Costs ▶️ B. Schreiber (lawyer)

Costs of Legal Advice

Attorney Remuneration Act (RVG)

When hiring a lawyer, different types of costs may arise. These are largely regulated by law, but sometimes also individually agreed upon. In Munich, the same laws apply as in the rest of Germany – for example, the Attorney Remuneration Act (RVG) – but certain fees, hourly rates or flat rates can be higher in a major city than average.

The Attorney Remuneration Act (RVG) regulates how lawyers must calculate their fees. The most important parameters are the value in dispute or the subject matter value (e.g. in a contract, damages, divorce, etc.), as well as the scope and effort of the lawyer’s work.

There are certain maximum amounts or limits, especially for initial consultations (§ 34 RVG). For example, consumers may be charged a maximum of €190 net plus VAT for a first consultation – if no special fee agreement has been made.

From June 1, 2025, the Costs and Guardianship Remuneration Amendment Act (KostBRÄG 2025) will introduce increased statutory attorney and court fees. Value-based fees will rise by about 6%, fixed fees by about 9%.

What Types of Costs Are There?

Initial Consultation

Maximum up to €190 net plus VAT for consumers if no special agreement is made.
Depending on the law firm, initial consultations may also be offered at a lower rate or as a flat fee.

Out-of-Court Services

This includes contract reviews, negotiations, correspondence with the opposing party, etc.
The fees depend on the value in dispute and the scope of the activity (e.g. number of letters, complexity of the legal situation). Depending on the effort, a business fee, settlement fee, etc. may apply.

Court Proceedings

Court costs plus attorney’s fees according to the RVG.
The attorney’s fees are based on the amount in dispute and on the RVG fee schedule (e.g. procedure fee, hearing fee, evidence fee, etc.).

Special Costs / Expenses

Travel expenses of the lawyer, copies, postage, telephone, possibly interpreter or expert costs.
VAT (currently usually 19%) on fees and many expenses.

Fees by Agreement

If the statutory framework is not sufficient or special services are provided, an hourly rate or flat fee may be agreed upon.
Such agreements are usually recorded in writing to avoid misunderstandings later.

Contact

Social media