ABA Family Legal Guide

When and How to Use a Lawyer

1.4 Legal Fees and Expenses

1.4a Types of Fees

I saw an advertisement from a law firm that charges fixed fees for specific types of work. What does this involve?

A fixed fee is the amount that will be charged for routine legal work. In a few situations, this amount may be set by law or by the judge handling the case. Since advertising by lawyers is becoming more popular, you are likely to see ads offering "Simple Divorce--$150" or "Bankruptcy--from $250." Do not assume that these prices will be the amount of your final bill. The advertised price often does not include court costs and other expenses.