Handling Legal Invoice Disputes: Resolution Strategies That Work

Understanding Billing Disputes

Invoice disputes are inevitable in legal practice. How you handle them determines whether they damage or strengthen client relationships.

The goal is resolution, not confrontation.

Common Dispute Types

Rate Disputes

• Unexpected rate increases
• Timekeeper level concerns
• Blended rate disagreements

Task Disputes

• Work deemed unnecessary
• Excessive time on tasks
• Duplicate effort

Scope Disputes

• Work outside engagement
• Budget overruns
• Change order issues

Resolution Strategies

Respond Quickly

• Acknowledge within 24 hours
• Show you take concerns seriously
• Gather facts before responding

Listen First

• Understand the specific concern
• Don't be defensive
• Ask clarifying questions

Propose Solutions

• Offer explanations where warranted
• Consider adjustments if appropriate
• Document the resolution

Prevention Strategies

1. Clear engagement letters: Set expectations upfront
2. Regular communication: No surprises at billing
3. Detailed descriptions: Justify every entry
4. Budget updates: Warn before overruns

Learn about AR management for collection best practices.

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