Lawyer Fees in Georgia Explained: Cap Fee, Hourly Fee, Court Costs, and How Criminal Lawyers Work

Understanding how lawyer fees in Georgia are structured is essential for anyone engaging legal services — whether you are hiring a criminal lawyer in Tbilisi, a corporate attorney in Batumi, or a litigation expert in Kutaisi. While the nature of legal work can vary, Georgian law firms typically follow several well-defined models: the cap fee, the hourly rate, and various official and related fees. Knowing the difference helps clients plan their cases realistically and avoid unexpected costs.

 

The Cap Fee – Fixed Legal Limit

A cap fee, sometimes referred to as a maximum fee, is one of the most common billing models in Georgia. It means that the total amount payable for legal representation will not exceed the agreed limit, regardless of how many hours the lawyer spends on the case. This system gives clients full cost predictability and allows them to focus on the progress of their matter rather than accumulating charges.

Cap fees are often used in family, civil, and property cases — for example, a fixed amount may cover all stages of litigation before the Tbilisi City Court or Batumi District Court, including document drafting, filing, and attendance at hearings. It’s a transparent, client-friendly model that ensures stability during lengthy proceedings.

 

The Hourly Fee – Paying for Time and Expertise

For more complex or unpredictable matters, lawyers may charge by the hour. This model is common for corporate transactions, cross-border disputes, and advisory work such as tax optimization, due diligence, or compliance reviews. The client pays for the actual time spent on the case, which may include research, drafting, meetings, and correspondence.

While the final cost can vary depending on the complexity of the matter, clients are usually provided with an estimated range in advance. Most law firms issue detailed time sheets or progress reports so clients can monitor their billing transparently.

 

Court Fees and Official Charges

All court cases in Georgia require the payment of official court fees set by the state. The amount depends on the type of case and the value of the dispute.

For property or asset-related disputes, the court fee is calculated as a percentage of the value of the claim, with a maximum legal cap of 3,000 GEL per property or asset in dispute. This cap ensures that even high-value cases remain financially accessible for litigation. For example, whether a property is worth 300,000 or 3 million GEL, the state court fee cannot exceed 3,000 GEL per disputed property.

Other proceedings, such as appeals or cassations to the Court of Appeals or the Supreme Court of Georgia, require separate fees for each instance. These official payments are mandatory and must be made before the case is registered.

 

Related Fees – Translations, Expertises, and Other Costs

In addition to lawyer and court fees, certain related costs may arise during the process. These include:

• Legal translations and notarizations of foreign documents or contracts required for court submission.

• Expert examinations, such as psychological, financial, or property evaluations, which may be ordered by the court to support evidence.

• Administrative or delivery costs, including postage, document legalization, and certified copies.

These expenses are usually paid by the client in advance or reimbursed to the lawyer who coordinates them as part of case management.

 

How Criminal Lawyers Work

Criminal lawyers in Georgia have a distinctive and demanding role. They represent individuals who are under investigation, accused of an offense, or detained by authorities. The work begins from the very first moment of arrest or interrogation and continues through pre-trial hearings, court trials, and, when necessary, appeal proceedings.

Unlike civil or corporate lawyers, a criminal defense attorney must often act quickly and decisively — ensuring that procedural rights are respected, that statements are given lawfully, and that evidence is collected properly. Legal representation also includes attending interrogations, filing motions, protecting against unlawful detention, and preparing defense strategies for court.

Fees for criminal defense are generally arranged by case or by procedural stage, depending on the complexity and the time required. The engagement terms are agreed upon in advance between the client and the attorney, ensuring clarity on responsibilities and coverage.

 

Engagement Letter and Legal Service Contract

Every professional cooperation between a client and a lawyer in Georgia must be formalized through an Engagement Letter or a Legal Service Contract. This document outlines:

• the scope of services (for example, representation before the Tbilisi City Court or preparation of a defense strategy),

• the fee structure (cap fee, hourly fee, or hybrid model),

• the payment terms and schedule,

• and the rights and obligations of both the client and the lawyer.

The engagement letter is a legally binding contract that ensures transparency, accountability, and protection for both sides. Reputable legal firms in Georgia always issue these documents before commencing work, reflecting the standards of the Georgian Bar Association and the Code of Ethics.

 

Choosing a Transparent Legal Firm

When choosing a lawyer in Georgia — be it in Tbilisi, Batumi, or Kutaisi — clarity and trust should come first. Always request written documentation of fees, avoid verbal arrangements, and work only with registered professionals.

At Lawyers.ge, we believe that honest communication, clear contracts, and fair billing are the foundation of professional legal service. Our team of attorneys and consultants provide transparent pricing, detailed engagement letters, and comprehensive representation for both local and international clients.

 

Understanding how lawyer and court fees in Georgia are structured empowers clients to plan confidently and make informed decisions. Whether you need help with a property dispute, a family dispute, a criminal defense, or a business transaction, choosing an experienced and transparent legal firm ensures that your rights are protected at every stage.

 

For professional legal assistance and clear guidance on fees, contact Lawyers.ge — your trusted law portal and legal firm in Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi.