RocketLawyer Review 2024: Your Guide to Legal Solutions

RocketLawyer is a platform that has built a solid reputation in the industry for providing stellar legal services since its inception in 2008. At LLCBase, we pride ourselves on making the business formation process as seamless as possible by providing thorough guidance and support to our clients during every stage of their entrepreneurial journey. This article will offer a comprehensive RocketLawyer review of everything you need to know about this widely-acclaimed platform to help you decide whether it’s the right fit for your legal requirements.

By exploring all facets of this online legal service provider, we aim to equip you with a clear understanding of its pros and cons, ultimately enabling you to make the best choice for your unique business needs. Whether you’re just starting out on your entrepreneurial journey or looking to take your existing business to the next level, our in-depth analysis of RocketLawyer will be an invaluable resource to guide you on your path to starting an LLC.

What is RocketLawyer?

RocketLawyer is an online legal service provider that aims to make legal services accessible and affordable for individuals and businesses of all sizes. Founded in 2008 and headquartered in San Francisco, California, RocketLawyer has served over 20 million customers worldwide. With RocketLawyer, you can access various services, including business formation, contract reviews, and consultations with licensed attorneys. The platform prides itself on its user-friendly interface and extensive legal document library, making it simple for anyone to create and customize essential documents without any prior legal knowledge.

As an innovative, technology-driven company, RocketLawyer strives to bridge the gap between those who need legal help and the experts who can provide it. RocketLawyer has become popular for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small businesses seeking quick and reliable legal support by offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional law firms. According to their website, the platform’s mission is to make the law “simple, affordable, and accessible” for everyone, giving users peace of mind and confidence in their legal decisions.

They are accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and maintain an A+ rating, reflecting the company’s commitment to maintaining high customer satisfaction standards. The platform is also a member of the American Bar Association’s Law Practice Division, further validating its dedication to providing high-quality legal services.

RocketLawyer’s services cover a broad spectrum of legal needs, including business law, family law, estate planning, and intellectual property protection. In addition to its comprehensive document library containing hundreds of customizable templates, the platform also offers an impressive network of experienced attorneys available for consultation. Users can easily search for attorneys by practice area or location, ensuring a seamless process of finding the right legal counsel for their needs.

How RocketLawyer Works

RocketLawyer’s unique approach to providing legal services combines the accessibility of a digital platform with the expertise of a network of licensed attorneys. Their business model revolves around subscription-based and pay-per-use services catering to various customers with varying legal needs.

RocketLawyer’s primary offering is its Legal Services subscription, which costs $39.99 monthly. Subscribers receive numerous benefits, including:

• Access to the platform’s full range of legal documents allows users to create, customize, and download unlimited documents as needed, from contracts and agreements to letters and notices.
• Guided document creation, ensuring users followed the correct procedures and protocols when creating legal documents. This is particularly helpful for individuals who need prior legal knowledge or experience.
• Consultations and guidance from RocketLawyer’s extensive network of attorneys. Subscribers can ask legal questions, receive phone or online consultations, and have their documents reviewed by attorneys for accuracy and completeness.
• Discounts on attorney fees. If subscribers need further legal assistance or representation, they can receive up to 40% off attorney fees when working with RocketLawyer’s partnered attorneys.
• Access to additional legal services such as business formation and trademark registration, often at reduced subscription prices.

For non-subscribers or individuals with occasional legal needs, RocketLawyer offers several pay-per-use services. These include:

• Single legal document creation, priced at $39.99 per document. Users can access RocketLawyer’s document library and create one customized legal document without committing to a subscription.
• Attorney services, such as document review and consultations, are available for non-subscribers at varying rates depending on the attorney’s local pricing structure. Remember that choosing this route means paying more per service than the discounts subscribers enjoy.
• Business formation packages are available for non-subscribers at separate pricing structures, ranging from $99 plus state filing fees for a basic package to $349 plus state filing fees for a premium package.

RocketLawyer operates primarily on a subscription basis but also caters to customers with occasional legal needs through their pay-per-use services. This flexible approach allows them to serve a diverse clientele, making legal services accessible and affordable for all. By leveraging technology, an extensive range of legal documents, and a network of experienced attorneys, RocketLawyer has built an innovative platform to simplify the legal process for individuals and businesses.

RocketLawyer Services: A Comprehensive Overview

RocketLawyer is known for its wide range of services that cater to various legal needs. The platform streamlines the legal process, making it more accessible to a broader audience. RocketLawyer provides the tools and resources individuals and businesses require for legal matters by offering these services. Here is a detailed overview of some of the key services offered by RocketLawyer:

1. Business Formation

• LLC Formation: RocketLawyer assists users in starting a Limited Liability Company (LLC) by providing guidance on state-specific requirements, preparing and filing the necessary paperwork, and even offering a registered agent service.
• Corporation Formation: Users can also form a corporation through RocketLawyer. The platform supports filling out and filing the necessary documents, such as Articles of Incorporation, and complying with state-specific requirements.
• Non-Profit Formation: RocketLawyer also caters to non-profit organizations by offering resources and step-by-step guidance on forming a non-profit, including assistance in obtaining tax-exempt status with the IRS.

2. Legal Document Creation

• Contract Creation: Access a comprehensive library of customizable contracts for various purposes, such as employment agreements, confidentiality agreements, and service contracts.
• Legal Agreements: RocketLawyer provides many legal agreement templates, including lease agreements, partnership agreements, and sales agreements, tailored to suit legal requirements.
• Business Policies: Businesses can create essential policy documents, such as employee handbooks, non-disclosure agreements, privacy policies, and terms of service, using RocketLawyer’s user-friendly templates and customization options.

3. Attorney Services

• Document Review: Users can review their completed documents by licensed attorneys within RocketLawyer’s network. This service ensures that users create legal documents that meet specific legal standards and requirements.
• Legal Consultation: RocketLawyer subscribers can access on-call attorneys for legal advice and guidance on various topics. Users can ask questions, receive phone or online consultations, and have matters handled by licensed professionals.

4. Intellectual Property

• Trademark Registration: RocketLawyer offers assistance with trademark registration, helping users protect their business names, logos, and brand elements by guiding them through the application process with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
• Copyright Registration: Users can rely on RocketLawyer to support registering their creative works with the U.S. Copyright Office, ensuring their original content is legally protected.
• Patent Services: RocketLawyer connects users with patent attorneys specializing in securing patents for inventions and ideas and safeguarding businesses’ intellectual property rights.

RocketLawyer offers a wide range of legal services that cater to the diverse needs of individuals and businesses. The platform’s comprehensive approach covers business formation, legal document creation, attorney services, and intellectual property protection, making it an ideal choice for users seeking a one-stop shop for all their legal needs. By partnering with licensed attorneys and providing an extensive array of customizable documents, RocketLawyer continues to make legal services accessible and affordable, simplifying the legal process for its users.

RocketLawyer Pricing and Plans: Diving Deeper

RocketLawyer’s pricing structure aims to cater to various legal needs by offering subscriptions, pay-as-you-go plans, and a free trial for new customers. Here is a more detailed look at the platform’s pricing and plans, supported by information from various reliable sources:

1. Free Trial

New users can enjoy a 7-day free trial on RocketLawyer, allowing them to explore and experience the platform’s features and services. During this trial period, users have access to the following:

• Consult a lawyer for legal questions
• Document defense on RocketLawyer documents
• Create, edit, and sign documents
• Free incorporation filing for new members (only state fees apply)
• 30-minute consultation on new legal matters
• Discounts on legal services

To sign up for the free trial, visit RocketLawyer’s website and create an account. Keep in mind that after the trial period, you’ll automatically be enrolled in the Premium plan, which costs $39.99 per month, unless you cancel the subscription before the trial ends.

2. Premium Plan

RocketLawyer’s Premium plan is a monthly subscription designed to provide ongoing access to legal services. For a monthly fee of $39.99, the Premium plan offers the following features and services:

• Unlimited access to legal documents: Create, edit, and sign any legal document available in the RocketLawyer library without additional fees.
• Ask a lawyer unlimited legal questions: Submit your legal inquiries and receive advice from a network of attorneys.
• Document Defense® on RocketLawyer documents: If someone challenges the validity of a document drafted on RocketLawyer, an attorney will help you enforce it.
• 30-minute free consultation on new legal matters: Members receive one free 30-minute consultation per legal matter with a participating network attorney.
• Discounted legal services: Access local attorneys and receive 25% off their regular hourly rates for additional legal services, representation, or legal advice.
• Free incorporation services for new businesses: RocketLawyer will waive its service fees for incorporation filing for new businesses (state fees still apply).
  To subscribe to the RocketLawyer Premium plan, visit their website and sign up for an account. After subscribing, you can immediately access the plan benefits. RocketLawyer operates on a subscription-based model with two primary membership plans: Free Trial and Premium Membership.

3. RocketLawyer Legal Services Subscription Plan

• Subscription Cost: RocketLawyer’s primary offering is the Legal Services subscription, which costs $39.99 monthly.
• Unlimited legal document access: With a subscription, users can create, modify, and download an unlimited number of legal documents.
• Attorney Consultations: Subscribers can access free 30-minute consultations with licensed attorneys for each new legal matter, ask legal questions and have documents reviewed by attorneys for accuracy and completeness.
• Attorney Fee Discounts: Subscribers receive discounts on further legal assistance or representation when working with RocketLawyer’s partnered attorneys, typically offering up to 40% off their standard rates.
• Additional Services: Subscribers can access additional legal services such as business formation and trademark registration, often at reduced prices.

RocketLawyer also offers a 7-day free trial for new customers, allowing them to assess the platform and its services before choosing a subscription plan.

4. Pay-As-You-Go Payment Option for Non-Subscribers

• Legal Document Pricing: Non-subscribers can access RocketLawyer’s document library and create a single legal document for $39.99 per document.
• Attorney Services: Legal consultations, document reviews, and phone calls with attorneys are available for non-subscribers at varying rates depending on the attorney’s local pricing structure. These services are typically more expensive for non-subscribers than those with a Legal Services subscription.
• Business Formation Packages: RocketLawyer offers business formation services separate from its subscription plan, with packages ranging from $99.99 plus state filing fees to $349.99 plus state filing fees, depending on the level of service required.

RocketLawyer’s pricing structure is designed to accommodate a wide range of legal needs by offering both subscription and pay-as-you-go payment options. This flexibility allows the platform to cater to customers with varying legal requirements, from those who need ongoing legal support to those who need only occasional assistance. Users can choose the best RocketLawyer plan for particular circumstances and utilize the platform’s extensive legal services and resources by considering their specific needs and budget.

Getting Started With RocketLawyer: A Step-by-Step Guide

Signing up for RocketLawyer is an easy and streamlined process designed to help users quickly access the platform’s wide range of legal services and resources. The following steps provide a comprehensive overview of getting started with RocketLawyer while referring to reliable external sources:

1. Visit RocketLawyer’s website (rocketlawyer.com) and click “Get Started” or “Join Now” to begin the sign-up process.
2. Choose your plan: Select the subscription-based Legal Services plan (with its 7-day free trial) or the pay-as-you-go option if you require a one-time legal document or service.
3. Create an account: Provide your name, email address, and create a password to set up your RocketLawyer account. If you opted for the subscription plan, you must also provide payment information for the monthly fee.
4. Account customization: After signing up, you may have to complete some basic information, such as your location, contact information, and account preferences, to tailor your experience better.
5. Browse the Services & Document Library: RocketLawyer offers an extensive library of legal documents, contracts, agreements, and policies, allowing users to create and customize the documents they need easily. Start browsing by category or search for a specific document type or topic.
6. Create and customize legal documents: Utilize RocketLawyer’s guided document creation process to fill in your specific information and requirements. Edit and finalize your customized legal documents, then download or print them as needed.
7. Request Attorney Assistance: If you need further legal support or consultation, access RocketLawyer’s network of licensed attorneys for guidance and document reviews. As a subscriber, you can enjoy discounted attorney rates and free consultations on various legal matters.
8. Utilize Additional Legal Services: If required, leverage RocketLawyer’s services, such as business formation or trademark registration, to support managing and growing your business.

Following these steps, users can easily set up and navigate the RocketLawyer platform, accessing many legal services and resources. By providing an intuitive interface, customizable documents, expert attorney support, and competitive pricing, RocketLawyer helps individuals and businesses efficiently navigate their legal needs, ensuring compliance and peace of mind.

RocketLawyer Customer Service and Support: A Closer Look

RocketLawyer is committed to providing top-notch customer service and support to ensure users have a positive experience while addressing their legal needs. The platform offers multiple support channels and a wealth of resources for users to find answers to their questions, resolving issues efficiently and effectively. The following details provide a comprehensive look at RocketLawyer’s customer service and support offerings, referencing information from various reliable sources:

1. Phone Support: RocketLawyer provides phone support for customers to connect directly with customer service representatives, receiving personalized assistance and guidance on any issues or questions. Their phone support hours are Monday through Friday, 6 am to 6 pm Pacific Time.
2. Email Support: Customers can send inquiries or concerns via email, receiving assistance directly from RocketLawyer’s customer support team. This support channel provides a convenient way for users to submit detailed inquiries and receive thorough responses.
3. Live Chat: RocketLawyer offers live chat support, providing real-time assistance for users who may need immediate help or guidance as they navigate the platform. This convenient support channel ensures users receive quick solutions to pressing matters or general inquiries.
4. FAQ Section: RocketLawyer’s comprehensive FAQ section addresses various topics, from technical support to legal document creation and attorney services. Users can easily search for answers to their questions or browse through common inquiries, saving time and effort in resolving potential issues.
5. Attorney Network: As an essential part of RocketLawyer’s offering, the platform provides access to an extensive network of licensed attorneys. These legal professionals offer a valuable resource in addressing users’ legal concerns, guiding them through document customization, reviewing their work, or answering questions on specific legal topics.
6. Help Center & Resources: RocketLawyer’s Help Center offers a wealth of resources and guides covering various legal topics and advice on using the platform effectively. Users can read articles, watch tutorials, or access step-by-step guides, providing the necessary tools and information to manage their legal matters confidently.

RocketLawyer’s dedication to customer service and support is evident in its multiple support channels and resources, addressing the diverse needs of its users. By offering phone support, email assistance, live chat, FAQs, attorney network access, and a robust Help Center, the platform ensures users receive the help and guidance they need, ultimately fostering a more efficient and user-friendly legal experience.

RocketLawyer Alternatives and How They Compare

Online legal services offer several alternatives to RocketLawyer, each with unique features and pricing structures. To ensure businesses make the right choice for their specific needs, it is essential to understand how alternatives such as LegalZoom and Incfile compare to RocketLawyer. The following comparison examines key aspects of each platform, with information derived from reliable external sources:

1. LegalZoom

LegalZoom offers a comprehensive array of legal solutions, such as business formation, estate planning, intellectual property protection, and legal document creation. Unlike RocketLawyer’s subscription-based pricing, LegalZoom primarily utilizes a flat-fee structure for individual services. For instance, business formation packages start at $0 plus state fees.

LegalZoom provides attorney consultations through their Business Advisory Plan, starting at $36 per month when billed annually. The plan comprises unlimited 30-minute consultations for new legal matters, document reviews, and annual business evaluations. Established in 2001, LegalZoom is among the oldest and most reputable online legal service providers, with millions of customers utilizing its services.

Basic Package (Starting at $0 + state fees)

LegalZoom’s basic package for forming a business covers all the necessary essentials, such as:

• Personalized operating agreement
• Financial account authorization
• 100% satisfaction guarantee

Additional features include:

• Articles of Organization preparation and filing
• Name availability search
• Lifetime customer support
• Standard LLC formation process

Pro Package (Starting at $249 + state fees)

Expanding upon the basic package, LegalZoom’s Pro Package offers further services for enhanced business support:

• Operating agreement templates access
• Employer Identification Number (EIN)
• Guidance on business licenses and permits
• Tax and insurance guidance
• Financial account authorization letter

2. BetterLegal

BetterLegal primarily assists entrepreneurs in establishing Limited Liability Companies (LLCs). They simplify what could otherwise be an overwhelming process, guiding entrepreneurs through every step of the business formation process. Their package includes critical components such as preparing and filing a certificate of formation with your state’s Secretary of State office, generating an operating agreement to govern the management of the LLC, and securing an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS. But their services extend beyond just establishing the business; they also handle the submission of significant banking and tax documents, further alleviating the administrative pressures on budding business owners.

Moreover, BetterLegal offers an affordable registered agent service to ensure all legal documents and important notices are received and handled. Their registered agent services provide a valuable communication link between the government and your business for a nominal fee, ensuring all legal requirements related to your LLC’s documents are met. This service is available for just $10 per month; however, for those seeking an even more cost-effective solution, BetterLegal offers an annual package for $90. By choosing BetterLegal, entrepreneurs are not just setting up their businesses for legal compliance and structure. Still, they are also forming a long-term partnership to stay compliant and operational in the long run. With their emphasis on speed, convenience, and affordable pricing, BetterLegal is redefining how businesses navigate the intricacies of LLC formation and compliance.

Furthermore, BetterLegal differentiates itself from competitors by focusing on transparency and no hidden fees. The flat rate of $299 for its comprehensive formation package lets entrepreneurs know exactly what they will invest in utilizing BetterLegal’s services. This straightforward pricing model, combined with their prompt and reliable service delivery, makes them an attractive choice for entrepreneurs starting their LLC journey.

3. Incfile

Incfile specializes in business formation services and offers fewer additional legal services than providers like RocketLawyer and LegalZoom. Their pricing structure is budget-friendly, with packages starting at $0, requiring users only to pay state filing fees. This approach attracts business owners seeking cost-effective business formation solutions. However, Incfile’s primary offerings do not include legal document creation or attorney consultations.

While Incfile may limit its range of services by not including legal document creation or attorney consultations as primary offerings, it compensates for this by offering a directory of trusted partner resources, which includes legal professionals. This network can be immensely valuable for Incfile users who may need to supplement their business formation needs with additional legal support. Since its operations began, Incfile has proudly served over 250,000 customers, consistently receiving positive feedback for prompt business formation services and affordability. Despite the narrower focus compared to some competitors, many find Incfile’s balanced mix of value, affordability, and efficiency a perfect solution for their business formation needs.

Silver Plan

The Silver Plan is an affordable option for business formation services, including a free registered agent for the first year at no cost, though the state fee is not included. This basic package is perfect for those who want to start a business without high expenses. It covers preparing and filing Articles of Organization, real-time order tracking, and phone and email support.

Key features of the Silver Plan include:

• Complimentary LLC formation services
• Free registered agent services for the first year
• Unlimited name searches for your LLC
• Statement of Organizer documentation support

Gold Plan

Incfile’s Gold Plan, priced at $149 (excluding state filing fees), is a top-tier offering that comes highly recommended for its comprehensive services essential for establishing an LLC. State filing fees vary across jurisdictions, and some states may offer tax incentives, potentially leaving LLCs to incur only the Gold Plan’s cost.

Key features in the Gold Plan are as follows:

• Free registered agent service for the first year
• Assistance with filing Articles of Organization
• Unlimited business name searches
• Support in obtaining an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
• Drafting and finalizing an Operating Agreement
• IRS form preparation and submission
• Unlimited email and phone support from Incfile’s team
• Expert business tax consultation
• Assistance in setting up a business bank account

Platinum Plan

Incfile’s Platinum Plan is a comprehensive solution for entrepreneurs looking to start and grow their LLCs. Offered at $299, excluding state filing fees, this top-tier package includes all features in the Gold Plan, plus several value-added services to support business development. Note that state filing fees may vary, and additional charges may apply.

In addition to the Gold Plan’s features, the Platinum Plan includes the following exclusive services:

• A library of Business Contract Templates to facilitate legal agreements
• Expedited Filing to ensure your LLC is established quickly
• Complimentary Domain Name and Business Email registration for professional communication and online presence

Incfile’s pricing structure is praised for its affordability, transparency, and adaptability to various business needs. The different plans make it easy for entrepreneurs to form their businesses and allow customers to choose a package that best suits their resources and preferences. With a clear understanding of the costs and services involved, you can focus on nurturing your newly-formed enterprise.

Who is RocketLawyer Best For

RocketLawyer’s versatile legal solutions cater to a wide range of individuals and businesses, making it an appealing option for various legal needs. Its subscription model, extensive legal document library, and attorney network work well for different user types. By evaluating the specific needs of various groups, we can determine who might benefit most from RocketLawyer’s services based on information gathered from reliable sources:

1. Entrepreneurs and Small Businesses

• New businesses and startups seeking ongoing legal support will find RocketLawyer’s subscription model particularly beneficial.
• The platform provides assistance with business formation, legal document creation, and attorney consultations, making it a comprehensive legal solution for small business owners.
• RocketLawyer’s accessible interface and extensive resources help business owners focus on growing their businesses without being burdened by legal complexities.

2. Freelancers and Independent Contractors

• RocketLawyer offers customizable legal documents, like contracts and agreements, essential for freelancers seeking to establish business relationships with clients.
• Subscription-based access to attorney consultations ensures freelancers have a reliable source of legal advice throughout their self-employed journey.

3. Real Estate Professionals

• With a subscription, landlords and property managers can access essential legal documents, like lease agreements and eviction notices, helping them easily manage their properties.
• RocketLawyer’s attorney network provides knowledgeable legal support for real estate-related issues or disputes.

4. Users with Occasional Legal Needs

• While the subscription model is best suited for those with ongoing legal requirements, RocketLawyer’s pay-as-you-go option allows users needing occasional legal support to access and customize individual documents without any ongoing commitment.

RocketLawyer’s comprehensive services and flexible pricing cater to various legal needs, making it a practical choice for different user types. Although RocketLawyer’s subscription model is designed to be a one-stop shop for individuals and businesses seeking ongoing legal support, the platform’s pay-as-you-go option ensures that those with occasional legal needs can also benefit from their services. Businesses and individuals must assess their specific legal requirements and determine if RocketLawyer’s services and attorney support best fits their unique needs.

FAQ

How to Use Rocketlawyer

The first step in utilizing Rocket Lawyer is signing up for an account. This process is streamlined and only takes a few minutes, with users providing basic information about themselves and their legal needs. Once registered, users have access to a wide range of legal documents and templates that can be customized to suit their specific situation. Whether you need a contract for a business partnership, a will to outline your wishes for your estate, or a rental agreement for a property you own, Rocket Lawyer has you covered.

One of the major benefits of using Rocket Lawyer is the cost savings it provides. Traditional legal services can come with hefty price tags, making them out of reach for many individuals. By using Rocket Lawyer, users can create professional-quality legal documents at a fraction of the cost of hiring a lawyer. This can be especially beneficial for small businesses and startups that may not have the resources to retain a full-time legal team.

Another advantage of using Rocket Lawyer is the convenience it offers. Navigating the legal system can be time-consuming and overwhelming, but Rocket Lawyer streamlines the process by providing all the necessary tools in one place. With just a few clicks, users can generate documents, get legal advice, and even find attorneys in their area if needed. This level of convenience makes it easier than ever for individuals and businesses to tackle their legal needs without the stress and confusion that often comes with it.

In addition to its document creation capabilities, Rocket Lawyer also offers a wealth of educational resources. From informative articles to how-to guides, users can expand their knowledge of various legal topics and feel more empowered to handle their own legal affairs. This educational component sets Rocket Lawyer apart from other online legal services, helping users gain a deeper understanding of the legal issues that affect them.

Ultimately, Rocket Lawyer provides a valuable service to those in need of affordable and accessible legal assistance. By simplifying the legal process and offering cost-effective solutions, Rocket Lawyer empowers individuals and small businesses to take control of their legal affairs with confidence. Whether you’re starting a new business, drafting a will, or facing a complex legal issue, Rocket Lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system with ease and peace of mind.

Conclusion

In a world where businesses constantly juggle multiple roles and responsibilities, the value of easily accessible and reliable legal services cannot be understated. RocketLawyer has successfully positioned itself as a go-to platform for entrepreneurs, offering streamlined legal solutions at competitive prices. By capitalizing on their extensive range of services, from document creation to attorney consultations, business owners can confidently navigate the legal landscape, allowing them to dedicate their valuable time and energy towards expanding their ventures. An investment in RocketLawyer is, therefore, an investment in fostering an environment where your business can flourish, unhampered by legal hurdles.

Before diving headfirst into any legal service platform, business owners must assess their needs and evaluate how well the available options cater to them. RocketLawyer, with its myriad of services and flexibility, has proven to be a strong contender in this space. As you weigh the benefits of RocketLawyer against its competitors, consider how these platforms will impact your immediate legal concerns and pave the way for long-term success. With the right legal support by your side, you can embark on the entrepreneurship journey, secure in the knowledge that you have a robust foundation upon which to build your dreams.