Consultation & Fees

Rettinger Law understands that every case is unique and fees are set according to the specfic neuances of each situation. Generally clients are offered a half hour free consultation. Ms. Rettinger’s standard practice is to bill hourly; however, for Estate plan drafting and adoption cases Rettinger Law generally enters into a flat fee arrangement. Upon retention of Rettinger Law services a deposit is required. The amount of the deposit will depend upon several factors. Rettinger Law bills biweekly for services rendered and draws against the deposit until all deposited funds have been exhausted; at which time you will be billed for additional fees and costs. If upon completion of services part of the deposit remains unused that portion will be returned to you. The details of the deposit are described in the fee agreement. Rettinger Law accepts Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover Card, as well as cash and checks.

ADOPTION

Adoption is a legal method by which the adoptive parents become legally responsible for a child from a different family; they adopt and gain legal parental rights concerning the child. The adopted child is appointed the rights of birth children in the eyes of the law. We get to assist children finding a safe and secure home and families find unification, in other words we help people find their missing piece.

Rettinger Law is here to facilitate and guide families through step-parent adoptions, independent adoptions, and the adoption of adults. Step-parent adoption is initiated by the step-parent of the child of his or her spouse or domestic partner to become the legal parent of the child.

Independent adoption is undertaken when the birth parents select the adoptive parents and place the child with them directly; they have a private agreement for adoption not involving an agency. Occasionally, adults are adopted for a variety of personal reasons, generally, by a step-parent after the child becomes an adult to resolve any concerns that may arise regarding inheritance. Rettinger Law is happy to help guide families as they come together.