The Types of Lawyers Compensation Fees

Lawyers bill their clients for a variety of fees. The type of fees that you pay are based on several factors such as: the nature of your case, the area of law that you lawyer practices and the lawyer's experience and ability. It is important that you discuss fee arrangements with your lawyer prior to him or her taking on the case.

Hourly Fee

This is the most common type of lawyer’s fee. Lawyers will bill you by the hour and they will charge you a specific amount for each hour that they work on your case. Lawyers that work in big law firms might charge more than a lawyer who is in private practice or works for a smaller firm. Also, senior associates tend to bill at a higher rate than younger associates do.

Consultation Fee

A lawyer may or may not charge you a consultation fee. In some cases, you will want to set up a meeting with a lawyer before you decide to hire him or her for your case. When you schedule the meeting, ask the lawyers if they will charge you for their time, and if they do, how much will it be. Lawyers are always busy and their time is valuable, so more than likely you will have to pay a consultation fee, even if you wind up not hiring the lawyer.

Referral Fee

A referral fee occurs when one lawyer refers you to the services of another lawyer. The referral lawyer might request a portion of the fee that you will pay the other lawyer to handle your case. Before you agree to this type of deal, make sure that it complies with state codes. You can consult your state bar association if you have any questions about this.