Funding Your Case/Paying For Advice

We know that legal advice can be expensive, but here at O’Donnell Solicitors we want to help and assist you in any way we can with your family legal matter. Our straight-talking solicitors are open and transparent regarding our fees and we can take away the uncertainty and worry of paying for the advice you receive.

We offer a range of ways in which you can pay for your legal advice. Whatever your circumstances, we believe we can assist you using one of the options below.

• Pro Bono /Free First Meeting

This is an initial general advice meeting for 30 minutes that is provided free of charge. The advice takes place at a time to suit you, not us. It gives you the opportunity to meet the solicitor who will be in charge of your matter should you decide to formally instruct us. We can explore the options open to you and give you general advice. We can also discuss your funding options. This option is not suitable if you require specific advice tailored to your unique circumstances.

• Traditional 

This is based on an hourly rate ranging between £125 – £225 plus VAT. We represent you and deal with all communications on your behalf. We put ourselves ‘on record’ as acting for you with the court. As the name suggests, this is the traditional way of obtaining family law advice. Cost estimates are given by an experienced solicitor based on the circumstances of your case. If your income and assets are under £20,000 pa and £20,000 respectively, then a reduced rate of £125 per hour plus VAT is available (this reduced rate is offered through the Family Law Panel and is subject to evidence of income and assets).

• Pay As You Instruct (PAYI)

Whilst all our funding options give you control over costs, our PAYI option gives you the greatest control in relation to what you pay. Put simply, you pay for the face-to-face time with one of our experienced solicitors based on that solicitor’s hourly rate. During these meetings, we can help you prepare any paperwork such as applications, statements or communications. We can advise you on options and things to look out for if you are contemplating or have issued proceedings. You then pay for the time at the end of each meeting. This option allows you to save money by representing yourself, which means that you will deal with all communications but retain our services in the background. This option will save you the costs of having a solicitor represent you in court and as you are your only client it will speed up to the process. We can, subject to conditions, offer this service over the telephone if you cannot get into one of our offices.

• Fixed Fees

Occasionally we are able to offer fixed fees. This depends on the circumstances; which must be foreseeable with no extra hidden circumstances.

If your circumstances change then it is possible to switch options should the need arise.

When making an appointment for the first time, please let us know which option of funding  is most suitable for you. If you are unsure we would be happy to discuss the options with you over the telephone.

Contact our Family Law Solicitors

To make an appointment or to find out more about the services we offer, please contact us on 01457 761 320.