Fees and Consultations
Criminal Defence Fees and Consultations
Legal fees depend on the nature of the matter and the work required.
Before proposing a fee, Shikhman Barristers must understand the allegation, the current stage of the proceeding and the anticipated scope of representation.
Factors That May Affect the Fee
Factors that may affect the legal fee include:
The nature and complexity of the allegation
The amount and type of disclosure
The stage of the proceeding
The urgency of the matter
The need for further investigation
The possibility of negotiations, applications, hearings or a trial
The anticipated time and preparation required
The experience of the lawyer selected as lead counsel
How Fees Are Structured
No two matters require precisely the same work. Fees are discussed according to the circumstances of the individual case and the client’s choice of counsel.
The firm generally uses block fees. Preparation is quoted as a block fee, while trial work is charged at the selected lawyer’s fixed daily rate. Each lawyer’s daily rate remains the same throughout the matter.
Once the relevant factors and choice of counsel are known, the fee is clearly set. HST and disbursements are additional. Payment plans may be available on the condition that all fees are paid before the matter is resolved.
The Initial Consultation
The initial consultation is paid. It allows the firm to obtain preliminary information about the matter, identify immediate concerns and discuss the next steps that may be available.
During the consultation, the client receives information about the legal principles and issues that may arise. That information can assist the client in deciding on next steps, navigating the system and choosing the right lawyer, whether from this firm or another firm.
The selected lawyer’s daily rate can be confirmed at the first consultation. The firm may provide a reasonable range for the preparation fee, but the final amount often cannot be confirmed until disclosure and other necessary information have been reviewed.
Available 24/7 for Your Call
Legal issues do not always happen during business hours. Shikhman Barristers is available 24/7 to take your call, answer your initial questions, and discuss your next steps.
Before Retaining the Firm
Before representation begins, the client will receive information about the proposed scope of the firm’s work, the applicable legal fees and the terms of the retainer.
The retainer agreement sets out the services included and the financial terms governing the representation. Clients should review the agreement and raise any questions before proceeding.
Questions About Fees
Questions about what a proposed fee includes, how billing will be addressed and whether additional costs may arise should be discussed directly with the firm.
Providing complete and accurate information about the matter allows the firm to give a more responsible assessment of the work that may be required.
The firm accepts Visa, Mastercard and American Express.
SPEAK WITH OUR FIRM
Request a Confidential Consultation
If you are under investigation, have been arrested or are facing a criminal charge, bail hearing, trial or appeal, contact Shikhman Barristers to discuss your circumstances and understand the next step. If you have been detained or arrested, exercise your right to remain silent and ask to speak with a lawyer before answering questions about the allegation.
416-365-3151
Toll-free: 1-888-508-9178
Available 24/7
Email: info@crimlawcanada.com
*Submitting this form does not create a lawyer-client relationship. Please do not include confidential or time-sensitive information. Shikhman Barristers must confirm that it is able to act before a lawyer-client relationship is established.