Charged Fee Higher than Quoted or Advertised Fee
A lawyer or limited licensee should not charge more than the fee quoted. However, there is a difference between providing a quote and providing an estimate:
- Quote example: The lawyer or limited licensee states the fee for services will be a $1,500 flat fee. That is the amount the client should be charged before any disbursement fees and likely taxes.
- Estimate example: The lawyer or limited licensee estimates the work will cost about $1,500. If the bill is higher, the higher amount can be charged if it was disclosed to the client in a timely fashion.
If something unexpected happens that could change the fee, the lawyer or limited licensee should explain it to the client right away. See section 3.6-1 of the Law Society of Saskatchewan Code of Professional Conduct for Lawyers or the Law Society of Saskatchewan Code of Professional Conduct for Limited Licensees for more information.
Fees shown in advertisements should match what the lawyer or limited licensee actually charges. For example, if an ad says the hourly rate is $150, that is the rate the client should pay. See section 4.2-2 of the Code for more information.
If you think a lawyer or limited licensee charged more than the advertised or quoted amount, you can submit a complaint.
Common Questions
The lawyer or limited licensee should give you, in writing, as much information about fees as is reasonable and practical for your situation. They should also confirm in writing the main points of any fee discussions that take place as your matter moves forward. See section 3.6-1, commentaries [3] and [4] of the Law Society of Saskatchewan Code of Professional Conduct or the Law Society of Saskatchewan Code of Professional Conduct for Limited Licensees for more information.