Questions and Answers

Do you take cases on a contingency fee basis?

In certain cases we will agree to charge a percentage of the amount of the judgment obtained or settlement reached, depending upon the merits of the case and the client's financial circumstances. Due to the costs of litigation, some people would simply be shut out of the civil justice system were there not lawyers willing to take their cases on this basis. We also work on a "hybrid" basis on certain cases, meaning we reduce our hourly rate and also take a smaller than usual contingency. Finally, some cases are more appropriately charged solely on an hourly basis. In virtually all cases we require an initial retainer payment. We try to find the billing arrangement that is most equitable for each case.

Do you take cases outside of Connecticut?

On occasion we will represent clients in courts outside the State of Connecticut. Attorneys Bagnell and Lucas are admitted to practice in federal and state courts outside of Connecticut. Also, obtaining permission to represent clients on a particular matter outside the state on a pro hac basis is fairly routine. In many instances we recommend retaining local counsel as well to further protect our clients' interests.

Do you perform services such as wills, divorces, criminal law, bankruptcy, corporate law or real estate?

No, we are trial and appellate attorneys and take pride in doing a limited number of things very well rather than a host of things without being able to master them. Where matters we are handling include the need for advice in areas we do not handle, we have relationships with outside counsel who are ready to assist us.

Is there a charge for an initial consultation?

As a rule we do not charge for the initial consultation either on the phone or in person. We feel this time is needed for us to get an idea of the issues to be addressed in your controversy, to discuss your needs, and to be sure we are both comfortable working together. Representing you is a commitment we take very seriously and we want to take the time necessary at the outset to determine whether representation is appropriate.

Do you handle appeals?

Yes, both Mr. Lucas and Mr. Bagnell do appellate work on the cases they have handled through trial. We find that the attorney who handled the matter through trial is often in the best position to act as an advocate on appeal, particularly when the issues on appeal focus on the field of employment and commercial disputes to which Lucas Bagnell limits its practice. We find that our familiarity with the trial record and having "lived" the case are a distinct advantage. Mr. Lucas and Mr. Bagnell have successfully argued cases in the Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit and in Connecticut's Appellate and Supreme Courts.