Law Firm invoice template
Law Firm invoice template is for law firms billing clients with matter-based, time-and-expense or flat-fee invoices. Entries should be specific (e.g., "Research on patent law re software licensing") and avoid block billing; many firms use 6-, 10-, or 15-minute billing increments. Clear, compliant invoices support trust, reduce disputes, and align with ABA Model Rules on reasonable fees and communication.
Law Firm invoice template Sample
Law Firm invoice template
123 Business Street, City, Country
Phone: (123) 456-7890
Email: contact@company.com
Law Firm invoice template
Bill To:
Client Name
Client Address
Client City, Country
Phone: (987) 654-3210
Email: client@example.com
Invoice #: 12345
Date: 2024-10-10
Due Date: 2024-11-10
| Item | Description | Qty | Price | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Legal research | Case research – 3 hrs | 3 | $185.00 | $555.00 |
| Drafting | Pleading and correspondence | 1 | $320.00 | $320.00 |
| Subtotal | $875.00 | |||
| Tax (10%) | $87.50 | |||
| Total Due | $962.50 | |||
An invoice should include your business or name, the customer’s details, the date and invoice number, and a line-by-line breakdown of what was provided. Including payment terms—such as due on receipt, Net 15, or Net 30—helps you get paid on time and keeps records clear for taxes.
Supporting resources
| Resource | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| ABA Rule 1.5 Fees | Government | Fees must be reasonable; scope and basis/rate of fees must be communicated in writing; contingent fees have specific requirements. |
| Billing best practices for lawyers | Industry guide | Record time promptly, avoid block billing, use detailed descriptions, and maintain consistent routines; time entered late can lose ~25% of billable time. |
| Legal billing dos and don’ts | Industry guide | Itemize activities, avoid vague entries, use billing software, and keep clients informed on billing practices. |
Frequently Asked Questions
- What should a law firm invoice include?
- Matter name and number, client and billing contact, date range, itemized time entries (date, attorney, description, time, rate, amount), expenses, subtotal, and payment terms; format often dictated by client outside counsel guidelines.
- What are common legal billing increments?
- Many firms bill in 6-, 10-, or 15-minute (0.1 hour) increments; round each activity to the increment and describe each entry clearly.
- Are there ethics rules for law firm billing?
- Yes; ABA Model Rule 1.5 requires reasonable fees, written fee communication, and no double billing; state rules often mirror or adopt these.