Compare three family law quotes, line by line.

Questions to ask every firm

1. What exactly does the fixed fee cover, and what ends it? A fixed fee for “negotiation” may stop at the first counter-offer.
2. Who will do the work, and at what rate? A quote built on a junior lawyer’s rate can change if a partner takes over.
3. How are you billed, and how often? Ask about the billing unit (six minutes is common), monthly invoices and money held in trust.
4. Is a barrister likely, and who pays them? Counsel’s fees are usually a separate cost passed through to you.
5. Which disbursements should you expect? Court filing fees, valuations, expert reports and a private mediator can each run into thousands.
6. Are the figures GST-inclusive? Legal fees attract 10% GST. Two quotes that look equal can differ by a tenth.
7. What happens if the matter goes to court? Ask for an estimate of each court stage, not only the negotiation.
8. Will you update the estimate if things change? Ask how and when you will be told.

Reading the quotes you get

• Compare like with like. A fixed fee for one stage is not cheaper than an hourly estimate for the whole matter. Line them up stage by stage.
• An hourly estimate is not a cap. Unless the firm agrees to cap its fees in writing, the final bill can be higher than the estimate.
• Get the costs disclosure in writing. In Victoria, New South Wales and Western Australia lawyers work under the Legal Profession Uniform Law, which generally requires them to tell you in writing how their costs will be calculated, to estimate the total legal costs, and to tell you about significant changes. Very small matters can be exempt. The Victorian Legal Services Board + Commissioner explains your rights, including how to dispute a bill.
• Price is one input. Accreditation, relevant experience and verified client reviews matter as much. Our Melbourne family lawyers directory lists firms and solicitors with their Doyle’s Guide rankings and a direct link to review each one.

For typical cost ranges by type of matter, see what family lawyers cost.

General information, not legal advice. Prepared by the Lawyer Reviews editors; not reviewed by a lawyer. Share it freely: link to this page or print it. Corrections: tell us.