Legal Fees

Legal fees vary widely depending on the nature of the case, the experience and reputation of the lawyer you choose to represent you, and the caseload he carries. Fees can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. The more complex the case, the higher the fee. This is because investigators may need to be hired along with expert witnesses and other consultants. In such cases, several pre-trial and post-verdict motions may need to be filed, along with appeals, re-trials, and other proceedings that may be necessary.

Similarly, more experienced attorneys, who have spent years trying complex criminal cases, will charge more for their services. Also, if a lawyer carries a smaller caseload he will often charge far more than a lawyer who represents scores of clients. This is because a lawyer with few clients can spend more time on your case. He will not have to divide his time between several clients. Such lawyers can be expensive, because you are essentially buying weeks or months of his time. Whether such an expense, if you can afford it, is worthwhile is a decision you will have to make.

Most criminal lawyers require that all or most of the fee for their services be provided up front. Some will charge by the hour and withdraw payments from a retainer. Others will set a fee to cover the beginning of their representation up to and including trial. Make sure to read your retainer agreement carefully.

Because of the gravity of the circumstances, it goes without saying that you should hire the best attorney that you can afford. When so much at stake, finding a bargain may prove costly.

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