Suzette Marie Smith, Appellate Attorney in New Orleans, Louisiana

Suzette concentrates on appellate and family law. Each area below outlines the kind of case Suzette handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Appellate

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• Family Law

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Suzette's primary office is at Hancock Whitney Center, 701 Poydras Street, 40th Floor, New Orleans, LA, 70139. 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 Suzette usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Suzette 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 Suzette for a appellate case?

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

• Does Suzette offer a free consultation?

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

• How long do appellate cases in Louisiana 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. Suzette gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Suzette take my case if I'm outside New Orleans?

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

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

• Is Suzette accepting new appellate clients right now?

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