When to ask for lawyer fees in Singapore?

Generally, it all begins with the consultation. Before the consultation, there may be phone calls and emails, but aside from the more common issues such as divorce, deed polls, will-writing, and probate matters, the lawyer will wait till he can review the situation at the consultation before making firm commitments about fees.

Why do senior lawyers charge more than junior lawyers?

When it actually comes to the work, the lawyer will note down how much time has been spent working on your case, breaking them down into research, drafting, filing documents, etc. Naturally, senior lawyers charge more on an hourly basis than junior ones.

Do you charge for consultation with a lawyer?

For the consultation, most lawyers charge for it. They feel that it is an application of their time and expertise. A small number will waive it for the first 30 minutes in order to attract business. The charge for the consultation varies with the duration of the consultation and the reputation of the lawyer.

Are there fixed fees for divorce in Singapore?

As such, there are many enterprising lawyers in Singapore who have begun to charge fixed fees subject to conditions (that the divorce is uncontested, for example).

When does one side have to pay attorney’s fees?

The most common exception to the rule occurs when a contract or statute (law) specifically allows for the payment of attorneys’ fees by the other side. In addition, a court can sometimes act in the interest of justice and fairness to require one side to pay the attorneys’ fees.

How does the percentage of attorney fees work?

Often, the percentage that the attorney receives depends on what stage the case settled at. For example, the attorney will usually obtain a smaller cut if a settlement was reached before trial – because less time and expense was expended – than if the case goes to trial.

Do you pay attorney’s fees if you win or lose?

To further this goal, the losing side doesn’t usually pay the winning side’s attorney’s fees. In the United States, the rule (called the American Rule) is that each party pays only their own attorneys’ fees, regardless of whether they win or lose.

Is there a way to get your attorney’s fees reimbursed?

Fortunately, there is a way to “even the playing field” and put yourself in a position to recover your attorneys’ fees. You can avoid the “American Rule” and get your attorneys’ fees reimbursed if your contracts provide that the prevailing party in a lawsuit is entitled to fees.