D Edwin Schmelzer, General Attorney in Washington, District of Columbia

D concentrates on general. Each area below outlines the kind of case D handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• General

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D's primary office is at 901 K St. N.W., 8th Fl., Washington, DC, 20001. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new general attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with D usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

D discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in general practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire D for a general case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. D walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does D offer a free consultation?

  D charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain D's office. Some general attorneys offer free consults — check D's current terms during booking.

• How long do general cases in District of Columbia typically take?

  Simple general matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. D gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can D take my case if I'm outside Washington?

  D is licensed in District of Columbia. Matters governed by District of Columbia law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — D will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with D?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. D will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is D accepting new general clients right now?

  D's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.