At Burchell MacDougall we believe that our clients are entitled to be fully informed of the cost of legal services both before and during our solicitor-client relationship. Clients are encouraged to raise any questions they may have about fees at any time.

The fees we charge, and the way those fees are calculated, vary depending on the type and complexity of the matter we deal with on behalf of a client.

Disbursements
Any disbursements incurred on a file are usually charged in addition to the fee. Disbursements would include such things as court filing fees, title search fees, sheriff's and bailiff's fees, courier charges, Registry and Probate fees, and all instances where we make a payment to a third party on your behalf. You will only pay what we pay to the third party. We do not "mark up" these costs.

We will also charge you for the cost of long distance telephone calls, faxes, and photocopies. These charges will be reasonable and will be reviewed with you.

Fixed Fees
With some matters, we may be able to quote you a "fixed" fee before we begin work on your behalf. Fixed fees are common in property transactions and certain corporate and commercial transactions.

Contingency Fees
We may be prepared to take your case on a "contingency" basis. In those cases our fees are based on a percentage of the monies we recover for you. These arrangements are common when we deal with personal injury claims (including motor vehicle accident claims) and some civil litigation matters.

Fee for Time
Many matters will be dealt with on a "fee for time" basis. You will be billed for the time the lawyer actually works on your file. Your lawyer will, prior to beginning work for you, inform you of both his or her hourly rate, and give you an estimate of the cost to complete the matter.

Questions? Please email us at:
Halifax Office        Truro Office       Wolfville Office