If you’re seeking legal representation for a claims case in Ireland, it’s important to understand how solicitors charge their clients. While a popular option for many people is a “no win no fee” arrangement, it’s important to note that charging a percentage of any award won in a case is illegal in Ireland. In this article, we’ll discuss the various ways solicitors can charge their clients in claims cases in Ireland.
Hourly Rates
Solicitors in Ireland typically charge their clients based on hourly rates. This means that they will bill clients for the time they spend working on a case, including time spent on research, drafting documents, attending meetings, and appearing in court. The hourly rate can vary depending on the solicitor’s experience and the complexity of the case. Some solicitors may charge as much as €500 per hour, while others may charge less than €100 per hour.
Fixed Fees
Another option for clients is to pay a fixed fee for the solicitor’s services. This means that the solicitor will provide a quote upfront for the work they will do, and the client will pay that amount regardless of how long it takes to complete the work. Fixed fees are more common for straightforward cases where the solicitor can accurately estimate the amount of work involved.
Conditional Fees
Conditional fees, also known as “no win no fee” arrangements, are still an option in Ireland, but with restrictions. Under a conditional fee agreement, the solicitor agrees to represent the client without charging any fees upfront. If the case is successful, the client will pay the solicitor a fee, but that fee cannot be based on a percentage of any award won. Instead, the fee must be a reasonable amount that reflects the work the solicitor has done.
It’s important to note that there are restrictions on conditional fee agreements in Ireland. In particular, solicitors cannot charge a percentage of any award won in a case. This is to ensure that clients are not left with a large bill that is disproportionate to the amount they have won.
Finding a Solicitor
When searching for a solicitor to represent you in a claims case in Ireland, it’s important to use the right keywords in your search. Instead of searching for “no win no fee solicitors,” consider using phrases like “claims solicitors” or “personal injury solicitors” to find a solicitor who has experience in handling claims cases. It’s also important to read reviews and check the solicitor’s qualifications and experience to ensure you choose a solicitor who is best suited to your needs.
Alternatively, you could use a service like the Irish Claims Board (ICA) that provides free advice and assistance to individuals who have suffered injury or loss. The ICB can help you understand your legal rights and obligations and can provide assistance in resolving disputes, making complaints, and accessing compensation. It’s important to note that the ICB’s services are free, and they do not charge any fees or take any percentage of any award won. They identify a panel member best suited to your particular case and then you deal directly with that panel member. If you’re unsure whether to hire a solicitor then consider using the ICB. It’s worth exploring both options to determine which is best suited to your needs.
To summarise, while conditional fee agreements, or “no win no fee” arrangements, are still available in Ireland, solicitors cannot charge a percentage of any award won in a case. Instead, they must charge a reasonable fee that reflects the work they have done. Hourly rates and fixed fees are also options for clients seeking legal representation in claims cases in Ireland.
If you would like an assessment of a claim, you can use the online form available here without obligation or alternatively you can use the automatic claim calculator.
