So far i've found this forum real helpful although i did not have any buytolet enquiries (IMG:style_emoticons/default/wink.gif) My next enquiry is no exception.
Was just talking to one my neighbours earlier this week. Her partner instructed a firm of solicitors to submit an application on his behalf last October. A fixed fee of £300 has been agreed and paid. They sent another letter back in February chasing the outstanding application and another one in July. Following their last letter, they sent my neighbour and her partner a bill for £50 in respect of the last letter (!!!) threatening to withdraw their representation if not paid. Can they do this (i mean demand more money)? Many thanks

When they sent your neighbour a very first letter setting out terms of their business and confirming the instructions, there should have been info in that letter about hourly rates, fixed fees, etc. Your neighbour needs to find that letter and check. But if the fixed fee was arranged to achieve certain outcome, they should not be asking for more money until the outcome (unless there are provisions for this in their terms and conditions). Thats my understanding anyway and it would be useful to know other members' opinions.

Agree with ivolets, it should all be in their terms of business letter, sometimes called retainer. In any case, solicitors are supposed to tell you what needs to be done and tell you how much it's likely to cost before proceeding. Have they done so?

In my view fixed fee is exactly what it means and they should not be demanding more money.

Just wanted to fill u up on the progress (they'd think am a right nosey parker): they checked terms of business and their sols first letter did mention one off payment for the services. They've written a letter challenging a £50 fee and currently waiting for a response.