But by the same token, David, every email carries with it the same risk that I may evaluate something wrong, give advise that leads to a problem, etc. and so I bill for emails as I do for letters, calls or meetings - based on my time, but also perhaps based on other factors for which I can bill under the terms of my retainer agreement.We evaluate problems and render advise and then execute on advise accepted by clients, I try to bill for what I do and get clients to recognize that what I do is not the same thing as assembling a hamburger at a fast food joint...unfortunately for us, the fast food chains are better at getting paid than we are!
-------------------------------------------
Debra Guston Esq.
Glen Rock NJ
(201)447-6660
-------------------------------------------
Original Message:
Sent: 03-19-2013 12:53
From: David Perry Davis
Subject: charging for review of emails
I always note it on the time sheet if there's an email ("Receive / review / respond to electronic correspondence from client RE [at least a couple sentences describing it]"). If it's quick, I put a "N/C" on the sheet. Ditto for quick phone calls.
If either one takes more time (requires getting the file out, involves substantive issue rather than quick status check, etc), then I bill the time. I usually record the start / stop time and show what the actual time was, then knock it down a bit (e.g., 10:05-1:40, .62 -- but then bill .5). I've had emails that take 3 minutes to address... and have had 5 page emails with 10 page responses that have links to case law that take 1/2 an hour.
If you ever end up in fee arb, the committee will note that you didn't charge for everything you could have and didn't nail the client for every dime. Additionally, clients notice it as well and a few have commented.
-------------------------------------------
David Perry Davis, Esq.
112 West Franklin Avenue
Pennington, NJ 08534
Voice: 609-737-2222
Fax: 609-737-3222
-------------------------------------------