How Much Does a Defence Lawyer Cost: Price Guide, Fee Models, and What Affects the Cost
“I don’t want to pay a lawyer – it’s not that serious.”
“It would cost a fortune – I’ll try to handle it myself.”
“If I’m innocent, I don’t need a defence.”
But criminal proceedings aren’t a fair game.
And the cost of a wrong step can be far greater than a lawyer’s fee: a criminal record, financial loss, broken relationships, even loss of freedom.
Defence costs something. But usually far less than people think – and often it can prevent much bigger losses.
People often search “criminal lawyer cost,” “how much is a defence lawyer,” or “free legal aid.”
The cost of legal defence depends on many factors: seriousness of the charge, case complexity, stage of proceedings, travel, number of hearings.
You can choose from:
hourly rates,
flat fees per legal act,
or a fixed fee for the entire case (often the best option).
📌 What you’ll learn in this article:
How defence fees are determined
Cost ranges for each phase of proceedings
When it makes sense to agree on a fixed price
The difference between private defence and court-appointed lawyers
Why a defence lawyer is an investment, not a cost
⚖️ What Makes Up the Cost of a Defence Lawyer?
1. Legal Acts
Each legal act (interview, filing, hearing) has a set value.
Under the Czech Advocacy Tariff, one act may cost approx. CZK 3,100 excl. VAT.
Some lawyers bill by the hour – commonly CZK 2,000–5,000/hour.
2. Flat (Fixed) Fee
In many cases, it’s better to agree on a fixed fee for the entire case, e.g., CZK 15,000 for defence in the investigation phase.
3. Additional Expenses
These include travel, photocopies, prison visits, VAT etc.
All should be clearly stated in the contract.
💡 Real Case Example
A client wanted to save money and went to police questioning without a lawyer.
Later, he paid CZK 50,000 for defence in court – just because his initial statement harmed him.
If he’d used a lawyer early on, the police interview would’ve cost CZK 5,000.
A tenfold increase – caused by one bad decision.
🧮 Price Overview (Illustrative Only)
| Phase | Typical Price (excl. VAT) |
|---|---|
| One-time Consultation | CZK 2,000–3,000 |
| Presence at Interview | CZK 5,000–8,000 |
| Defence in Investigation Phase | CZK 10,000–15,000 |
| Defence in Main Trial | CZK 15,000–40,000 |
| Appeal Against Judgment | CZK 5,000–10,000 |
Prices vary depending on case complexity.
💬 When a Fixed Price Makes Sense
If you want a clear, predictable budget
If you expect multiple steps and hearings
If you want a package of services with ongoing advice
🧾 Court-Appointed Lawyers Aren’t Always Free
With court-appointed (ex officio) defence, the state pays initially –
but you may be required to reimburse the cost if convicted.
Sometimes, a private lawyer is the better option –
more attention, more effort, and a better chance at success.
🎯 Final Advice
Legal fees are small compared to the consequences of a conviction.
Don’t ask, “how much does it cost?”
Ask, “what can it save me from?”
📞 Reach out – I’ll offer either hourly billing or a fixed price based on your case.
💬 Everything transparent, with no hidden fees.
🛡 Sometimes, a single consultation can change the outcome.
Contact a legal professional – I specialize in criminal law.
Learn more here.
- Publikováno:
- Naposledy aktualizováno: 03/07/2025
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How Much Does a Defence Lawyer Cost: Price Guide, Fee Models, and What Affects the Cost
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