Hiring an attorney can feel overwhelming, especially when it
comes to understanding how legal fees work. Most people have heard terms like
“retainer” or “litigation expenses,” but may not fully understand what these
charges mean or how they affect the total cost of representation. This guide breaks down the billing terms you will encounter
when working with The Lockwood Legal Group, LLC—or any law firm—so you can make
informed decisions and clearly understand how legal billing really works.
What Is an Initial Retainer?
An Initial Retainer is an upfront deposit placed into a
Client Trust Account before an attorney begins working on your case. The firm
then bills its time and litigation expenses against this amount as the case
progresses. The funds remain the client’s property until the firm earns them
through billed work.
What Is a Client Trust Account?
A Client Trust Account is a regulated account where retainer
funds are securely held. Attorneys cannot withdraw or use these funds until
they have performed work and issued an invoice. In simple terms, the money
stays yours until it has been earned by the firm.
What Is a Trust Replenish Request?
If your case requires more work than the amount covered by
your Initial Retainer, the firm may issue a Trust Replenish Request. This
request ensures that your trust balance remains sufficient to continue
representation without interruption. A replenishment occurs when the trust
account reaches the minimum balance set out in your Client Retainer Agreement.
What Are Litigation Expenses?
Litigation expenses are costs incurred during your case that
are separate from attorney time. These may include:- Document retrieval or medical record fees – Printing, mailing, and copying costs – Filing fees – Service of process – Deposition-related expenses – Court reporter and transcript costs – Expert witness fees
– Travel expenses, if necessary Not all cases involve all of these costs, but they are
common in litigation.
What Are Installment Payments?
Some legal fees or costs can be broken into smaller, more
manageable payments called Installments. This allows clients flexibility in
meeting financial obligations throughout their case.
When Can Interest Be Charged on Unpaid Invoices?
Law firms may charge interest on unpaid invoices after a set
number of days. The specific period and interest type are stated in your Client
Retainer Agreement. However, interest **cannot** be charged on:- Initial Retainer Requests
– Trust Replenish Requests
– Monthly Installment Payments These payments are deposits into a trust account or
prearranged payments—not amounts owed for billed work—so interest cannot be
applied.
What Factors Influence the Total Cost of Legal Representation?
Legal fees vary based on several factors, including:- The complexity of the case
– The number of hearings or court appearances – The volume of evidence or documents involved – The need for depositions, experts, or investigations – How quickly opposing parties respond – Whether the case settles early or proceeds to trial These factors influence how much attorney time and how many
litigation expenses are required, which affects the total cost.
How Clients Can Help Reduce Legal Costs
Clients can help manage their expenses by:- Providing documents and information promptly – Responding quickly to attorney communications – Remaining organized throughout the process – Avoiding unnecessary hearings or disputes – Considering settlement options when appropriate Working collaboratively with your attorney helps keep your
case efficient.
Contact The Lockwood Legal Group, LLC
If you believe you may have a case, contact us today for a
**free initial consultation**. We offer flexible appointment options, including
virtual meetings, office appointments, and home visits for clients who require
accommodations. Our attorneys are committed to guiding you through every
stage of your case and working tirelessly to protect your rights. Call or email The Lockwood Legal Group, LLC to schedule your
consultation. This post is governed by our blog publishing disclaimer.