Fees
A clear estimate before I start, no hidden rates and a frank word on what to expect.
Not knowing what legal services will cost worries clients almost as much as the matter itself. Before I accept an engagement I explain in writing what I will do and how I bill it, with a realistic estimate.
I begin with an initial consultation that commits you to nothing, in which I assess your situation, tell you frankly whether I can help and how, and propose the most suitable billing arrangement before you take any decision.
I adapt the arrangement to the client's needs and to each matter without undervaluing the work, usually through one of the following options, which I combine where it makes sense:
A set price, agreed for the matter or by stages where the scope can be defined, so you know from the outset where you stand.
Fees based on the time worked, with a prior estimate, in open-ended matters or those of uncertain duration.
An advance payment at the start of the engagement, applied to fees and costs as the work progresses.
A periodic fee for companies that need continuous legal support.
Where the nature of the matter allows, part of the fee is linked to the outcome, with an advance on account at the start.
A criminal emergency is the one situation that leaves no time for an estimate, which is why this is the only fee I publish.
I charge per attendance, not per arrest. An arrest usually generates two separate events, hours apart, namely attendance at the police station and, later, the appearance before the duty court, and each is charged at the rate for the band it falls in.
Per attendance in Barcelona city, Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., holidays excluded.
Per attendance, on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Per attendance, any day from 10:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m., the small hours included, at a closed price.
Take an arrest on a Tuesday at 11:30 p.m., with me attending at the police station that night, which costs €726 (€600 plus VAT). At 10:00 a.m. the next morning you are brought before the duty court and I attend again, for €484 (€400 plus VAT). The total is €1,210 (€1,000 plus VAT), and you hear it on the phone before I leave the house.
The figure includes travel within Barcelona city and full intervention in the proceeding. Outside the city, only the travel is added, agreed by phone before I set out. Calling or writing to me does not in itself mean that I take on the matter. I accept each attendance on the phone, depending on my availability, and confirm the price in writing before I set out.
If you then entrust me with the defense, everything paid for these attendances is deducted in full from the fees for the matter.
Every detained person who does not appoint a lawyer is entitled to a duty lawyer (abogado de oficio) without first having to prove a lack of means. That assistance is free if legal aid is later granted. If it is not, the detainee must pay the duty lawyer's fees for the work done (article 6.2 of Act 1/1996 on Free Legal Aid). This fee is for those who prefer to appoint a lawyer of their own choice from the first moment.
The fee depends on the complexity of the matter, its stage, its urgency and the dedication it requires, and no two matters are alike. I prefer to look at yours with you and give a serious estimate rather than a generic figure.
Tell me about your situation and I will tell you, frankly, how I can help.
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