Frequently asked questions
What are your rates?
Our rates listed here are subject to change for the needs of a given case, the type of plan, and any additional complexities, but generally:
Defined Benefit QDROS = $500
California Joinders = $500
Defined Contribution Plans & IRAs = $500 (no calculation)
Judgment Language = $600
Notice of Adverse Interest = $500
ERISA / Private Plan QDRO = $600
State / Public DRO (i.e. CalPERS, STERS) = $600
Federal DRO = $800
Military DRO = $1,100
IRA / 401k / Deferred Compensation Calculation = $700
Payment must be paid in advance for services. Our fees are flat fees and not a true retainer (See California Rules of Professional Responsibility, Rule 1.5 (d) & (e).) Pursuant to California Rules of Professional Responsibility, Rule 1.15, sub parts (a) &(b), (i) the client has a right under Rule 1.15 (a) to require that the flat fee be deposited in the Law Office of James K. Moore, Inc.’s trust account until the fee is earned, and (ii) the client is entitled to a refund of any amount of the fee that has not been earned in the event the representation is terminated or the services for which the fee has been paid are not completed
How can a QDRO benefit me?
When divorcing couples agree to divide a retirement plan the plan administrator needs a court order directing them how the retirement benefits are to be divided. Most attorneys do not prepare QDROs themselves because of the differences between thousands of retirement plans and nuances in the law. The Law Office of James K. Moore, Inc. provides QDRO preparation services to take care of these technicalities. We use technology to stay current so you can be confident in how your QDRO is drafted; however, we do suggest that you submit it to the plan administrator for pre-approval to avoid having it rejected later.