Invoice data is imported into our proprietary software and reconciled by our accountants to identify issues such as mathematical errors, missing data, and duplicative cost entries.

Our attorney reviewers analyze all the materials at their disposal including dockets, pleadings, work product, correspondence, retention letters, billing guidelines, and budgets, etc. The background review is important in order for our attorneys to familiarize themselves with the underlying litigation and to provide context to the invoices under review.

Stuart Maue's proprietary database allows our attorney reviewers to generate a high-level snapshot of the staffing of the underlying litigation and to identify unusual or problematic billing patterns.

Our attorney reviewers engage in a line-by-line review of every billing entry. We identify inappropriate or questionable billing activities based upon our years of professional experience as litigators and fee experts in light of industry standards, ethical rules of professional responsibility, established legal precedent, and any applicable billing guidelines or terms of retention. Included in this analysis is an evaluation of each phase, project, and activity performed by counsel. Additionally, Stuart Maue can implement an alternate hourly rate schedule to capture any unwarranted fees caused by excessive or unapproved hourly rates.

Stuart Maue attorneys may travel to the law firm(s) to review case files, evaluate document control procedures, and interview firm personnel.

Our attorney reviewers draft detailed reports outlining categories of questioned fees and expenses. Each questioned cost category is supported by a descriptive narrative justifying the attorney reviewer's categorization and includes exhibits highlighting the problematic fee and expense entries.

Stuart Maue often assists clients with presenting audit findings to law firms for purposes of negotiating the recoupment of previously paid fees and/or going-forward credits. Additionally, Stuart Maue's audit reports often form the basis of expert witness testimony to tribunals, arbitrators, and mediators.