DR 2-106 Fees for Legal Services

A.  A lawyer shall not enter into an agreement for, charge, or collect an illegal or clearly excessive fee.

B.  A fee is clearly excessive when, after a review of the facts, a lawyer of ordinary prudence would be left with a definite and firm conviction that the fee is in excess of a reasonable fee. Factors to be considered as guides in determining the reasonableness of a fee include the following:

  1. The time and labor required, the novelty and difficulty of the questions involved, and the skill requisite to perform the legal service properly
  2. The likelihood, if apparent to the client, that the acceptance of the particular employment will preclude other employment by the lawyer.
  3. The fee customarily charged in the locality for similar legal services.
  4. The amount involved and the results obtained.
  5. The time limitation imposed by the client or by the circumstances.
  6. The nature and length of the professional relationship with the client.
  7. The experience, reputation, and ability of the lawyer or lawyers performing the services.
  8. Whether the fee is fixed or contingent.

C.  A lawyer shall not enter into an arrangement for, charge, or collect a contingent fee for representing a defendant in a criminal case.