2007-08-23 16:23:02 · 3 answers · asked by Keri L 1 in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
I'm confused. The way the question is worded, it sounds as if you have to pay your lawyer one fee to represent you and extra to put forth the effort necessary to win the case.
Lawyers bill by the hour, by the case (such as fixed price divorces or bankruptcy's), by a percentage of the settlement if money is involved, and sometimes (cough, cough) pro bono. If you would like the lawyer to apply additional resources to the case because you think it will help you win your case, they can assign other people to assist with the case which will raise your hourly bill.
I had a friend that hired three different lawyers for one case because each specialized in a certain field of law. Two provide the resources for their areas and the third handled the trial and coordinated the efforts of the other two. It worked for him.
I would discuss it with your lawyer and give him/her more details as to why you feel it is necessary.
2007-08-23 16:40:56 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes it is. Lawyers take civil cases on a contingency basis all the time, meaning they may not get a dime unless they win the case, in which case they may get between 1/3 and 1/2 of the settlement or verdict, depending on what you negotiate. It's unethical for a criminal lawyer to set up a payment scheme whereby they would get a bonus if you are acquitted, but for all intents and purposes, if you're guilty and want the best chance of getting off, you'll have to pay more to the attorney Iin hourly rate, fees, etc.) to improve your chances.
2007-08-23 16:54:25 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Legal yes, and the only one he pays is himself (or herself) and their staff.
This is the free world and despite what people say justice cannot be bought and paid for in places like the US and Great Britain. Just ask any mafia lord in prison.
Lawyers work for pay and the better a lawyer thinks he is the more he can charge. If he wins and has a lot of clients then he is worth the extra money. They pay the firm to do the work, not the courts; that would be unethical.
Yes, you can bribe juries and judges and it has happen, but eventually most of them get caught. "The wheels of justice grind slowly."
2007-08-23 16:27:38 · answer #3 · answered by Dan S 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋