Questions Clients Ask Before Their First Call

You’ll describe your situation and ask questions, and Ronald A. Phillips will give you an honest read on your options, likely timeline, and what working together would look like. There’s no obligation to hire the firm afterward.

Fees depend on the complexity of your case and how much is contested. Straightforward uncontested matters cost less than cases requiring negotiation or litigation. Exact costs are discussed during your consultation once we understand your situation.

Payment arrangements can be discussed on a case-by-case basis during your consultation. Bring up your budget concerns early so we can find an approach that works.

The office is based in Orangeburg, NY and serves clients throughout Rockland County, including Pearl River, Tappan, Blauvelt, Nyack, Nanuet, and New City.

Simple, fully uncontested matters can sometimes be handled without an attorney, but most divorce and custody cases involve details, like retirement accounts or parenting schedules, that are easy to get wrong without legal guidance. A consultation can help you decide what level of help makes sense.

Bring any relevant documents you have: financial statements, existing court orders, communication with your spouse or the other parent, and a written timeline of key events. Even a partial list of documents is a useful starting point.

It depends on the type of case and how much both sides agree on. Uncontested matters can resolve in a few months. Contested divorces or custody disputes often take a year or more, especially if the court calendar is backed up.

Yes. You’re allowed to change legal representation during an ongoing case. A consultation can help you understand what’s involved in transferring your file and continuing your case with new counsel.

Mediation involves both spouses working with a neutral third party to reach an agreement outside of court. Litigation means the case is argued before a judge, who makes the final decisions on contested issues. Mediation is generally faster and less adversarial when both sides are willing to negotiate in good faith.

Many cases settle through negotiation without a trial, but some court appearances are usually still required, even for uncontested matters. If your case is contested and doesn’t settle, a trial becomes necessary.

You’ll work directly with Ronald A. Phillips rather than being routed through paralegals or associates. Calls and emails go to the attorney handling your case.

That’s common, and it doesn’t mean your case is unmanageable. The process usually starts by identifying which issues are truly contested versus which can be resolved quickly, narrowing the dispute down to what actually needs to be negotiated or decided by a court.