1 · Initial contact & conflict check
Call or email with the names of the parties, the court and your deadlines, and nothing confidential yet. We check for conflicts before discussing the substance of the matter.
2 · Free initial consultation
Once we've confirmed there's no conflict, we discuss the digital evidence involved, the questions you need answered, and whether we are the right fit. The initial consultation is free. Once you engage us, consultation is billed at the rate below.
3 · Engagement letter & retainer
The engagement begins with a written engagement letter that sets out the scope, the role (consulting or testifying expert), the rates below and the retainer.
4 · Preservation
We advise on what to preserve and request, such as devices, accounts, platform records and backups, so that critical data isn't lost or altered while the case proceeds.
5 · Secure evidence exchange
Evidence and case materials are exchanged by encrypted transfer or tracked physical delivery with chain-of-custody documentation. Please don't send evidence by ordinary email.
6 · Examination & analysis
We examine the evidence using the methods described in our Methodology & Quality statement and keep you informed of significant findings as they emerge.
7 · Report
Where a written report is required, it sets out the materials, methods, findings, opinions and their limitations, in a form suited to the court's disclosure requirements.
8 · Deposition & trial
We prepare with counsel and testify by deposition, at hearing or at trial. We explain the technical evidence clearly and accurately, including what it does not show.
Fee schedule
| Service | Rate |
|---|---|
| Forensic Analysis Standard forensic examination and analysis | $700 / hour |
| Expert Witness (Trial) Courtroom testimony and trial preparation | $900 / hour |
| Deposition Deposition testimony including preparation | $900 / hour |
| Report Writing Written expert report preparation | $700 / hour |
| Consultation Telephone or video consultation | $700 / hour |
| Document Review Review of opposing expert reports and case files | $700 / hour |
| Travel (Domestic) Travel time billed portal-to-portal | $350 / hour |
| Mileage Per-mile rate for local travel | $0.70 / mile |
| Rush Premium Expedited turnaround surcharge (< 48 hrs) | +$150 / hour |
| Retainer (Minimum) Non-refundable minimum engagement retainer | $10,000 |
The initial consultation is free; the consultation rate applies after engagement. Time is billed in the units shown, and travel time is billed portal to portal. Out-of-pocket expenses are billed at cost. The engagement letter governs if it differs from this schedule. Rates are current as of October 2026.