Questions, fees and how to instruct us
What it costs, what happens at the first meeting and what we need from you. Can’t see your answer? Call +971 4 555 0381.
Fees and costs
How do you charge?
A fixed fee wherever the work is predictable, which is about seven matters in ten. Otherwise an estimate based on our hourly rates, in writing, and a call before we go over it.
Is the first conversation free?
Yes. A 20-minute call with a lawyer from the right team is free and confidential, whether or not you instruct us.
Do you ask for money on account?
For some matters, typically AED 5,000 to AED 25,000 held in our client account and used for court fees, translations and our first invoice.
How often will you bill us?
Fixed fees are billed on completion. Longer matters are billed monthly, with a running total against the estimate.
Your first meeting
What should I bring?
Any documents about the matter, such as the lease, contract or will, and your passport and Emirates ID, or other photo ID, if you’re new to us.
Can we meet at our premises?
Yes, anywhere in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, at no extra charge for a first meeting.
How long does it take?
About an hour. A first meeting is AED 1,500 plus VAT, deducted from your bill if you go ahead. For wills, it’s included in the fixed fee.
How to instruct us
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Call or message
We call back within one working day and check there’s no conflict of interest.
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Quote
A written fixed fee or estimate, who will do the work and how long it should take.
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Sign and verify
Sign our engagement letter online and complete a five-minute ID check by secure link.
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We start
Your named lawyer gets going and updates you at least every two weeks.
Published prices
A summary of our most common fixed fees. Each practice area page has the full list and what’s included.
Popular fixed fees
- Single DIFC will
- AED 4,500
- Tenant: new lease of a single unit
- AED 4,500
- Settlement agreement for an employer
- AED 3,500
- Legal notice
- AED 1,500
- Probate of a registered DIFC will
- AED 12,000
- Shareholders’ agreement
- AED 9,500
Hourly rates
Used where a fixed fee isn’t possible. You’ll always have an estimate in writing first.
- Partner
- AED 2,200
- Legal director
- AED 1,900
- Senior associate
- AED 1,600
- Associate
- AED 1,250
- Trainee lawyer or paralegal
- AED 650
All fees are plus VAT at 5%. Hourly rates are per hour. Third-party costs such as court fees, legal translations, notary and Land Department fees are extra and listed in your quote.
Ask for a quoteWorking with us
Why do you need to check my identity?
UAE anti-money laundering law (Federal Decree-Law No. 20 of 2018) requires every law firm to verify new clients. Our secure link takes about five minutes on a phone.
Will we always deal with the same person?
Yes. You’ll have a named lawyer and a responsible partner from start to finish.
What if I’m not happy with the service?
Tell the person handling your matter, or Eleanor Hale as managing partner. Our complaints page explains the full process.
Still have a question?
We’re happy to help, and the first call is free.