Which legal concept allows a lawyer to bill their client for time spent preparing a case?

The concept that allows a lawyer to bill their client for time spent preparing a case is the hourly rate. Under this arrangement, lawyers charge clients based on the actual time they work on a case, calculated in hours or fractions of hours. This method is straightforward and commonly used in the legal field, as it directly correlates a lawyer’s effort and expertise to the fee charged, providing clients with transparency in terms of how their money is being spent.

In the context of legal billing, the hourly rate is particularly beneficial for clients who might have complex legal needs requiring extensive work. It ensures that lawyers are compensated fairly for the time and effort they invest in their cases. This contrasts with other billing methods—such as a retainer, which is an upfront fee for services; a contingency fee, where payment is contingent upon winning a case; and legal aid, which typically refers to free or low-cost legal services provided to those who cannot afford them. These alternatives serve different purposes and might not directly relate to how time is billed.