How do I get a lawyer in Nigeria?

Asked by: Keeley Lakin  |  Last update: June 20, 2025
Score: 4.5/5 (8 votes)

In summary, to hire a lawyer, one has to visit a law firm, pay a consultation fee, narrate the services you want the lawyer to render, agree on the professional fee charged and pay partly or fully (which you will be issued a receipt). Then, provide relevant information, verbal and documentary.

How much does it cost to hire a lawyer in Nigeria?

Based on our professional experience, we recommend that yearly legal retainers for corporate legal advisory services in Nigeria typically fall within the range of 5 million Naira to 3 million Naira when the assigned lawyer operates from their office under the supervision of a senior legal professional.

Can I get a free lawyer in Nigeria?

Apart from the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria, other organizations provide free legal aid services in Nigeria, for example: Civil Liberties Organization; Constitutional Rights Project; Legal Defence and Assistant Project (LEDAP); Hope behind Bars Africa; Human Rights Law Service; Headfort Foundation, among others.

How much does a lawyer charge to write a letter in Nigeria?

Legal Demand Letters. If you choose to write your legal letter yourself to save costs, that's certainly an option. However, if you engage our firm to draft it for you, the fee may range between 105,000 to 185,000 Naira.

What is the difference between lawyer and attorney in Nigeria?

In Nigeria, there is no distinction of these concepts in Nigeria, as these terms encapsulate the roles of a Legal Practitioner. Anyone who has fulfilled the requirements to be a Legal Practitioner in Nigeria wears this mantle as long as he/she practices.

How to Become a Lawyer in Nigeria

43 related questions found

How much does it cost to get a letter from a lawyer?

Hiring a lawyer to draft a demand letter will incur fees because it requires the time of a licensed attorney to complete the task. ContractsCounsel's marketplace data shows the average demand letter costs to be $380.00 across all states and industries.

Do lawyers charge for phone calls?

Many lawyers charge for their time every six minutes, and will round up. They may also charge you for time their staff spends on your case. You will be billed for small tasks like writing emails and answering your phone calls. For example, if your lawyer charges $300 per hour, a ten-minute phone call may cost you $60.

Do you have to pay a lawyer upfront?

In some instances, a lawyer may ask you to pay a certain amount before they begin to work on your case. The attorney then bills his expenses and time against the retainer fee as your case progresses.

What are lawyers called in Nigeria?

Nigerian lawyers are associated with different names or appellations and they practise their legal profession in different categories and institutions, which include the following: Barristers. Solicitors. Attorneys.

Can you defend yourself in court without a lawyer in Nigeria?

The Answer Is Yes. The entirety of civil proceedings may be conducted without the presence or aid of a legal practitioner. Here, the party would be deemed to have waived his or her right to a legal practitioner.

How do lawyers charge in Nigeria?

Nigerian lawyers may employ different fee structures, including hourly rates, flat fees, contingency fees (a percentage of the awarded sum), or a combination of these. Understanding the fee structure is essential for transparency in cost estimation. Legal fees are not always set in stone.

How to know a good lawyer in Nigeria?

Check their reputation: Look for reviews or testimonials from previous clients, or check with the Nigerian Bar Association to ensure the lawyer is in good standing. A good reputation is a sign of a competent lawyer. Consider their availability: Make sure the lawyer has time to dedicate to your case.

How much are lawyers been paid in Nigeria?

The highest salary for a Lawyer in Nigeria is NGN 407,500 per month. The lowest salary for a Lawyer in Nigeria is NGN 94,792 per month.

How do I engage a lawyer in Nigeria?

Step-by-Step Guide to Engaging a Lawyer in Nigeria
  1. Identify Your Legal Needs. ...
  2. Research Potential Lawyers. ...
  3. Verify Credentials and Experience. ...
  4. Consult with Multiple Lawyers. ...
  5. Evaluate Communication and Professionalism. ...
  6. Discuss Fees and Payment Arrangements. ...
  7. Make Your Decision and Formalize the Engagement.

What happens if you don't have enough money for a lawyer?

Contact Your County or State Bar Association

For example, the State Bar of California provides assistance to those who can't afford a lawyer. They collaborate with legal aid groups to help low-income individuals, including seniors, people with disabilities, and the homeless.

How do you call a lawyer who works for free?

What is a pro bono program? Pro bono programs help low-income people find volunteer lawyers who are willing to handle their cases for free. These programs usually are sponsored by state or local bar associations. See our directory of pro bono programs to find one in your state.

How do you know if a lawyer will take your case?

Factors Lawyers Consider Before Taking a Case

Legal Merit: A lawyer will first assess the legal merit of your case. This involves evaluating the evidence and determining if the law supports your claims in the lawsuit. A case with strong legal foundations stands a better chance of being accepted.

Will a lawyer talk to you for free?

In California, as in other states, free legal advice is available by simple calling 1-800-THE-LAW2 and getting connected to one of the attorneys in our network. In fact, we've been serving Californians and the local community since the 1980s.

How much do lawyers charge for text messages?

Phone calls (whether to, from, or about clients), text messages, and emails count as much as face-to-face meeting time. These fees can range from small town attorneys charging $100 per hour, to large firm attorneys in major cities charging $725 per hour.

How to ask a lawyer to take your case example?

A straightforward statement like, “I'm seeking legal counsel for…” or “I'm asking a lawyer about…” will let the attorney know right off the bat what the email is about. Make sure to indicate why you believe they are the right attorney to handle or take your case.

Can I write my own legal letter?

While it's technically possible to write a demand letter yourself, there are significant advantages to seeking the guidance of a legal professional. Here's why. Professional expertise. An attorney specialized in personal injury law understands the nuances of relevant statutes, case law, and procedural requirements.

How do you tell if a letter from a lawyer is real?

Always ask for the full name of the attorney and make sure that it matches the information on record with your state's Bar. If the attorney has an extremely common name, ask for the attorney's state bar number. Each state has its own Bar which regulates the admission of lawyers in that state.

What happens if you ignore a letter from a lawyer?

If you simply ignore the letter, the plaintiff's next step will almost certainly be to file a lawsuit. If that happens, your cost to resolve the suit—be it through a settlement, a win at trial, or a loss at trial—will rise dramatically.