Let's Talk About Consultation Fees
- Taylor Mohr
- Sep 3
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 5
At Mohr Law Group, we know that reaching out to a lawyer, whether for estate planning or a family law issue, can feel like a big step. One of the first questions we’re often asked is whether and why we charge consultation fees. Below, we’ve outlined our policy and explained why we often charge consultation fees, so you know exactly what to expect.
FAQ 1: What are your consultation fees?
Generally speaking, our consultation fees are charged like this:
Estate Planning Consultations: $175 (30-45 minutes)
Note: This fee is applied to the cost of your documents if you retain us, making it free upon retention.
Family Law Consultations:
$175 with an Associate Attorney (1 hour)
$350 with the Managing Attorney (1 hour)
BUT, consultation fees are frequently reduced or waived depending on how you were referred to or found the Firm. When scheduling your consultation, please be sure to let us know how you reached us so we can determine if a discount or waiver applies.
FAQ 2: But I just want to talk to someone for a few minutes. Why should I have to pay?
We understand that sometimes you just want a quick answer. But in reality, even a “few minutes” conversation involves preparation, listening to your unique situation, and giving thoughtful, professional guidance. Our time and expertise are our service. Just like you pay a doctor for an initial exam, even if it’s just to “see what’s going on,” you pay a lawyer for the time and professional insight they provide.
FAQ 3: I just want a little advice. I don’t want to hire someone yet.
That’s okay! A consultation doesn’t require you to hire us. But you are still receiving legal advice and guidance during that meeting. Paying for a consultation ensures that we can dedicate significant, undivided time to you, rather than rushing or limiting the conversation to a few minutes before moving on to other matters.
FAQ 4: I don’t even know what I need. Why should I pay before I know?
We hear this a lot, especially when it comes to estate planning documents, and we get it. But keep in mind that a main part of the consultation process is helping you figure out what you actually need, and our time, experience, training, and skill are devoted to helping you analyze that during the consultation. You’re not expected to come in knowing exactly what to ask for. That’s why we’re here! Think of it like going to a doctor when you only know “something hurts.” You may not know the diagnosis yet, but the appointment is what gets you clarity and a path forward.
FAQ 5: I’m just interviewing you to decide if I want to hire you. I shouldn’t pay for that.
We respect that you’re evaluating whether we’re the right fit. At the same time, during your consultation, you’re getting access to our legal knowledge and professional judgment. Even if you ultimately decide not to hire us, the insight you gain from that meeting has value. Paying for a consultation ensures we can devote time to you while still serving our ongoing clients.
FAQ 6: Other law firms offer free consultations. Why don’t you?
Many firms do offer free consultations, but those meetings are often short (many times, a 10-15 minute call), limited in scope, or focused on selling you services, rather than taking time to understand your case and build out recommendations. We believe your time is valuable, and so is ours. Charging a fee allows us to dedicate real time to understanding your situation, answering your questions, and giving you meaningful advice.
Also, consider this: if you hire a law firm, you want their attention on your legal matter, right? Of course you do! And you wouldn't want your legal matter ignored because your attorney spent all day talking to potential clients for free, right? Of course not! We don't want you to have to deal with that either, so our system is set up to ensure that consultations are affordable but our current clients still get the kind of attention we believe they deserve.
FAQ 7: When are consultation fees due? Do I get my money back if I don’t hire you (or if you don’t hire me)?
Due: Fees are due at the time of booking your consultation. If your consultation fee has not been paid by the close of business the day before your appointment, your consultation will likely need to be rescheduled.
Cancellations: If you cancel more than 4 hours before your appointment, your consultation fee will be refunded to you. If you cancel less than 4 hours before your consultation, your consultation fee will not be refunded.
Refunds: The consultation fee covers the time and advice given during the meeting itself. If you don’t retain us (or we choose not to move forward), the fee is not refunded. However, if you do retain us for estate planning, your fee is credited toward your costs.
The big question: Why charge consultation fees at all?
To ensure you receive dedicated, meaningful time with an experienced attorney.
To protect the availability of our attorneys for paying clients and so consultations don’t crowd out the work we owe to those already under representation.
Because our time, training, and experience are our service. Just like with doctors, accountants, or other professionals, the consultation is not free because it is the professional service.
💡 Bottom line: A consultation is more than just a “chat.” It’s a professional service designed to give you real advice, options, and clarity about your next steps.
Ready to schedule your consultation? Click the link below to get started, and be sure to let us know how you found us so we can determine if any discounts or waivers apply to your situation.
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