Find lawyers in Evanston, IL

Q: How much does a lawyer cost?

A lawyer costs $150 to $400 per hour , depending on their location, field, and experience level. Some lawyers charge a $500 to $5,000 retainer fee, which is essentially a down payment based on their hourly rate. Other lawyers charge a flat fee for basic services, including: Filing for bankruptcy Immigration cases Trademarks or patents Writing a prenup An uncontested divorce without a custody arrangement

Share a few details and we'll show you the best lawyers in your area.

Zip code

Find lawyers in Evanston, IL

Share a few details and we'll show you the best lawyers in your area.

Zip code

Top 10 lawyers in Evanston, IL

Clients agree: these providers are highly rated for knowledge, experience, communication, and more.

Your lawyer questions, answered

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Thervo.

How much does a lawyer cost?

A lawyer costs $150 to $400 per hour, depending on their location, field, and experience level. Some lawyers charge a $500 to $5,000 retainer fee, which is essentially a down payment based on their hourly rate. Other lawyers charge a flat fee for basic services, including:

Filing for bankruptcy
Immigration cases
Trademarks or patents
Writing a prenup
An uncontested divorce without a custody arrangement

What does a lawyer do?

A lawyer gives legal advice and completes paperwork on behalf of clients. Lawyers who have passed the bar exam can represent their clients in court and advocate on their behalf. These services save their clients the time and stress it would take to complete legal work on their own.

Specific responsibilities of a lawyer include:

Advising clients
Organizing and filing paperwork
Conducting relevant research
Negotiating settlements
Communicating with clients, witnesses, and colleagues

Does it cost money to ask a lawyer a question?

Most lawyers offer free consultations before taking on your case. This allows you to ask questions and helps them decide how long the case might take and whether you're likely to win. However, once you hire a lawyer, you will be billed for phone calls, questions, and emails.

What education is needed to become a lawyer?

A person must get a bachelor's degree and a juris doctor degree (J.D.) from an accredited law school to become a lawyer. Law school takes 3 years, or 7 years including a bachelor's degree. They must also pass the bar exam in order to represent clients in court.

What's the difference between a lawyer and an attorney?

The terms "lawyer" and "attorney" are usually used interchangeably, but they are technically different. A lawyer is someone who graduated from law school and can give legal advice but may or may not have passed the bar exam.

An attorney is a person who passed the bar exam and is now qualified to represent clients in court. All attorneys are lawyers, but not all lawyers are attorneys.

How to I choose a lawyer?

When choosing a lawyer near you, follow these steps:

Decide which type of lawyer you need for your case.
Compare reviews from lawyers on Thervo and Google.
Get 3+ estimates from lawyers near you.
Verify their credentials and whether they've passed the bar exam.
Choose a lawyer who fits your budget and makes you feel comfortable.
Choose a lawyer that's conveniently located if possible.
Get an estimate and contract in writing before any casework begins.

What questions should I ask lawyers?

Ask the following questions to find the best lawyer possible:

How long have you been practicing law?
When did you pass the bar?
Do you give free consultations to potential clients?
Are you able to take on my case now?
What are your rates? Do you charge by the hour or have a retainer fee?
How many cases like mine have you won?
Will you give me a written estimate and contract?

Reviews for Evanston lawyers

Recent success stories from people in the Evanston area.

Mia K.

I was shocked that Mr. Renzetti is the owner of the firm - he was so approachable and responsive ! I hired him on a referral from my sister - Reno handled my case like he was advising a family member - plus I noticed that opposing council and the judge really respected him. Mr. Renzetti only practices Family Law so he is literally an expert! I had no idea where to turn- start or expect when I was served with divorce papers but the staff and Mr. Renzetti were AMAZING and made me feel heard and informed - I am about to finalize my case and am no longer fearing my life post divorce. I am glad my sister referred me to him and I’ve already referred him to several friends in need- you can’t go wrong having Mr. Renzetti representing you!

Reno R. Renzetti / NORDINI & THOMPSON

Mark Basile is perhaps the best trial lawyer in Chicago. I've used Basile Law Firm to handle four lawsuits over the years, and they've won all four. Highly recommend!

Basile Law Firm

Jonathan M.

Thorough, attentive and personalized care. Very happy with the work that Frank Venis and the law firm have done for me.

Venis and Copp LLP

Gloria G.

Mr. O'Bryon took care of my legal needs quickly and expertly. I will recommend him to anyone who needs legal assistance.

O'Bryon Law Firm, LLC

Zinanita M. T.

I feel Robert Malloy is on top of his game. He is responsive to any questions very straight and to the point which is appreciated. He is conscious of my money and my needs regarding my divorce.

Affordable Law and Tax Offices

Per Magnus ".

I’m very early in my case, but Ms. Mickelson is proving herself a consummate professional. She is also personable, grounded, and easy to speak with.

Beermann LLP

Patricia F.

So far the service provided by Espinoza Taxes has been excellent, always friendly, and always solicitous to answer all the doubts that I have had about the process and documentation of tax payment; his help has been very important because being a new worker in US my knowledge in the process is limited. Thanks for the good work.