The Engagement,
Explained.
We offer two engagement structures: fixed-fee engagements for focused, limited-scope questions, and hourly engagements for complex matters. Both apply the same independent analytical standard. The scope of the matter determines which one fits.
Two Engagement Structures
The scope of the work determines the fee structure. It does not change the methodology, the standard of care, or our independence.
Fixed-Fee Engagement
For matters that turn on a single, well-defined financial question, such as an income determination, a support calculation, a business valuation, or a single damages figure. We deliver a focused analysis and a limited-scope report for a flat fee agreed before work begins. Each report states its scope and limitations.
Hourly Engagement
For matters that require a full expert report, extensive document review, multiple damages theories, or analysis of opposing experts' work. We can be retained as the testifying expert or as a non-testifying consulting expert. Time is billed against an evergreen retainer.
Not sure which fits? After our initial call we'll recommend a structure, and you'll have a written budget estimate before committing to anything.
From Intake to Delivered Analysis
The process is the same for both structures. Only the scope and the fee arrangement differ.
Intake & Consultation
Submit a short intake form describing the dispute, the parties, and the financial questions at issue. We then hold a free 20-minute call to confirm there are no conflicts and that the matter falls within our expertise.
Written Budget Estimate
After the call, we send a written, non-binding budget estimate. It recommends a structure (fixed fee or hourly), defines the scope, estimates the cost, and, for hourly matters, specifies the retainer amount.
Engagement Agreement
We execute an engagement agreement that sets out the scope, fees, and deliverables. Hourly engagements begin with an evergreen retainer of $5,000 to $15,000, depending on case type, which is replenished as it is drawn down.
Analysis & Delivery
We review the financial records, contracts, and case documents and conduct an independent analysis. Fixed-fee engagements conclude with a limited-scope report. Hourly engagements produce a full expert report in the format required by the applicable rules.
Testimony, If Needed
If the matter proceeds to deposition or trial, we testify to our opinions and the basis for them. Testimony is billed hourly under both structures.
Independent Review and Analysis
Our opinions follow the evidence, wherever it leads. Compensation for testifying engagements is never contingent on the opinions we reach or on the outcome of the case. We are paid for our time and expertise, not for a result.
Consulting Under Privilege
Counsel may retain us as a non-testifying consulting expert. These engagements are typically structured through counsel under a Kovel arrangement, named for United States v. Kovel, 296 F.2d 918 (2d Cir. 1961), with the aim of protecting our work under the attorney-client privilege, the work product doctrine, and the protections that apply to consulting experts, such as Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 26(b)(4)(D). Counsel decides whether and when our work is disclosed. Whether these protections apply depends on the facts of the matter and the governing jurisdiction. If a consulting engagement later converts to a testifying engagement, materials from the consulting phase may become discoverable.
Clear Pricing, Agreed in Advance
Fixed Fee
Hourly
Every engagement begins with a written budget estimate. Fees are agreed in writing before any work begins.
Tell Us About Your Case
A brief, confidential call is all it takes to confirm whether we can help and which engagement structure suits your matter.
Schedule a 20-Minute Call →