We offer different fee arrangements depending on the nature and complexity of your legal matter. Our different arrangements are set out below.
Fixed fees
For certain legal services, we offer fixed fees for an agreed scope of work.
Fixed fees may be available for straightforward divorce applications, consent orders, parenting plans, agreements and other matters where the work required can be reasonably determined in advance.
We will explain what is included in the fixed fee and identify any additional costs that may apply before you engage our services.
Hourly rates
In matters where the scope of work is difficult to predict, such as ongoing litigation, our fees are generally calculated according to the time spent working on your matter.
Before commencing work, we provide information about our hourly rates and an estimate of the anticipated legal costs based on the circumstances of your matter.
We will keep you informed of any significant changes to that estimate as your matter progresses.
Deferred fees – pay later
In some family law property matters Arnold Hills may offer a deferred fee payment option, where you pay your legal fees once your matter ends.
Flexible fee arrangements for fixed fee work
We understand that managing legal expenses can be challenging, particularly following separation. For fixed fee work, we may offer flexible payment arrangements to assist you with managing your legal costs. Our arrangement includes paying 50% upfront and the remaining 50% 30-60 days later.
Any agreed payment arrangements will be discussed with you before commencing work.
Additional costs and disbursements
Depending on your matter, you may incur additional expenses, such as third-party expenses, commonly referred to as disbursements.
Additional costs may include court filing fees, barristers’ fees, expert reports, property valuations, mediation fees and other professional services.
We will explain the anticipated additional costs relevant to your matter and, where practicable, provide pricing information before those expenses are incurred.
Litigation funding and legal finance
We understand that some clients may have significant assets or property interests but limited access to funds to meet their legal expenses during separation.
In certain circumstances, litigation funding or legal finance may be available through independent third-party providers to assist with the cost of legal representation.
Depending on the provider and your eligibility, funding may allow you to access funds for legal fees and related expenses, with repayment arrangements linked to the resolution of your property settlement.
Contact Arnold Hills to get a free quote
Every family law matter is different, and the cost of legal representation will depend on your individual circumstances and the assistance you require.
Whether you need advice about parenting arrangements, a property settlement, divorce, representation in court proceedings or drafting and reviewing an agreement, we will discuss your requirements and provide information about our fees upfront.
Complete our online enquiry form with a brief outline of your matter, and we will contact you to discuss how we can assist and provide a quote or cost estimate, where appropriate.
