What role does the amount in dispute play in calculating the lawyer's fees?
October 29, 2023 | 60,00 EUR | answered by Alice Schulz
Dear Lawyer,
I have a question regarding legal fees and I hope you can help me. My name is Eiko Schröder and I am currently involved in a legal dispute involving a significant amount of money. I have already sought the assistance of a lawyer who is representing me in my case. However, I have concerns regarding legal fees and I am wondering what role the amount of the dispute plays in the calculation.
I am currently worried about how the amount of the dispute will affect the costs and whether I may be facing high fees. I would like to understand how the fees are calculated and if there are ways to minimize these costs. I want to ensure that I am not financially burdened while still seeking justice.
Could you please explain to me how legal fees are calculated based on the amount of the dispute and if there is any room to reduce these costs? Are there specific approaches or negotiation possibilities to lower the fees? I would greatly appreciate your expertise and advice on this matter to have a clear understanding of what to expect financially.
Thank you in advance for your help.
Sincerely,
Eiko Schröder
Dear Mr. Schröder,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding lawyer fees depending on the value of the dispute. It is understandable that you are concerned about how the costs will develop and whether you may be faced with high fees. I will now explain in detail how lawyer fees are calculated and what options there are to minimize these costs.
The calculation of lawyer fees is usually based on the Lawyers' Compensation Act (RVG). This law determines how fees for legal activities are calculated. The value of the dispute plays a crucial role, as fees are calculated according to a certain fee rate that is based on the value of the dispute. The higher the value of the dispute, the higher the lawyer fees usually are.
Fees for legal activities can generally be charged in the form of statutory fees or a fee agreement. With statutory fees, the amount of fees is based on the value of the dispute and the legally specified fee rates. However, in many cases, a fee agreement is also made between lawyer and client to make the costs more transparent.
There are various ways to minimize lawyer fees. One option is to negotiate a fee agreement with the lawyer. In this agreement, for example, flat rates or hourly rates can be set that are acceptable for both parties. Reducing the value of the dispute can also help to lower the fees.
It is important that you openly discuss your financial concerns with your lawyer and work together to find solutions to minimize the costs. A good lawyer will help you find a fair solution for both parties and may also show you alternative financing options.
I hope that this information has been helpful to you and I am happy to assist you if you have any further questions.
Best regards,
Alice Schulz
