Court Policy and Fees for Wellsprings Providers
Cautionary note
Clients should be aware that having their therapist subpoenaed or providing records for the purpose of litigation could substantially change the therapeutic relationship. This applies to clients of all ages. If the therapist is required to answer questions, offering a professional opinion or to provide records, the therapist/client privilege is waived and can damage the trust in the therapeutic relationship. In essence, there is a possibility that testifying in court may end the professional relationship.
Procedures for issuing a subpoena
Attorney issuing the subpoena will contact Wellsprings’ office at least three business days in advance of the court date, at 63 Springs Station Drive, P. O. Box 157, Franklin Springs, GA 30639 or by calling the office at 706.246.0733 during business hours.
Court appearance fees for a half day are a retainer of $900. Court appearance fees for a full day are a retainer of $1800. Deposition fees are billed at $225.00 per hour. Preparation for court appearance will be billed at $225 per hour up to three hours (billable in 15-minute increments).
Payment for records must be made prior to releasing records. Mileage will be billed from the Wellsprings’ office to the courthouse at the approved IRS mileage rate.
The minimum charge for a court appearance is $900 (for a half day), and $1800 (for a full day).
Please Note: If a subpoena or notice to meet attorney(s) is received without a minimum of three business days’ notice, there will be an additional $500 express charge, to cover the lost revenue for appointments cancelled for court appearance.
A retainer of $900 (for a half day) or $1800 (for a full day) must be paid before the close of business at least three business days before the scheduled court appearance. A penalty of $250 will be added for payments made after said deadline. The remainder of the costs (if any) will be billed after the court appearance and will be due upon receipt.
If the therapist is subpoenaed and the case is rescheduled or cancelled with less than three business days’ notice prior to the scheduled court date (and therefore, therapist’s testimony is not given), the retainer is forfeited.
Procedures for requesting court appearance without a subpoena
For individuals requesting a court appearance (without a subpoena), the above fees are required to be paid in cash at the Wellsprings’ office at least three business days prior to the court date.
Procedures for requesting confidential information
Copies of written notes and other confidential information are not released without the client’s signed release of information or a judge’s order. Guardians of minor clients should be aware that requesting medical records for the use of court could result in emotional damage of the child. However, Wellsprings will provide a written report and case summary with the appropriate signed consents. Preparation of reports or summaries will be billed at regular office rate $225 per hour up to three hours (billable in 15-minute increments). Fees for medical records will be billed at the approved per page rates for Georgia.
Thank you for your professional courtesy and cooperation.