maximum legal charges allowed by law?

[cleopetra]

What is the maximum allowable by law that a lawyer can charge for creating a contract for the sale of a 205,000 euros home? I know there are some formulas that apply for making this calculation, but can't seem to find them. I was charged 2,500 euros for creation of the contract, plus other fees for meetings, etc. I would like to know if the 2,500 euros amount is legally permissible before deciding whether to lodge a complaint against my soon-to-be-ex lawyer.

Thank you

[louisez]

Nigel has asked me to answer your question. You are correct when you say that there are formulas which exist for calculating legal fees. However you should be aware that those formulas give a “minimum” legal fee which the lawyer may charge. The Cyprus Bar Association does not issue maximum fee figures. There is a procedure for challenging your lawyer on the grounds of excessive fees however, my opinion is that you will not be successful given the figures that you have mentioned. Whilst your lawyer’s fees are on the high side I do not believe that the Bar Association would find them to be “excessive”.

Your experience does of course emphasise the importance of obtaining a quotation for your legal fees in writing before you make a commitment to instructing your lawyer to carry out the work.