Kathryn R Schmeltzer, Appellate Attorney in Washington, District of Columbia

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

• Appellate

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• General

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• Government

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• Litigation

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Kathryn's primary office is at 1200 17th St., N.W., Washington, DC, 20036. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

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

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

• How much does it cost to hire Kathryn for a appellate case?

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

• Does Kathryn offer a free consultation?

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

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

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

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

  Kathryn 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 — Kathryn 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 Kathryn?

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

• Is Kathryn accepting new appellate clients right now?

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