Kennedy Hunter Solicitors – Pricing Policy

    1. Purpose

    This Pricing Policy sets out the firm’s approach to charging clients for legal services in a transparent, fair, and compliant manner, in accordance with the SRA Transparency Rules, the Code of Conduct for Firms, and other relevant regulatory obligations.

    1. Commitment to Transparency

    We are committed to ensuring that all clients receive clear and accessible information about:

    • Our pricing structures;
    • What the price includes and excludes;
    • Likely disbursements;
    • Whether VAT is payable;
    • When costs will become payable;
    • Their rights in relation to challenging fees.
    1. Pricing Models

    Depending on the nature of the matter, we may offer:

    1. Fixed Fees

    Where possible, we offer fixed fees for specific work. These are agreed in advance and confirmed in writing.

    1. Hourly Rates

    Where fixed fees are not appropriate, we will charge by the hour. Our hourly rates vary depending on the seniority and expertise of the solicitor or fee earner involved. Clients will be notified in writing of applicable rates and any changes.

    1. Conditional Fee Agreements (CFA)

    In applicable cases (e.g. personal injury or clinical negligence), we may offer CFAs. These are regulated funding agreements where we only charge our success fee if the claim succeeds. We ensure that any deductions from damages comply with the relevant 25% cap under the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 (LASPO) where applicable.

    1. Subscription or Retainer Models

    For ongoing or general advice (e.g. under our Legal Shield scheme), clients may subscribe to monthly packages. Any work outside the scope of the package will be agreed separately and priced in accordance with this policy.

    1. Disbursements

    Disbursements (such as court fees, expert reports, ATE premiums, and search fees) will be clearly itemised and notified to the client in advance where possible. Some disbursements may require payment on account before they are incurred.

    1. VAT

    All fees and disbursements are subject to VAT where applicable. We will state clearly whether the quoted prices are inclusive or exclusive of VAT.

    1. Invoicing and Payment Terms
    • Invoices will be issued at agreed intervals or upon completion of agreed work stages.
    • Clients may be asked to pay money on account.
    • Payment terms are usually 14 days from the date of the invoice.
    • Where bills are unpaid, we reserve the right to suspend or cease work, subject to professional obligations.
    1. Fee Estimates and Updates

    Clients will receive:

    • An initial written estimate of costs;
    • Regular updates if the estimate is likely to be exceeded;
    • Confirmation of any changes to scope or fee structure.
    1. Challenging Fees

    Clients have the right to:

    • Challenge any invoice;
    • Request a detailed breakdown of costs;
    • Apply for an assessment under Part III of the Solicitors Act 1974 (in eligible cases);
    • Refer concerns to the Legal Ombudsman.

    We aim to resolve any billing concerns promptly and fairly.

    1. Public Transparency Requirements

    In accordance with the SRA Transparency Rules, we publish information about fees and services for certain types of work (e.g. conveyancing, employment tribunal claims, immigration applications, probate, motoring offences) on our website, including:

    • Typical costs or range of costs;
    • Basis of charges (fixed or hourly);
    • Details of what services are included;
    • Key stages and likely timescales;
    • Fee earner qualifications and experience.
    1. Review

    This policy is reviewed annually and whenever there are changes to regulatory or legal requirements.