Charges for legal services are set at a reasonable hourly rate consistent with the Phoenix area market and the Rules of Professional Conduct for attorneys. Rates are different for different types of cases. Hourly rates are reduced for public interest cases. For all cases, charges are based on some or all of the following factors:
- the time and labor required, the novelty and difficulty of the questions involved, and the skill required to perform the legal service properly
- the likelihood that acceptance of the case will preclude other work by the attorney
- the fee customarily charged for similar legal services
- the amount of money or value in dispute
Sample Fees
The following table represents rates that may be charged:
| Sample Legal Services | Sample Hourly Rates |
|---|---|
| Limited Consultation; Document Review | $165 – $195 |
| Legal Research & Writing | $195 – $295 |
| Demand Letters; Prop. 207 Claims; Public Records Requests | $195 – $295 |
| Settlement Conferences; Informal Hearings; Public Hearings | $225 – $295 |
| Public Interest Litigation | $235 – $265 |
| Civil Litigation (traditional) | $265 – $295 |
Retainer
Usually, payment of a retainer or reserve is required to start representation. The amount depends on the type and circumstances of each case.
Other Payment Structures
Cases are not taken solely on a contingency fee (where payment for legal services comes out of a payment the client expects to receive at the end of the case). In very limited cases, the hourly rate may be reduced in combination with a contingency fee.
Generally, legal services are not offered for a flat fee. However, finite parts of legal services – such as drafting a demand letter – may be offered for a flat rate if the client prefers; in those cases, the services required to follow up – for example, correspondence and replies sent after a demand letter – typically requires an hourly rate.