Frequently Asked Questions About Working with Rice Law

This FAQ provides answers to common questions about Rice Law, PLLC hours, appointments, initial consultation, typical fees, client-attorney priviledge, and more.

What are your hours?

Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

How do I schedule an apppointment?

You may call us at (910) 762-3854 or e-mail info@ricefamilylaw.com to schedule an appointment.

Can you give me some advice on the phone?

Yes, we can schedule an initial consultation for you by phone. We also routinely provide legal advice to existing clients by phone.

Will you schedule a virtual meeting with me?

Yes, we routinely use Skype and Microsoft Office Live Meeting to conduct virtual meetings including initial consultations and meetings with existing clients.

Do you take same-day appointments?

In order to provide our clients with the best personalized service, we do not generally accept same-day appointments. However, if you have an emergency situation, do not hesitate to call us and see if we can work you in.

What is the initial consultation fee?

$200. The consult fee is payable by cash, check, VISA, MasterCard, or Discover.

Will you apply the initial consultation fee to my retainer?

No.

How long is an initial consultation?

The length of an initial consultation depends on your legal issue and its complexity. Our attorneys will allocate one-and-a-half hours for your initial consultation. We may spend more time as needed; an hourly rate is charged after the first 90 minutes.

What should I bring with me to the initial consultation?

If a phone consultation or video consultation, email or fax the below materials in advance. If an in-person consultation, bring the following to your initial consultation:

Completed New Client Information Form
Any existing court papers, such as motions, orders, or any documents served on you
List of property; see Schedule of Assets
Any other items that Rice Law recommends, such as:

Proof of income: current pay stub
Dates and highlights of separations and reconciliation attempts (e.g., marriage counseling)
Domestic contracts (e.g., prenuptial agreements)
Full address and phone number(s) for you and your spouse
Full names, birth dates, and addressses of all offspring from the marriage, plus their school and grade
Information about previous legal proceedings between the spouses or involving the children
Information about prior marriages, including certified Decrees of Divorce
List of substantial assets, liabilities, and debts of both spouses
Your previous year's income tax return and any IRS-releated data

Can I bring my kids with me?

We recommend that children be excluded from your initial legal consultation. Hire a a sitter, or have a friend or parent sit with your children. This will allow us to maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of your legal consultation. This is an important life decision and issue—it requires your full attention and focus.

Can I bring someone with me to the consultation?

Yes, however, they may not sit with you through the entire consultation because their presence may waive the Attorney-Client Priviledge.

What are your typical legal fees?

While fees depend on the complexity of the case, following are typical fees:

Full Service Divorce (whether contested or not): $200 + costs
Durable Power of Attorney: $150 (via VLO)
Health Care Power of Attorney: $100–$150 (via VLO)
Living Will, also known as a Declaration of a Desire for a Natural Death: $100–$150 (via VLO)
Last Will & Testament: $500 (depending on complexity; if simple, may include POA and Health Care Directives at no additional fee)
Separation Contract: $350–$500
Separation Agreement & Property Settlement (SAPS): $2,500–$3,000 (depending on complexity)
Prenuptial Agreement: $2,500–$3,000 (depending on complexity)
Family Law Litigation: Average fees $8,500 but depends on complexity
Child custody case fees depend on the case complexity and whether it is settled (outside of court) or litigated (in court). Child custody cases start at $3,000; an average child custody case is $8,500.

Will you perform legal work for free or at a discounted rate?

Rice Law provides pro-bono publico services through civic and other local organizations. We do not generally accept walk-in pro-bono clients. For discounted or pro-bono legal representation, contact the Legal Aid of North Carolina.

Will my initial consultation be protected by attorney-client privilege?

Yes. Nearly everything you tell our attorneys and staff is confidential and may only be waived by the client. Even if further counsel is not sought, the privilege remains. It is important that you provide us with complete and truthful information so we can properly advise you.

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