fees + services
At Oakley Family Law, we have designed our services and fees based on the needs of our clients. Read more below to see what sort of fee structure may work best for you.
Every family law file starts with a consultation. Not just a meet and greet.
For a flat fee of $200 (including GST), you can meet with a lawyer for up to an hour for an initial strategy session in person or by videoconference. During this meeting, we will discuss your goals and interests, provide an overview of the law, and offer some summary advice.
Family Law Clients
Legal Coaching
For the DIYers.- You may have met with one of our lawyers for a Consultation, but have decided you would prefer to do it yourself.
- If you need some legal information, opinion, strategy, or other guidance, get the help of a Legal Coach only when you need it.
- No retainer required, but payment is required at the start of each meeting.
Limited Scope Services
We do some of the work.- Often clients come to us seeking limited scope services after they have self-represented for a period of time.
- The lawyer only does some of the steps on your file. For example, the lawyer may only be hired to draft Court documents, or to help you respond to correspondence. You handle the rest.
- A retainer is required based on the seniority of the lawyer and needs of the client.
Full Scope Services
We do it all.- This is the level of service that most of our clients choose.
- We handle all correspondence, negotiations, drafting of documents, and Court appearances on your behalf.
- A retainer is required based on the seniority of the lawyer and needs of the client.
Mediator Services
When both parties retain us.- In addition to being lawyers, some of our experienced counsel act as mediators for those individuals who wish to avoid Court.
- Retainers will be determined based on the needs of the parties.
We’re here to help when you’re ready.
Estate Planning Flat Fees
We are pleased to offer an initial free 30 minute consultation and flat fees for estate planning services. Fees listed below will be charged GST.
Individual Documents
Personal Directive
Making personal decisions in the event of incapacity- Provides direction to your “agent” about your wishes regarding personal decisions, such as medical treatment or where you live, in the event of incapacity. Your agent will then make decisions about these personal matters if you are not in a position to make them for yourself.
Will
What happens on death- Details how your estate will be distributed in the event of death, including who is responsible for managing your estate (often called your “executor” or “personal representative”, or sometimes your “trustee”).
- Your will may identify your beneficiaries, any legacy gifts, and who is to be responsible for your minor children on your passing.
Power of Attorney
Managing your property or finances if you're unable to do so- Manages your property or finances in the event you are unable to do so, such as incapacity. Your “attorney” is the person you appoint to look after your property or finances. For example, you may grant your attorney the ability to deal with the sale of your home or distribution of your bank accounts while you are in hospital.
Packages
Individual Estate Package
Personal Directive + Power of Attorney + Will- Includes:
- Personal Directive
- Power of Attorney
- Will
Spousal Will Package
For married or adult interdependent relationships- These may or may not be mirrored wills depending on your unique circumstances.
Spousal Estate Package
For married or adult interdependent relationships- Includes:
- Personal Directives x2
- Powers of Attorney x 2
- Spousal Wills x 2
Let’s talk.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a retainer?
The retainer is like a security deposit – it’s money that you put up so that we can start work on your file. We hold the money in our trust account and only use that money to pay our invoices. A retainer is not an estimate of cost. Any money left over at the end of your file will be returned to you.
How much is the retainer?
Each retainer is unique and depends on what is going on with your file. Some retainers for simple matters may only be $500. Most full scope retainers are between $2,500 and $5,000 depending on lawyer seniority. Files that are proceeding to trial often require more. Your lawyer will design your individual retainer during your Consultation.
What is my lawyer’s hourly rate?
Each lawyer at Oakley Family Law has a different hourly rate, which largely depends on how many years they have been practicing. Private rates range from $225/hour to $525/hour. Legal Aid’s current rate is $125/hour for new files. For specific rates, please phone our office at 587-943-1394.
How can I pay?
We accept Visa, Visa Debit, MasterCard, MasterCard Debit, and bank drafts.
What if I am eligible for Legal Aid?
Call 1-866-845-3425 to see if you qualify.
Some of our lawyers accept files through Legal Aid Alberta. If you have qualified for Legal Aid, and you would like one of our lawyers to represent you, we ask that you meet with us for a free 30-minute Consultation prior to requesting that we be appointed as your lawyer through Legal Aid.