When faced with a legal situation requiring the services of an attorney, it is important to know the fees involved with your case. You should never agree to enter into a legal services contract without first understanding at least its estimated cost and whether or notthis is worth relative to your case.
Here is some things to help you understand the different types of legal fees and what to consider when choosing an attorney. This includes the difference between flat fees and hourly rates, as well as contingency fees and how they may affect a damages award.
Types of Legal Fees
Generally there are two types of fee structures that lawyers use when giving legal advice. This could either be an hourly rate or a fixed fee and you may choose between either most of the time. An hourly fee structure varies, depending on the experience of the selected attorney and the rate they set for their services. For example, the lawyers in Allegheny County, PA, may charge you an hourly rate starting at $150 for legal services.
A flat fee schedule may be a better option for you if you are cost-conscious and concerned about the total cost of your legal representation. A lawyer using a flat fee schedule provides you with different cost structures relative to the complexity of your legal matter. A simple contract, such as a landlord-tenant lease, may only cost you $150 in total lawyer fees while the cost for legal representation related to a DUI arrest may be around $1,000.
Seeking a Free Consultation
You should ask for an attorney willing to provide a free initial consultation. Receiving free advice can help you decide if the merits of your case warrant further pursuit, as well as give you an idea of the various costs that may be involved in bringing your matter to court. A free consultation also allows you to ask questions and determine if the lawyer you are looking to hire is worth the money you are about to spend to get assistance for your legal matters.
Choosing Legal Representation
Choose a lawyer who is upfront when it comes to the fees they charge alongside other fees you will need to pay in order to receive legal representation. If the attorney you choose isn’t willing to provide you with a free initial consultation regarding your case, you may want to consider taking your case to someone willing to do so for legal representation. Also, when choosing a lawyer for representation, make sure you can afford their serviceswhile ensuring that they have the necessary experience to properly represent your case. Always ask questions and make sure your interests are aligned with your chosen attorney’s.
There are options available to you when choosing a lawyer relative to the cost of the services. Choose the option that best fits your financial situation while giving you the best representation you can ever get. Finding a good lawyer is not as a difficult a process as finding a good lawyer you can afford.
