It is difficult to make general statements about fees. There are very few "one size fits all" situations in criminal law. There is no regulation of attorney's fees and it would be a mistake to believe that a lawyer's competence is measured by the size of his fees. It is possible to pay $1,500.00 or $15,000.00 for different lawyers on the same case. The result may very well be the same.
I most often use a step by step approach to fees which allows you to pay for as much lawyering as you actually require. In other words, I am not going to charge you to try your case unless it appears that there is likely to be a trial. There will be a down payment or retainer which is usually $1,500.00. This fee will be sufficient until such time as I have had the opportunity to learn more about your case and, most importantly, until the State Attorney has reviewed the case and decided what charges, if any, they intend to prosecute.
After this initial fee, depending on the case,your particular legal situation, and the scope of the evidence, a secondary fee will be negotiated followed by a trial fee when, and if, necessary.
I most often use a step by step approach to fees which allows you to pay for as much lawyering as you actually require. In other words, I am not going to charge you to try your case unless it appears that there is likely to be a trial. There will be a down payment or retainer which is usually $1,500.00. This fee will be sufficient until such time as I have had the opportunity to learn more about your case and, most importantly, until the State Attorney has reviewed the case and decided what charges, if any, they intend to prosecute.
After this initial fee, depending on the case,your particular legal situation, and the scope of the evidence, a secondary fee will be negotiated followed by a trial fee when, and if, necessary.