Dana Sue Merkel, General Attorney in Washington, District of Columbia

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

• General

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• Maritime

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Dana's primary office is at Watergate, Eleventh Floor, 600 New Hampshire Avenue N.W., Washington, DC, 20037. 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 Dana usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Dana 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 Dana for a general case?

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

• Does Dana offer a free consultation?

  Dana charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Dana's office. Some general attorneys offer free consults — check Dana'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. Dana gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

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

  Dana 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 — Dana 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 Dana?

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

• Is Dana accepting new general clients right now?

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