Clear information about legal costs
The cost of legal help depends on the type of matter, how far it has progressed and the work needed to deal with it.
Before we begin, we will explain the work involved, how the fees will be calculated and what the next stage is likely to cost. If the matter changes or more work is required, we will discuss this with you.
Why legal costs can change
Two matters in the same area of law can require very different amounts of work. The likely cost may be affected by a range of factors.
We will let you know if something changes that is likely to affect the work or cost.
The type and seriousness of the matter
How urgently work is required
The number of documents or amount of evidence
Whether an agreement can be reached
The number of court appearances
Whether the matter proceeds to a hearing or trial
Whether a barrister or another professional is needed
Changes made by another party, police, the Department or the Court
The work behind your matter
Legal fees are not limited to the time spent speaking with you or appearing in court. Depending on the matter, the work may include a great deal that happens between appointments.
Your costs agreement will explain the work included in your matter.
Reviewing documents and evidence
Giving legal advice
Preparing letters, applications and court documents
Communicating with police, government departments or other lawyers
Preparing for meetings, interviews or court
Negotiating with another party
Attending court
Briefing and working with a barrister
Keeping you updated as the matter progresses
Costs outside our legal fees
Some matters involve expenses paid to another person or organisation.
Where possible, we will explain these costs before they are incurred.
Court filing fees
Barrister’s fees
Expert reports
Medical or other records
Process server fees
Searches and certificates
Travel or accommodation where required
How our fees work
Fixed fees
A fixed fee may be available when the work can be clearly defined in advance. We will explain what is included and whether any extra costs may apply.
Stage-based fees
Some matters are handled in stages. This allows us to explain the work and expected cost of the next stage before you decide whether to continue.
Legal Aid
R.A. Solicitors is a preferred supplier of Legal Aid Queensland. Legal Aid may fund approved matters for eligible clients.
Learn about Legal AidClear updates throughout your matter
01.
Costs explained upfront
We will explain the proposed work, how the fees will be calculated and the likely cost before we begin.
02.
Changes discussed with you
If the matter changes or more work is needed, we will explain what has changed and how it may affect the cost.
03.
Defined stages
Where appropriate, we can separate the matter into stages so you understand what work is being completed next.
04.
Questions are welcome
You can ask us about your fees, invoices or the work being completed at any point during the matter.
Talk to us about the cost of your matter
Child protection matters
Costs depend on whether Child Safety has recently become involved, court proceedings have started or ongoing representation is required. Legal Aid may be available for eligible matters.
Learn more
Criminal matters
Fees may depend on the charge, whether bail is involved, the number of court appearances and whether the matter proceeds to trial.
Learn more
Family law matters
Costs are affected by the issues in dispute, whether an agreement can be reached and whether court proceedings are needed.
Learn more
Domestic violence matters
Fees depend on whether you are applying for or responding to an order, whether temporary conditions apply and whether the matter is contested.
Learn more
Traffic matters
Fixed fees may be available for some traffic charges, court appearances and licence applications.
Learn more
Wills and estate planning
Fixed fees may be available for clearly defined work such as preparing a standard will or Enduring Power of Attorney.
Learn more
Questions about legal costs
The information on this page is general in nature and does not take account of your circumstances. It is not legal advice and should not be relied on as a substitute for advice about your own matter.