Introduction

Did you know that hiring a lawyer doesn’t have to be expensive at all? Many people think that legal help is unaffordable, but that’s not always the case. Whether you’re dealing with a workplace dispute, a termination, or simply need legal advice: in many cases, there are arrangements that mean you don’t have to cover (a large portion of) the costs yourself. In this blog, we’ll explain how lawyers’ fees work, what “legal aid” is, when legal expense insurance can help, and why your employer might even pay for your lawyer in some cases.

Hourly Rate: Make Clear Agreements in Advance

Lawyers often charge by the hour. On average, their hourly rate ranges from €175 to €350, depending on their experience, area of specialization, and the type of law firm. Sometimes the rate is higher, but it can also be lower—for example, at pro bono law firms or for straightforward cases.

If you’re working on an hourly rate, it’s a good idea to make clear agreements in advance about the expected costs. Feel free to ask for an estimate of the number of hours, and discuss whether there are alternatives, such as a fixed-price agreement or setting a maximum number of hours. Transparency prevents surprises.

Addition: Legal aid at the government’s expense

Many people are unaware that they may be eligible for legal aid. This is subsidized legal assistance in which the government pays the lawyer’s fees. You only pay a copayment, which is usually between €200 and €900, depending on your income.

For example, in 2021, you were eligible for legal aid if you:

was single and earned a maximum of €30,000 gross per year,
or lived with a partner and had a combined income of less than €42,400,
and your assets in Box 3 were less than €31,000.

The exact amounts are set each year by the Legal Aid Board. If your income has since decreased—for example, due to being laid off—you can submit a request to have your eligibility assessed based on your current income.

Legal Expense Insurance: Free Choice of Attorney

Do you have legal expense insurance? If so, you can usually turn to your insurer if you have a legal problem. The insurer will engage a legal advisor or attorney and reimburse the costs. In cases where a lawyer is required by law—such as in small claims court—you have the right to choose your own lawyer. This means you can decide for yourself who will represent you, even if they are not affiliated with your insurer.

Please note that your legal expense insurance only covers the costs of disputes that arose after the effective date, and that waiting periods or limited coverage may apply in some cases.

Getting fired? Your employer often pays for the lawyer

During negotiations regarding termination or a settlement agreement, it is customary for the employer to pay (part of) your attorney’s fees. In many cases, compensation for legal representation is already included in the initial proposal. If not, you can always negotiate this.

After all, it’s in employers’ best interest to ensure that the terms of the agreement are properly and legally documented. Your attorney will then assess, for example, whether you’re entitled to higher compensation, whether the notice period is correct, and whether there are any tax or legal risks.

Conclusion

Do you think you can’t afford a lawyer? The costs might not be as high as you think. There are several ways to get (partial) assistance:

a clear agreement on the hourly rate,
a subsidy from the government,
legal expense insurance that allows you to choose your own attorney,
or an employer who contributes to severance pay.

So don’t wait too long to seek legal advice. In many cases, there are solutions that make it easier to take action, especially when it comes to important matters such as your job, income, or future.

This blog was written by Stijn Blom, Esq., an employment law attorney at Arbeidsadvocaat.nl B.V. Stijn has extensive experience in employment law and assists employers and employees on a daily basis with a wide range of employment law issues. From dismissal cases to drafting watertight contracts and policies—with his practical and personalized approach, he helps employers and employees move forward. Want to learn more? Visit Stijn’s page.

Arbeidsadvocaat.nl is happy to help you if you have any questions about legal assistance. Please feel free to contact us .

April 2025