Working With Captain Stoller
Most engagements start with a ten-minute call. Before that call, he needs enough information to rule out a conflict. After it, you will know whether he is the right fit for the issues in your case.
Conflict check
Send the parties, vessel names, and court through the form or by phone. He confirms within one business day.
First call
A short conversation about the facts and the issues you need covered. No charge for this call.
Retention and documents
A written retention agreement and retainer. Then the logs, procedures, records, and statements you have.
Review and opinions
A call to walk you through what he found before anything is put in writing. You decide whether you need a report.
Report, deposition, and trial
A Rule 26 report when required, followed by deposition and trial testimony.
Consulting or testifying?
Many attorneys bring him in first as a consulting expert, so the early analysis stays protected. If the case needs testimony, the engagement can convert to a testifying role. Ask about this on the first call.
Plaintiff and defense
Captain Stoller is retained by both plaintiff and defense counsel.
- Fees:
- Rates and retainer terms are provided on request.
- Testimony list:
- A current four-year testimony list is available to retaining counsel.
- Travel:
- He works on matters nationwide and travels for inspections, depositions, and trial.
What to send in the first week
- Complaint or claim summary, and any Coast Guard or NTSB reports
- Deck, bridge, and engine logs for the relevant period
- The vessel's safety management system or company procedures
- Crew list, licenses, and training records
- Photos, video, AIS data, and witness statements
- Discovery, including interrogatories and responses
- Scheduling order with expert deadlines
Questions attorneys ask
How quickly can he review a case?
Turnaround depends on the volume of records. Tell him your deadlines in the conflict check so he can confirm before you retain him.
Does he take cases on short deadlines?
Sometimes. Call rather than using the form if your deadline is within 30 days.
Will he inspect the vessel?
That is counsel's call. If you want an inspection of the vessel, its equipment, or the site, he will do it.
Does he give legal opinions?
No. He gives opinions on vessel operations, navigation, seamanship, and industry practice. Legal conclusions belong to counsel and the court.
Can he work with our other experts?
Yes. Engineers, physicians, and economists often cover the parts of a case outside his field.