What to include on a legal services invoice
Matter number and client reference
Put the matter name and number on every invoice so payments and trust transfers post to the right file.
Detailed time entries
Each entry should show the date, timekeeper, task description, time in tenths of an hour and rate. Vague entries like 'work on file' invite disputes.
Trust account activity
If you hold a retainer, show the opening trust balance, amounts applied to this bill and the remaining balance.
Firm and attorney identifiers
Include the firm's address and, where your jurisdiction expects it, the responsible attorney's bar number.
Disbursements listed separately
Court fees, deposition transcripts and courier costs should be itemized apart from legal fees.
Example legal services line items
These sample entries show how to describe legal services work clearly. Rates are illustrative only; use your own pricing.
| Description | Qty | Rate | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Draft and revise motion to dismiss (attorney, 0.1 hr units) | 4.3 | $325.00 | $1,397.50 |
| Client conference call re: settlement options | 0.8 | $325.00 | $260.00 |
| Legal research - paralegal | 2.5 | $125.00 | $312.50 |
| Court filing fee (disbursement) | 1 | $405.00 | $405.00 |
| Subtotal | $2,375.00 | ||
Payment terms for legal services invoices
Our suggestion: Net 30, or drawn from the client trust account per the engagement letter.
Sample terms you can paste into the invoice: “Payment is due within 30 days. Fees are governed by the engagement letter. Retainer funds held in trust will be applied to this invoice as authorized.”
Not sure what Net 15 or 2/10 Net 30 mean? Payment terms explained.
Legal Services invoice FAQ
Why do lawyers bill in tenths of an hour?
Billing in 0.1-hour (six-minute) increments is a long-standing convention that lets attorneys capture short tasks like emails and calls. Some firms use quarter-hour units instead. Whatever increment you use, state it in the engagement letter and on the invoice.
How do I show a retainer on a legal invoice?
List the trust balance before this bill, the amount transferred to pay it and the balance left in trust. Trust accounting rules are set by each state bar and vary, so follow your jurisdiction's requirements and keep separate ledgers.
Can this template replace legal billing software?
It works well for solo practitioners and small firms producing clear, itemized invoices. It does not manage trust ledgers or LEDES e-billing formats, so firms with those needs should pair it with dedicated accounting records.