Understanding our Legal Fees and Retainers
At The Augustin Firm, we believe in clear, fair, and transparent billing. We know that legal costs can be a source of anxiety, and our goal is to ensure you understand exactly what you are paying for and how your funds are managed.
Our Fee Structure
Attorney Hourly Rate:
Our standard hourly rate for legal services is $300 per hour.
Initial Retainer Requirement:
For many of our services, we require an upfront initial retainer. This fee secures our commitment to your case and acts as a deposit for future legal services. The retainer amounts listed below are the minimum required to begin work on your matter.
How Your Retainer Works
A retainer is an advance payment for the legal services we will provide. Here is a simple breakdown of how your funds are managed:
Your Money is Protected: When you pay a retainer, we deposit the funds into a separate, dedicated client trust account. This account is legally separate from our firm's operating funds, and the money belongs to you until it is earned.
Earning the Fee: As we work on your case—whether it’s researching, drafting documents, or appearing in court—we track our time at our $300 hourly rate. We then deduct those earned fees from your retainer in the trust account.
Billing & Replenishment: You will receive regular invoices showing a detailed breakdown of the work performed, the fees incurred, and the remaining balance of your retainer. If your case is complex and the retainer is depleted, we will discuss the need for replenishment to ensure uninterrupted service.
Refund Promise: Any portion of the initial retainer that is unused at the conclusion of your legal matter will be refunded to you.
Our Pricing
Estate Planning $600 Flat Fee
Simple Last Will and Testament package, which includes a General Durable Power of Attorney and Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare.
Simple Probate $2,500 Retainer + Filing Fee
For uncontested and straightforward probate matters.
(Ask us about our flexible payment options for probate matters.)
Criminal Defense $2,000 Retainer
Initial retainer for representation in criminal defense matters.
Contested Divorce & Custody $3,000 Retainer + Filing Fees
For complex divorce and custody disputes.
Uncontested Divorce $1,200 Retainer + Filing Fees
For divorces where both parties are in agreement on all terms.
Juvenile Delinquency $1,500 Retainer
Initial retainer for representation in juvenile delinquency cases.
Dependency & Neglect $2,000 Retainer
Initial retainer for representation in dependency and neglect cases.
Ready to Discuss Your Case?
We're here to answer any questions you have about our fees, retainers, and the legal process. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation
Call (931) 325-0530
Email admin@augustinfirm.com
Payment Options
We accept payments via cash, check, debit, or credit card. For your convenience, we also utilize LawPay, a secure platform that processes all major credit cards and offers financing options through Affirm.