Las Cruces Attorney Jeff Lahann
Why is this better for you? For one thing, it's more fair. For example, let's say that you hire an attorney to defend you on a DWI. In reviewing your case he realizes that there is a complex issue that needs to be researched and that a motion to suppress evidence needs to be filed. The time it takes to research your issue, write a motion and brief and to argue the motion at a hearing may take 7 hours in total. If your attorney was billing you for a typical hourly rate of, say, $200 and hour, that means you would be charged about $1400 for that one task. Now let's assume another client comes in next month and the very same issue is present in her case. The research is already done and the motion your attorney did for you is still on the computer, so it only takes about 2 hours of work for the whole task instead of the 7 it took the first time around. This client only pays $400 for the very same service that was provided to you for a cost of $1400.
Isn't the value for both of you the same? You both received the same service - a well-researched and argued motion - but it cost you $1000 more for the attorney's time in the first place. Using a value-based system of fees instead of the hourly rate system, each client would pay the same amount because each received the same service in the end, regardless of how much time it takes the attorney to create the work.
Another problem with hourly billing is that many clients have great difficulty understanding why they should be paying $200 an hour for an attorney to stand at a copy machine or to put postage on an envelope or for sitting in a crowded courtroom waiting for your case to be called. Under a value-based fee arrangement, such routine tasks are presumed to be a part of the overall process and you will never be charged for the "little things."
Call 575-523-4DWI (4394) now to make an appointment for a free consultation about your case.