How Much Does a Lawyer Cost and What are Their Hourly Rates?

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, allowing you to know the full lawyer cost upfront when you engage the firm. Fixed-free lawyers can provide you with price certainty and transparency. This article explores the difference between fixed-fee 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. Below is a pricing guide for common fixed-fee matters.

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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:

• Paralegal + Lawyer (<1 year PQE): $195 per hour
• Lawyer: $385 per hour
• Senior Lawyer: $495 per hour
• Practice Leader: $655 per hour
• Senior Practice Leader: $765 per hour

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 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.

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