The other only exists in fantasy. This is a rough estimate of the hourly rate you should charge, obviously. But it's also a pretty conservative estimate. If you need to take home the amount you enter in the first box, you shouldn't try to bill less than what you get. 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. You shouldn't pay directly for your lawyer's office, Internet service, or other business-related costs, although these costs may be reflected in higher hourly rates. Lawyers should not charge their hourly rate for work that can be done by people other than lawyers, such as delivering documents or making copies. The lawyer then bills you for the additional work hours or may ask you to replenish the advance to continue working on the case.
For example, Jono Santamaría bought a launderette, where he spends 5 to 10 hours a week working on-site and improving operations. Fixed fees cover an attorney's time and experience with a predetermined initial cost, rather than for hours.
