How can I estimate the costs for legal advice?
October 6, 2022 | 70,00 EUR | answered by Alwin Hohenwarter
Dear lawyer,
My name is Eiko Köhler and I have a question regarding the costs of legal advice. I am facing the decision of whether I should consult a lawyer for a legal matter, but I am unsure about how much it will cost. I have heard that lawyer fees can vary depending on the case and that there are different billing models.
In my specific case, it involves a dispute with a landlord who does not want to fully refund the security deposit after the termination of my lease. I would like to seek legal advice to assert my rights, but I am concerned about potential high costs. I am unsure if I can afford legal advice and would like to receive an estimate of the expected costs in advance.
Could you please explain to me how the costs for legal advice are generally calculated and how I can assess them? Are there ways to save costs or receive financial assistance? I would greatly appreciate your help in this matter, as legal advice is very important to me, but I also want to protect myself from unexpectedly high costs.
Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Sincerely,
Eiko Köhler
Dear Mr. Köhler,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the costs of legal advice. It is understandable that you would like to inform yourself about the expected costs before deciding to consult a lawyer. I am happy to explain to you how the costs for legal advice are generally calculated and what options there are to save costs or receive support with financing.
The costs for legal advice can vary depending on the case and billing model. Basically, there are two different billing models that lawyers can use to invoice their services: the Legal Remuneration Act (RVG) and the fee agreement.
The RVG sets the fees for legal activities by law. The amount of the fees depends on the value of the matter and the scope of the legal activity. In your case, the dispute with your landlord regarding the deposit, the value of the matter would likely be the amount of the disputed deposit. You can determine the exact amount of the fees using a fee table in the RVG or with the help of a cost calculator online.
An alternative way to invoice legal services is through a fee agreement. Here, you can negotiate an individual compensation agreement with your lawyer based on your financial means and the scope of the legal activity. This can offer you more cost transparency and planning security.
To save costs or receive support with financing, there are various options. Under certain circumstances, you may be able to apply for legal aid or consultation aid if you are financially needy. Additionally, some lawyers offer a free initial consultation to give you an initial assessment of your legal situation and make it easier for you to decide for or against legal advice.
I recommend contacting a lawyer to discuss your specific situation and receive an individual cost estimate. Legal advice can help you assert your claims against your landlord and enforce your rights.
I hope that this information has been helpful to you. If you have any further questions or need assistance, please feel free to contact me.
Best regards,
Alwin Hohenwarter
