Does anyone know of established rates or care to share their standard rates for invoicing forensic imaging, file carving, and analysis? I've been doing pro bono work for a lawyer and need to start charging something for my services. Drive sizes are getting bigger and the time to play with them is increasing. I've got computer skills and knowledge but absolutely no business sense. This may be a poison topic, if so, someone please let me know.
Greetings,
The common answer to this question is that an open discussion of rates risks accusations of price fixing. I'd suggest looking at web sites of other firms doing similar work and seeing what they charge. Also, if you know any other lawyers, ask them what they generally pay for such services.
You should find that many firms are charging somewhere between 50% and 80% of the lawyer's rate in the area.
You can charge too little if you're working for law firms….
-David
Well, I think that you have to be sensitive not only to your actual costs but also the market. I discount my rates to clients who give me repeat business or referrals (as well as clients of law firms that do this), and provide some services on retainer.
I charge less for non-profits and provide small business discounts over a certain total.
Look at what the law firm is billing for their paralegals. That'll give you a clue as to what you should be billing.
When I started out private consulting, my first case I picked a number that I felt was decent only to be told by the litigation support manager at the firm I was dealing with that I was well below the market. After some discussions and some research, I increased my rates, whilst still staying very competitive. If you undercharge, people will assume you are a hack.
I really do appreciate the feedback. I understand that the subject was a sensitive one but as some of you suggested, I should check the local area for similar work and its pricing. It seems that everyone has been using the guys out of the local FBI and paying considerably more than I would charge. I will probably do it like a retailer and charge a rate based on size of drive for the imaging. Analysis will be more hourly based. I'm well within the $$$ the lawyer tossed out there.
Once again, thanks for the responses. I have my answer,of sorts.