Guide to Understanding Your Legal Invoice

Welcome to our guide to understanding the invoices you receive from Williams Legal Services. We've created this detailed explanation to help you fully understand each component of your invoice, how billing works, and the various payment options available to you.

Invoice Header Information

At the top of your invoice, you'll find essential identifying information:

• Matter Name: Identifies the specific legal case or service (e.g., "Smith - Dissolution of Marriage")
• Date of Issue: The date when the invoice was generated
• Client Information: Your name, address, and contact information
• Firm Information: Williams Legal Services LLC contact details, including address, phone number, and email

Financial Summary

This section provides a quick overview of your current financial standing:

• Total Fees: The total amount billed for legal services rendered during this billing period
• Total Costs: Expenses paid to third parties on your behalf (court fees, process servers, etc.)
• Total Paid: The total amount you have paid to Williams Legal Services to date
• Retainer Balance: Your current retainer balance (negative numbers indicate additional payment is required)
• Minimum Retainer: The required minimum retainer amount (where applicable)
• Amount Owed: The total amount currently due, including any additional funds needed to meet the minimum retainer requirement. This is usually the difference between your Retainer Balance and Minimum Retainer. Please note that you are welcome to pay above your Minimum Retainer.

Detailed Breakdown of Services

• Time-Based Billing Explanation
• Third-Party Costs Explanation

Retainer System Explained