We invoice our clients for legal
professional services generally using one of the following
three methods:
a) hourly rates
b) pre-determined flat rate or lump sum
c) fee based on a percentage of the monetary
value of the matter in question
Client Obligations
We do not accept a mandate to
act until the client accepts, in writing, beforehand our
fee structure for his file.
HOW ARE HOURLY RATES SET?
The hourly rates of lawyers
and paralegals are based on their legal experience,
special expertise, type and importance of case.
New clients are always advised of the hourly rate and asked to sign a mandate before we proceed.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
IN THE HOURLY RATE?
Many services are included in
the fees you pay, including but not limited to:
All meetings and telephone conferences
with you and any others contacted in the course
of work on
your file.
All required legal research, analysis and opinions.
Drafting and preparation of letters, procedures,
contracts and other documents
Preparation for and attendance at trials, hearings,
proceedings, meetings, negotiations and other
activities.
Travel time.
Administrative time spent on your file.
HOW CAN WE REDUCE LEGAL
FEES?
We use legal secretaries and
paralegals for work that does not require a lawyer.
WHAT ADDITIONAL COSTS
CAN I EXPECT?
During the course of preparing
our work, we might incur expenses on your behalf. These
are recorded in detail and put on your invoice as disbursements.
Disbursements might include: filing fees charged by government
offices, courts or registry offices; long distance charges;
fax charges; laser charges; document copying and courier
costs to list a few.
WHEN WILL I BE INVOICED?
Frequently, there is an initial
deposit on account when a file is opened. Thereafter we
usually bill our clients on a timely manner usually monthly
when it is an ongoing matter or when the costs are significant.
Other matters are billed on completion of the work.
