As tempting as it is to hire the lawyer with the lowest hourly rate, cheaper isn't necessarily better. A more expensive lawyer with a lot of experience can resolve a complex issue more quickly. An experienced attorney will also be able to better estimate how long it will take for a particular matter to be resolved, so you'll have a better idea of what to expect. It's no secret that hiring an attorney can be expensive, but there are options to help lower those costs. Law firms are also known to bill their clients for administrative expenses, such as photocopying and delivery services.
While the cost of hiring an attorney can be substantial, it's important to weigh this expense against the potential benefits and risks of managing the situation without legal assistance. While most attorneys will bill you fairly and in accordance with your fee contract, there are some attorneys who will try to maximize your profits at your expense. If you lose, you don't owe your lawyer any fees, but you may still have to pay certain costs and expenses. Therefore, for most offices, setting an appropriate hourly rate for your legal services should be a priority for your law firm and help answer the question: “How much does a lawyer cost? when customers inevitably ask.
