There are many types of fee structures that law firms and clients may agree upon for a particular legal matter. It is highly recommended that the fee agreement should be in writing.

Hourly Fees

An attorney may bill by the hour when representing clients in business transactions, business litigation, and when representing defendants in civil litigation. Hourly fees vary widely depending on case complexity and the experience of the attorneys handling the matter. Retainers often are required for cases handled on an hourly basis.

Contingency Fees

Contingency fees are most often utilized in personal injury cases, class actions, insurance suits, employment claims, and other types of litigation in which the attorney is representing the plaintiff. A contingency fee means that the client does not owe any attorney fees unless the client recovers something in the case, either by way of settlement or judgment. Under North Carolina law, the client must remain responsible for repayment of costs, even if the client does not recover anything on the claim. Depending on the complexity and difficulty of the case, and the stage at which recovery for the client is obtained, contingency fees might range from one-third to one-half of the total recovery.

Fixed Fees

Fixed fees often are charged for routine transactions such as wills, incorporations, bankruptcies and in some criminal matters. Fixed fees generally are not used for complex litigation because the duration of the case and work required are difficult to predict.

Reverse Contingency

Reverse contingency arrangements are sometimes used when an attorney represents a defendant. The reverse contingency fee may be based on a percentage of the amount an attorney can save the client in settling or winning the case.

Attorneys & Counselors 349 Haywood Road Asheville, NC 28806 Asheville (828) 350-9799, FAX (828) 350-9894 Dallas (972) 701-9066