Clearly agreed.
Clear procedures save time and money, on both sides. This is how working with me usually runs, from the first contact to an ongoing mandate.
The first contact
Write to me by email, call, or use the appointment request. Briefly describe what it is about, who is involved and whether a deadline is running; you are welcome to send documents straight away. I usually reply within one working day. You can write to me in English or German.
The first contact is usually free of charge and non-binding for you. In a short initial phone call you will often already receive a rough assessment and learn how things can proceed.
The initial consultation
If more than a first assessment is needed, an initial consultation is a good option: a conversation at a flat fee, by phone or video, in which many questions can already be clarified. Please send me the documents beforehand if possible, so we make better use of the time.
Fees
Before the actual work begins, we agree on how fees will be charged. Without a special agreement, the statutory fees under the German Lawyers’ Remuneration Act (RVG) apply, which are based on the value of the matter. In many mandates, especially ongoing advice, contracts and projects, we instead agree on a fee based on time spent. We discuss openly in advance which form fits, including the economic cost risk.
- Transparency: On request, you receive a record of the work done with every invoice.
- Budget: We can agree that I will inform you as soon as a certain amount has been reached; you can request an interim statement at any time.
- Priorities: We decide which steps are really necessary for your economic goal, for example a short assessment instead of a detailed opinion.
- Reimbursement by the other side: If you win or settle, the other side usually only has to reimburse the statutory fees. Any agreed fee beyond that is borne by you.
If you have legal expenses insurance, please check yourself with your insurer whether it covers the matter.
The mandate
A mandate only comes about once I expressly confirm it. You will then receive a power of attorney and, if you instruct me as a consumer, the cancellation policy. My terms of engagement apply to our work together.
Deadlines
Please tell me about any running deadlines at the very first contact, for example from a warning letter, a dismissal or a payment order. I only monitor deadlines once the mandate has been confirmed; until then, the responsibility lies with you.
Communication
- Meetings usually take place by phone or video conference, and in person if needed.
- We exchange documents electronically, encrypted on request.
- For companies, a fixed contact person on your side helps. It bundles information and saves follow-up questions.
- A short timeline of events and a clearly defined goal, such as a quick settlement or a decision in principle, save time and therefore costs.