Fighting For Clients Since 1984

How Much Will Legal Representation Cost?

A criminal arrest will spark many fears. Initially, you may wonder if you will be able to afford an attorney and if it’s worth it. I am Burnsville criminal defense attorney Howard Bass. I have 30 years of experience defending clients throughout Minnesota. I understand the concerns you may have and want to make sure you have clear answers.

Addressing Your Financial Concerns Upfront

Every criminal case is different. Therefore, no competent attorney can accurately set a fee without first conducting an initial consultation. During this time, a defense lawyer will learn from the client all the facts and circumstances involved in the client’s particular case.

Most reputable criminal defense lawyers in the Twin Cities charge “flat” fees, which provide the client representation through trial. These fees, typically required to be paid in full in advance of representation, do not go up or down depending upon the number of hours the lawyer works on the case, or whether the case is dismissed or resolved through plea negotiations prior to trial. Flat fees for representation through trial usually do not include representation on appeal.

Do Not Underestimate The Value Of A Quality Defense

Like most service industries, you usually get what you pay for when it comes to legal representation. Quality representation in criminal cases costs thousands of dollars. The more serious or complicated the case, the higher the fee. Fees for representation in serious felonies (cases in which a prison sentence is likely upon a conviction) are normally higher than fees for representation in lower-level felonies, which are higher than fees for gross misdemeanor representation. These fees are higher than fees for a misdemeanor or petty misdemeanor representation. Fees for representation in federal cases are often higher than fees for representation in state court cases.

While you can find cut-rate lawyers who charge less, both your liberty and your future are far too important to cut corners on legal fees. You will likely be dissatisfied with the representation you receive if you hire the cheapest lawyer you can find. To the extent financially possible, you should hire the attorney with whom you feel the most comfortable and in whom you have the most confidence.

Contact My Burnsville Defense Firm Today

I have the answers to the questions keeping you up at night. During a free initial consultation, I will take the time to explain my defense strategy, while making my cost structure clear. You deserve to have answers so you can make an informed decision about your future. Contact my Burnsville defense firm today.