This is just an example of what a Section 68 letter would look like - If you dont think you ever received one then I would definitely question whether or not you did get one and what the details of it are (or ask them to send you a copy of the one they issued). If they never issued one to you then you do have grounds to question the fees / costs involved.
Dear ,
Thank you for your instructions and I confirm that I will be pleased to act on your behalf. A brief description of the services that you require is set out in the Schedule below.
Under the provisions of Section 68 of the Solicitors (Amendment) Act, 1994 I am obliged to inform you of the basis on which we charge fees for our services.
EITHER
Our charges are calculated by reference to the time spent working on your matter, the seniority of the individual(s) working on it for you and the nature of the work concerned. The level of charge will also be determined by the following factors:-
a) the complexity of the matter;
b) the urgency of the matter and the speed of action required;
c) the difficulty or the novelty of the questions raised;
d) the skill, labour, specialised knowledge and responsibility involved;
e) the number and importance of the documents prepared or examined;
f) the amount or value of any transaction involved;
g) the importance of the matter to you;
h) the time reasonably spent by personnel in the firm on the matter;
i) the place or places and the circumstances in which the matter is pursued.
In relation to (h) above, our current charges per hour range from €___ for the Managing Partner to €____ for Apprentices. I propose that this matter should be handled primarily by myself in respect of whom there is an hourly charge of €____.
OR
The fee chargeable in this instance is € . In the event that it should become apparent during the course of the transaction that through no fault of ours the transaction is considerably more onerous and/or time-consuming than is typical for cases of this nature we may have to charge more than the amount specified above. I will of course notify you in the event of these circumstances arising.
The professional fee, certain outlays and miscellaneous charges attract Value Added Tax at the rate of 21% which will be charged on the issuing of invoice(s). Invoices may be issued by us on an interim basis. Your continued instructions to us will constitute your acceptance of these terms and conditions of business.
If you have any queries in relation to these matters, I will be happy to assist you.
Yours sincerely,
