Elise Nicole Paeffgen, Business Attorney in Washington, District of Columbia

Elise concentrates on business, criminal defense, environmental, general, and litigation. Each area below outlines the kind of case Elise handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Business

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• Criminal Defense

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• Environmental

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• General

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• Litigation

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• Personal Injury

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• Zoning

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Elise's primary office is at The Atlantic Building, 950 F Street, N.W., Washington, DC, 20004-1404. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

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

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

• How much does it cost to hire Elise for a business case?

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

• Does Elise offer a free consultation?

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

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

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

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

  Elise 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 — Elise 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 Elise?

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

• Is Elise accepting new business clients right now?

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