What does "Free Consultation" really mean? Most lawyer advertisements state that the lawyer is offering a "Free Consultation." The Guthrie Firm, PLLC is no exception. All prospective clients are encouraged to call and schedule an appointment to meet with Clarence and discuss their case, and there is no charge for this service. But the objectives of this consultation are limited. Although the case will be discussed in some depth, the main purpose is to determine if a lawyer is needed, and, if so, if Clarence is the right lawyer for the job. The other purpose is to build trust, and to develop a proper working relationship. Prospective clients are encouraged to bring all documents associated with the case, and to organize their thoughts and expectations so that they can be explained to Clarence in a succinct fashion. General legal advice may be offered, but will be very limited until an attorney-client relationship is formalized.

At the end of the consultation an "action plan" will be developed, and fees will be discussed. If everything is acceptable, and a Fee Agreement is signed, the representation can begin, and the client can relax and be secure in knowing that a lawyer is on the case. In general, fees are calculated in the following manner:

Criminal Defense Cases: Abraham Lincoln is reported to have said, "The lawyer should always get some part of his fee in advance from the client. In this way the client knows he has a lawyer, and the lawyer knows he has a client." Most criminal defense cases are paid in advance, with the client paying a flat fee plus an advance for expenses before representation begins. Factors that will be considered in calculating a proper fee are the nature and gravity of the charges, the likelihood of resolution before a full trial of the matter, and how much investigation will be involved. In addition, the number of cases accepted is restricted in order to give each client the time and attention they deserve. Our fees run from $750.00 to over $40,000.00 for criminal representation.

Driving Under the Influence: Flat fees are charged in DUI cases, and depend on whether the case will be contested, or will result in a guilty plea. In some situations there will be no choice but to contest the case. In other cases, the client simply wants a lawyer to represent them in a guilty plea. In either case Clarence can provide advice to make an informed decision.

Personal Injury: Fees in personal injury cases are "contingency" fees, which means there is no money up front, and no fees at all unless there is a recovery in the case. Fees are calculated as a percentage of the total recovery, and are carefully explained at the initial consultation.

Workers' Compensation: Attorney's fees in workers' compensation cases are governed by statute in Mississippi, and will be explained in detail at the initial consultation.

General Litigation: Due to his experience defending large corporations and insurance companies before opening The Guthrie Firm, PLLC, Clarence is occasionally contacted by attorneys, individuals and small businesses in Mississippi for various general litigation matters and legal consultation. Although flat fees are preferable, this work is usually done on an hourly basis. Please contact The Guthrie Firm, PLLC for an appointment to discuss.