How much does it cost to hire a family lawyer?

Family law litigation can be expensive. If you're like most people who are going through a divorce or separation, you're probably worried about legal costs.

The good news is that browsing our website costs you nothing. So relax and take your time. Watch our videos and read through the information. We've tried to give you a general overview of the things you may need to know.

But remember, this website does not give you legal advice. Only a lawyer can do that after meeting with you and reviewing your case. So write down all your questions and take them with you for your first visit with a family lawyer.

The initial consultation.

Some lawyers offer a free initial consultation. Others charge a fee that can be applied to your retainer when you hire them. It costs you nothing to pick up the phone and ask a lawyer what their policy is for their consultation fee.

Hiring (retaining) a lawyer.

When accepting a case, most family lawyers will ask for a deposit, or “retainer,” to apply towards the anticipated costs of the case.

How much your lawyer charges will depend on:

• Their reputation and experience.
• The complexity of the case.
• The amount of time involved.

Once you've met with and hired a lawyer, they'll provide you with a retainer letter, which is the written confirmation of your fee arrangement.

How lawyers charge for their time.

Lawyers generally charge clients using one of two methods:

• A fixed or block fee arrangement.
• An hourly rate.

Family law lawyers normally charge an hourly rate, because it's hard to estimate how much time it will take to complete a task (for example, to negotiate an agreement). Some lawyers may charge a fixed fee for items that take a set amount of time, such as drafting a standard form agreement.

Can you lower your legal fees?

Absolutely. Take these steps to cut hours - and hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars - off your legal bill:

• Be prepared - Before you call or meet with your lawyer, write down your questions. This will help you use your lawyer's time (and your money) efficiently. Make a list of things you think your lawyer should know. This will allow you to focus on what your lawyer is talking about without worrying that you'll forget what you want to tell them.
• Get organized - If your lawyer requests paperwork, make sure you sort it out, put it in order, and even put it in a binder. It's also best if you can provide a detailed written description saying what the paperwork is and how it applies to your case. If your lawyer has to call you with questions, you will be billed.
• Listen - After you ask a question pay attention to the answer and write it down. Try to put your emotions aside. Many people get wound up when talking about their relationship issues and don't listen when they should. If your lawyer is charging you by the hour, the meter is running each time they have to explain something.
• Stay focused - Family law matters can be very emotional. Clients sometimes want to talk about things a lawyer cannot help them with. You're paying a lawyer for their legal expertise, not for a sympathetic ear, so stay focused on the relevant facts. Listen to your lawyer's questions and advice. When they ask you a question try to stay focused on the answer to that question. Every detour reduces the lawyer's focus. Helping your lawyer stay on track saves you money.

Payment and financing.

The expense of hiring a lawyer may be unexpected. Ask about your payment options when you make your initial call. Most lawyers offer payment plans so you can pay your fees over an agreed period of time.

Major credit cards and Interac payments are also accepted by most lawyers.

The bottom line.

Legal fees might seem high, but not getting the help you need can be even more costly. Expert family law advice can actually reduce your overall legal costs by helping you avoid bad decisions that could complicate your case or prejudice your rights.