It is a good idea to ask the lawyer for a written estimate of what the costs will be. You can also tell your lawyer that any costs over a certain amount have to be approved by you in advance. Lawyers may also charge for secretarial time spent on these tasks and for telephone charges. Experts and consultants charge for their time in evaluating cases and testifying in court. Filing fees are required by courts before they will accept legal papers.
Investigators charge for their time helping to gather facts for the lawyer's clients.
Investigators usually charge an hourly fee and may also charge for expenses such as mileage, meals, and lodging. Jury fees and mileage are paid to jurors in civil cases in an amount set by law. The party requesting the jury must pay these expenses in advance. Service of Process fees charged by individuals who locate parties and witnesses and deliver legal papers to them. Staff time for secretarial work, including overtime, word processing time, etc.