CFR > Title 10 - Energy > CHAPTER III—DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY > PART 719—CONTRACTOR LEGAL MANAGEMENT REQUIREMENTS > SUBPART D—Reimbursement of Costs Subject to This Part (§719.30 to §719.39) > 719.31—How does the Department determine whether fees are reasonable?

719.31—How does the Department determine whether fees are reasonable?

In determining whether fees or rates charged by retained legal counsel are reasonable, the Department may consider:
(a) Whether the lowest reasonably achievable fees or rates (including any currently available or negotiable discounts) were obtained from retained legal counsel;
(b) Whether lower rates from other firms providing comparable services were available;
(c) Whether alternative rate structures such as flat, contingent, and other innovative proposals, were considered;
(d) The complexity of the legal matter and the expertise of the law firm in this area; and
(e) The factors listed in § 719.10(c).