Fees & engagement
You should know what it costs
We publish our fee structures because clients make better decisions when the economics are clear from the start.
Ways to engage us
Three ways to work together
Every engagement is confirmed in a written letter that sets out scope, fees and who is responsible for your matter.
Strategy consultation
A confidential meeting with a partner to assess your situation and options.
$45060 minutes
- Review of key documents in advance
- Candid view on strength and value
- Written follow-up summary
- Fee credited if you engage us within 30 days
Flat-fee matters
Defined, predictable work for executives and employees.
From $2,500fixed
- Severance agreement review: $2,500
- Severance negotiation: from $7,500
- Employment contract review: $3,000
- Non-compete opinion letter: $3,500
- No hourly billing, no surprises
Litigation
For claims that need to be filed, defended or tried.
Contingency or retainer
- Contingency of 33–40% for eligible employee claims
- Hourly retainer from $15,000 for commercial disputes
- Partner rates $650–$850; associates $375–$475
- Monthly itemised invoices
- Hybrid arrangements available
Court costs and expert fees are billed at cost. We never mark up disbursements.
About fees
Questions clients ask
Is the first consultation free?
Our strategy consultation is $450 and is always with a partner. If you engage us within 30 days, the fee is credited to your matter. For potential contingency cases, the first call is free.
How does a contingency fee work?
We are paid a percentage of what we recover, typically one third if the case settles before trial and up to 40% if it goes to verdict. If there is no recovery, you owe no legal fees.
Can my employer be made to pay my legal fees?
Often, yes. Massachusetts Chapter 151B, the Wage Act and many federal statutes allow successful employees to recover reasonable attorneys' fees from the employer.
What is included in a flat fee?
Everything described in your engagement letter, including calls and emails. If the scope changes, for example if a negotiation turns into litigation, we agree a new arrangement in writing first.
Do you represent employers?
We represent closely held companies in commercial disputes, but we do not defend employers against employee claims. That keeps us free of conflicts in our employee practice.
How often will I be billed on a retainer?
Monthly, with time recorded in six-minute increments and a plain description of every entry. You can ask for a budget forecast at any stage.
Not sure which structure fits?
We will recommend one in your consultation and confirm it in writing.