This message has been cross posted to the following eGroups: Committee on Scientific Freedom and Human Rights and Statistical Consulting Section .
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Although since I retired I mostly do pro bono work, I still do some paid consulting. When I consult on an analysis as an expert for a lawsuit, I charge my straight hourly rate with a higher hourly rate for court or deposition time.
A few attorneys who are not clients, said that it is
not unethical to charge something like 2/3 of my regular fee and 5% of any award. They said this is especially true when the attorney's clients are not well off.
What is the experience of other consulting statisticians?
What do others do about payment for work in a legal situation?
What is your reaction to having part of payment being contingent?
What is your reaction to agreeing charge 2/3 for immediate payment and 1/3 after the case is settled no matter which way the court decides?
Do you think it weakens one's credibility as an expert if you take contingent or delayed payment?
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Arthur Kendall
Social Research Consultants
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