The Top 5 Excuses Lawyers Use to Justify Overcharging (And Why They Don’t Fly)

When clients challenge inflated legal bills, some lawyers reach for a well-worn list of justifications. But under the Legal Profession Uniform Law (LPUL), fees must be fair, reasonable, and clearly disclosed. If you've been on the receiving end of excessive legal charges, you've probably heard one of these excuses. At Law in Check, we specialise in helping clients dispute unfair bills and obtain legal fees refunds or reductions. Here's a breakdown of the top excuses we hear from lawyers—and why they often don't hold up.

“We Had to Do Extra Work”

This is perhaps the most common excuse. While some legal matters do become more complex, the lawyer must update their cost disclosure and provide an updated estimate if the scope of work changes significantly. If they didn’t, they may be in breach of the LPUL. Surprise charges for "extra work" without prior notice are a red flag.

How to respond:

• Ask when the extra work occurred.
• Request a breakdown of the additional hours and tasks.
• Check if a revised costs agreement was provided.

“That’s Just How Much It Costs”

This vague response is not a valid explanation. Under the LPUL, legal costs must be reasonable in relation to the work done. Simply stating a high figure without justification is not acceptable.

How to respond:

• Ask for an itemised bill.
• Compare their fees to industry standards for similar work.
• Seek a legal costs assessment if the bill still seems excessive.

“We Billed You for Everything, Just in Case”

Some lawyers add blanket charges for reviewing emails, calls, and even admin tasks that had no direct relevance to progressing your matter. This over-inclusive billing can artificially inflate your final invoice.

How to respond:

• Challenge charges that don’t reflect meaningful or necessary work.
• Request clarification on each line item.
• Note that overheads and clerical work should not be billed at lawyer rates.

“It Took Longer Than Expected”

Unexpected delays or inefficiencies on the lawyer's side shouldn't be your financial burden. If the matter took longer due to poor management, lack of communication, or internal issues, you're entitled to question those additional charges.

How to respond:

• Ask for justification of the time spent on each task.
• Review whether the delays were avoidable.
• Highlight any lack of progress or duplicated work.

“You Agreed to the Costs”

Signing a costs agreement doesn’t give a lawyer free rein to overcharge. Even with an agreement in place, the LPUL requires that fees be proportionate and reasonable. Cost agreements can be challenged if they result in unfair outcomes.

How to respond:

• Emphasise your right to a fair and reasonable bill.
• Point out if the costs were unclear, or if the agreement lacked transparency.
• Consider applying for a cost assessment to independently review the charges.

We Help You Fight Back

If you’ve heard any of these excuses and feel you've been unfairly charged, you’re not alone. Law in Check specialises in helping people dispute legal fees, seek refunds, and reduce excessive fees. We can guide you through the process under the Legal Profession Uniform Law and ensure your rights are protected.

See here for 5 tips to ensure your legal fees remain reasonable.