Legal Fees

At Ashworth Lawyers, we understand that legal fees are a key consideration when choosing the right criminal lawyer.

Our pricing is transparent, so you know what to expect from the outset. Our approach ensures that you receive high-quality representation from our best criminal lawyers with certainty about costs.

We offer both hourly rates and fixed fees, depending on the nature and complexity of your case. We will discuss these options with you to determine the most suitable fee structure for you. Payment plans are available over the duration of your case.

See our Guide To Legal Fees below, and contact us today to get a free quote.

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Guide to Legal Fees

Each client's case is unique, and legal fees depend on many factors, including the seriousness and complexity of the matter, the volume of evidence, days in court, publicity, and expert evidence.

We will work with you to ensure you receive high-quality legal representation while accomodating your financial circumstances as best as possible.

As such, it is best to contact us for a Free Quote for your case.

While this is not an estimate, we provide a guide to help you understand the general range of possible legal fees.

Our fees include guaranteed representation by an experienced criminal defence lawyer with 10+ years of criminal law practice.

All fees include GST.

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Initial consultation

15 minute - phone - Free
1 hour - in person/video - $660
2 hours - plus review of evidence - from $2,200

Police Investigation

Advice and communication with police (no interview) - $2,200
Interview with police/Attendance at police station - from $4,400

Magistrates Court

Online plea of guilty – $1,100
Bail application – from $3,300
Negotiations/discontinuance – from $3,300
Plea of guilty (simple) – from $3,300
Plea of guilty (complex) – $6,600 to $11,000
Plea of not guilty (trial) – from $22,000 (includes solicitor and barrister)
Committal hearing – from $16,500

District & Supreme Court

All fees in the District & Supreme Court include a solicitor and barrister

Sentence (plea of guilty) – from $22,000
Trial (plea of not guilty - up to 3 days) – from $55,000
High level serious and complex cases in the District or Supreme Court, exceeding 3 days in court - from $100,000

Supreme Court

Bail application – From $8,800

FAQs

Do you offer a free consultation?

Yes! If you have been charged with a criminal offence or are under police investigation, we offer a free 15-minute phone consultation with one of our senior lawyers.

How frequently are deposits made?

This depends on your case. Some clients prefer weekly deposits, while others prefer monthly. The frequency of payments is based on the preparation required, court dates, duration of your case, and your individual situation.

What is a trust account?

It is common for law firms operate a trust account. The account securely holds funds deposited by clients for legal fees. Deposits are made into our trust account, where they are securely held until work is performed. Funds are then withdrawn as work is undertaken (usually monthly) in accordance with the Legal Profession Regulation 2017 (Qld).

How long will my case take to finalise?

Simple matters in the Magistrates Court can be finalised within weeks. More complex cases, particularly those in the District or Supreme Court, can take several months to up to two years, depending on the seriousness of the charge and court availability. We can arrange a payment plan for you over the duration of your case.

How often do I receive fee updates?

We provide itemised invoices at the end of each month, at significant case milestones, or upon completion of your matter. We ensure transparency so you always know where you stand with fees.

How much is the initial deposit?

The initial deposit depends on the complexity of your case and typically ranges between $660 and $2,200.

Are there any additional costs?

In some cases it may be necessary to engage experts for you such as doctors or psychologists. There may also be court filing fees for summonses or subpoenas, or witness fees. These fees are charged at cost and you will be advised of them, if arising in your case, before the fee is incurred.