For many people, the complexity of legal fees prevents them from engaging a solicitor. What can you expect to be charged if you do need legal representation?

Professional services fees

A solicitor’s bill will be divided into two areas: professional services (which are normally charged by the hour for the time the solicitor has spent on the case) and disbursements.

Disbursements

Disbursements are the costs which are paid to a third party on your behalf. Depending on the type of legal case, disbursements could include government fees, medical or other expert reports, search fees, court filing costs, photocopies, faxes, postage, and barristers’ fees if required. Barristers usually charge by the day, even if they are not required for the full period. If a barrister is required, there will also be the associated cost of the time your solicitor has spent instructing the barrister about your case. The payment of disbursements may be requested in advance of professional services fees. To protect both you and your money, your funds are placed in a trust account until they are needed.

Itemised account

Your solicitor must provide you with an itemised account giving details on how the money has been spent. If you are concerned about the cost of legal action, request an estimate of costs prior to engaging a solicitor. Then, if the charges differ greatly after your legal action is completed, you can have them assessed by a costs assessor. A solicitor may charge interest if you have not paid the bill within 30 days, so check your bill.

This advice is provided as a guide only. If you need advice on legal matters, contact your solicitor or state or territory’s law society for more advice on fee scales.