BILLING METHODS
Client has an option to select any one of the billing methods before commencement of work. We follow a very transparent, competitive and convenient procedure pertaining to the costs and expenses. The following schedules for the professional fee are framed for the suitability and convenience of the clients in order to not over-burden them with the costs of a legal battle.
INITIAL RETAINERS FEE & SUBSEQUENT PER HEARING FEE
Under this schedule, the client has to make an initial retainers fee payment which covers the drafting and vetting costs, inclusive of the initial clerkage etc. Subsequently the client can decide to pay the professional costs on per hearing basis as and when the case proceeds in the Court.
LUMP SUM FEE
The Client can opt for a lump sum fee amount for the complete case. The fee charged in such cases is also governed by the terms of the vakalatnama and is generally for a period of three years. Further details can be discussed prior to the initiation of the work with the main counsel.
HOURLY BILLING RATES
Hourly rates are defined by qualifications, experience of the partner or lawyer working in the file this also depends on complexity, urgency, budget and requirements in the matter. While computing the hourly rate of each partner or lawyer we have also considered the competitive market, efficiency of each lawyer and the discount that could be made available to make the hourly rate reasonable. Each personnel’s hourly rates are specifically defined beforehand to the client. Hourly rate are often used where the scope or type of service to be provided is not routine or evolve over time or will be determined by factors outside the control of the client. When entering into an hourly fee arrangement, the client is encouraged to seek estimates for the work. Litigation budgets often form a part of the communication process.
BLENDED HOURLY RATES
Blended hourly rates are usually based on the average rate of two or more lawyers (non-lawyer including paralegals rates are not blended with lawyers rates) who will work on a file. All time is billed at this blended hourly rate, regardless of which lawyer is doing the work. In our blended billing rates each client has a dedicated partner (the lead partner) who will lead, co-ordinate and will be directly responsible to meet the client requirements effectively. This blended hourly rate for the given file is agreed with client at the time of the firm is being engaged.
FIXED FEE FOR VARIOUS STAGES OF WORK
Fixed fees are fees that client agrees to pay a decided definite amount for a particular work unto certain stage as assigned to law firm, By defining the set fee client are aware of the cost upfront, this method helps client to budget their legal expenses.
A nominal consultation fee of US$ 80 to US$ 100 is charged for personal meetings up-to 30 minutes. During a personal consultation a brief idea and opinion is given on the scope of the case and what all remedies are available to the client for proceeding further. A telephonic consultation is provided free of cost depending upon the availability and convenience of the counsel. A formal legal opinion can also be availed which costs between US $ 500 to US $ 1000 depending upon the number of queries and facts of the case. The fee charged for the case is governed by the terms of the vakalatnama and is generally non-refundable, unless exceptional circumstances prevail.