How do I retain Paul H. Gross, C.C.M.?

The most important thing to remember about retaining Paul H. Gross, C.C.M. is to retain him quickly. As long as he is qualified for the case, Paul works for the side that retains him in writing first. This is a strict policy that eliminates any perception of favoritism among clients. It is not acceptable (nor ethical) to name him on your witness list without contacting him. Several of Paul's biggest clients have found out the hard way that they suddenly had no weather expert when they named him on their witness list...assuming that Paul was theirs...only to find out later that he had been consulting with the opposition for several months.

If you wish to retain Paul H. Gross, C.C.M. at this time, then kindly fill out and send in the form below, which goes directly to Paul's e-mail.

How soon will I hear back?

All clients receive confirmation upon initial contact (naturally, there will be a delay if Paul is out of town when your request comes in). If Paul has already been retained by the other side of your case, then you will be notified immediately. How soon he has conclusions to discuss with you depends upon the research necessary. In most simple cases, where ordering of weather data from outside sources is not necessary, Paul is normally back in touch within two weeks. Most ordered weather data takes three weeks to arrive so, in these cases, it may be a month before Paul calls. You should allow six weeks of lead-time when deciding when to retain Paul H. Gross, C.C.M. even though you will probably hear back from him much sooner. Last minute retentions necessitating rush order status incur a substantial data premium charge from Paul's weather data vendors.

It is important to note that Paul H. Gross, C.C.M. will not put any conclusions to paper unless instructed by his client. Clients needing a report must specifically request this...but these clients will still receive a brief phone call to discuss the opinions before Paul commits them to a discoverable document.

What about preparing for trial?

It is imperative to notify Paul as soon as possible of your anticipated trial date. Because Paul's daily schedule at WDIV-TV sometimes changes, in general, it is best to have him testify first thing in the morning (first witness on that day, if possible). However, on days where Paul has to work the "early" shift (3:00 A.M. to 12:30 P.M.), he will not be available until afternoon. Also keep in mind that harsh or severe weather may change Paul's schedule at the last minute (although, understanding his role in public safety, most judges have been lenient in permitting changes to Paul's scheduled testimony resulting from significant weather situations).

As your trial approaches, Paul H. Gross, C.C.M. will begin discussing with you the need for exhibits. Paul's philosophy on exhibits is very clear: use them only if they will simplify the science and assist the jury. Paul will also consult with you on your direct examination, drawing upon his substantial trial experience to help guide you through the most logical way to bring the weather facts forward to the jury in a concise, friendly manner.

What does all of this cost?

Retaining Paul H. Gross, C.C.M. for a case incurs a two-hour minimum, but this is credited toward any research and consulting done for you. Although the amount of research needed varies from case to case, the majority of Paul's cases involve only two-to-four hours of research (including the written report). Research and consulting time is billed at a rate of $250 per hour. Rush orders requiring conclusions in two days or less incur a one-hour premium. Discovery depositions are $500 for up to two hours, with additional time billed at a rate of $250 per hour. De bene esse depositions to be used at trial are $750. Live testimony at trial is $1000 for each half day spent in court (testifying or not).

Paul is very ethical about his billing procedures. You are only billed for his actual research and consulting time, plus for any data or miscellaneous costs (such as color copies for your files, exhibits, etc.). Travel for distant meetings or testimony will be billed at the rate of  $0.505 per mile.  Most ordered text data costs less than $25. Color radar orders generally cost $100 to $300, although there have been some cases where more than $1000 in radar images were needed. Paul will contact you prior to ordering any weather data where costs are expected to be large. Paul H. Gross, C.C.M. does not "pad" bills:  you are billed fairly and honestly for his time, and timely payment is expected in return. Your office is also expected to notify Paul if a case settles, so that he may close out his file.