FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How will my case proceed once I become a client?
Once you agree to retain us, we will enter into a written fee agreement, a written contract which clearly spells out the services we will provide and any fees or costs. You will then be asked to provide us with all documents in your possession regarding your situation.
In some circumstances, a written settlement demand will be made upon your employer. We will jointly make a decision as to whether this is advisable at this point in your case.
In discrimination matters, the next step will be to file a claim at the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination and/or the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. These are the state and federal agencies that enforce anti-discrimination in employment laws. Proceedings at the MCAD and EEOC are similar to proceedings in court. At some point during the MCAD and/or EEOC proceedings we will jointly decide whether to keep your case at the MCAD and/or EEOC or file a lawsuit in court.
A lawsuit in court consists initially of filing a complaint, a legal document which spells out the facts of your case and the legal claims being made. A copy of the complaint will be served upon your employer who will then be required to respond.
Next will be the discovery phase of your case. During discovery, both you and your employer will be required to provide each other with documents pertaining to your case, answer written questions under oath, and to give deposition testimony. Depositions are questions you and they will have to respond to under oath before a stenographer. You will be accompanied by an attorney at your deposition to insure that your rights are protected.
After the discovery phase of your case, the defendant employer may attempt to have some or all of your claims dismissed. In the vast majority of cases we handle these attempts fail, and your case will then proceed to trial.
Throughout this process, there will be numerous opportunities to discuss a negotiated resolution or settlement of your case. These efforts will only be undertaken with your permission.
More FAQ . . . Is there a fee for an initial consultation?
Will my initial consultation be with an attorney or a legal assistant?
Will my initial consultation be confidential even if I do not become a client?
How will my case proceed once I become a client?
How long does a typical case take?
What is non-binding mediation?
What are my chances of success and how much money am I likely to receive?
How do your fees work?
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