FEES
Explaining the fee structure for hiring a
criminal defense lawyer in Michigan.
Every case is different. Determining the cost of
defending a case will depend upon a number of
factors including the nature of your criminal law
problem, its complexity, and our legal objective. This is why your first meeting with me is always
free.
Fees are usually discussed at the end of our first
meeting once I have a sense of what type of criminal
problem you are facing and the complexity of the
work involved. The fees and services are always
clearly set out in writing, and I generally bill on
a "flat fee" basis, not hourly.
The purpose of a flat rate is to provide you
with certainty about your legal expenses. You can
rest easier knowing that you can consult me without
added cost and without fear that your matter may be
unduly prolonged at your expense. With a flat fee, it is in both of our interests to address your
criminal matter as quickly and efficiently as
possible.
Once retention of my office is made, I do not hear about monetary issues at any time while your legal matter is an active case. The issue of periodic payments as may be worked out with my staff personnel is strictly between the office and you. I begin each relationship with the expectation we both will be true to our words as to fulfilling our reciprocal commitments to one another.
We do not bill for costs on a periodic basis except in unusually complex situations with variable unknowns from the onset. Instead, a one time disbursement fee to cover expenses ranging from police reports, to travel, to discovery beyond the prosecutorial file is covered. This is usually in the $125 range but can vary. You will be responsible for collateral costs such as assessments, remedial program fees, and special defense tests such as MMPI psychological profiles if such are needed.
In most cases, a payment plan can be arranged.
Once we determine the cost, we will arrange a
payment plan that fits your individual financial
circumstances. We also accept Visa, and MasterCard.
|
