Fixed fee, capped estimate or hourly: how lawyers charge

Legal fees usually come in one of three forms. Each shifts risk between you and the firm.

Fixed fee

Best when the work is well understood, such as a will, a lease or a standard sale. You know the price before you start.

Capped estimate

Best for work with stages, such as a dispute. The firm estimates each stage and tells you before it goes over.

Hourly

Best when the scope cannot be known. Ask for a monthly statement and a budget review every ninety days.