Hiring an attorney can be a complex decision. Our goal at Susan Gwinn Law is to make the process of understanding your legal fees as straightforward as possible. This is a practical guide to the common fee arrangements in Ohio. Learn more below!
Understanding Attorney Fees in Ohio: What to Expect When Hiring a Lawyer
Distinguishing Between the Two Core Fee Structures
In Ohio, legal services primarily fall under two categories: flat fees and hourly rates. A flat fee is a single, predetermined charge for a routine, predictable service, such as drafting a simple will or handling an uncontested divorce. Conversely, an hourly rate, often starting around $300 per hour in the region, is used for complex, open-ended cases like contested litigation, where the time commitment is unknown.
The Critical Role of the Retainer in Hourly Billing
For cases requiring an hourly rate, Ohio law offices typically request an initial lump sum called a retainer. This retainer is not a flat fee; it is a deposit into a trust account from which the attorney bills for time spent on the client's case. It is vital to understand that when the retainer is depleted, the client will be billed monthly for subsequent work at the agreed-upon hourly rate until the case concludes.
The Rules on Contingency Fees in Ohio
A contingency fee means the lawyer's fee is a percentage of the final settlement or award—if you don't win, they don't get paid. While common in personal injury cases, this structure is legally prohibited for certain matters in Ohio. Anyone seeking representation for criminal defense or domestic relations/family law must be prepared to pay via hourly or flat fee structures, as contingency arrangements are illegal for these practice areas.
How to Account for Costs of Litigation Separately
Every client must budget for expenses known as "Costs of Litigation," which are separate from the attorney's fee. These are out-of-pocket expenses that advance the case, such as court filing fees, expert witness costs, deposition transcription fees, and service of process. Before signing, the client should insist on an itemized list of potential costs in the fee agreement.
Empowering yourself with this financial knowledge is the first step toward a successful attorney-client relationship. By asking clear questions about hourly rates, retainers, and separate costs, you ensure clarity and avoid future stress. For advice on your specific legal matter, or if you need an Athens attorney, contact Susan Gwinn Law.