How Much does it Cost to Hire a Business Litigation Attorney in California?

Business Litigation Attorney Cost in California

Any good business owner is always thinking about the bottom line, about ways to save money and keep his company thriving. So, many are reluctant to retain legal services in an attempt to cut costs. While it is true that litigation can take up valuable time and resources, hiring a good attorney can save money and protect the business in the long run.

Common Orange County Billing Practices

Today, lawyers typically charge by the hour. The attorney will keep track of time spent working on each case and bill the client appropriately. In some cases, it is suitable to make a contingency arrangement. In a contingency arrangement, the lawyer charges the client a percentage of the settlement and is paid only when the case is successful. This means the lawyer’s fees would come directly out of any money awarded to the client.

Attorneys and clients will typically participate in a fee agreement, a document that will specify the rate of pay, how the lawyer will be paid, a timeline for payment and which lawyers will handle the case (if the firm employs multiple attorneys). This agreement will help clients understand what to expect.

Factors That Affect the Cost of a California Commercial Litigator

Hourly fees charged by the attorney can vary greatly depending on a number of factors. These factors include:

• Level of experience. A more experienced attorney will charge more money per hour.
• Prestige of the firm. Large, well-known firms will typically charge more for their services than a solo practitioner.
• Type of legal work. As with many services, the more specialized the area of law, the more the attorney will charge.
• Location. Attorneys in large, metropolitan areas will typically charge more than those in less populated settings.

In commercial litigation, the discovery and litigation phases are typically the most time-intensive stages of the process, so clients can expect to pay more during those times when paying by the hour. Each situation is unique, however, and attorneys will work with clients to ensure the success and satisfaction of both parties.

If you need more information about a commercial litigation issue or have any questions about the cost of litigation, contact the knowledgeable attorney at the Law Offices of Corbett H. Williams at 949-649-4723.