Hiring legal representation in Washington State involves varying expenditures. Attorney fees differ substantially based on expertise level, case complexity, and geographical considerations.
Hourly compensation typically ranges from $250 to $400. Less experienced attorneys or straightforward matters may cost $150-$200 hourly, while specialized counsel or prominent legal practitioners often charge upwards of $400 per hour.
Some legal services feature predetermined charges. Basic wills or estate planning documents might cost between $300 and $1,000. An uncontested marital dissolution could require payment of $500 to $2,000. First-time DUI defense representation generally necessitates $1,500 to $5,000. Immigration petition assistance typically demands $1,000 to $3,000 or more.
Performance-based payment structures are common in injury claims or workers’ compensation cases. Attorneys receive approximately 25% to 40% of recovered amounts. This arrangement requires no initial payment; the legal representative receives compensation only upon successful resolution.
Many attorneys request advance deposits ranging from $2,000 to $10,000, against which they account for services rendered.
Clients should anticipate supplementary expenses, including court filing charges, judicial process costs, professional witness compensation, and investigative service fees.
