Frequently Asked Questions:

Do you charge for initial consultations?

Anne Gould offers a free 30 minute consultation, either in person or by phone. This ‘no charge’ consultation is not for the purpose of giving you legal advice, but to determine what she will be able to help you accomplish, and what the fees are likely to be. In this consultation, she assists you in deciding both how and if to move forward in your case. This will likely include a roadmap of what approach you wish to use, and what sort of assistance you might need.

How long will it take to complete my family law matter?

It will likely take from 3 months to slightly over a year depending on the matter. A Washington Divorce cannot be completed sooner than 90 days from filing and serving papers. Some matters can be resolved quickly, while others take time. Due to the nature of family law, and the fact that there are two people and their counsel who may each have a great deal to do with the schedule, it is impossible to guarantee a specific timeline. Anne works quickly, and tries to keep delays from occurring, but the emotional level of the case, the speed at which information is provided, and many other issues will also be factors. Sometimes delays and continuances are an unavoidable part of the process.

How much will my family law matter cost?

For Mediation, the matter is usually performed in a “pay at each session” manner, with a small additional fee-advance to cover costs and post-mediation documentation of agreements or progress notes.

For uncontested matters, (where you and your partner just need papers drafted to reflect agreements already reached) a flat fee of $1200 to $2,500 may be available.

For matters which are or may be contested, a fee-advance of $3,000 to $10,000 may be required, depending on the complexity of the case. Ongoing replenishment of the fee-advance will be required as needed until 90 days prior to trial, at which time Anne will require a larger trial fee-advance. Anne will work with you to minimize fees wherever possible. Settlement when the cost/benefit of preparing for trial is not reasonable is always an option.
 

How do I know what approach to take, or whether my case is contested or uncontested?

Anne will discuss different approaches with you at your initial consultation. Together you will determine what best fits your case. Some cases will easily be resolved through informal negotiations. Other cases can be mediated in a few sessions, or many sessions. A Collaborative team approach may be what you find will work best. Other cases, particularly if substance abuse or other abuses are present, are best resolved through litigation. If you hope to mediate or work in a full Collaborative manner, your partner will also have to agree to use that approach.

 
What if I want to do my case myself?

Anne is happy to assist you with review of documents, advice on drafting your own documents, and advice on representing your self in court. This “self-help assistance” can be a cost effective way to get your matter resolved, with limited expense, and yet know you’ve ended up with the case concluded correctly. You may also elect to hire Anne Gould’s office to represent you in completing one portion of your case, while you complete the balance of it. This is often referred to as “un-bundled services”.