Fees

In writing, at the outset

Article 57 of Law 28.08 requires the lawyer to inform the client of the fees and to record the agreement in writing. We treat that as the basis of a clear and durable working relationship rather than a formality.

Article 45 prohibits setting fees by reference to the result obtained, although the result does bear on how they are calculated. Where the parties disagree on fees, the matter is referred to the Bâtonnier of the Bar for decision, under Article 51.

Every payment is receipted. The receipt states what the sum covers: costs, taxes, an advance on fees, or a balance owed.