Diane Smits Lein, Litigation Attorney in Wilmington, Delaware

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

• Litigation

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Diane's primary office is at 820 N. French St., 8th Fl., Wilmington, DE, 19801. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

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

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

• How much does it cost to hire Diane for a litigation case?

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

• Does Diane offer a free consultation?

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

• How long do litigation cases in Delaware typically take?

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

• Can Diane take my case if I'm outside Wilmington?

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

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

• Is Diane accepting new litigation clients right now?

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