A General Law Practice Serving a Variety of Legal Needs:
Criminal Defense
Civil Lawsuits
Divorce & Family Law
Little Rock, AR 72201 North Arkansas: P.O. Box 363 Mountain Home, Arkansas 72654 Telephone:
501-372-6242
501-303-0545 (Cell) Email:
dcsward@att.net
The most common question answered by attorneys is probably "How much do you charge?" Unfortunately, there is no single answer to that question, as cases vary widely in complexity and duration. There are basically three different fee structures available. The nature of your case will likely determine which fee structure is most appropriate.
Flat fee: Just what it sounds like, a flat fee is a one-time fee that covers all services associated with your case. These are most common in criminal defense matters and some domestic relations cases.
Hourly rate: Again, just what it sounds like, an hourly rate is a set rate in which you are charged by the hour for all work done in your case. Like many firms, the Sward Law Firm charges in fractions of an hour so as to minimize your bill. Depending on the case, a retainer may be required. A retainer is a sum of money against which the attorney bills until either the case is concluded or an additional retainer is needed.
Contingency fee: Under a contingency fee arrangement, the client pays little or no money up front. The attorney collects a percentage of any settlement or judgment as his fee. These arrangements are commonly used in civil rights, personal injury or medical malpractice cases.
Regardless of which arrangement best suits your needs, the Sward Law Firm will provide you with a written fee agreement and gladly answer any questions that you may have about it.
lnk