Lawyers can charge clients with a variety of different pricing models, including hourly, retainer and fixed-fees. Traditional law firms charge an hourly rate, which can end up being quite costly depending on the complexity of the work. Moreover, you may not have an estimate of how much your work is going to cost until you receive a bill at the end. It is now more common to be charged fixed-fees or join a firm with a subscription or membership model, allowing you to know the full lawyer cost upfront when you engage the firm. Fixed-fee models can provide you with price certainty and transparency. This article explores the difference between fixed-fee, membership and hourly rates.
How Much Does a Fixed-Fee Lawyer Cost?
The benefit of a fixed-fee is that you will pay a set amount for the services you require. This flat rate allows you to easily compare the cost of different legal service providers.
As an example:
| Type of Project | Cost |
| Drafting a Privacy Policy | From $600 + GST |
| Incorporating a Company | From $600 + GST |
| Registering a Trade Mark | From $1500 + GST |
| Drafting a Letter of Demand | From $1500 + GST |
| Reviewing a Commercial Lease | From $2500 + GST |
| Drafting a Sales Terms and Conditions | From $2500 + GST |
| Drafting a Shareholders Agreement | From $3000 + GST |
While it may be tempting to download a legal document template online, engaging a law firm to draft your document will ensure the document covers your specific needs and circumstances.
Lawyer Hourly Rates in Australia
Many law firms continue to charge hourly rates. Their hourly rate can vary depending on their experience, the speciality of the area and the law firm’s overheads. In Australia, hourly rates for lawyers range from $200 to $800 per hour.
Continue reading this article below the formBenefits of a Membership or Subscription Law Firm
Some innovative law firms also offer a membership or subscription model. A key advantage of a LegalVision membership is its cost-effectiveness. Unlike traditional legal services, which often come with unpredictable and high fees that can strain business finances, LegalVision offers a different model with fixed monthly fees. This allows businesses to budget their legal expenses accurately, ensuring access to top-tier legal services without hidden costs. The clarity and predictability of a LegalVision membership make it an essential tool for financial planning and management. As a member, you will have unlimited access to a team of experienced lawyers to assist you with:
- Drafting, reviewing, and amending contracts
- Answering all of your legal questions
- Registering your domestic trademarks
- Structuring your business
- Resolving your disputes
Costs Agreement
When you engage a law firm, you will be required to sign a costs agreement. Each state and territory has different laws that set out what the costs agreement must contain. Generally, the agreement will set out how the firm will structure the costs for any legal work. For small matters (less than $750 before disbursements and GST in NSW), a firm may not give you a costs agreement.
A costs agreement will commonly set out:
- The fixed amount that will be charged by the firm; or
- An estimate of legal fees and how they are calculated
You must ensure you obtain the costs agreement in writing.
Disputing a Legal Bill
If you have received a legal bill that you do not agree with, it is advised you speak to the lawyer or law firm first to resolve the matter. If you are unable to negotiate the bill to a lower price, you can contact your local state Legal Services Board, Legal Services Commission or Law Society.
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Key Takeaways
The shift away from hourly fees to fixed-fees or membership models gives clients now more control over their legal spend. If you are engaging a law firm, it is advised you try to obtain a fixed-fee or costs estimate first. Also, ensure you obtain a costs agreement in writing.
If you have a commercial law matter and require legal assistance, our experienced fixed-fee lawyers can assist as part of our LegalVision membership. For a low monthly fee, you will have unlimited access to lawyers to answer your questions and draft and review your documents. Call us today on 1300 544 755 or visit our membership page.
Frequently Asked Questions
The cost of a lawyer will depend on what legal advice you need. Fixed-fees can vary from $250 upwards, while hourly rates vary between $200 – $800 per hour.
Some law firms charge clients an initial consultation fee before they know their legal options. Client-centric law firms, such as LegalVision, offer free consultations and free fixed-fee quotes.
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