Before scouting around for a DUI (driving under the influence) attorney, it is best to know some important points, especially when it comes to their professional fees.
Ask yourself: Are the fees explained in detail? Is there a written contract explaining the fees to be charged? You should know if the lawyer’s fee is simply on a retainer basis or if it is inclusive of all costs in the litigation process. Also determine whether the charges cover other incidental expenses such as license hearings, testimonies of experts, costs of subpoena, blood reanalysis and other expenses incurred during the course of the hearing.
The fees charged by a lawyer vary according to his experience and reputation, along with the state where he is practicing. As a general rule, the higher the skill and the larger the city, the higher the fees.
Another factor that affects DUI attorney fees is the amount of time the lawyer spends on the case. As a general rule, the good lawyers take on fewer clients and devote more time to studying their cases.
Lawyer’s fees go up when the offense is considered a felony, if the offender has prior convictions, if there are additional retrials or appeals, or if there are additional litigation costs of handling an administrative offense on license suspension.
Your attorney may either charge a fixed fee that covers everything or he can also ask for a retainer fee in advance, charged on an hourly basis. Other costs, such as fees of expert witnesses, independent blood analysis and fees on serving subpoenas, may translate to extra costs on your end.
Remember to ask for a written contract on the fees quoted and be sure to understand the details of the written agreement.
Keep these points in mind when you are scouting around for the best DUI lawyer your money can afford.
By: Jimmy Sturo
Posts Tagged ‘Retainer Fee’
California DUI Attorney Fees
December 25th, 2009Florida DUI Attorney Fees
December 8th, 2009
Violating DUI laws in Florida is a serious offense and must be taken really seriously. Penalties and consequences if you are convicted of violating the DUI law could include fines, loss of license, vehicle immobilization, community service, increase of insurance rate, and even imprisonment. Do not take this into passing. It is best to immediately consult with an attorney when you are arrested. You have ten days to make an appeal to prevent your license from being revoked indefinitely or permanently.
Range of fees
Are you reluctant to seek immediate legal help because you are afraid of the exorbitant fees? Do not worry. The fees are sometimes minimal, and just goes up depending on how severe your violation is. There fees range from as low as $500 dollars to thousands in cases of repeat offense.
Charging methods
Lawyers charge their clients differently. Some lawyers charge by the hour. Some will charge an initial fee to cover all the initial legal steps – reviewing the police report and the file from the district attorney and appearing on your first hearing. If, at that stage, charges are dropped against you, then that is where the fees end as well. Additional hearings would mean additional charges.
Other attorneys charge a fee to handle your case all the way to trial. If they are able to negotiate and dismiss the case, you pay them for everything, anyway.
Retainer fees
In some cases, DUI lawyers will require a retainer fee. This is an advanced flat rate fee that covers the lawyer’s services regardless of how long or short the lawyer spends on your case. Be informed of what the retainer fee covers. Usually, in special circumstances when there is little amount of service in proportion to the retainer fee, the attorney may be required to return a part of it.
Written agreement
Make sure that you have a written fee agreement with your attorney before services are rendered. You can get several quotations online or through the phone to assess if the attorney is charging you reasonably or within limit.
Extra fees
There are also extra fees for expert witnesses that would testify on scientific facts or issues that could help you in your case. Additional fees could also include costs for the exhibits, investigators, and so on.
By: Josh Riverside
Divorce Attorney Consultation Questions
November 8th, 2009
Your attorney will play a key role in your divorce. You need to feel comfortable working with him or her. The following questions can help identify the correct attorney to partner with you during this trying time.
Use these questions during your initial consultation with attorneys. Do not be intimidated or embarrassed to ask tough questions; they are used to it. You need to understand your legal rights and choose the lawyer best suited to your needs.
Attorney Experience and Practice
How long have you been practicing law in this state? How long have you been practicing family law? Are you a Certified Family Law Specialist? If so, by whom are you certified? What percentage of your practice is devoted to family law? How many family law clients or cases do you currently have? Do you handle all aspects of divorce including child custody issues and disputes? What percentage of your divorce cases go to trial? Are you familiar with the family court judges in our city? If so, please explain. Are you willing to go to court or trial if necessary? Are you willing to settle cases or do you always go to trial? What percentage of divorce cases do you settle? What percentage of your cases settle before trial? During trial?
Legal Fees and Payments
What is your hourly rate? Do have separate rates for face-to-face, phone, and email? Are there different rates for associates, assistance, and paralegals? What is your retainer fee? Do you accept credit cards for monthly payments? How much do you estimate my divorce will/could cost? Will my spouse be required to pay any of my legal fees Can I withdraw money from a joint account to pay my divorce retainer? What happens if my retainer fee runs out before my divorce is finished? What happens if I can not afford to pay you completely during the divorce process?
One of the best ways to help you in your attorney selection process is to make yourself a list. I like to use a spreadsheet. Track names, numbers, email addresses, and any other information which can help you in your decision making process. I also suggest creating a ranking scale for each item you are comparing.
Of course after all your hard work in identifying the correct attorney, you then have to deal with a good working relationship as well. If you are not happy with your attorney or their staff, speak up. They are charging you a ton of money so make sure they are working for it. Do not just sit back and think they will do everything for you. Educate yourself and ask questions. You are the client. They are working for you. Remember that because there will come a time when you may need to remind them of the same.
By: Mark Pfenning