Fee Dispute Resolution Program FAQs

What is the Fee Dispute Resolution Program?

The Fee Dispute Resolution Program is available on a voluntary basis to assist clients who feel they have been overcharged for legal fees by a Missouri lawyer and wish to dispute them. The program offers facilitation, mediation, and binding arbitration to assist the parties in resolving the dispute.

Who can start the process?

The request for assistance should be made by the client, but parties who paid all of the fee, or who have assumed responsibility for the payment the fee, may join the client in the process. Lawyers cannot start the process.

Read this article to learn more.

Why would a lawyer consent to participate in the program?

The FDR program provides a confidential setting to resolve disputes outside the court system. It is offered at no cost to either party and provides an efficient option in lieu of a lawsuit.

How long does the process take?

The average length of cases is five months.

Who are the volunteer mediators, arbitrators, and facilitators?

Lawyers and non-lawyer professionals volunteer their time to the program as a public service. All volunteers have completed training and orientation before serving in the program to ensure they are equipped to handle these types of disputes.

Where will the meeting be held?

In-person and virtual options are available. Participants can choose their preference; however, if they cannot agree, the meeting will be held virtually. 90% of participants choose to have meetings virtually.

Visit MissouriLawyersHelp.org/Client-Protection to learn more about the Fee Dispute Resolution Program and other ways The Missouri Bar protects clients.