CRIMINAL DEFENCE AND PENAL LAW IN MONTREAL
Transparent Fees
Choosing a lawyer also means understanding the costs involved in your case.
Me Gabriel Fosse believes in full transparency so that every client clearly understands the financial terms before legal representation begins.
Fees are clearly explained, with no hidden costs or unpleasant surprises.
Our Philosophy
A Transparent Approach
Every criminal case is unique.
Legal fees depend on several factors, including the nature of the charges, the complexity of the case, the amount of evidence, the anticipated course of the proceedings and the objectives of the retainer.

All financial terms are clearly explained before representation begins.
Billing Options
Fees Tailored to Your Case
The billing arrangement is discussed with each client before legal services begin. Depending on the nature of the matter, different billing structures may be appropriate:
Structure 1
Contingency-based payment method​
For example: $123 (for illustrative purposes), regardless of the time spent on the case + $456 (for illustrative purposes) if the desired outcome is achieved = amount due.ORFor example: $123 (for illustrative purposes) x number of hours worked + $456 (for illustrative purposes) if the desired outcome is achieved = amount due.
Structure 2
Hourly-rate payment method
For example: $123 (for illustrative purposes) x number of hours worked = amount due.
Structure 3
Hybrid Fee Arrangements
For example: $123 (for illustrative purposes), regardless of the time spent on the case = amount due.
Reviewing test results
Protecting the rights guaranteed by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
Building an effective defence
1)
Payment Terms
Payment terms may vary according to the client’s needs. Payment can be made in full upon receipt of the invoice, or in equal or unequal instalments over time. The payment method and terms are worked out between Me Fosse and his clients when a fee agreement is prepared at the initial meetings. Me Fosse takes care to choose a payment method and terms that suit his clients. Each client’s financial situation is unique, leading them to prefer one of the available payment methods over another.
Reviewing test results
Protecting the rights guaranteed by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
Building an effective defence
2)
The Fee Agreement
First, a fee agreement is intended to ensure the file is managed soundly and efficiently, foster full cooperation between the client and lawyer, and ensure the client fully understands how their file is handled. In other words, a fee agreement allows the client to understand and anticipate the various tasks performed on their file and the associated costs. With a fee agreement, there are no surprises, disagreements or misunderstandings about the anticipated costs of the file. Me Fosse has his clients sign a fee agreement.
Reviewing test results
Protecting the rights guaranteed by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
Building an effective defence
3)
The Trust Deposit
Secondly, a lawyer may require the client to deposit (or provide a “retainer”) in an amount to be determined with the client at the beginning of the retainer, in order to start work on the matter. This is commonly known as a “trust deposit.” As some or all of the work is completed, in accordance with the terms agreed with the client, the lawyer pays themselves from the funds held in trust. In such a case, three outcomes are possible: (1) the trust balance may equal the final invoice, in which case the client owes nothing further; (2) the trust balance may exceed the final invoice, in which case the lawyer must return the difference to the client; (3) the trust balance may be less than the final invoice, in which case the client must pay the difference. Me Gabriel Fosse, criminal defence lawyer, has a trust account.
THE IMPORTANCE OF prompt legal advice
An Important Decision
Criminal charges can affect your liberty, driver’s licence, employment, reputation or future.

Getting legal advice quickly helps you better understand the issues and the options available.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I find out the legal fees before hiring you?
Yes. The financial terms are explained before representation begins.
Can my case be assessed during an initial consultation?
Yes. An initial discussion generally allows us to assess your situation.
Are legal fees the same for every case?
No. Every criminal case is different.
USEFUL LINKS
Learn More About Your Case
Before contacting our office, you can also consult:
These resources provide additional information about criminal proceedings and Me Gabriel Fosse’s approach.
Contact us
Let’s discuss your situation
Contact Me Gabriel Fosse to discuss your case and get clear information about the legal fees that apply to your situation.
(514) 647-6675
gfosse@borogroup.com
500 Place d’Armes, Suite 2350, Montréal, Québec H2Y 2W2