Legally Defined Framework
The costs of the initial consultation follow a legally defined framework.
Attorney Fees & Consultation Policy
Transparency from the very beginning.
At the law firm of Vera Zambrano, clarity creates trust. Legal matters – especially those with an international dimension or in family law – are rarely standardised. The fee structure reflects both the intensity of legal representation and the individual complexity of each case.
Legal matters are rarely standardised — clarity creates trust.
The fee structure reflects both the intensity of legal representation and the individual complexity of each case.
Initial consultation: regulated by law
The fee for an initial legal consultation is governed by the RVG (law)
In Germany, this fee is regulated by law: the Attorneys' Fees Act – RVG. This structure protects both clients and attorneys by ensuring that professional legal advice is treated with the seriousness it deserves.
No Arbitrary Waiver
It cannot be arbitrarily reduced or waived as a "free consultation".
Fairness and Consistency
It ensures fairness and consistency in legal services.
Why a Consultation Is Necessary
Every legal case is unique – even if it may appear similar on the surface.
You are of course welcome to share information in advance, but a proper legal assessment requires context, follow-up questions and strategy. Without this consultation, any guidance would be incomplete and potentially misleading.
Asking Targeted Follow-Up Questions
Targeted questions make visible the facts, time-related aspects, risks and procedural options that are specific to your situation.
Identifying Risks and Opportunities
The assessment identifies risks and opportunities that are specific to your situation and then develops a strategy aligned with your goals.
Understanding Cross-Border Implications
International matters may involve jurisdiction, language, family, business or cultural aspects. These implications must be understood before meaningful advice can be given.
How Attorney Fees Are Determined
Attorney fees for ongoing representation depend on several factors.
This is why fees can only be accurately estimated after the initial consultation. You will always be transparently informed of the expected costs before commissioning and before any further steps are taken.
The value of the matter – the subject-matter value or amount in dispute – can influence the calculation of attorney fees.
Fees depend on the legal, procedural and factual complexity.
The scope and intensity of the legal services required influence the expected costs.
The assessment also depends on whether the matter is handled out of court or within the framework of court proceedings.
Cost Reimbursement in Civil Matters
In many civil proceedings, German law allows the reimbursement of statutory attorney fees by the opposing party if your case is successful.
The firm is happy to discuss strategies and the likelihood of (partial) cost reimbursement during your consultation.
Important to Understand
- Attorney fees must generally be paid in advance by the client.
- Reimbursement depends on the outcome of the proceedings.
- Reimbursement is subject to statutory rules and does not cover the costs of a fee agreement.
Our Approach: Tailored, Not Transactional
Legal representation is not a nice-to-have – it is a strategic necessity.
This approach ensures that you receive advice and representation that is precisely tailored to your circumstances.
- Personal and individual legal solutions.
- Fluent communication in multiple languages.
- Interpreters can be provided at no additional cost.
- Deep understanding of international and intercultural cases.
Office Location
All appointments by prior arrangement only.
Appointments are arranged by phone and consultation times are planned individually.
Closing Note
Careful, strategic and professional legal advice, tailored to your situation.
If you are looking for highly professional and precise services with extraordinary customer service, our law firm is the right choice for you. Send us your enquiry 24/7 – by email or call us 7 days a week.