C O S T S

Our primary objective is to serve our customers. In this respect, not only do we reco- gnize our obligations as an "independent institution for the administration of justice" (in accordance with article 3 of the German Lawyers' Act), they are an integral part of the way we do business.
Remuneration for our efforts and associated expenses are dependent upon the spe- cific circumstances of each individual case. We are happy to provide cost estimates for fees and expenses at the earliest possible juncture.
For us, too, there must be an acceptable relationship between effort and result. We therefore usually invoice work done outside of the courtroom in accordance with time spent. In terms of professional liability, the financial value, size and importance of the case will also be taken into account. In dealing with clearly predictable cases,
a flat fee may be considered appropriate.
For lawsuits in Germany and Italy, costs are based upon statutory fee scales.
In accordance with Italian statute, fees are calculated entirely on the basis of time and expenses, whereby German attorney remuneration law prescribes to the prin- ciple of flat fees for civil cases. In the event that the workload and duration of a
case cannot reasonably be forecast – as is often the case in Italy – it may be difficult to calculate costs.