" A lawyer's time and advice are his stock in trade"
---Abraham Lincoln quote (16 th American President, 1861-1865)
The cost of legal representation is a concern for most people. People do not plan for an attorney and the fees are often unforeseen. Attorney Jeanette Bigney is passionate about her job and proud of her level of expertise; She provides experienced legal services at competitive rates.
Criminal Defense cases and Juvenile Delinquency cases are generally charged a flat rate for legal services. I have noticed other firms advertise a low cost rate for certain cases. I do not advertise a starting rate. Instead, I will meet with you, review the facts, and discuss possible defenses and strategies. I want my clients to understand that I will not cookie-cutter my practice, procedures or fees; each case is factually unique and each client has different needs.
For Education, School-Related, Guardian Ad Litem, and witness advocacy cases, I charge an hourly-fee. A retainer will be discussed with you, and upon receipt of the retainer I will begin your case.
For all cases, I accept cash, all major credit cards, personal checks, and certified funds.
Since legal fees are often an unanticipated cost, I offer structured payment plans.
I want all my clients and future clients to be aware that there are other costs associated with legal service. The most significant costs outside of legal representation may include:
Court costs (imposed by the Court & payable to the Clerk of Court);
Discovery cost which include audio recordings, depositions, public record requests (payable to the agency or court report);
Restitution (money owed to restore a victim)(payable to the Clerk of Court, or sometimes arranged directly to the victim);
Filing fees or Certified Copies (usually paid by attorney with the client's funds to the Clerk of Court);
Cost of investigation (fees implemented by law enforcement for their investigation and payable to agency or clerk); or
Cost of care or probation (fees imposed if you are incarcerated or on probation).
If you truly believe that you cannot afford the services of private counsel, the Court will give you the opportunity to fill out an application for an appointment of a Public Defender and a financial affidavit. Public Defenders are licensed attorneys, or certified legal interns. Public Defenders may not be totally free of costs. Whether you qualify or not for a Public Defender, or elect to hire a private attorney later, a judge will impose an application fee. A Public Defender lien may also be imposed at the end of your case.
Contact Jeanette Dejuras Bigney today for a free initial consultation. She is available 8:30 - 5:00 p.m. weekdays and by appointment on evenings and weekends.