Do Utah criminal defense attorneys offer payment plans?

The costs and fee structure in a Utah criminal defense case can depend on a number of factors. Some cases can be handled on a flat-fee basis. Other cases may be better suited to an hourly fee agreement. In some cases, payment plans may be offered.

Based in Salt Lake City, Stephen Howard is a Utah criminal defense attorney who has successfully defended his clients' rights in thousands of serious felony and misdemeanor cases. His track record includes not guilty verdicts, dismissals, and appellate reversals in some of the most serious charges on the books in Utah. If you are facing criminal prosecution in Utah, you deserve an experienced criminal attorney on your side. Contact us now to arrange for an initial consultation.

Factors Affecting Fees in a Utah Criminal Defense Case

There are a number of factors that can affect the ultimate cost of a criminal defense case. Chief among these factors can be the nature and number of charges that are involved. But other factors should be considered as well. Will an investigator be required to obtain evidence or information from witnesses? Will an expert be required to rebut the prosecution's case?

As a general rule, felony cases are more complex than misdemeanor cases, and therefore can also be more expensive to defend. Under Utah law, class A misdemeanor charges entitle the defendant to some of the same procedural protections that are otherwise reserved for defendants facing felony charges.

Another important factor in assessing the anticipated cost of defending a criminal charge is whether the defendant intends to take the case all the way to trial, or hopes instead to work out a negotiated resolution? In many cases, a negotiated resolution may actually provide a better outcome than if the case were presented to a jury. But in other cases, the protections of a jury trial are required to properly defend the case.

Regardless of the charges you are facing, and regardless of your financial situation, your attorney should be willing to have an open and honest discussion with you about the anticipated costs of defending your case.

Flat-Fee v. Hourly Rates

Traditionally, attorneys have billed clients based on the number of hours spent working on the client's case. Flat-fee provide an alternative to hourly-billing agreements. Flat-fee agreements typically involve an agreement by an attorney to represent a client in a specific matter for a specific fixed fee. Both hourly and flat-fee agreements have advantages and disadvantages.

One of advantages of a flat-fee agreement is the benefit of having certainty in regard to what the case will cost. Paying by the hour may mean that you end up paying more if the case becomes more complicated. But if the case resolves quickly, an hourly fee agreement may cost less. A flat-fee agreement eliminates some of the uncertainty involved in an hourly fee agreement.

Whether you choose a flat-fee arrangement or hire an attorney on an hourly basis, it is important to discuss fees openly with your attorney so that each of you has a clear understanding of the agreed upon fee structure.

What kind of payments do you accept?

Our law office regularly accepts credit/debit cards, checks, or cash as payment. Payment plans can sometimes be negotiated on a case-by-case basis.

Utah Criminal Defense Attorney in Salt Lake City

As a Utah criminal defense attorney based in Salt Lake City, Stephen Howard has defended clients throughout the state. His track record includes dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and appellate reversals on some of the most serious charges on the books in Utah.

Contact us today to arrange for an initial case consultation.