I think my lawyer is charging me excessively for petty things such as photocopying and postage. I also believe the professional costs are too high. Can I do anything if I think they have overcharged me?
Lawyer Answers (1): Answers from lawyers are general preliminary responses. They are not formal legal advice and cannot taken account of all your circumstances. They do not create a lawyer–client relationship.
Answer by Andrea Stein, Brisbane 4000 QLD
- You should first check the costs agreement and disclosure notice that was provided to you at the start of the engagement.
- Check to see what they say about the costs you don’t think you should have incurred.
- You should speak with your lawyer first and explain why you think they have overcharged you.
- You can also try mediation with your lawyer.
- If this is unsuccessful you can have the costs reviewed by a tribunal or court.
- You should call the legal services commission or check the legislation in your relevant state or territory as the rules for disputing costs vary depending which state or territory you are in.
- There are also lawyers who specialise in costs disputes. You may wish to engage one of these lawyers if there are high costs involved.