Representing Clients +
Research and Writing for Colleagues.
PHOTO CAPTION: A 400-YEAR OLD OAK TREE IN VARIOUS SEASONS.
My approach to representing clients, whatever season they find themselves in, has always been to provide a sense of calm in a world of uncertainty. This applies to all clients, whether they are wanting to discuss Estate Planning, a Probate case or Emergency Guardianship after the loss of a loved one, an uncontested Adoption for a second parent or step-parent, or the need for advice when filing a new Divorce or Modification when deciding whether to hire an attorney or family law mediator.
For every prospective new client, I start by LISTENING to my client’s concerns and goals, followed by a respectful discussion about how to reasonably achieve their unique goals.
To best support my clients, I focus on a problem-solving, client-centric approach to keep my clients out of the courtroom as much as possible. This not only saves my clients’ time and other limited resources, but it also protects their privacy, at least to the extent that is possible in cases where many of the court filings are public record (unless the filings are part of an exception under the trial rules).
If you’re not sure what you’re looking for, or are just looking for some legal guidance, email me your name, contact info, and basic info about your case at RJB@rjberfangerlaw.com or fill out a form to schedule a consultation.
In addition to working with clients in stressful situations, I use a similar approach when I lend my research and writing skills to other attorneys. My help has been appreciated by those with limited time who need, as one colleague called it, “an assist.” I also have the flexibility to take on both intense long-term projects and assignments with a quick turnaround, from legal research memos to motions for summary judgment or other detailed an research- and fact-heavy motions, to assistance with appellate briefs.
PLEASE NOTE: When it comes to scheduling meetings with clients, I have been following CDC and local health department recommendations.
Overwhelmed but don’t want to take on a full-time employee to help with research and writing? Let me help take on a research and writing project (or two).
With several years of experience in the fields of journalism, academia, and the law, including National Environmental Policy Act compliance and other environmental law issues; criminal law, expungements, and post-conviction relief; family law and child welfare litigation; and First Amendment issues as a professor and a reporter; I continue to use my research and writing skills to provide services to legal colleagues.
Click here for more information. Contact me to schedule a conversation using this form or via email: RJB@rjberfangerlaw.com.
I often accept new clients with an emphasis on helping creatives — artists, writers, performers, musicians. I’m also especially interested in helping clients one issue at a time. See below or clicke here for practice areas for individual clients.
Estate Planning: Wills, Trusts, Power of Attorney, HIPAA forms, Standby Guardianships, general discussions about clients’ wishes.
Probate: Helping clients navigate the legal system when they have been named the Personal Representative to an Estate or have the support of all of the Estate’s beneficiaries to serve as Personal Representative.
Family Law:
Domestic Relations Mediations by a Registered Mediator.
Low-Conflict Divorces and Modifications.
Adoptions and Guardianships
Collaborative Law Divorces (trained by Central Indiana Association of Collaborative Professionals).
Limited scope representations are available for the purpose of filing petitions, motions, and agreements.
Miscellaneous Civil Representation:
Name changes
Contract review and drafting
Misdemeanor Expungements
Appeals (various practice areas)
Click here for more information. Email me at RJB@rjberfangerlaw.com or fill out this form to schedule a consultation.
What Is Your Background?
Although practicing law is my second career, I've been a professional reporter for legal newspapers and general interest publications for more than 20 years. I am currently a freelance writer and fact checker for many Indiana publications. I regularly apply the same skills in both professions: interviewing, researching, investigating, writing, and even explaining complicated issues in a way for the audience — or client — to understand. I also use these skills as an adjunct professor and guest lecturer for law school and college students, and other attorneys. I also host an on-again/off-again podcast about First Amendment issues called “Another’s Lyric” (“One man’s vulgarity is another’s lyric.” - Cohen v. California (1971))
How Can We Get Started?
If you’re looking for an attorney for help, especially if you think you have a low-conflict case (you are interested in a fair result, where problem-solving is more important than winning at all costs), an expungement, estate planning, or a simple contract, let’s talk. Click “Contact” below. You may also send a text to 317-LAW-6094 (317-529-6094) or email me at RJB@rjberfangerlaw.com or fill out a form to schedule a consultation. While I cannot guarantee that every message will receive a response, I will do my best to respond within one to two business days. If you need a quicker response, consider checking out the IndyBar’s Lawyer Referral Service: indylawyerfinder.com.