At the initial consultation, we'll also discuss fees and costs involved in representation. Certain matters are fairly predictable and we can offer no-surprises, flat fee models (estate planning document packages, for example). At other times, our time expended on a matter may vary depending on what "the other side" does or simply because of variable factors. Those situations usually will mean an hourly rate with a retainer deposit. There's no guarantee that the initial retainer will cover a matter's fees and costs to conclusion. In general, we do not handle any matters for a contingency fee.