Tel: +81359258423
Legal Fee
The standard fee (including 10 percent tax) ranges for criminal cases are as follows.
The fee will vary depending on the difficulty and complexity of the case.
I will provide a fee proposal after consulting with the prospective client.
Strategic Defense. Seamless Communication. Personal Commitment.
Has a loved one been arrested? Or are you facing criminal charges in Japan?
Navigating the Japanese criminal justice system can be daunting, especially if you are unfamiliar with a system notorious for prolonged detention, harsh interrogations, and a high conviction rate.
While many firms advertise English-speaking representation, in reality, cases are often handled through interpreters or assigned to junior associates. This can lead to miscommunication when it matters most.
Our firm does things differently.
Our founder, Rie Nishida—admitted in both Japan and New York—serves as Lead Counsel on every case. This direct engagement ensures seamless communication in English and that the core strategy is personally developed, not delegated to associates.
Through hands-on leadership, the aim is to provide a defense that is both strategic and compassionate, striving earnestly to protect your interests at every stage.
First Phone Consultation: Free
The first thing I would like you to do is to contact me. Through a brief phone conversation, we can figure out what to do next.
When someone is arrested, getting a competent criminal defense lawyer is a must. During the first visit, I can explain the Japanese criminal justice system, the suspect /defendant's rights and how to handle the current situation to a prospective client. After the first visit and getting to know the case, I can provide a fee proposal to clients.
Investigation Phase
During the investigation phase, if you are arrested, you could possibly be detained for up to 23 days. During the detention period, the prosecutor will decide whether to prosecute you or not. A criminal defense lawyer can work for your earlier release and for non-prosecution. Please note that for cases requiring significant travel and legal activity outside of the Tokyo area, additional travel expenses and/or a higher retainer fee may apply.
Retainer Fee
Admitted Cases Starting from 550,000 JPY (Approx. $3,530 USD)
Contested Cases Starting from 990,000 JPY (Approx. $6,360 USD)
Success Fee:
Case Dropped (Non-Prosecution） 550,000 JPY to 2,200,000 JPY
(Approx. $3,500 USD to $14,000 USD)
Summary Order (Fine without Formal Trial) 330,000 JPY to 880,000 JPY
(Approx. $2,200 USD to $5,500 USD)
Avoiding Detention / Extension of Detention 110,000 JPY (Flat Fee) (Approx. $700 USD)
Trial Phase
During the trial phase, the difficulty, complexity, and duration of the case vary significantly based on the severity of the alleged offense and whether the facts are admitted or contested.
For serious felonies handled under the Lay Judge System (Saiban-in Trial), the verdict (guilt/innocence) and sentencing are uniquely determined jointly by three professional judges and six ordinary citizens. Given this structure and the fact that the prosecution typically fields a minimum of two public prosecutors, our firm commits a minimum of two defense attorneys to ensure a robust and equitable defense. This comprehensive defense structure is reflected in the fees below.
Non-Lay Judge System Retainer Fees (Normal Trial Cases)
These fees apply to cases handled solely by professional judges (Non-Lay Judge System).
Retainer Fee:
Admitted Cases Starting from 550,000 JPY(Approx. $3,530 USD)
Contested Cases Starting from 880,000 JPY(Approx. $5,650 USD)
Success Fee:
These fees are paid upon achieving a successful outcome in court for Normal Trial Cases.
Not Guilty Verdict: Starting from 1,100,000 JPY (Approx. $7,000 USD)
Suspended Sentence (Probation): Starting from 550,000 JPY (Approx. $3,500 USD)
Lesser Sentence Achieved: Starting from 550,000 JPY(Approx. $3,530 USD)
Lay Judge System Retainer Fees (Saiban-in Trial)
The complexity and required workload for cases under the Lay Judge System vary significantly depending on the specific facts and legal issues of each individual case.
Therefore, while a minimum retainer is established, the final fee for these highly complex trials will be determined on a case-by-case basis after a detailed assessment of the matter.
Important Notes and Glossary
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Currency: All fees are legally payable in Japanese Yen (JPY). The U.S. Dollar amounts provided are approximate estimates based on the current exchange rate and are subject to fluctuation.
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Retainer Fee: The initial fee paid to the attorney to begin work on your case. The fee is non-refundable.
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Admitted Case: A case where the client accepts the facts and charges (Uncontested).
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Contested Case: A case where the client denies the facts, claims innocence, or disputes key elements (Not-Guilty Plea).
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Lay Judge System: The Japanese system for serious crimes, where citizens participate in the trial alongside professional judges.