Which fee is charged as a fixed amount for a specific legal service, such as drafting a simple will?

• A. Hourly rate
• B. Fixed fee
• C. Retainer
• D. Contingency fee

Answer: (B)

A fixed fee is a set price charged for a defined legal service. For a straightforward task like drafting a simple will, this approach works well because the scope is clear and the work needed is predictable, so the lawyer can quote one total amount that covers everything from start to finish. This gives the client with certainty about costs and avoids surprises if the task takes less or more time than expected.

An hourly rate, by contrast, bills based on time spent, so costs can vary with how long the task takes. A retainer is an upfront deposit to secure services and is typically drawn against future work, not a final price for a single task. A contingency fee is paid only if the matter yields a specific result and is based on a percentage of the outcome, not a set price for a defined service.