Rates
No surprises later on: with us, you know exactly where you stand from the start. On this page, you can read exactly how our rates work and when you pay little to nothing.
How much does an employment law attorney cost?
That depends on your case, but the general rule is simple: for work of a predictable scope, we agree on a fixed fee; for cases where the outcome is uncertain, our competitive hourly rate applies. And in many cases, someone else will pay your bill: in 95% of cases involving a settlement agreement, your employer reimburses the legal costs; if you have legal expense insurance, you have the freedom to choose your own attorney in legal proceedings; and for those who qualify, we provide assistance in accordance with our pro bono policy based on subsidized legal aid.
Fixed Prices
For services with a predictable scope, we prefer to work with a fixed price so you know exactly what it will cost in advance. For example:
- reviewing or negotiating a settlement agreement (see the fixed package prices)
- drafting or reviewing employment contracts
- employee handbooks and personnel policies
- courses, workshops, and customized in-house training sessions
Hourly Rate
If the scope of a case is difficult to predict in advance, we bill on an hourly basis. Our hourly rate is competitive given the level of specialization you receive: you’re paying for a lawyer who focuses exclusively on employment law and therefore doesn’t need to spend time getting up to speed on the case. We work as efficiently as possible using all the latest tools. We’ll provide you with an estimate upfront and keep you updated along the way, so the costs are never a surprise.
Subscription for Employers
If you, as an employer, have ongoing legal questions, a subscription may be more cost-effective: a fixed monthly fee for an agreed-upon number of hours of advice and support. We’ll tailor the details to your organization, and the service can scale with you as your needs change.
Legal Expense Insurance
Do you have legal expense insurance? As soon as legal proceedings are necessary (in court or with the UWV), you are generally entitled to free choice of lawyer and may select a specialized lawyer yourself, at your insurer’s expense. We’ll coordinate this directly with your insurer, so you don’t have to worry about a thing.
Subsidized Legal Aid (Assignment)
Even if you have a lower income, you are entitled to specialized legal assistance. That is why, in accordance with our pro bono policy, we also handle cases involving subsidized legal aid, in which the government covers the majority of the costs and you only pay a copayment based on your income and assets. The Legal Aid Board determines whether you are eligible; you can find the current income limits and personal contributions at rvr.org.
We have a “high-trust” partnership with the Legal Aid Board. This means that the Board grants legal aid very quickly after the means test, so you can be sure of the outcome of your application sooner.
DO YOU KNOW HOW MUCH YOUR BUSINESS COSTS?
Schedule a free initial consultation
In 20 minutes, we’ll discuss your situation and let you know if and how we can help you, as well as what it will cost. It’s free and there’s no obligation, and we can usually provide a fixed price or a clear estimate right away.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Rates
Do you offer a free initial consultation?
Yes, always. During a free, no-obligation initial consultation (online, by phone, or at our office), we’ll go over your situation and let you know if and how we can help you, as well as what it will cost. After that, you decide whether you want us to get started on your case.
Can you work on a fixed-price basis?
In many cases, yes. We offer fixed package prices for reviewing or negotiating a settlement agreement, and we’re also happy to agree on a fixed price for services such as drafting an agreement. We always set this out in writing in advance, so you won’t face any surprises.
Will my employer reimburse my lawyer’s fees?
In 95% of cases involving a settlement agreement, yes. It is customary for the employer to contribute toward your legal fees, and we include that reimbursement as standard in our negotiations. We usually bill your employer directly, so you don’t have to pay anything up front.
Can I get an estimate of the total cost in advance?
Absolutely. After the free initial consultation, we’ll provide a clear estimate and, whenever possible, a fixed price or a detailed proposal. We’ll keep you updated along the way, so the costs will never come as a surprise.
Do you operate on a “no cure, no pay” basis?
No. “No cure, no pay” is not permitted for lawyers in the Netherlands; the rules of professional conduct of the Dutch Bar Association prohibit this. However, fixed fees, reimbursement of costs by your employer, and legal expense insurance ensure that your risk remains limited.
Are there any additional costs besides the fee?
Sometimes. Think of court filing fees for legal proceedings, bailiff fees, or an expert report. In out-of-court negotiations, those costs usually don’t apply. If any additional costs arise, you’ll always be notified in advance.
Is an employment lawyer less expensive than an employment law attorney?
Often less than you might think: specialized legal professionals charge rates comparable to ours, while only a lawyer is permitted to appear before any court and is subject to statutory quality requirements, disciplinary rules, and mandatory professional liability insurance. Read here about the full difference between an employment lawyer and an attorney specializing in labor law.
Do your rates include or exclude VAT?
Our rates do not include 21% VAT, unless otherwise stated. Quotes and cost summaries always clearly indicate whether amounts include or exclude VAT, so you know exactly what you’re paying.