Criminal Lawyer

How Much Can You Expect to Pay a Lawyer?

Many people don’t think much about a lawyer until they need one. If you need a legal professional to represent you in a criminal case, you want to make sure you hire counsel you know will have the right skills and expertise to protect your interest. There are many factors you should consider before you choose an attorney. One of the most critical elements is cost. It’s no secret that working with a lawyer isn’t always easy on the pocketbook. It can be helpful to know ahead of time what you’ll pay and what leads to the costs.

 

Typical Costs Vary Considerably

You should understand that it’s not easy to give a universal price range for hiring an attorney. What you’ll pay out of your pocket will depend on many factors. You could pay as little as $50 an hour and as much as thousands an hour for legal professionals to take your case and be at your side throughout the process.

 

What’s the Case?

One of the most crucial elements of attorneys’ fees is the nature of your legal battle. The type of work the attorney will perform will largely determine the amount you’ll end up paying. For example, if you have been charged with a misdemeanor, the workload for the lawyer will be much less than if you were charged with a first-degree felony such as rape or murder. The type or specialty of law and the complexity of the case will decide the billing structure.

 

Where Does the Lawyer Work?

Are you looking to hire an attorney from a large, prestigious firm, or are you content to go with someone from a lesser-known outfit? Renowned attorneys will charge you much more than lawyers who work on their own. You need to weigh the financial aspects of your case against the severity of your charges.

 

How Long Has the Attorney Practiced?

As in any profession, more experienced lawyers make more money than those just starting out. It’s important to work with someone who has a more proven track record in the area you need. However, be prepared to pay this person more money. If you still have confidence a more junior lawyer will do a good job, you’ll save some money.

No matter which lawyer you hire, be prepared to spend a significant amount of money in your defense. You’ll likely get what you pay for, so understand if your lawyer charges a handsome sum, there’s a good chance you’ll be happy with the results.

 

Source: Criminal Lawyer Baltimore, Maryland, Greenberg Law Offices