fit, I’ll tell you that, too.

The purpose of that first call isn’t to squeeze value. It’s to decide whether this relationship makes sense.

Bottom Line

You shouldn’t need legal advice just to find out what legal advice will cost you.

If you’re curious whether I can help, just ask. I won’t start the clock. I won’t send a surprise bill. And I won’t treat a simple question like a transaction.

Sometimes the most important part of a legal relationship is how it begins.

Want to talk about your next deal—or just ask a question?
Click here to schedule a consultation.