The cost for a consultation with a family law attorney can differ between law firms, attorneys, or geographic locations. I am sure you have seen signs where an attorney offers “free consultations TODAY!” However, such signs are rarely offered among family law and divorce attorneys. Therefore, we often get the question – why do family law attorneys charge for consultation?
The Value Received
Unlike legal consultations for other areas of law, every family law situation and outcome is unique to the family and client involved. During your consultation, you will receive pertinent information about your case based on you family’s specific situation. This will include various considerations, potential claims, and potential deadlines unique to your marriage or your children. The more experienced the attorney or law firm with family law matters, the more likely you will be charged a higher fee because an attorney is evaluating your case in real-time based on the information you provide to them. And like any job or industry, an attorney desires to compensated for their service, time and expertise.
Attorney’s Time
Generally, an attorney will bill by the hour. The billable hourly rate is generally based on their years of practice, focus on a specific area of law during those years of practice, and the available connections or resources said attorney can provide for your unique case. Depending on said hourly rate, a consultation fee or rate is established. For example, an attorney with 8 years of experience may bill at $350.00 per hour, but a consultation with that attorney may cost $400.00. Generally, a consultation lasts for one hour but could last longer. Unfortunately, especially in family law, if an attorney were to do free consultations, the vast number of clients needing legal help with their families would lead to an attorney out of business with no revenue. However, there is a plethora of legal assistance in the form of online reading material and forms from legal aid that could assist when one-on-one time with attorney is simply out of reach.
Family Law is Everywhere
Think about all the people you know who have experienced issues related to their family. It’s a lot of people! Family law attorneys are always asked for advice in social settings, on social media, and even at their dentist office. This just happened to me! By charging a fee for our time, attorneys can speak with potential clients who are serious about needing legal representation rather than simply quelling someone’s curiosity. As attorneys, our goal is to help people. To be honest, that’s why most attorneys became attorneys. Therefore, we want to help those who are in need of representation and guidance for their case.
If you or somebody you know wants to schedule a Consultation with an experienced Family Law Attorney, our team at Modern Legal is here to help.
Written by: Theresa E. Viera
