Billing Principles

I develop solutions for you and together with you. As adviser, as your advocate externally, or on your behalf before administrative and criminal authorities and in court — quality, efficiency, and creativity take first place. Alongside the legal aspects, economic, personal, and ethical considerations are also important to me.

Fees are, as a rule, calculated on the basis of time spent. The hourly rates depend on the complexity and scope of the mandate, the specialist knowledge required, the interest or amount in dispute, and the professional experience. Secretarial costs are usually included in the fee. Out-of-pocket expenses are billed additionally, based on actual costs or as a flat rate. Without a different fee agreement, the fee ranges between CHF 280 and CHF 380 per hour. For clearly defined tasks, a flat fee can also be agreed.

For party representation before civil and criminal courts as well as before investigating and prosecuting authorities of the Canton of Zurich, the High Court's Ordinance on Lawyer's Fees (AnwGebV) applies. It regulates the compensation to be set by the authorities. In the relationship between client and lawyer, an individual fee agreement takes precedence.

Cost transparency is central to me. On request, I provide you with a detailed monthly statement of my hours. The hourly rate and the actual time spent form the basis of remuneration. Out-of-pocket expenses are shown separately. My services and the associated expenses are, as a rule, subject to VAT at the currently applicable rate of 8.1 percent.

Court proceedings can involve substantial costs. Early legal advice helps to assess risks and to avoid unnecessary expenses. After an initial discussion, I am happy to inform you of the expected fee and the likely costs. All legal services are remunerated, including the initial consultation. Reasonable advance payments or retainers are usually agreed.

In the event of disagreement over the fee, it is possible to request a review of the fee note by the Fee Committee of the Zurich Bar Association. The committee reviews solely the appropriateness of the fee, not the quality of the legal work. This review has not needed to be invoked at any point in the past forty years.

For years, I have worked with various legal expenses insurers in the areas of inheritance, veterinary, dog, animal welfare, and other legal fields. There, the hourly rate is usually reduced to CHF 250 and is billed directly to the legal expenses insurer. Where appropriate, a separate mandate at the above conditions can be agreed once the insurance cover ends.

Parties without means may, within the framework of pending court proceedings, apply for the granting of free legal representation. The requirements are financial need and the necessity of legal representation in proceedings that are not manifestly unfounded. Should assets be acquired later, a duty to repay may arise.