FEE MANAGEMENT
We have found that the cost to the client of legal services may be managed effectively through the use of a variety of cost management tools, including initial detailed discussions, and planning and periodic reports to and meetings with the client, and, where appropriate, retainer agreements and project billing. The Firm makes a personal commitment that the senior attorney(s) responsible for a client's matters will always be reasonably available to the client. Clients are encouraged to call to discuss their day to day legal and business problems. Our hourly rates are very competitive for the Chicago area. In order to address the concerns of our clients regarding the increasing cost of legal services, in 1994 the Firm moved its principal office to Oak Brook, Illinois. The move has allowed us to take advantage of the lower costs of doing business in the suburbs, while continuing to provide to our clients our customary high level of service.
We desire and encourage active client participation in structuring and administering all fee arragements. Our fee structure includes the use of retainer and project fees when appropriate, as an alternative to hourly billing. We encourage the use of management plans, timetables and budgets for important matters, and regular client progress reviews against plan and budget.
It is the policy of the Firm that, unless other arrrangements are made, a retainer is required for all litigation matters and for matters for new clients of the Firm.