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The Law Office of Ruth Gewing-Mullins

1686 Second Street
Suite 206
Livermore, CA 94550
Map

Phone: (925) 455-2494 | Fax: (925) 455-2493
http://www.rgmlawfirm.com

Personalized family law services. LGBT clients welcome.

Types of Cases
Firm Focus & History
Practice & Philosophy
Office Information
Fees

Legal Topic

Divorce

Legal Topic

Family Law

Number of Attorneys

State Licensed In

California

Firm Focus

Information coming soon.

Firm History

I have been practicing law since 2008. I established my own firm in 2011 so I could have more control over the cases I take, and so I could provide personal service in the way I believe it should be provided. My goal is to provide my clients with excellent service for a fair price.

Activities and Awards

I work as a pro bono attorney for Domestic Violence Clinic in Hayward. I also take pro bono family law cases from VLSC in Alameda County.

Example Cases

Information coming soon.

What is your firm's point of view regarding clients educating themselves on legal issues?

Clients are always encouraged to educate themselves on any legal issues they may be facing. Part of my job is to assist in that process. I offer legal coaching as one of my services, for those clients who want to handle their own divorce yet want some guidance and document review.

Are your attorneys willing to review documents prepared by clients?

I am always available to review documents prepared by my clients. In many cases, a divorce can be simple and there really is no reason that an attorney is necessary. Some clients feel more comfortable having an attorney review their work, and provide them with a roadmap of the forms they will need to file with court.

Are your attorneys willing to coach clients who want to represent themselves?

I believe that coaching is a very effective tool to help clients who wish to represent themselves navigate the legal system.

Are your attorneys willing to help a client with one discrete part of a case, without taking on the whole case?

I am available to assist clients with full representation, partial representation, ongoing coaching, or a one time visit.

What are your policies about dividing work among the firm's partners, associates, and paralegals to make the process most cost-effective for the client?

I am the only person in my firm. When you call, you will reach me. If you reach voicemail I will call you back.

How frequently does your firm use mediation, arbitration, or collaborative law to resolve cases?

I prefer, whenever possible, to work with the opposing party to come to an agreement. When clients can agree on the aspects of their case, or at least some of them, it saves the client money, time and reduces their stress.

Does your firm provide pro bono legal services or otherwise participate in your community?

I do pro bono work in Alameda county.

What distinguishes your law firm from others?

I work with my clients to find an affordable solution to their issues, including providing full and partial representation and coaching. I offer flat fees when possible, and I do not nickel and dime my clients. For example, if a client emails me with a simple question, they will not be billed for that email. I try to keep in mind that my clients are usually going through an emotional and difficult process and try to retain a sense of compassion for them at all times. I will try to guide my clients away from antagonistic behavior and will try to work with the opposing side to reach resolution on issues to avoid as much court time as possible.

Office Manager/Assistant

None.

Fax

(925) 455-2493

Office Hours

Generally my office hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Since I work for myself, my availability for appointments can be flexible and I offer evening and weekend appointments if the client needs them. I can also meet the client somewhere more convenient than my office is necessary.

Emergency After Hours

Yes

Fixed-Price Services and Fees

If new clients mention Nolo, I will give a $50.00 discount on their first office visit. I do have fixed priced services and fees which I offer clients if it is appropriate for their case. Some cases which I could provide a flat for would be an uncontested divorce, a step parent adoption, or an uncontested guardianship.

Hourly Rates

250/hour

Free Initial Consultation?

I will offer a short consultation by telephone or email for free. However, I do charge for the first office visit. My philosophy on this is that by the time the client comes to their appointment, I will have gathered background information from them. Our first meeting will be a working meeting, not a fact gathering one. After the first meeting, my client will have a roadmap of how to proceed, or some portion of their case will have been started.

Typical Retainer

The amount of retainers varies greatly depending on the complexity of the case. The retainers can range from $2000 to $10000 depending on the details of the case. Clients who hire me for coaching pay hourly with no retainer.

Understanding Fees

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