2006-10-31 08:05:39 · 7 answers · asked by Anonymous in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
Lawyers can charge whatever they think their services are worth. And just like the last guy said, if you've signed a contract, your stuck.
2006-10-31 08:09:55 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Attorneys generally charge either a flat fee, an hourly rate, or a contingency fee.
A flat fee is a fee which is negotiated in advance, and generally covers a set amount of legal work, or accomplishing a goal. An example is preparing a simple will. Many attorneys will charge a flat fee for that. The rate they charge varies from region to region and also from attorney to attorney.
An hourly rate is just that. The attorney keeps track of his time, (and often the time of his paraprofessional staff) and bills for this time at a set rate. Sometimes there are two or three different rates, depending on the complexity of the proceedings: example: trial preparation at $150/hr, Court proceedings at $250/hr and appeals process at $350/hr. Again, the rate that is charged depends on the attorney, his/her experience, and what the market will bear.
A contingency fee is charged when there is a sizeable judgment that may be obtained from the other side, (or settlement). and the lawyer will be paid a percentage of this settlement if he/she wins the case. Often the contingency fee is variable. i.e. 20% if settled before trial, 30% at trial, 40% at appellate level, etc.
The bar association of your state can assist you if you believe that your attorney's fees are inappropriate. However, if you believe the attorney's fees are too high, you can also retain other counsel, and ask for an accounting and that any unearned retainer be returned to you. Contact your local or state bar association for more information.
2006-10-31 17:44:11 · answer #2 · answered by Phil R 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You can try the American Bar Association, but most professional organizations tend to stick close together. You could try another lawyer in town, but ask only for their hourly rate, not a comparison to the other lawyer.
Essentially, lawyers can charge whatever fee they desire and you pay. There is some negotiation space in handling estates.
2006-10-31 16:15:16 · answer #3 · answered by Joe Cool 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I don't know but if you find out let us all know! I believe we live in a capitalistic society where we have no restraints what one is permitted to make! That's something called "negociating the fee" that is generally perceived as something done before signing on the dotted line! Attorneys charge anywhere from $150 an hour to millions as did Johnny Cocoran in the OJ Simpson affair! As to who do you go to I would answer that with maybe the attorney you hired and fire him if you are not satisfied with his services!
2006-10-31 16:17:21 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you think his/her services are worth the price, then he/she is not charging too much.
As far as I know, lawyers believe in the free market system when it comes to their rates (e.g. whatever the market will bear).
In my opinion, the market bears too much. It is beyond comprehension why a lawyer should get millions of dollars because some idiot smokes himself to death.
2006-10-31 16:15:00 · answer #5 · answered by ML 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The time to determine price is before you signed the contract yourstuck now sorry
2006-10-31 16:08:37 · answer #6 · answered by royalpalaceofhell 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
you can't your screwed.
2006-10-31 16:11:24 · answer #7 · answered by Viakin 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋