FAQ

Do I need an attorney?

Some cases may be straight forward and may be something your can handle pro se, meaning you can represent yourself. However, you should always consult with an attorney before proceeding with your case so that you know your rights and what to expect in the legal system. As part of our consultation, we will help you evaluate your legal needs and let you know about other resources you may qualify for.

Where do I start?

The best place to start is to set up a consultation. Call (801) 679-3010 or email [email protected] to set up your consultation today.

Do you do free consultations?

No. We do charge a small fee so that you can do your consultation with an attorney, instead of an assistant or a paralegal. By charging a fee, an attorney can devote 1 hours of time to your case and start giving you legal advice immediately.

How much will my case cost?

How much your case costs varies. We bill by the hour allowing us to create a plan to meet your goals in the most cost effective way possible.
Other firms may charge a flat fee for representation. Know that they are making a windfall off of your case as they are anticipating a fee that is more than what they would make were the case hourly.

What is a retainer?

Because we bill hourly, we require a retainer – a specific amount of money set aside to guarantee payment for work. As we perform work on your case, we will draw down from the retainer based on the time spent on your case and the amount being charged per hour. If your case finishes before the retainer is used, you will be refunded whatever is left in the retainer. If you expend the retainer and litigation is ongoing, you will be required to replenish the retainer.

What is mediation?

Mediation is the opportunity for the parties in a court case to meet with a neutral third-party (the mediator) who helps them find common ground and potentially resolve their dispute without the expense of litigation and trial. Heather Carter-Jenkins is a trained mediator and can conduct the mediation for parties looking for an alternative to court. Mediation is required in all divorce and custody cases in the State of Utah. If you are interested in scheduling a mediation, click here.

Will I have to go to trial?

Every civil case has the potential to go to trial. However, we will do everything we can to create a strategy that meets your goals, which may include attempting to settle your case without going to trial, or by going to mediation. No one can predict what will happen in your case, but we can help you navigate your case no matter what happens.

What Court’s do you practice in

Heather maintains active licenses for the Federal District Courts nationwide, Utah State Courts (statewide) and tribal courts for the Uintah and Ouray (Ft. Duchesne) reservation and Confederated Tribes of the Goshute (Ibapah) reservation. Heather has practiced in the tribal courts for the Skull Valley Goshute, Ely Shoshone Tribe (Ely, NV), Shoshone Bannock (Fort Hall, ID), Assiniboine Sioux (Fort Peck, MT), Three Affiliated Tribes (New Town, ND), and Northern Cheyanne Tribe (Lame Deer, WY). Heather has also practiced pro hoc vice in the Nevada State Courts.

FAQ