You might be in a pickle and need the help of a lawyer, but can’t afford the legal fees. Don’t worry, this is a very common occurrence. That’s why it’s great that there are many things that’ll help keep legal fees under control. We’ll talked about them below.
1. Limit the Phone Calls
Whatever type of lawyer you’re hiring, you’ll be charged every time you consult him. This means that even phone calls results in him charging you. Unfortunately, people tend to ramble on the phone.
Try and limit the calls to once a week, as you get to think about the most important matters to discuss. And you can think of ways to make your points succinct.
2. Limit Emails as Well
Just like on the phone, getting him to reply to emails would result in bills too, but getting in contact through email is more cost effective than through the phone, as typing results in less rambling.
Speaking of emails, he may ask you to forward relevant documents. If they’re not organized, he has to do this himself, which would result in you being charged.
3. Go for Legal Aid
It’s great that you can apply for aid to help with legal fees – either through the government or the firm itself. You can find criminal lawyers offering legal aid and assistance with fees.
As mentioned, you can get help from the government. If you’re going this route to acquire the cash, there would be a strict set of criteria you’ll have to fit into.
You could work with a charity as well. Cash bail is something not many people can afford. Large bail hearing lawyers are widely associated with charities.
In turn, you could create a crowd-funding page to raise the funds needed too.
4. Know the Consultation Fee
Depending on the firm you’re working with, you might be charged for the consultation. This is not ideal. You have no idea how good the lawyer is, and you might not even want to work with him.
5. Know the Billing Rate
Look for lawyers that don’t charge too much. The more popular ones would charge the highest rates. But just because they are popular, it doesn’t mean they are good.
Speak to people you know. You might be able to find someone that does quality work but doesn’t charge an arm and a leg.
A way for you to afford legal representation is if he’s willing to create a billing plan for you; you’ll have to pay a set amount for however long until his fees are paid.
You don’t need us to tell you that lawyers can be expensive – a lot of the time, people take out loans to pay for them. But if you keep in mind what we said, you’d be saving quite a bit. From the list of what you can do, limiting your contact through phone and email would help. Remember to keep your points succinct as well.