Fees Policy

Fees Policy at Justice Aid Solicitors

Transparent and Fair Pricing in Accordance with SRA Guidance

At Justice Aid Solicitors, we are committed to providing legal services that are accessible and transparent, ensuring that clients understand our fees and payment structures from the outset. Our fees policy adheres strictly to the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) guidelines, promoting clarity, fairness, and value for money.

Our Approach to Fees

Initial Consultation

  • We offer an initial consultation to understand your case and provide preliminary advice. This can be conducted in-person, virtually, or over the phone.
  • The cost of the consultation will be discussed upfront, and in some cases, we offer fixed-fee initial consultations.

Fixed-Fee Services

For certain legal services, we offer fixed-fee pricing to provide predictability and transparency. Fixed fees are available for:

  • Drafting Wills (including Islamic Wills).
  • Standard contracts and agreements.
  • Uncontested divorce proceedings.
  • Lease reviews and tenancy agreements.

Hourly Rate

For more complex or ongoing matters, our fees are calculated on an hourly basis. The rate depends on:

  • The complexity of the matter.
  • The seniority and expertise of the solicitor handling your case.

Hourly rates will be discussed during the initial consultation and detailed in your client care letter.

No Win, No Fee Arrangements

For specific cases, such as personal injury claims, we may offer a Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA) or “No Win, No Fee” arrangement. Under this agreement:

  • No fees are payable if the case is unsuccessful.
  • A success fee, which is a percentage of the compensation awarded, may apply if the case is successful.

Disbursements

Disbursements are additional costs incurred on your behalf, such as:

  • Court fees.
  • Barrister fees.
  • Expert reports or assessments.

We will inform you of any anticipated disbursements at the outset and seek your approval before incurring such costs.

Tailored Fee Arrangements

To cater to diverse client needs, we offer flexible payment structures:

  • Staged Payments: For lengthy cases, payments can be made in installments tied to key milestones.
  • Retainer Agreements: Suitable for businesses requiring ongoing legal support.
  • Capped Fees: For projects where clients wish to set a maximum budget.

Compliance with SRA Guidance

Our fees policy is designed in line with the SRA’s guidance to ensure:

  • Transparency: Full disclosure of costs, with no hidden charges.
  • Client Communication: Regular updates on costs as your case progresses.
  • Fairness: Fees reflect the value and quality of the legal services provided.
  • Accessible Information: Clear and concise documentation to help you understand your financial obligations.

Comparative Analysis with Local Firms

In developing our fees policy, we analyzed similar firms in our locality to ensure competitive pricing:

  • Fixed Fees: Our fixed-fee services are comparable or more affordable than similar firms, providing excellent value without compromising on quality.
  • Hourly Rates: Our hourly rates are aligned with local market standards, with clear tiering based on the solicitor’s experience.
  • Flexible Options: We stand out by offering innovative payment arrangements, such as capped fees and retainers, tailored to client needs.

Commitment to Accessibility

At Justice Aid Solicitors, we strive to make legal services accessible to all clients:

  • Pro Bono Work: We undertake cases for those who qualify under our pro bono scheme.
  • Legal Aid: For eligible cases, we can advise on accessing legal aid.
  • Charitable Initiatives: As part of our community commitment, we support access to justice through educational programs and workshops.

FAQs

Will I receive a detailed breakdown of costs?
Yes. We provide a clear breakdown of all fees, including disbursements, in your client care letter.

Can I change my payment plan if my circumstances change?
We understand that situations can evolve. Speak with us, and we’ll work to adjust your payment plan accordingly.

What happens if my case becomes more complex?
If your case requires additional work beyond the initial scope, we will inform you immediately and provide an updated cost estimate.

Do you offer payment options for businesses?
Yes. Our retainer agreements and staged payments are ideal for businesses requiring consistent legal support.