Frequently Asked Questions

It depends on your case. Matt offers several fee arrangements: Flat fees for straightforward matters (you know the cost upfront), hourly rates for complex cases (you pay for time spent), and contingency fees for some civil cases (you pay nothing unless you win). During your free consultation, Matt will explain which arrangement makes sense for your situation and give you a clear picture of costs.

Yes. Matt understands that legal problems often come at the worst possible time financially. He'll work with you to find a payment arrangement that makes quality representation affordable. Don't let money concerns stop you from getting help - at least come in for the free consultation to understand your options.

You'll meet with Matt (not a paralegal or intake person) to discuss your situation. He'll ask questions to understand the facts, explain the relevant law in plain English, outline your options, and give you an honest assessment of your case. There's no pressure and no obligation. Even if you don't hire Matt, you'll leave with a better understanding of your situation.

If you're asking this question, you probably do. Here are clear signs: you've been arrested or charged with a crime, you're going through a divorce or custody dispute, someone is suing you or you need to sue someone, you're signing an important contract, or the other side has a lawyer. A free consultation can help you decide.

Yes. When you hire Matt, you work with Matt - not a junior associate or paralegal. He answers your calls, attends your hearings, and handles your case from start to finish. That's the advantage of working with a solo practitioner: your case gets personal attention from an experienced attorney.

Matt's office is in Eagle, but he handles cases throughout the Treasure Valley and beyond: Ada County (Boise, Eagle, Meridian, Garden City, Kuna, Star), Canyon County (Nampa, Caldwell, Middleton), Valley County (McCall, Cascade, Donnelly), and other Idaho counties as needed.

One spouse files a petition and serves it on the other. There's a 20-day waiting period. Then you either negotiate an agreement on property, custody, and support - or the court decides for you. Idaho is a "no-fault" state, meaning you don't have to prove wrongdoing to get divorced. Most divorces settle without trial.

Courts decide based on the "best interests of the child." They consider: each parent's relationship with the child, each parent's ability to provide a stable home, the child's adjustment to school and community, any history of domestic violence, and (for older children) the child's preferences. Matt helps you present evidence that supports your custody goals.

Yes, if circumstances have changed significantly. Courts can modify custody for: changes in work schedule, relocation, safety concerns, the child's changing needs as they grow, or repeated violations by the other parent. Matt can evaluate whether you have grounds for modification.

Idaho uses a formula based on: both parents' income, number of children, custody time, healthcare costs, and childcare expenses. The Idaho Child Support Guidelines provide specific calculations. Matt can run the numbers for your situation.

You have options. Matt can file a motion for contempt, asking the court to enforce the order. Courts can: order makeup time, impose fines, garnish wages, suspend licenses, and in extreme cases, jail the violator. Document every violation - it matters.