What does it cost?
your unique situation and budget.
What will it cost?
Our Approach
We use a value-based billing approach. With most files, this is often accomplished by flat fee or subscription services. Below are some sample flat fee services. A subscription is often used when individuals need ongoing support and want to be able to get help a number of times spread out over several months.
Service Agreements and Technology
We ensure our clients fully understand the services that we will provide and the cost for those services. This is outlined in the Service Agreement. If a fee is not in the agreement, you will not be charged for that service unless you agree in advance and in writing. In a value-based approach, there should be no surprises.
We can provide affordable services by utilizing technology. We use advanced industry programs to minimize costs and improve service. We send invoices and correspondence by email. You can pay your bill online with our LawPay platform. Our goal is great service.
Representation
We want you to be in control. Therefore, we do not act as your legal representative unless you specifically authorize us to do so. We will not negotiate on your behalf, bind you to any agreements, sign documents, or communicate with the court, other lawyers, or any other party unless you tell us to. This keeps you in control and avoids run away costs.
If you authorize us to act on your behalf when dealing with the court, lawyers, or other third parties, we will be clear that our involvement is limited and that you still represent yourself.
Client privilege and protections
Some people worry that, by using unbundled services or legal coaching, they will not have the same client protections as a full service client. Regardless of the service you choose, you have the same legal protection as any other client. You are protected by solicitor/client privilege and we have to act in your interest. It does not matter if we coach you on a dispute resolution strategy, ghost write a letter for you, or run a trial – you are protected.
Flat Fee Scenarios
The following is not an exhaustive list of services. Rates do not include tax and are based upon the client ensuring that the lawyer has all of the material required to complete the task. Some of these services require an initial, in-person legal consultation.*
| Notarizing Affidavits | $150 |
| Drafting a Response to Family Claim | $950 |
| Drafting Ghost Letters | $250 |
| Drafting Demand Letters | $250 |
| Drafting a List of Documents (less that 15 items) | $1,400 |
| Attending Court for 1st Appearance | $750-$1,200 |
| Attending Court as Agent for Adjournment | $300-$600 |
| Drafting a Notice of Family Claim | $1,200-$1,500 |
| Drafting a Counterclaim | $1200-$1,500 |
| Employment Contracts | $950 |
| Home Renovation Contracts (less than $50,000) | $1,500 |
| Financial Statements | $1,200-$2,000 |
| Legal Consultation | $500 |
| Preparing Affidavits 1-5 pages | $1,000-$2,500 |
| Preparing for a Case Conference | $1,500-$4,500 |
| Attending a Case Conference | $1,500 |
| Separation Agreement | $3,000 |
| Desk Order Divorce | $3,000 including filing fees |
| Cohabitation and Marriage Agreements | $3,000 |
| New Build Contracts (cost+) | $5,500 |
| New Build Contracts (fixed fee) | $8,500 |
| 1/2 Day BC Supreme Court Appearance | $2,500 |
| 1 Day BC Supreme Court Appearance | $4,000 |
*The cost of an initial legal consultation is $500 plus tax. This is required for our lawyer to assess your legal rights, obligations, and options, and to advise you appropriately.
Additional Information
Do I have to pay a retainer and can I have credit?
We want our legal services to be affordable and predictable. We do not ask for large retainers. Some firms will ask for $3,000 to $5,000 up front. What we ask for is the agreed cost of service. For example, if you retain us to complete a desk order divorce, the cost is $3,000 plus tax for a total of $1,680. This is the amount we request. If you are on a monthly subscription, we only request the cost of the subscription one month in advance.
Most of our clients pay by credit card or e-transfer. When we receive your money, we will render you an invoice or keep your money in a trust account, regulated by the Law Society of British Columbia, until we bill you. The trust account is fully insured and your money is safe. For more information from the Law Society of BC, click here.
We do not offer credit. When businesses offer credit, they invariably end up not being paid by some clients. The losses created by these bad debts are passed on to the other clients. By not offering credit, we remove the risk and pass the savings on to you.
What are disbursements?
How will I pay my bill?
You can pay your fees by credit card or e-transfer. We do accept cheques. However, there are Law Society limits on how much cash we can accept. If you wish to pay cash, please contact our office in advance
Contact Butterfield Law
Unsure of where to start? We will help you determine the best legal approach to your situation.
Address
402-2020 RICHMOND RD
VICTORIA, BC V8R 6R5
Call or Fax Us
Phone: (250) 382-4529
Fax: (250) 480-1896