What kind of matters do we handle?
Largay Law Offices (LLO) handles various personal and business matters involving disputes, including jury trials, and appeals. The main focus of our firm is in injury and medical law for individuals and families, as well as business and property disputes. We assist clients with representation throughout the handling of their claims, whether through informal negotiation, mediation, or actual judge and jury trials.
LLO is a full-service law firm, handling routine matters such as the formation of corporations and LLCs, creation of last wills, powers of attorney, trusts, state and federal misdemeanor and felony criminal defense, and family law matters such as divorce, child and spousal support, parental rights, and responsibilities. The firm has always specialized in business transactions, litigation, simple and complex personal injury, medical malpractice, and other torts, as well as the aggressive defense of individuals charged with a criminal offense.
What if the Firm determines that it IS UNABLE or unwilling to handle A client’s matter after the Consultation?
We take great care in understanding the client’s situation and providing the best factual analysis and legal opinions. In limited situations, when we will not assume further responsibility on a transaction or entering our appearances in court or before a board, the Firm makes a personal recommendation of another lawyer, law firm, or legal services agency. We make personal recommendations to a select group of carefully chosen legal professionals. Never on the basis of promises or the expectation of cross-referrals.
How much does it cost to speak with a Lawyer?
It depends. The Firm refers to its client introductions and meetings as Consultations. For matters that the firm may accept representation on a Contingent Fee basis, whereby the legal fee is a portion of the recovery if any. There is no consultation fee.
For other matters of a transactional, corporate, civil, family, or criminal basis, the Firm offers a flat-rate consultation fee. This standard fee applies regardless of the type of matter or the meeting time needed to advise the client. We offer convenient consultations by telephone, via webcast video, in the office, the client’s home, or place of employment.
What is a Contingent Fee?
You’ve heard the slogan, “No fee paid unless you win!” In essence, that arrangement refers to the use of a contingent fee. Whether or not the client pays the law firm a fee depends on the eventual outcome of the case.
A case is successful when settled by mutual agreement and consent, or when a Judge or Jury returns a verdict in the client’s favor. Most contingent fees are set. Used in personal injury and medical malpractice cases. This firm has in the past handled employment matters, discrimination claims, and some business disputes on a contingent fee basis.
Note that it is unethical for a lawyer to charge a contingent fee based on the outcome of a criminal matter or one involving family law or divorce. The amount of the fee is usually stated as a percentage of the recovery. We discuss whether the client must pay for costs and the set amount of the fee thoroughly with them at our initial consultations and client meetings.
After the initial Consultation, what might it cost to retain the Firm?
The Firm uses written letters or Representation Agreements with regard to every matter. A Letter Agreement summarizes the matter and addresses the fees and costs that may be involved. Typically, used in one-time or more routine matters.
A Representation and Fee Agreement contains specific details of the matter, transaction, or case, professional services involved, hourly rates for attorneys and staff, client and attorney expectations, and the billing policies of the Firm.
The actual legal fee may be set as a flat fee, hourly rate, or a combination of both. A hybrid fee arrangement may be set based on the achievement of certain performance standards and accomplishments. State of Maine Bar Rules do not allow hybrid fees in criminal defense or family law matters.
What is a retainer?
A retainer is a set amount of pre-paid legal fees or costs. You pay the retainer to the Firm. Then, the firm deposits it into a Client Funds Trust Account.
How does that work?
As professional services render and costs incur, we charge the balance to the retainer. Clients receive monthly billing statements. These show in detail the services and costs deducted from the retainer and balance remaining. Most need replenishing when the balance drops to 50% or less of the initial retainer.
Who will be working on my transaction, matter, or case?
Teamwork is a prominent feature of the way we work at LLO. A Principal Attorney assumes responsibility for each matter. They work with one or more legal assistants or paralegals on the matter.
In more complicated matters, multiple attorneys work collaboratively on research, analysis, discovery, preparation, and presentation. The Attorney selects the assistant with the greatest experience and expertise with that client’s matter. Having a team working for you greatly enhances client communications and expediency of the matter.
How long do I have to bring a claim or lawsuit?
Different deadlines or ‘Statutes of Limitations’ apply to claims depending on the type of matter. The civil statute of limitations for most general claims is six years. That is, one must file a claim must in a state or federal court within six years of the date of the action or wrong giving rise to the claim.
Certain matters have very short time periods within which to file or serve a Notice of the Claim or an actual lawsuit. State Tort Claims against a municipality or the State of Maine must be served by written notice on the responsible individuals, agency, or governmental unit within 180 days of the date the claim arises.
Civil assaults (two years), defamation, slander, and medical malpractice (three years) comprise examples of various claims with shortened limitations periods. Check with an Attorney at Largay Law Offices, P.A. for any specific deadlines.
If you, your business, or a client, family member, or friend is considering or has already filed or been brought into litigation involving an accident, contract, real estate, or another matter, please feel free to contact us to discuss possible solutions.