What services does a lawyer's fee include?

[capamando]

Hello,

What services does the lawyer's fee for Chapter 7 usually include? Most lawyer's around here in Florida charge between $1,000- $1500. We are going to our first free consultation and have no idea what theses fees include. Are there any additional charges if everything goes smoothly? What additional charges could we be facing?... a bit anxious... wish me luck

Thanks

[mtngirl47]

Our lawyer went over his fees, told us what was included in the basic fee and how much "extras" would cost....and then the retainer agreement had it all spelled out for us to sign and agree to. Good luck!

[StartingOver08]

Every attorney has his/her own agreement that will specify what is included in the fee. Be aware that some of the attorney's that have low prices initially actually cost more overall because they charge for everything by the hour.

"Normal" BK attorney's have a flat fee for the entire Ch 7 process + the court filing fee. The items typically not included in the flat fee are items that do not occur with every BK. For example, AP's are not included. Some attorney's charge for reaffirmation agreements. You will want to get a schedule of charges from your attorney before you hire him/her.

[HHM]

Most attorneys that charge less than $2,000 will exclude many "potential" items in a BK.

The normal fee includes preparing the documents, providing legal advice and analysis, filing the case and attending the 341 meeting.

Extras typically include: reaffirmation agreements, adversary proceedings, redemptions, basically just about ANYTHING that can happen after the case is filed. Some low cost attorneys will limit how many creditors and charge you per creditor once you go over that limit, some will limit your phone time with an attorney and charge you an hourly rate billed in 6 minute increments, etc.

As with anything, there are different levels and quality of service out there. Generally, if you don't want to be nickel and dimed, you will pay a higher up front fee, but then you are covered if anything happens. I know of a few firms that actually charge a true flat rate that includes EVERYTHING, including AP's.

[Exployer1234]

I paid a total of 1199 for my lawyer, but I am in a different state. So far no extra charges have occured and all of my creditors were included. My 341 meeting is this Friday, so I will find out if anything is missing. Nothing is showing on Pacer yet, so I guess I will find out soon if all goes well.

My lawyer's fees included 900 plus 299 filing cost. I would say just do your research because sometimes the best attorney's are not always the most expensive. It took me a while to find this attorney and I did ask around before I actually retained her. I guess though time will tell after I go to the 341 meeting.