“The retainer is an expression of trust and confidence in our abilities and commitment to defending your interests.”

We generally do not bill our clients by the hour, but on a quoted flat fee basis. Our practice is to initially meet with clients without charge so that we can first assess their problem, and then determine whether and how we can help. We can usually gauge the gravity of the client’s situation in general terms at this first meeting and determine the likely defence strategy which should be pursued. In less serious cases we can usually state what our fee will be for the contemplated service at this first meeting, while more complicated or serious matters will normally require us to obtain complete disclosure of the evidence against the client from the Crown and to finalize instructions from our clients as to how they wish to proceed. In either event, we attempt to quote a precise fee at the earliest possible stage of proceedings. This policy allows client to know with confidence what the total cost of our legal representation will be at the outset so that they can decide whether they wish to retain us.

Fees are calculated using a number of considerations, with estimated time for our services being only one of the factors. Other factors considered are: complexity or novelty of defence required; particular experience of lawyer requested; seriousness of offence.

We generally require a partial deposit of funds (initial retainer) before taking active steps in your defence, with payment of the remaining fees as agreed upon. The retainer is an expression of trust and confidence in our abilities and commitment to defending your interests. This is why we do not generally discuss fees on the phone and usually insist on meeting you before accepting your case. Retaining a lawyer is an important and personal decision. Understanding each others concerns and expectations is equally important for both client and lawyer.

In some cases we act on appointments from the Legal Aid Society, although our fee philosophy and range of available fee options make it such that affordable solutions can be worked out with most clients.