Like a lot of professional services, the cost of a lawyer can easily run into hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars. Unlike services such as accountants and doctors though, where there is tax deductions and Medicare, there is usually no subsidy available for legal fees.

Lawyers can charge in one of three ways – by the hour, on the Supreme Court Scale or a fixed fee. The scale, which is what Hume Taylor & Co usually charge on, is set by the Court and determines what the lawyer should charge based on what activity they’re doing.

Lawyers have a fiduciary duty to act in your best interests. They must ensure that costs are kept to a minimum and you are informed about estimates, including any changes.

Ultimately you can look at legal costs as an investment. While a lawyer cannot guarantee an outcome they can assist you with their professional expertise and experience in weaving through the legal issue that has arisen.

It’s important to ask your lawyer about how/what they charge before engaging them, and discuss options if you are a low income earner. Call Hume Taylor & Co to discuss your legal needs today.