for instance if i was charged with three felonies would the lawyer charge me per charge?
2006-06-15 11:35:14 · 5 answers · asked by Anonymous in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
They normally charge per hour, with a retainer fee charged up front on estimated charges for the case. Normally in that 5 to 10 thousand dollars for them to start with your crimimial case
2006-06-15 11:38:02 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
It actually varies with the lawyer.
Some work on an hourly rate, with minimums and maximums set forth up front. Most states prohibit criminal representation on contingency (X amount if you get off, Y amount if you are convicted, etc.) So, hourly is a fairly common model.
However, many also charge a flat rate, based on the complexity of the case. This is because complexity translates to how much time is likely to be involved, and many defendants prefer a flat rate so that they can plan around it. Obviously, under this model, the more charges the greater the complexity of the case.
Interestingly, I know one attorney that used the flat rate model in one particular case. This attorney then got the prosecution to drop half the charges, and reduce some of the rest to misdemeanors. The attorney then refunded part of the fee, because the total work was now going to be less. The client was happy to pay the full agreed price, but the attorney was ethical enough to refuse and refunded a good chunk of the fee. Nice to know a few out there take their ethical duties to heart.
But back to your question, as noted above, it varies with the attorney. The important thing is to get the fee arrangement clarified in the beginning, so there is no dispute later.
2006-06-15 20:29:28 · answer #2 · answered by coragryph 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
One of the first documents you will be asked to complete is a "Financial Statement."
Once the attorney has reviewed that critical statement, he will decide what to charge and how much time he will spend on your case.
There is no set amount, it is generally 150% of your current assets and will probably provide for 10% of your income for the ten years following your release from prison.
Good luck.
DISCLAIMER: This wasn't intended to be taken seriously, fr chuck gave you the correct answer.
2006-06-15 18:56:52 · answer #3 · answered by Left the building 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Can't argue with fr. chuck!
2006-06-15 18:39:29 · answer #4 · answered by aboukir200 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
no they dont its a set fee
2006-06-15 18:40:33 · answer #5 · answered by idiosyncracies2000 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋