Flat fees
What each flat fee covers
These are the matters that go the usual way. We quote yours in writing after the free call, and it changes only if the work does.
Stepparent adoption
For a stepparent adopting a child they already parent. A contested adoption is quoted on its own, in writing.
What's includedPetition, consents and decree
Notice to the other legal parent
Your hearing, by video where the court allows
Confirmatory adoption
For the second parent whose name is on the birth certificate but not yet on a court order. A known donor changes the papers.
What's includedPetition and decree for the second parent
Consents and parentage records
Hearing preparation, by video
Adoption finalization
For a family that already has a placement and needs the court to finish it. What's already signed sets what's left to do.
What's includedReview of consents and placement papers
Petition, decree and final hearing
Request for a new birth certificate and name
Surrogacy agreement
For intended parents: the agreement, the parentage order and the hearing. Where the surrogate lives and where the baby is born change the papers.
What's includedAgreement drafted for intended parents
Negotiation with the surrogate's own lawyer
Parentage order petition and hearing
Paid to someone else
What no flat fee of ours includes
These go to the court or a provider, not to us. Your quote lists the amounts so nothing arrives as a surprise.
Court filing fees
Set by the court. You pay them to the court, and we tell you if a fee waiver might fit your family.
Home studies
A licensed social worker's report, charged by the social worker, where your court requires one.
Background checks
Fingerprints and record checks, paid to whoever runs them.
Agencies, clinics and escrow
Surrogacy brings in providers whose fees are theirs. We read their contracts and keep their costs apart from ours.
Flat or hourly
Why one number beats a meter
| An hourly bill | A flat fee | |
|---|---|---|
| Before you hire | An hourly billAn estimate that can move | A flat feeOne number, in writing |
| Calls and emails | An hourly billBilled by the tenth of an hour | A flat feeIncluded |
| If the court takes longer | An hourly billThe bill grows | A flat feeThe fee stays put |
| How you pay | An hourly billA retainer, then top-ups | A flat feeHalf to start, half before we file |
Asked about the bill
What if the court wants more than the usual?
Then we tell you before we do it, with the new fee in writing. You can say no, and we'll finish the part you've already paid for.
Do you offer payment plans?
Ask on the free call. The flat fee is paid in two parts, and we can talk about the schedule.
Is the free call really free?
Yes: twenty minutes, no obligation. Costs begin when you sign the written agreement, not before.
Ask for your quote
Tell us which matter is yours on the free call, and we'll quote it in writing.
The first call is free. Court filing fees, home studies, background checks and any agency or clinic charges are separate, and we list each one beside your fee.