Legal Toolkit Ohio Employment and Labor Relations

What to Expect About Employment and Labor Relations

a

Attorneys who agree to represent individuals with personnel disputes, such as cases of discrimination, will enter either into a Contingent Fee Agreement (whereby the attorney agrees to represent the individual in exchange for a set percentage of any settlement or award) or a retainer agreement (where they request a bulk amount from the client which is held in escrow and accessed as the attorney spends time working on the case).

b

In cases involving contract interpretation, such as non-compete agreements, attorneys generally charge a stated hourly rate, but may also decide to accept representation on a fixed-fee basis or other agreement with the client.

c

Most attorneys who agree to represent employers (companies) seeking legal advice accept representation on an hourly basis; however, it is up to the parties to come to an understanding about how fees and expenses will be charged.

d

Attorneys charge for expenses incurred on behalf of clients. These expenses typically include copying charges, long-distance phone charges, postage, faxes, court filing fees, the cost of court reporters, and other expenses associated with handling your case.

e

It is advisable to ask your attorney to put the fee arrangement in writing. This will help you and your attorney clarify what you will be charged for, when you are expected to pay your invoices, and what you should do if you have a concern about fees.