Introduction
Did you know that a lawyer does not have to be expensive at all? Many people think that legal help is unaffordable, but this is by no means always the case. Whether you are dealing with an employment dispute, a dismissal, or just want legal advice: in many cases there are arrangements that you do not have to bear (a large part of) the costs yourself. In this blog we explain how lawyers' fees work, what an addition is, when legal aid insurance can help, and why your employer sometimes even pays your lawyer.
Hourly rate: make proper arrangements in advance
Lawyers often work on an hourly rate. This averages between €175 and €350 per hour, depending on experience, specialization and the type of firm. Sometimes the rate is higher, but it also happens that it is lower, for example at social law firms or for simple cases.
If working on an hourly rate, it is wise to make clear agreements in advance about 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 working with a maximum number of hours. Transparency prevents surprises.
Addition: legal help at government expense
Many people do not know that they may qualify for an addition. This is subsidized legal aid where the government pays the lawyer. You then only pay your own contribution, which is usually between €200 and €900, depending on your income.
In 2021, for example, you were eligible for an addition if you:
- was single and earned up to €30,000 gross per year,
- or cohabited with a joint income below €42,400,
- AND your assets in box 3 were below €31,000.
The exact amounts are reset each year by the Legal Aid Board. Has your income decreased in the meantime, for example due to dismissal? Then you can request to be assessed based on your current income.
Legal expenses insurance: free choice of lawyer
Are you insured for legal expenses? Then you can usually appeal to your insurer in case of a legal problem. They will engage a lawyer or jurist and reimburse the costs. In proceedings where a lawyer is required, such as at the cantonal court, you are entitled to free choice of lawyer. This means that you can choose who represents you, even outside the insurer.
Be aware that your legal expenses insurance will only cover costs for disputes arising after the effective date, and waiting periods or limited coverage may apply.
Dismissal? Often your employer pays the lawyer
When negotiating dismissal or a settlement agreement, it is common for the employer to pay (part of) your attorney's fees. In many cases, the initial proposal already includes a fee for legal support. And otherwise, you can always negotiate this.
This is because employers have an interest in ensuring that agreements are properly and legally recorded. Your lawyer will assess, for example, whether you are entitled to higher compensation, whether the notice period is correct, and whether there are any tax or legal risks.
Conclusion
Think you can't afford a lawyer? The cost may not be too bad. There are several routes through which you will be helped (in part):
- A clear hourly rate agreement,
- an addition through the government,
- a legal expenses insurance policy with free choice of lawyer
- Or an employer who contributes to the costs in case of dismissal.
So don’t wait too long to seek legal advice. In many cases, there are ways to make it more accessible, especially when it concerns important matters like your job, income, or future.
This blog was written by mr. Stijn Blom, employment lawyer at Arbeidsadvocaat.nl B.V. Stijn has extensive experience in employment law and supports entrepreneurs and employees on a daily basis with a variety of employment law issues. From dismissal cases to drafting watertight contracts and regulations - with his practical and personal approach, he helps employers and employees move forward. Want to know more? Visit Stijn's page.
Arbeidsadvocaat.nl is happy to help if you have questions about legal aid. Feel free to get in touch.
April 2025
