How much does it cost to hire Sean for a adr case?

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

Does Sean offer a free consultation?

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

How long do adr cases in California typically take?

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

Can Sean take my case if I'm outside Irvine?

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

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

Is Sean accepting new adr clients right now?

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

Sean August O'Brien, ADR Attorney in Irvine

Quick answer

Sean August O'Brien is a principal based in Irvine, CA. The practice focuses on ADR, Appellate, and Breach of Contract. Sean has over 38 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Payne And Fears Llp. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 2 client reviews.

Based in: Irvine, CA
Experience: over 38 years
Known for: ADR · Appellate · Breach of Contract

Handles ADR, Appellate, and Breach of Contract matters from Irvine, CA.
Over 38 years of practice as a licensed attorney.
Recognized with Peer Reviewed.

Areas of practice

Sean's practice areas in Irvine

Sean concentrates on adr, appellate, breach of contract, business, and civil rights. Each area below outlines the kind of case Sean handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

ADR cases in Irvine, California

Sean takes adr matters in Irvine, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Sean agrees to represent you.

Appellate cases in Irvine, California

Sean takes appellate matters in Irvine, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Sean agrees to represent you.

Breach of Contract cases in Irvine, California

Sean takes breach of contract matters in Irvine, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Sean agrees to represent you.

Business cases in Irvine, California

Sean takes business matters in Irvine, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Sean agrees to represent you.

Civil Rights cases in Irvine, California

Sean takes civil rights matters in Irvine, California. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Sean agrees to represent you.

Biography

Sean August O'Brien, adr attorney serving Irvine

Sean August O'Brien is a principal based in Irvine, CA. The practice focuses on ADR, Appellate, and Breach of Contract. Sean has over 38 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Payne And Fears Llp. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 2 client reviews. Sean works from Irvine, California and takes on adr matters across the region.

Sean August O'Brien is a lawyer practicing commercial litigation, business litigation, real estate litigation and 26 other areas of law. Sean received a M.B.A. degree from University of California at Berkeley in 1986, and has been licensed for 38 years. Sean practices at Payne & Fears LLP in Irvine, CA.

Working with Sean on a adr matter

Sean August O'Brien is a lawyer practicing commercial litigation, business litigation, real estate litigation and 26 other areas of law. Sean received a M.B.A. degree from University of California at Berkeley in 1986, and has been licensed for 38 years. Sean practices at Payne & Fears LLP in Irvine, CA.

Clients Sean works with

Sean reviews new inquiries case-by-case for adr, appellate, and breach of contract matters in Irvine and the surrounding California area.

Credentials

Credentials — where Sean studied and practices

University of California, Boalt Hall
J.D. · 1987
University of California at Berkeley
M.B.A. University · 1986

Jurisdictions

Sean's state bar admissions

California
1988 · ACTIVE

Sean studied at J.D. in University of California, Boalt Hall and M.B.A. University in University of California at Berkeley.

Law school and academic background

Sean completed J.D. in University of California, Boalt Hall and M.B.A. University in University of California at Berkeley. Formal legal training is one signal of substantive knowledge — the day-to-day practice Sean runs in California is where that training gets applied to real client questions.

Recognition

Sean's legal honors and published work

Sean has received 1 formal recognition from bar associations, industry bodies, and peer-review services.

Peer Reviewed

Legal awards and honors

Peer Reviewed.

Locations

Sean August O'Brien's office in Irvine

Sean's primary office is at Jamboree Center, 4 Park Plaza, Suite 1100, Irvine, CA, 92614. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

Payne And Fears Llp

Jamboree Center, 4 Park Plaza, Suite 1100

Irvine, CA 92614

Open in Google Maps

Client feedback

Client reviews of Sean August O'Brien — 5.0/5 rating from 2 verified client reviews

Every review below is from a verified client of Sean. Reviews cover communication, case outcome, and value — the three signals that matter most when comparing adr attorneys in Irvine.

5.0

2 client reviews

Client ratings are sourced from public records and editorial research. Reviews on LawyersListed are accepted from verified clients once Sean August O'Brien claims this profile.

Read all reviews

Hiring guide

How to hire Sean August O'Brien — what to expect in your first consultation

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

Consultation formats and pricing

Sean charges for the initial consult. That fee is credited toward representation if you retain Sean's office.

What to bring to your first meeting

Bring any documents you already have — police reports, medical records, filed pleadings, correspondence from an insurer, a copy of the contract at issue. If you're not sure, err on the side of bringing everything; Sean will tell you what matters and what doesn't.

Questions to ask a adr attorney in Irvine, California

A short list to run through before you commit: How many adr matters have you handled in the last year? What's your fee structure? Who else in the office will work on this? What's your realistic estimate of timeline and range of outcomes? How do I reach you between meetings?

Fees & payment

Fees, payment methods, and consultation options for Sean

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

Hourly rates, contingency fees, and flat-fee options

Every adr matter is priced differently. Simple document review might be a flat fee. Injury litigation is often contingency. Complex commercial disputes usually run hourly with a retainer. Sean confirms the model in the engagement letter before any work starts.

Payment methods and payment plans

Sean's office accepts standard payment methods. Ask about payment plans if the retainer is a stretch — many adr practices work with clients on structured schedules.

Frequently asked

Frequently asked questions about Sean August O'Brien

How much does it cost to hire Sean for a adr case?
Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Sean walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.
Does Sean offer a free consultation?
Sean charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Sean's office. Some adr attorneys offer free consults — check Sean's current terms during booking.
How long do adr cases in California typically take?
Simple adr 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. Sean gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.
Can Sean take my case if I'm outside Irvine?
Sean is licensed in California. Matters governed by California law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Sean 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 Sean?
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. Sean will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.
Is Sean accepting new adr clients right now?
Sean's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

Community Q&A

Real questions asked by California residents in the last few months, answered by adr attorneys like Sean August O'Brien. Each link opens the full answer thread.

Can I Mediate A Child Custody Dispute In California If We Agree?
I live in Los Angeles, CA, and my ex-partner and I have agreed to some terms regarding child custody after our separation in June 2023. We think mediation could help finalize our a
1 verified answer · ADR · California
Can Mediation Be Used To Resolve A Workplace Harassment Claim In Illinois?
I reported a workplace harassment issue in Chicago, IL, but I want to avoid a lengthy legal battle. My HR department suggested mediation as a way to resolve the issue amicably. I’m
1 verified answer · ADR · Illinois
Is Mediation Confidential For Business Disputes In Nevada?
I’m involved in a business dispute in Las Vegas, NV, and I’m thinking about mediation. I’m concerned about privacy and what might happen if the details get out. Is mediation confid
1 verified answer · ADR · Nevada
Can Mediation Help Resolve A Debt Dispute In South Carolina?
I live in Charleston, SC, and I’m dealing with debt collectors regarding an unpaid medical bill. I really want to resolve this without going to court. I’ve heard mediation can be a
1 verified answer · ADR · South Carolina
Can Mediation Help Resolve An HOA Dispute In Arizona?
I’ve been having issues with my homeowners association in Scottsdale, AZ, over some unfair fines. I feel like we could reach a compromise, but I don’t know if mediation is an optio
1 verified answer · ADR · Arizona
What Should I Do If Mediation Fails In Minnesota?
I've been trying to mediate a separation agreement in Minneapolis, MN, but it feels like we’re not making any progress. If mediation fails, I’m worried about what my next steps sho
1 verified answer · ADR · Minnesota

Areas served

ADR attorneys serving Irvine, Los Angeles and San Francisco in California

Sean handles adr matters throughout California. Each city below is a direct link into the search page for verified adr attorneys in that community.

Sean August O'Brien, ADR Attorney in Irvine, California

Quick answer