Fees and legal advice

Fees

Legal fees in Bordeaux: clear information from the outset

Our fee policy

Transparency as the foundation of trust

MDO AVOCATS’ fees are agreed with the client in full transparency, after acceptance of a fee agreement except in urgent situations, in accordance with the professional rules applicable to lawyers.

From the first meeting and after an initial review of the matter, MDO AVOCATS offers a choice of billing arrangements, seeking the option most advantageous for the client.

Fee policy

Hourly fees

The fee depends on the time spent by the lawyer and their hourly rate. When this arrangement is adopted, MDO AVOCATS advises the client of the estimated number of hours required and makes a record of the time spent on the case available to them.

Fixed fees

This arrangement is generally used where there is little uncertainty about the course of the proceedings, allowing the firm and its client to agree a fixed amount for handling the entire matter.

The fee agreement will also provide for a success fee. This is calculated on the outcome, meaning the gain, saving or benefit obtained for the client. It is an additional payment on top of time-based or fixed fees and cannot be the sole method of remuneration.

Fixed fees

Regulated fees

Under Article R. 444-71 of the French Commercial Code, the firm will receive:

  • For procedural representation: regulated fees for acts and formalities relating to property seizure, partition, judicial sale and judicial security interests.
  • For other services: fees freely agreed with the client.
  • An itemised statement of regulated fees and work undertaken is prepared and provided to the client in accordance with the French Commercial Code.

Legal expenses insurance

If you have legal-expenses insurance under an insurance policy, MDO AVOCATS’ fees may be covered, in part or in full, by your insurer. Despite that financial coverage, you remain free to choose your lawyer.

Recovery of your fees from the opposing party: following court proceedings, the judge may order the opposing party to compensate you for the fees paid and the costs incurred during the proceedings.

Legal expenses insurance

Information

If you encounter difficulties, you may contact the national consumer mediator for the legal profession in France.

Mr Jérôme HERCE
Consumer mediator for the legal profession
22 rue de Londres, 75009 Paris
mediateur@mediateur-consommation-avocat.fr
mediateur-consommation-avocat.fr

The client may also refer a fee dispute to the President of the Bar (bâtonnier), in accordance with Articles 174 et seq. of the French Decree of 27 November 1991.

Initial consultation

On quotation

An initial discussion to understand your situation, objectives and legal issues.

Case management

Depending on complexity

A transparent fee structure is agreed before any engagement, with clear, regular updates.

One-off engagement

On request

For your specific needs: targeted advice, document drafting or strategic assistance.

Our promise

A clear framework, without unwelcome surprises

Our fees are transparent and agreed at the start of our engagement, without hidden costs or ambiguity. We ensure the financial arrangements are clear before every important stage.