New Ohio opinion reminds us of the difference between fees and expenses

The Ohio Board of Professional Conduct recently issued an advisory opinion on lawyer advertising that emphasizes the need to be clear about the difference between fees and expenses.  The opinion, Advisory Opinion 2017-01, states that lawyers who provide services on a contingent fee basis may not use statements such as “There’s no charge unless we win your case,” or “No fee without recovery,” if the lawyer intends to recover the value of litigation costs and expenses from the client. If a lawyer intends to recover advanced costs and expenses of litigation from the client, a disclaimer is required in the advertisement that explains the client’s obligations for repayment.