Legal Costs in Russia: FAQ

The cost of a Russian legal matter has two parts: the attorney's fee, agreed in a written agreement under the law on advocacy, and court expenses such as state duty, expert fees and translations. The winning party can recover part of these costs from the loser, but courts cut fees they consider excessive. Attorney Elena Petrova answers questions foreign clients ask before hiring counsel in Russia.

How Attorney Fees Are Structured

What fee models are used?

A fixed fee for a defined stage, hourly billing, or a monthly retainer for ongoing work. The model is written into the agreement together with the scope of work.

Are contingency fees allowed?

A success fee may be agreed as an addition to a base fee in civil and commercial matters. It is not allowed in criminal cases, and it cannot turn into a promise of a particular outcome.

Must the agreement be in writing?

Yes. The law on advocacy requires a written agreement stating the subject, fee, payment terms and the attorney's liability.

Court Fees and State Duty

How is state duty calculated?

For monetary claims, it depends on the amount claimed on a sliding scale set by the Tax Code. Non-monetary claims carry a fixed duty. Rates were increased substantially in 2024.

Are any claimants exempt?

Yes. Employees in labour disputes and consumers with claims up to a statutory limit, among others, pay no duty when filing.

Recovering Costs From the Other Side

How much of the fee will the court award?

Only a reasonable amount. Courts compare the fee with the complexity of the case, the time spent and typical rates in the region, relying on the explanations of the Supreme Court plenum on legal costs.

What proof is needed?

The agreement, acts of completed work and payment documents. Without proof of actual payment, the court will not award the fee.

When must the application be filed?

Within three months after the last judicial act that ended the case entered into force.

Estimating the Budget

Can I get an estimate before starting?

Yes. After reviewing the documents, we describe the stages ahead, the likely court expenses and the fee for each stage. Additional work outside the scope is agreed separately.

Paying From Abroad

How can a US client pay?

The fee is paid under the agreement to the attorney's bank account. Current banking restrictions between Russia and the US are discussed at the start, so the payment route is agreed before work begins.

What Affects the Final Cost

Why do similar cases cost differently?

The number of hearings, the need for expert evidence, the volume of foreign documents and whether the case goes to appeal and cassation. Early settlement reduces cost.

Discussing Your Matter

Is the first review of documents charged?

The terms of the initial review are set out before it starts. Send a short description and the key documents, and you will receive a written proposal with the scope of work and fee structure.

The main channel of communication with the attorney is email: attorneypetrova1@gmail.com.