Clients often worry about legal costs long before they worry about the legal problem itself. That is understandable. The purpose of this page is to give you clarity from the outset, so you know exactly how fees work and what you can expect when you instruct me.
I am a Senior Consultant Solicitor and Advocate with over twenty-five years’ experience. Although I bring senior judgement and courtroom advocacy to every matter, my fees remain highly competitive — often significantly lower than London solicitors with a fraction of my experience. Clients benefit from senior-level expertise at a cost that is genuinely accessible.
All legal work is carried out in my capacity as a Consultant Solicitor with Sterling Lawyers Limited, an SRA-regulated firm.
Fixed-Fee Consultation
Every matter begins with a fixed-fee consultation. The fee is agreed in advance and reflects the complexity of your situation. This consultation is not a superficial chat; it is a structured, detailed discussion in which I analyse your position, identify risks, outline realistic outcomes, and advise you on the most sensible strategy going forward.
A proper consultation at the outset saves clients considerable cost later. During this meeting, you will receive:
- clear advice on your legal position
- an assessment of risk and likely outcomes
- guidance on strategy and next steps
- an honest view on whether the matter is worth pursuing
Senior judgement at the beginning often prevents expensive litigation later.
Hourly Fees for Ongoing Work
Where a matter requires ongoing work, fees are charged on an hourly basis. The rate is competitive and reflects the nature of the work involved. You will always receive a clear estimate of the likely total cost before any work begins, and nothing is charged without your agreement.
The hourly rate applies to matters such as employment tribunal claims, civil litigation, commercial disputes, shareholder or director conflicts, and more complex family matters involving financial remedy or children issues.
Fixed Fees for Defined Work
Certain matters are suitable for a fixed fee because the scope is clear from the outset. These include uncontested divorces, straightforward settlement agreement reviews, and simple contract drafting. Fixed fees provide certainty and allow you to proceed without concern about escalating costs.
If your matter becomes more complex than originally anticipated, we will discuss this before any additional work is undertaken.
Advocacy Included — No Separate Barrister Required
One of the most significant cost advantages for clients instructing me is that I am both a solicitor and an experienced advocate. In many cases, I can represent you personally in the tribunal or courtroom without the need to instruct a separate barrister.
This can reduce your total legal costs substantially. Clients benefit from:
- no separate barrister’s fees
- continuity of representation
- one person handling your case from start to finish
- efficient preparation and advocacy
For employment tribunal claims, civil disputes, and certain family matters, this combined role is a genuine financial and strategic benefit.
Litigation Costs and Early Strategy
Litigation can be expensive, and it is important to be honest about that. The cost of a full day-long hearing in the employment tribunal or civil courts will run into a four-figure sum. That is precisely why early advice matters.
Early intervention often prevents escalation. Senior advice at the outset can:
- resolve disputes through negotiation
- avoid unnecessary hearings
- reduce overall cost
- prevent procedural mistakes that become expensive later
My role is not simply to “fight the case”. It is to advise you on whether fighting is sensible, proportionate and financially justified.
Transparency and Agreement
There are no hidden layers. Fees are agreed in advance. Disbursements such as court fees or expert reports are explained clearly. If a matter requires additional work, you will know about it before it happens. You will never receive a surprise bill.
Contact
If you would like to discuss your matter, please call Kuldeep S. Clair, Senior Consultant Solicitor, today. A fixed-fee consultation can be arranged promptly, and you will receive clear, practical advice from the outset.
