Do I need to hire a lawyer?
- This question is similar to the question: "Do I need a mechanic to fix my car?" The answer is dependent upon whether or not you feel capable navigating the legal system on your own and feel that you can present your best case by yourself.
How much will it cost to hire a lawyer?
- The amount you might pay in legal fees depends on numerous factors. Some kinds of services can be provided on a "flat fee" basis that you will know ahead of time, like a real estate conveyance for instance. However, other kinds of services, like litigation (lawsuits) are very difficult to predict total costs in advance. Sometimes, cases resolve quickly and amicably, while other kinds of cases are complex or involve uncooperative parties and can take years to resolve. Your lawyer will try to provide a range of possible outcomes and the costs that may be involved.
- Generally speaking, the more amount of experience that your lawyer has, the higher their hourly rate is.
- The amount of your legal fee will depend entirely upon the amount of work required to complete your matter. Your lawyer is obliged to keep you informed about the costs that are being incurred on your case.
Will Morelli Chertkow take my case on a contingency (percentage fee) basis?
- Most personal injury (ICBC) cases are eligible to be accepted on a contingency basis.
- However, other kinds of cases are less likely to be accepted on a contingency basis. Your Morelli Chertkow lawyer will explain whether or not your case is the kind that can be accepted on a contingency basis.
What things do I have to pay as part of my legal bill?
- Your legal bill is made up of three things: lawyer fees, disbursements, and taxes. Usually, lawyer fees are calculated on an hourly fee basis. The rate your lawyer charges depends on his or her experience level. Disbursements are amounts paid out for the conduct of your file: postage, expert costs, photocopying, and court filing fees are examples of disbursements that you are asked to pay as part of your bill. Finally, there are both PST and GST taxes due on legal fees.
If I win my case, doesn’t the other side have to pay for all my legal fees?
- Depends. Some kinds of courts do not award you legal fees, ("costs") even if you win. Small claims court, criminal court and most administrative tribunals do not award “costs” to a successful party. Even if you are eligible to receive costs after winning a trial, this will probably not fully compensate you for your full legal bill. Costs awarded to a winning party are calculated according to a chart, not according to the amount you actually paid your lawyer.
I have a legal problem, but I don’t want to go to court. Can a lawyer still help me?
- Absolutely. There are usually numerous alternatives to resolving legal problems other than having an expensive and antagonistic trial. A lawyer can help you negotiate a solution or settlement with the other party. Your problem can be referred to a mediator or an arbitrator. Certain cases can benefit from settlement conferences or case conferences provided by the court system after a lawsuit is filed. Family law cases can be dealt with using a collaborative approach instead of an adversarial one. Your lawyer will be aware of all of these options and can help direct you towards the best resolution mechanism.
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