Getting Lawyers Invoices Checked

[WelshSilverFox]

Hi All, some advice required if possible

I have been paying my lawyers a month fee off a large legal bill due to an separation, I have found out from my ex her legal bill is half of mine and wondered if there is a body who could look at the costs and charges I have been billed to make sure I'm not being overcharged?

The invoices go back around 4/5 years if that's an issue.

Thanks in advance

WSF

[des8]

Re: Gwtting Lawyers Invoices Checked

Your first step is to ask your solicitors for a full breakdown of the bill.
At the start of the proceedings did they send you a "care letter" telling you what the costs were likely to be?
If they didn't this is a strong card in your hand as it is/was a requirement of the SRA. (perhaps rules have changed since my last run in with a solicitor)

If you're not satisfied with the response you can complain to the Legal Ombudsman or apply to the courts for a detailed assessment.
If you apply for a detailed assessment, as the bill is over a year old, you need a special reason for the request.
Gross overcharging would fit the bill

[WelshSilverFox]

Re: Getting Lawyers Invoices Checked

Thank you des8, I have requested a full breakdown of all invoices and how my payments have been allocated against them.

There are no proceedings against me, just me looking to see if I have been charged a fair price for the works undertaken.

once again thanks

WSF

[WelshSilverFox]

Re: Getting Lawyers Invoices Checked

I have now received breakdown of all invoices by way off timings and dispersals, but no "care letter" so have requested that.

Massive amount of hours claimed @ £170 per hour!:tinysmile_aha_t:

[bluebottle]

Re: Getting Lawyers Invoices Checked

It might be worth speaking to a Legal Draughtsman. If the solicitor has grossly overcharged, the LD could be invaluable in getting it reduced.

[WelshSilverFox]

Re: Getting Lawyers Invoices Checked

never heard of them, but after looking them up on the internet I noticed one of my clients is a legal draughtsman. Small world!

does anybody have any idea on costs?

WSF

[bluebottle]

Re: Getting Lawyers Invoices Checked

LDs deal with legal costs - that is their job. Have a word with your client who is an LD and see how much you are letting yourself in for, fee wise. Paying them to go through the solicitor's fees, may be worth it if it saves you a lot of money you need not be having to pay. After all, if the solicitor has overcharged, they have the choice of dealing with it amicably or going in front of a judge and explaining their figures.