A Step-by-Step Guide for
Prospective Clients to Get Started with De Stefano Law

De Stefano Law – Taos, NM

Step 1: Schedule Your Initial Consultation

Prospective clients are invited to call De Stefano Law at (575) 751-7100 to schedule an initial interview. This consultation may be conducted in person or by telephone, based on your preference. This first step allows us to understand your legal needs and determine how we can assist you.

Step 2: Confirm Your Matter Fits Our Practice Areas

For prospective clients, we begin by evaluating whether your legal matter falls within our areas of practice which include REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS, DEVELOPMENT & LITIGATION and ESTATE PLANNING & PROBATE. This ensures that you receive knowledgeable, effective representation tailored to your specific situation.

Step 3: Conflict Check for Representation

Before establishing an attorney-client relationship, we conduct a conflict check. This is a standard and essential process to ensure there are no conflicts of interest that would prevent us from representing you.

Step 4: Fee Structure & Legal Services Agreement

Once approved, prospective clients will receive a clear explanation of fees and billing practices. Representation typically requires a written Legal Services Agreement outlining the scope of services and fee structure. Below are some typical legal services and associated costs.

Base Will/Couple Reciprocal

  • 1 Will and 2x power of attorney healthcare /financial per individual
  • 2 Will and 4x power of attorney healthcare /financial per couple
  • Initial meeting
  • Document drafting
  • Commiunication to client
  • Revision if needed
  • Conference for execution

Starting
$1,600 -$2,000 + plus tax

LLC Formation

  • Initial meeting
  • Prepare Articles of Organization
  • Draft Operating Agreement
  • File Articles & obtain Certificate of Organization
  • Communication to client
  • Revision if needed

Starting
$1,500 + plus tax

Revocable Living Trust

  • Typically 3 conferences with attorney
  • Draft Declaration of Trust
  • Wills which will pour assets into the Trust
  • General Power of Attorney (financial & property) and healthcare power including Advanced Directives
  • Online Investigation of Charitable Beneficieries
  • Counseling about choice of Fiduciaries
  • Prepare Asset Transfer Documents

Starting
$2,800 + plus tax

Step 5: Advance Fee Deposit

To begin representation, prospective clients are required to provide an advance deposit toward fees and costs. De Stefano Law accepts payment by check or cash. Deposit typically starting at $1,000 depending on service.

Important Notice for Prospective Clients

Please note that legal advice cannot be provided by email unless an attorney-client relationship has been formally established through the steps above.

Richard De Stefano Attorney, De Stefano Law Firm

REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS, DEVELOPMENT & LITIGATION

ESTATE & PROBATE

BUSINESS FORMATION & DISSOLUTION