As a general rule, divorce lawyers’ fees are hard to gauge. Some charge more but work fast. Others take longer but charge lower fees. An average hourly rate in Massachusetts is $350 an hour. Try to find a busy divorce lawyer. A busy lawyer wants to get on to the next case. If you walk into an empty waiting room or the attorney tends to ramble, your case could get very expensive.
Once we begin representation in a new matter, we charge hourly rates that vary among our team. Currently, rates vary from $250 to $325 an hour.
Billing Against Retainer
Before we begin representation, we require an initial retainer and a signed fee agreement. The initial retainer depends on the case, but usually ranges from $4,500 to $15,000. We then bill our time against that retainer. If and when the retainer is close to being depleted, we may require an additional retainer if it appears the case has become more time consuming than initially thought. Where it is appropriate, we will seek to have the other party reimburse you for your attorney’s fees. If you wish to arrange an initial consultation with one of our attorneys, contact us or call (800) 910-DIVORCE.
Helping Our Lawyers Help You
Well-prepared clients help their cases go more smoothly. Clients can save time and money by gathering facts and carefully considering what goals they want to achieve. To help our lawyers analyze your case and give better advice, it is helpful for you to do your pre-filing homework so that we can file first on your behalf.
It is important for the client to be honest with our attorneys and staff. If there are skeletons in the closet (or a few loose bones) regarding finances, extramarital relationships, or other issues, it is best to be candid with us about such matters so they can be dealt with if necessary. We’ve found over the years that a client usually is worse off when adverse information comes up for the first time in the middle of a trial or the middle of negotiations since the attorney may not be fully prepared to respond to the disclosures. Preparation is key. Surprises cost time and money.
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