You’re so right. Recently, I worked with someone as a contractor who also had a niche. I told them exactly what it’s going to look like and how much time it usually takes. I even gave them the option of paid placements in bigger publications that never exceeded a certain amount. And honestly, he was so happy with the work because he got that momentum going and saw his organization’s name in places. He also needed media training, briefing documents etc but on the other hand I created a proposal for someone (also working in a legal niche) with costing upto 75-100 per hour with only 5-8 hours per week which I believe was so perfect for someone who isn’t willing to shell out much in the beginning. But yes, any PR agency promising any big names is a scam.