When determining the cost of a case, Vanhoucke Lawyers takes several elements into account. The fee is the compensation charged by the lawyer to the client for their intellectual services.

This fee is generally calculated based on the number of hours performed, multiplied by an hourly rate. In some cases, the fee may be calculated on the basis of a value rate. This value rate represents a percentage of the amounts recovered through the lawyer’s intervention. Finally, in some cases—but only in exceptional situations and with the parties’ consent—a flat-rate fee arrangement may be applied.

In addition to the fee, office expenses are also charged. These cover general administrative costs, such as drafting and sending e-mails and letters. They also include expenses for file opening and follow-up, telephone, postage, registered mail, accounting, transfer of funds, and more.

The client is also responsible for paying court costs. These include, among others, the costs charged by the courts (such as registration and filing fees) and the notification and enforcement costs charged by bailiffs.

Both fees and expenses are discussed with the client in a transparent manner.

Ethical rules require Vanhoucke Lawyers to issue invoices at regular intervals, depending on the services provided and the expenses incurred.

At the conclusion of a case, a final invoice is issued, providing a detailed statement of all charged fees and expenses.