The cost of receiving professional advice on legal matters can be prohibitive. How can you minimise costs and keep your legal fees within your budget?

Do you really need a solicitor?

First of all check that you actually do need a solicitor. Can your issue be resolved in a small claims tribunal, consumer protection department or with mediation?

Fee assistance

Check whether you are entitled to Legal Aid. Even if you have been refused Legal Aid, your State’s Law Society may provide details of whether you qualify for a Pro Bono Scheme for people who require legal assistance but are unable to pay their legal fees.

Be prepared

If you do need to engage a solicitor, ensure that you are properly prepared for your appointment. Write down your questions, prepare a summary of your issue and bring any relevant documents to your interview. Some solicitors also advertise that their first consultation is free of charge. At the consultation, they should be able to give you an estimate of the likely costs and outcome of your case. This gives you the opportunity to assess whether you are comfortable with their representation and whether you consider going ahead with the action to be worthwhile.

Compare quotes

Shop around, get a few quotes. Ensure that you are given a written estimate and breakdown of all projected costs so that you are able to accurately compare quotes. This also allows you to take action if you are unhappy with fees charged when the legal matter is completed as you can refer the matter to a costs assessor.

Delegate

Legal specialists charge varying rates according to their seniority. Solicitors charge for the time spent on a case, including travel and phone calls. Don’t waste the time of a senior partner for a question that can be answered by a secretary. Attend appointments at their office so that you do not get charged for the time taken by them in travelling to you.

Settle out of court

If court is involved, it may sometimes be advisable to settle before the court case. You are paying a professional to represent you. Let them do their job, be honest and tell them everything that might be relevant and remember that time is money.

These tips are to be used as a guide only. Please speak to your legal professional for further information on how you can save money on legal advice.