💰 How to Save Money When Working With Your Attorney

Ash
Oct 29
3 min read

We get it—lawyers are expensive. But a lot of what runs up the bill has nothing to do with the law itself. It’s the little stuff. The phone calls. The follow-up emails. The “I know you just sent that, but can you explain it again?”

At Dallas & Gracey, we want to win your case and keep you from accidentally funding our coffee addiction. Here’s how to work with your lawyer without breaking the bank.

1. Read the Email (or Text) Before You Call

We love being responsive. That’s why we even have a text line for quick updates and questions. But every week we see this happen: Clients text us, then call five minutes later to talk about the same thing.

That’s double time for the same topic. If we text or email you something, give it a quick read first. You’ll usually find your answer—and save yourself a few bucks in the process.

Attorney juggling calls, emails, and texts from the same client.

2. We’re Lawyers, Not Judges

We can give you advice, strategy, and strong representation, but only the judge makes final decisions. Every hour spent explaining why “your ex can’t be thrown in jail today” is time that could’ve been used moving your case forward. Trust the process—it’s cheaper.

3. Hire Local (Seriously)

Here’s a secret: every county in Georgia does things a little differently. Local attorneys know the judges, clerks, and court quirks. Out-of-town lawyers don’t—and they’ll bill you to learn. Add travel time and confusion, and you could pay five to ten times more.

It’s like hiring a tourist to give you directions—they’ll get you there eventually, but it’s going to take longer and cost more.

Local attorney knowing the courthouse while out-of-town lawyer looks lost.

4. Focus on What Actually Matters

It’s easy to get hung up on the wrong thing. We’ve had clients call ten times asking whether the other side’s been served their court documents, meanwhile their own financial affidavit sits untouched.

Worry about what you can control. We’ll handle the rest. (And we promise—we’ll let you know when something big happens.)

5. Batch Your Questions

Every email you send starts a little billing clock. Instead of firing off five separate messages in one day, jot your questions down and send them all at once. You’ll get faster answers and a lower bill. It’s a win-win.

6. Be Honest and Organized from the Start

If we ask for documents, give us everything—not just the parts you think matter. When surprises pop up later (“Oh yeah, I forgot about that secret bank account”), we have to redo work, fix filings, and sometimes go back to court. And yes, that’s all billable. Honesty and organization are free; chaos is expensive.

7. Respond Quickly

If your lawyer has to chase you down for paperwork or signatures, that’s time you’re paying for. Fast responses keep your case on track—and your bill from growing.

8. We’re Not Therapists (Even If We Sound Like One Sometimes)

We know this stuff is emotional. But using your lawyer as a sounding board for every frustration can add up fast.Talk to friends, family, or a counselor about how you feel. Use your lawyer to talk about what to do.

Client venting emotions to lawyer instead of legal counselor.

9. Follow Directions the First Time

When we say “print, sign, scan, and email,” please don’t skip the “scan” part and send a blurry photo of half the page. Each missed step adds another round of calls and corrections. That’s billable déjà vu.

10. Don’t Litigate Out of Spite

We all want to be right—but “fighting on principle” can drain your wallet faster than it fixes anything.

True story: two people once spent weeks arguing over an item worth maybe $100. No sentimental value. Just pure stubbornness. By the time it was over, they’d spent around $2,000 to $3,000 in legal fees.

The judge wasn’t impressed. Nobody “won.” And that $100 item? Still just $100.

Ask yourself: Is this the hill I want my wallet to die on?

11. Use the Whole Team

You’re not just hiring an attorney—you’re hiring the whole firm. Our paralegals and legal assistants can answer questions, collect documents, and save you time (at a much lower rate). If it doesn’t need lawyer brainpower, let the team handle it.

12. Pick a Goal and Stick With It

Changing your mind mid-case—especially about big stuff like custody, property division, or settlement terms—means rewriting, redrafting, and re-arguing. Decide what you want early. Stay focused. That’s how you keep your costs (and your stress) low.