If you find yourself needing legal help, then one of the biggest issues on your mind might be the cost. Many people who end up in some legal complications have trouble affording a lawyer. After all, they can be a bit expensive. But, not always.
There are many things you can do to find the right lawyer for your legal issues without breaking the bank. To help you out, here are some tips to help you negotiate fees with your lawyer.
1. Do Your Homework
Before you meet any lawyers, you need to do some research. Look around and find out the typical fees for cases like yours. While you won’t be able to find something that exactly fits because each case has different circumstances, you get a general idea
For example, if you need a wrongful death attorney, look up average costs in your area. You can find this information online, or by asking friends or family who have used legal services before.
When you know the average fees, you can have a good starting point for negotiating with the lawyer. If your lawyer quotes a price much higher than average, you will be in a better position to ask why and to discuss possible adjustments.
2. Ask for a Detailed Breakdown
When you first talk to a lawyer, ask for a detailed breakdown of their fees. Lawyers have different ways of charging their clients. Most stick to the same method and some might change depending on the circumstances of a client or case.
You might find that your lawyer charges by the hour, on a contingency basis, or a flat fee for some services.
Ask about any extra costs that might come up, such as filing fees or costs for expert witnesses. You should also ask about extra services and help they offer like accident clinic to help you and make your case better.
The more detailed the breakdown, the easier it will be to see if there are any areas where you can negotiate lower costs.
3. Discuss Payment Options
Once you know what your fees look like and there is no more wiggle room, you should discuss payment options with your lawyer.
Some lawyers might be willing to work out a payment plan, especially if you are facing a big expense all at once. This can make the cost more manageable by spreading it out over several months.
If your lawyer hasn’t already offered a contingency fee plan, you can discuss it with them. This means the lawyer only gets paid if you win your case. This can be a good option if you don’t have a lot of money upfront, but keep in mind that the lawyer’s fee might be a percentage of your settlement or award.
4. Be Honest About Your Budget
While it can be a bit tough to discuss your financial situation with a stranger, you need to be honest with your lawyer about your budget for the case.
You should let them know what you can realistically afford. A good lawyer will try to work with you to find a solution that fits your budget while still providing the legal help you need.
Sometimes, this might mean limiting the scope of their services. For instance, instead of handling every aspect of your case, the lawyer might agree to help with just the most complicated parts, leaving you to handle simpler tasks yourself.