PAYMENT & FEES

Criminal defence fees

Actual fees will vary depending on the complexity of the criminal charges against you and the instructions that you provide. As your counsel, we will give you alternatives for the conduct and strategy of your defence, and the costs involved with each.

Based on our advice and recommendations, it is your decision which route you wish to take.

Payment plans

We know these expenses were not planned and may place a strain on your finances. Every client’s financial means are different, so it is our policy to offer flexible payment schedules that meet both your needs and ours.

• A fee range up frontA range of fees is estimated at your initial consultation, so you know the general costs before engaging Daley, Byers.
• Your exact fee, within that rangeOnce we have examined all disclosure from the Crown and police and received your instructions, your exact fee is set within the range first quoted.
• Block fees, not hourly ratesMost fees are block services: a set fee that will not change, rather than an hourly rate that is hard to budget for.

Process to retain Daley, Byers

Following the initial consultation, should you agree to retain Daley, Byers, you will be asked to:

1. Provide your documentsGive Daley, Byers all the documentation you have received relating to your charges.
2. Sign a “Designation” formThis informs the Court that Daley, Byers will be the lawyers of record for your case and can appear on your behalf for most court attendances.
3. Pay an initial retainerThe retainer is applied against the full fee. It varies depending on the nature of the charge and the complexity of the case.

Ways to pay

Your lawyer at Daley, Byers will give you options for the remaining fees, including payment terms such as:

• Cheque or money orderPayment in full.
• Postdated chequesSpread across a number of cheques.
• VISA or MastercardIn full or in instalments.
• CashAccepted, with receipts provided.

No interest on instalment plans. Generally, fees should be paid in full before the actual trial date. Special schedules are available for cases involving multiple trial dates.