Consultations: Free or Paid?

Why do some lawyers charge for consultation? Well, you may be surprised to know, free consultations are typically not the norm among serious and experienced lawyers, who charge for their time and expertise, similar to how doctors charge for consultations. Paying for a consultation ensures clients receive focused, realistic, professional advice and allows lawyers to dedicate themselves fully to each case. Many establishments offer much free consultations but provide poor-quality service and poor delivery standards. Being paid for a consultation reflects a serious commitment to resolving a client's legal issues.

Several valid reasons for charging consultation fees exists. These include the value of the (serious and experienced) lawyer's time, the necessity of malpractice protection, and ensuring lawyers can prioritise their paying clients' cases. The last reason is particularly poignant. You would not want your lawyer to stop work on your important and urgent matter to give a free consult for an hour or two would you?