Consultations
A consultation is your first opportunity to meet with Chelsea, ask your questions, canvass your options and obtain legal advice. Some clients consult with Chelsea prior to separation or when a separation is anticipated, to know their rights in advance. Other clients may wait until after a separation has occurred, or when issues arise. There is no right approach, but it is important to know your legal rights and obtain advice in a timely manner.
Full representation
This is the traditional type of lawyer-client relationship. Chelsea can be retained to represent a client upon separation, through a period of negotiation, in litigation and/or in an alternate dispute resolution process.
Drafting agreements & independent legal advice
Chelsea can draft and negotiate cohabitation agreements, marriage contracts, separation agreements and parenting plans. She can also provide independent legal advice with respect to agreements that have been negotiated and prepared in another process, such as mediation.
Assistance for self-represented litigants
Chelsea can provide assistance for clients who wish to represent themselves in court. She can be involved behind the scenes or provide unbundled services (such as attendance on a motion or assistance with drafting motion materials), as determined with the client. This can be more cost-effective for some clients, with access to legal counsel as necessary.
Written opinions
Chelsea can provide written opinions on a wide range of family law issues, including opinions on a foreign divorce.
Rates & Retainers
Services are billed at Chelsea's hourly rate of $345 + HST. Advance payment is required to secure a consultation appointment. Flat rate fees can be discussed at the consultation, depending on the nature of the work to be completed.
Retainers are required. The amount of the retainer will depend on the nature of Chelsea's involvement and the work to be completed. Chelsea will discuss the amount of the retainer required at the consultation
Contact chelsea@hooperfamilylaw.com to schedule an appointment or to inquire about legal services.