Derence Van Fivehouse, Environmental Attorney in Alexandria, Virginia

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

• Environmental

  View other Environmental attorneys

Derence's primary office is at 910 Prince St., Alexandria, VA, 22314-3020. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

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

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

• How much does it cost to hire Derence for a environmental case?

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

• Does Derence offer a free consultation?

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

• How long do environmental cases in Virginia typically take?

  Simple environmental 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. Derence gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Derence take my case if I'm outside Alexandria?

  Derence is licensed in Virginia. Matters governed by Virginia law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Derence 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 Derence?

  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. Derence will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Derence accepting new environmental clients right now?

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