Legal Calculators
These free legal calculators help you estimate attorney fees, settlement values, and legal costs. All results are for informational purposes only — consult a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.
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Attorney & Legal Fees
Hourly fee estimates, contingency calculations, and retainer costs
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Legal Glossary — Key Terms Explained
- Contingency Fee
- A fee arrangement where the attorney is paid a percentage of the settlement or judgment (typically 25–40%), only if the case is won. No win, no fee. Common in personal injury and employment discrimination cases.
- Retainer
- An upfront fee paid to an attorney to reserve their services. The retainer is held in trust and drawn against as work is performed. Once depleted, a new retainer payment may be required.
- Statute of Limitations
- The legal time limit for bringing a lawsuit after an event occurs. Varies by case type and jurisdiction. Personal injury: typically 2–3 years (UK: 3 years; most US states: 2 years). Contract disputes: typically 6 years (UK).
- Damages
- Financial compensation awarded in a lawsuit. Compensatory damages aim to restore the claimant to their pre-injury position. Punitive/exemplary damages punish particularly egregious conduct and go beyond compensation.
- Small Claims Court (UK/US)
- UK: Claims up to £10,000 (£1,000 for personal injury) in the County Court small claims track. US: Limits vary by state, typically $5,000–$25,000. Designed for straightforward disputes without expensive legal representation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a solicitor/attorney cost per hour?
UK solicitor rates vary widely: high street firms £150–£250/hour; mid-size city firms £250–£400/hour; top London firms £400–£800+/hour. US attorney rates: small town $150–$250/hour; mid-size city $250–$400/hour; major city/specialist $400–$800+/hour. Many offer free initial consultations.
When should I use a lawyer vs handle something myself?
Self-represent for: small claims court disputes, minor traffic violations, simple wills (using a solicitor for even these has value). Use a lawyer for: business contracts over £5,000, property purchases, employment disputes, any criminal charge, family law involving children or significant assets, personal injury claims, and tax disputes.
What is a no-win no-fee arrangement?
In the UK, 'no win no fee' conditional fee arrangements (CFAs) let you pursue legal action without upfront costs. If you win, the lawyer's success fee (up to 25% of damages) plus any ATE insurance premium may be deducted from your compensation. If you lose, you don't pay your lawyer but may owe the other side's costs.
How is a personal injury settlement calculated?
UK personal injury settlements include: (1) General damages — pain, suffering, and loss of amenity (calculated using Judicial College Guidelines); (2) Special damages — quantifiable financial losses (medical costs, lost earnings, care costs). Serious injuries are negotiated or decided by courts. Minor whiplash (Road Traffic Accident) is now assessed using the MoJ fixed tariff scheme.