Solicitors charges

[terambulan]

Our solicitor quoted a 25k charge 2 weeks ago for an unsuccessful Will mediation. Today he doubled his charges for preparation of Statements prior to Court proceedings. Haven't had to pay him......as can't......unless he wins our case?

Can he just throw out such figures......nothing is in writing?

Me thinks he wants my house?

[Eve]

There are guidelines.

You should be given a proper estimate in writing with what will be charged for what on what basis.

Are they charging a fixed fee or estimating on charging by time on an hourly rate?

It can also depend on the experience and seniority of the lawyer acting eg a trainee may have a far lower charge out rate than a partner, depending on what the work entails.

See 2.03 here...

http://www.sra.org.uk/solicitors/code-of-condu ct/195.article#r2-03

Some more info here...

http://www.lawsociety.org.uk/choosingandusing/ payingforservices/aboutfees.law

http://www.lawsociety.org.uk/choosingandusing/ payingforservices.law

http://www.adviceguide.org.uk/index/your_right s/legal_system/using_a_solicitor.htm#Solicitor s_costs

Hope this helps :)

[themas]

I thought solicitors were supposed to write you an engagement letter setting out a summary of the work you have instructed them to do, the likely costs and the basis on which costs will be charged, complaints procedure etc. If you have not had anything like this ring the Law Society and ask them whether it is a requirement.

The fees should be related to the amount of work to be done and should be reasonable. If, once the work is finished and you are invoiced, you consider the charge is too high there is a procedure for you to challenge it - but you have to pay half the bill before doing so. The Law Society could give you more info. but this is not relevant until later on.