If you’re wondering how lawyers get paid in New York, you’re not alone. Understanding legal fees is one of the most common concerns people have when thinking about hiring an attorney—especially if it’s your first time. Whether you’re dealing with a personal injury, need help drafting a will, or want to know what you’re getting into before contacting a lawyer, here’s what you should know.
1. Hourly Billing: The Traditional Model
In New York and across the country, many attorneys charge by the hour. This means you’re billed for the actual time your lawyer spends working on your case—whether it’s reviewing documents, preparing for court, or meeting with you. Hourly rates can vary widely based on the lawyer’s experience, area of law, and where in New York they practice (for example, legal fees in Manhattan are often higher than in other parts of the state).
Example: If an attorney charges $350 per hour and works five hours on your case, your bill will be $1,750.
2. Flat Fee Billing: Predictable and Clear
For legal matters with a defined scope—like drafting a will, creating a trust, handling a real estate closing, or preparing certain business documents—many New York attorneys offer flat-fee pricing. This means you pay a set amount for a specific service, regardless of how much time the attorney spends.
This model provides cost certainty and is especially common in estate planning and transactional work.
Example: You might pay a flat fee of $1,200 to have a comprehensive estate plan prepared, including a will, power of attorney, and healthcare proxy.
3. Contingency Fee: You Don’t Pay Unless You Win
If you’re pursuing a personal injury, employment discrimination, medical malpractice, or wrongful termination case in New York, chances are your attorney will work on a contingency fee basis.
This means:
- You do not pay anything upfront.
- Your attorney only gets paid if they win your case—either through a settlement or a jury verdict.
- Their fee is a percentage of the money recovered, typically around 33⅓% in New York, but it can vary.
If your lawyer doesn’t win the case, you owe them nothing in legal fees. This model reduces financial risk for you, especially if you’re dealing with medical bills or lost income.
Choosing the Right Fee Structure for Your Legal Needs
Each billing model serves a different purpose depending on your legal issue. Contingency fees offer access to justice for people who might not otherwise afford a lawyer. Flat fees offer simplicity and predictability. Hourly billing gives you flexibility and is often used for complex or ongoing legal matters.
Need Help from a New York Lawyer?
Have more questions about legal fees in New York or which billing model is right for your case? Our team is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s talk about your options—so you can move forward with confidence.