Keep in mind that unexpected developments that make your matter more complicated may also cost you more. Other factors which can affect the final fee are the amount of assistance you are actually able to provide the lawyer and how any opposing party or counsel may act. There are many possible types of fee arrangements depending on what kind of matter you have and the practices of the lawyer you decide to hire. Advance Fee - Money paid to the lawyer before any services are performed. See Retainer Fee .
Lawyers sometimes request an advance fee and draw from it as work is done.
Once this advance fee has been used up, the lawyer will charge an hourly rate for additional time spent on your case. If your case is resolved or you change lawyers before the advance fee is used up, you are usually entitled to a refund of the unused portion. Consultation Fee - Most lawyers are happy to arrange a first meeting with you to talk about the facts of your case and decide whether they can help you. Some lawyers will charge a fixed or an hourly fee to meet with you while others will charge nothing. Be sure to find out whether you will be charged for this initial meeting.