Fees and Transparency
The first question often asked is "How much do you charge?"
However, this is dependent on a number of factors eg complexity, type of case, number of pages / documents and number of bundles to read, length of hearing, number of witnesses to cross examine, amount of time needed to be spent on written work.
Chambers most commonly used pricing model for for civil and commercial work it is an hourly rate.
For Family Law the commonly used pricing model is a fixed fee (calculated on the basis of an hourly rate of the preparation time and the hearing time, and/or written work).
I am not registered for Vat so the price quoted is the total fee you will have to pay.
In Divorce cases involving financial remedies factors that increase costs are when there are pensions to deal with (particularly where the services of an actuary or other expert is needed, and analysis is required), where there is more than one property or rental property, where there are properties and assets abroad, or commercial property, businesses or Trusts involved.
Chambers aims to offer a cost effective and fair pricing strategy
Quotation
However, if no papers or insufficient papers have been provided (i.e. a telephone enquiry) then that question can be answered by way of an immediate rough estimate.
A proper quotation can only be properly provided once I had sight of all the papers. Only once I have seen the papers and had an idea on the case will I be able to say if it is a matter within my specialisms, or a matter I can research. Thereafter, it is important to appreciate that if the court is a distance away there will be a reasonable charge for travel.
The provision of a quotation does not equate to an acceptance. I will aim to set out the quote clearly but if there is anything you do not understand then do not hesitate to contact me.
You will receive confirmation in writing which will set out the terms and costs. Fees need to be agreed in advance and paid prior to written work being undertaken.
If instructed by a solicitor then it is important to appreciate that chambers offers its services to solicitors and those regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority in accordance with The Standard Contractual Terms for the Supply of Legal Services By barristers to Authorised Persons 2020 (as referred to in r30.9c Bar Standards Board handbook)
https://www.barcouncilethics.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Contractual-Terms-2020-1.pdf
If you wish to discuss fees further then please contact me on 07791 855 303 or email grv@canonburychambers.co.uk
If you are instructing me under the Direct Access scheme, then a more formal and detailed contract (Agreement) and a specific client care letter will be sent to you. See the following pages.
Canonbury Chambers Direct (Public) Access page for more detailed information about the scheme
The Direct Access page also details pricing in relation to Divorce for cases where joint assets are under £300,000.
However, if I am not able to assist you, I will let you know as soon as possible and direct you to other barristers or sites and organisations which can (Bar Council Register, Bar Council Direct Access portal or Juriosity)
If you wish to discuss fees further then please contact me on 07791 855 303 or email grv@canonburychambers.co.uk