Many lawyers practice dynamic prices based on many factors. If a lawyer is already busy, they can charge a new client more to handle their case, or inversely, if a lawyer is looking for work, they can charge a new client less to ensure having a new client.
Another factor can be how complex a legal matter the client has. The more complex cases get a higher retainer/hourly fee and vice versa. Therefore, different clients may get different rates.
Another factor can be the lawyer's experience and knowledge. The more experienced a lawyer is, the more his time is worth whereas if the lawyer is inexperienced in a field, or looking to expand into a new area of practice then the lawyer may charge a lower fee until they gain experience and knowledge.
Lastly, some lawyers take a client's income into account when charging fees. Some clients have simple matters within the lawyer's knowledge wheel but don't have a big budget. Some lawyers will take on these clients at a reduced rate.
The most important factor for a lawyer to remember when setting prices is reasonableness. As long as a fee is reasonable, a lawyer can have flexibility when charging rates.
I have at times used all of these dynamic pricing methods: income of prospective client; whether I'm busy or not; complexity of the issues; and particularly the time factor involved - will I have to drop everything and work nights/weekends to meet the deadlines in this new case?
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