Alternative billing and pricing is all the rage in the legal profession, and for good reason. After all, it’s tough to deliver the news that an admiralty contract review can set you back $8,500. Which is why many professionals are turning to alternative ways to inform clients of amounts due. Here are two alternative billing arrangements that we’ve tested and that the modern lawyer should consider.
The Guest Check
The Guest Check is a simple and easy to use alternative billing system which comes with a built-in file numbering component, a big bonus. With optional carbon copy sets, the need for backup files is limited– just hang on to the carbon copy and you’ve got a great backup of your billing file. Plus, the retro feel and look will resonate not only with older clients who are used to such billing but also with younger clients who will think the system “is totally cool.” As an added touch, consider hand-delivering the bill in a padded guest check presenter.
The QR Code
QR codes are a great way to tell your client that you are technologically swift without presenting any information whatsoever. Which makes it a 
great fit for delivering your bill. While it can be done electronically or in print, we recommend printing out the QR Code bill and sending it to your client by regular mail. That way, you can save any details of the billing descriptions to the landing page for the QR Code, if the client can even figure out how to access it. Not sure what we mean? A typical QR Code bill appears at the left. Click on it to get the billing details. Nice, huh?
While we’ve outlined only two alternative billing systems, there are plenty of others to consider. Like reusable thermal fax paper (for the environmentally-conscious client), carved marble slabs (for pricier services), and crossword puzzles (for the creative professionals). Test them out by choosing one or two clients and then survey the clients afterwards for their reactions. If it works, go for it. You and your bottom line will be thankful.
Forgot to mention Fortune Cookies. Certainly big enough to fit a “For services rendered” bill in.
I keep paper bags of various sizes around the office. Based on the complexity of the case, I simply select an appropriately sized bag and instruct the client to stuff it as full of money as possible. Old school, yes, but it’s a time saver.
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