Almost everyone will need an attorney at some point in life. Maybe you're facing serious legal trouble. Maybe you need help creating a will. Maybe you've been cheated by a contractor.
No matter the reason, one of the first questions any attorney hears when meeting a prospective client is, "What's this gonna cost?"
To give you an answer, an attorney will first want to know the specifics of your case.
Fees vary widely among attorneys but are usually determined by three factors: Why do you need a lawyer? How much work is involved? and How experienced is the lawyer you want to hire?
No matter the reason, one of the first questions any attorney hears when meeting a prospective client is, "What's this gonna cost?"
To give you an answer, an attorney will first want to know the specifics of your case.
Fees vary widely among attorneys but are usually determined by three factors: Why do you need a lawyer? How much work is involved? and How experienced is the lawyer you want to hire?
WHY DO YOU NEED A LAWYER?
Most attorneys charge different prices for different services. For example, if you're charged with murder, an attorney will cost a lot more than if you just want help creating a will.
HOW MUCH WORK IS INVOLVED?
The amount of research and time necessary to accomplish your goals factor into the cost, as does the complexity of your case. Helping sort out a typical estate is usually not as expensive as appealing a criminal conviction. The average DUI offense is much easier to handle than suing the auto repair shop that botched your transmission job.
WHAT IS THE ATTORNEY'S EXPERIENCE LEVEL?
An attorney fresh out of law school will likely charge a lot less than one who's practiced for 30 years. A lawyer with a proven track record will charge more than one with a negative work history. Likewise, an attorney with an exceptional level of experience in a certain field of law will charge more than an attorney with limited experience in that area.
BOTTOM LINE
Sometimes attorneys charge flat fees per case, sometimes they work by the hour. Sometimes they want a retainer upfront and will then return any money left over once your case is resolved. On rare occasions, an attorney might agree to take a civil case on contingency, which means you pay little or nothing upfront, with an agreement your attorney will receive a percentage of any money you may be entitled to receive.
It's important to shop around when choosing an attorney or law firm. Make sure the cost and the terms of billing are very clear. Don't be afraid to ask specific questions about fees and what is included in your representation.
Neal understands that most people don't have extra money laying around to spend on fancy lawyers. He works with his clients to come up with a reasonable payment schedule. In addition to cash or check, payment can be made by debit or credit card, or by using ApplePay.
It's important to shop around when choosing an attorney or law firm. Make sure the cost and the terms of billing are very clear. Don't be afraid to ask specific questions about fees and what is included in your representation.
Neal understands that most people don't have extra money laying around to spend on fancy lawyers. He works with his clients to come up with a reasonable payment schedule. In addition to cash or check, payment can be made by debit or credit card, or by using ApplePay.