Alternative Fee Arrangements

Our alternative fee arrangements: all about partnership

When we opened our doors over 35 years ago, we introduced a new, innovative idea to the legal profession: alternative fee arrangements (AFA).

A creative approach that moves beyond traditional hourly billing, the AFA model underscores our commitment to clients and to successful outcomes. And it works: What started at Burns White in 1987 has become an accepted industry-wide practice today.

Recognized for our creative billing structures, Burns White works with clients to identify a value-based fee arrangement that fits within their budgets and meets their legal—and business—needs. While we offer a variety of AFA options, all are based on three fundamental elements: predictability, risk-sharing, and partnership. These basic tenets help to eliminate financial uncertainty and reinforce our commitment to delivering the best outcome for your business.

“In 1987, we were years and years ahead of many other firms. We offered our clients alternative fee arrangements. It was good for our clients and it was good for us, and it is a business practice we maintain to this day.”
– David B. White, Founding Member