Speaking of divorce work...

[Doug in NC]

Would someone mind sharing a copy of an agreement they may use when working with clients in a divorce situation? I occasionally get requests for these assignments, so I would like to be prepared if I am ever asked to appear in court as a result of a dispute in appraisal values. I DON'T want to be testifying as a freebie. Thanks.

Doug

 

[Terrel L. Shields]

My new way is to get paid up front and tell them why. I figure 2 full days testimony and add to the bill. Since it needs to be double checked and documented to the inth degree, my charge is roughly double a fee before I add two days of testimony time.

Otherwise, I might add some sort of text to the effect that if required to be deposed or testify in court because of this appraisal, regardless which side subpoenaed me, the client (one or both) agrees to pay at a set fee for testimony and agrees to allow me to place a lien on the property until such time as the bill is paid.