NYC family law attorneys Bernard Clair, S. Susan Gross, Dan Rottenstreich, and Shannon Simpson discuss what makes their firm different, among other topics. They explain that the major difference in their law firm is that everyone on the team is empathic. This allows them to work collaboratively and understand not only what the other side wants or desires but also what the courts expect. As divorce lawyers, it is crucial to comprehend their clients’ needs during some of the most difficult periods of their lives. They often see good people at their worst, in contrast to criminal lawyers, who see bad people at their best. The firm approaches each case by striving to view situations from the perspective of the other party, fostering a deeper understanding and more effective representation.

During an initial consultation, clients are charged the firm’s hourly rate, which varies depending on the attorney and can range from $700 to $1,100 per hour, with rates adjusted annually. When clients decide to retain the firm, a retainer is agreed upon and billed against at the established hourly rate. Contingency fees are not permitted in New York, so all work is conducted on an hourly basis. Billing is calculated in tenth-of-an-hour increments, meaning clients are charged for every ten minutes of work performed. Monthly statements are provided so clients can track exactly what the attorney has done, the remaining balance on their retainer, and any additional amounts owed.