Average cost of a lawyer when suing someone?

Breaching an real estate trust deed note.

It would be nice to know what state you are in. I you meant a "contract for deed" note (aka mortgage). I don't know any attorneys that take a contract case on a percentage basis (except perhaps some million dollar slam dunk) I was alarmed at the poster that things a percentage goes to the court (not in the US, ever). The standard "no win , no pay) contingency contracts with attorneys are usually only involve Tort cases. Lawyers charge anywhere from $75.00 to $300.00 an hour. Without knowing the details and average real estate contract case involving a normal residence, would require a retainer of $5000. to $10,000. Most bill in 15 minute increments for everything even mailing things and phone calls. You didn't include enough details to respond further. I also was confused by the 3% explanation from Connecticut. In my jurisdiction there is no limits to the expenses (outside of normal office practice ) necessary to bring the case as long as the client approves the expense because the client must pay that separate from the attorney fees.

Typically this is how it works:

If you are the person SUING-the attorney's fees come out of what ever settlement you get if you win the case. For example, attorneys in Connecticut are allowed to collect 3% of settlement funds for attorney's fees and costs, sometimes in this case they may ask for a retainer before the case gets underway, that retainer is agreed upon by both you and the attorney and in most cases will be applied back to you when the case is settled. So if you are bringing an action which settles for say $13,000, your attorney get 3% of that ($390+ any additional costs paid out for medical records, copying costs, etc.), then if you have outstanding medical bills that are resulting from your claim, those may also be paid. Whatever the difference is ATER all appropriate parties are paid, the remaining gets written out to you.

If you are the person BEING SUED, an agreement in writing is drafted between you and your attorney. Most attorneys in this instance will ask for a decent retainer which they are required to keep in a client's funds account which is used solely for paying attorney's fees and settlements from. If that is not the case, then they will charge at an hourly rate which is determined at your initial meeting with your attorney. Of the firms I have worked for, the rates that they charge have varied from $80 to $200 an hour. It all depends on the attorney and the severety of your case.

If lawyer is pro-bono 20% if no handled out of court, 33% if it goes to court. This can always be negotiated, but do it before it settles!

Anywhere for $150 an hour to $750 or more an hour, depending on the reputation of the attorney.

Don't they have the kind where you don't pay unless you win.
That's the only kind I have ever used.

Well, I pay my lawyer $300 an hour.