A fair price

The cabinet’s fees correspond to the remuneration for the services rendered. Thus, each lawyer freely sets his fees within the limits of fair moderation, which may be subject to control by the Bar Association. Fees can then be set by taking various criteria into account: the client’s financial situation, the importance of the dispute, the lawyer’s experience, his notoriety, the result obtained, etc.

The lawyer's remuneration

Lawyers are subject to different rules established by their professional order regarding their remuneration. In particular, he has the obligation to inform his client about the method of calculating fees, even before the case is opened. The lawyer and his client may agree together on an hourly or flat-rate remuneration method. The fee can also be adjusted according to the result obtained. 
A distinction must be made between fees, which remunerate the work carried out by the lawyer, and administrative or judicial costs and expenses, corresponding to secretarial, bailiff, registry fees, etc. costs. In addition, the lawyer has the obligation to keep his client informed on the evaluation of the calculation of fees according to the progress of the case.

Calculation of fees

  • Time spent : the amount of fees will depend on the time spent by the lawyer processing the case. The number of hours recorded will then be multiplied by an hourly rate established in advance.
  • Fixed price : the fees are fixed on a fixed price or by subscription, depending on the nature and frequency of the services to be provided.
  • To the result : the result fee is defined according to the result obtained. It cannot be the only form of remuneration, but is presented as a complement to the fee for time spent or the flat-rate fee.

Challenging fees

If difficulties with your lawyer’s fees and expenses arise, the first thing to do is to talk to him or her. Dialogue often helps to clarify things and resolve conflicts. If the difficulties persist, you have the possibility of using the conciliation procedure organized by the Bar Association. In 75% of cases, the latter makes it possible to reach an amicable solution.