One of the most common frustrations clients have with lawyers isn’t the legal work itself — it’s the invoice that follows.
Most of that frustration comes from one simple fact: litigation is complex, and unless someone explains how legal work actually unfolds, the billing can feel confusing or even unfair.
So let’s be clear upfront. Our job is not only to represent you, but it’s also to make sure you fully understand what you’re paying for, and why.
Where Most of the Legal Work Actually Happens
Contrary to popular belief, most legal work doesn’t happen in court. The vast majority happens behind the scenes, well before anything ever gets filed or scheduled for hearing.
Here’s just some of what’s involved:
- Reviewing and analyzing documents
- Preparing litigation strategy
- Research
- Drafting legal documents, pleadings, and correspondence
- Preparing for discoveries (examinations for discovery)
- Attending discoveries and reviewing transcripts
- Conducting settlement discussions and negotiations
- Communicating with opposing counsel and third parties
- Advising and guiding you throughout the process
All of this work takes professional time, and all of it is billable.
“Quick Updates” Are Still Legal Work
Clients often say:
“Can we just have a quick call for an update?”
Of course. But even a short update usually requires me to:
- Review the current status of your file
- Consider what developments have occurred
- Analyze your legal position
- Evaluate next steps and risks
- Provide you with legal advice
That is legal work, not casual conversation. That’s exactly what you’re hiring me for, whether it takes ten minutes or an hour.
Emotional Support Is Part of Legal Advice (And Billable)
Litigation can be stressful. Sometimes clients need reassurance, perspective, or someone to simply help them process decisions. That’s perfectly normal and we are here to support you through it.
But even those conversations aren’t separate from legal work. Helping you assess risks, manage decisions, and navigate uncertainties is part of lawyer’s job , and it is billed accordingly.
Why Certain Stages Cost More
Some stages of litigation are simply heavier on legal time. The most common billing increases happen during:
| Stage | What’s Happening |
|---|---|
| Initial Review | Reviewing your documents, analyzing facts, researching legal issues |
| Discovery Preparation | Witness preparation, document organization, preparing questions and answers |
| Discoveries (Examinations) | Attending full-day discoveries, reviewing and analyzing transcripts |
| Post-Discovery | Evaluating settlement options, reviewing litigation risk and next steps |
| Court Appearances | Drafting legal arguments, preparing evidence, filing materials, attending court |
Discovery, in particular, is one of the most time-consuming stages of any litigation.
The Retainer Is Not a Flat Fee
The retainer you pay at the start is a deposit. It allows work to begin and secures my availability. It is not a flat fee for the entire matter. As your case progresses, fees are billed based on actual time spent, in accordance with the retainer agreement.
Common Misunderstandings:
| Misunderstanding | The Reality |
|---|---|
| “We just had a quick call.” | Even short calls involve legal advice — which is billable. |
| “We only exchanged a few emails.” | Legal emails often require review, analysis, and careful drafting. |
| “I thought the retainer covered everything.” | The retainer is a starting deposit, not a global cap. |
| “Discovery should be quick.” | Preparing for discovery is often one of the most labor-intensive parts of any case. |
Our Commitment to Transparency
Throughout your file, we will:
- Keep you updated on where things stand
- Flag major costs before they arise
- Suggest settlement options where appropriate
- Make billing clear and understandable
- Always be available to discuss any invoice or account if needed
In Short: You Hire Your Lawyer to Think, Not Just to Appear
Legal work is not about filling out forms or simply “going to court.” You hire me to:
- Anticipate problems before they happen
- Analyze your risks
- Build your case strategically
- Handle all the moving parts
- Protect your interests
That’s where most of the time goes, and that’s where the real value lies.
No Surprises and no games, just straightforward advice.
Litigation is expensive, and even more expensive if done poorly. Our job is to help you resolve your case as efficiently as possible, while keeping you fully informed throughout.
If you ever have questions about billing or fees, we are always available to explain, review, and ensure you’re comfortable with how your file is being handled.
Let’s Have That Conversation Early
If you’re considering legal action , or are already involved in litigation, we encourage you to have an open discussion about legal costs at the very beginning.
Clear expectations make for better working relationships, fewer surprises, and more confident decisions as your case moves forward.
If you have any questions about legal fees, your case, or next steps, feel free to contact us directly:
📞 Phone: 416.499.1676
📧 Email: info@tamirlitigation.com
💬 WhatsApp: Message via WhatsApp
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