Writing Invoice Template

Free Legal Writer Invoice Template

Invoice templates for freelance legal writers billing law firms and legal publishers for articles, guides, and online legal content.

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What is a Legal Writer invoice?

A legal writer invoice is issued by a freelance legal content writer to a law firm, legal publisher, LegalTech company, or online legal platform for the production of legal content including blog posts, practice area guides, legal explainers, how-to articles, FAQs, white papers, and client-facing legal resource content. Legal writers typically have legal qualifications (LLB, GDL, LPC, or qualified solicitor/barrister background) combined with strong writing skills. This combination of legal knowledge and communication ability distinguishes legal writers from general content writers. Law firms increasingly invest in content marketing through blogs, legal guides, and resource centres. Legal publishers and LegalTech companies need authoritative, accurate content that engages both legal professionals and members of the public. Legal writers bridge the gap between technical legal knowledge and accessible communication.

What to include on a Legal Writer invoice

Common legal writer invoice line items

Service Typical Rate Unit
Legal blog post (1,000 words) 200 post
Practice area guide (2,500 words) 450 guide
Legal explainer article (1,500 words) 280 article
White paper / in-depth report (5,000 words) 900 report
Legal research and summary (per hour) 75 hour
Content editing / legal review 60 hour

How to invoice as a legal writer

Invoice per piece on delivery and client acceptance. For monthly content programmes, invoice at month end for all pieces delivered in the month. Bulk orders of 10+ articles may be invoiced in batches. Require a content brief and approval of the outline before beginning each piece, particularly for practice area guides or white papers where scope and depth can vary significantly. For ongoing content retainer arrangements, invoice monthly in advance for the agreed number of pieces. Retainer pricing provides the client with cost certainty and the writer with a predictable income. Clearly define ownership of the content on your invoice. Most legal content is produced on a work-for-hire basis where the client owns the copyright. If you retain any rights (portfolio use, republication), specify this.

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Frequently asked questions

How much should a legal writer charge per article?
Legal content writing rates in the UK typically range from £150 to £400 per 1,000-word article in 2026 for qualified legal writers. Rates depend on the writer's qualifications, the depth of research required, and the specialisation involved. White papers and in-depth guides command proportionally higher rates.
Do legal writers need to be qualified solicitors?
Not necessarily, but legal qualifications (LLB, GDL, or a qualification leading to admission) are strongly preferred by law firms and legal publishers. Unqualified writers can produce general legal content, but technical practice area guides, regulatory analysis, and professional client communications are better produced by writers with legal training.
Who owns the copyright in legal content?
Unless otherwise agreed, copyright in commissioned work belongs to the client (work-for-hire basis). Most legal content assignments involve a full transfer of copyright. Some writers retain the right to reference the work in their portfolio. Specify ownership clearly in your contract or on your invoice.
What SRA rules apply to legal content written for solicitors?
Solicitors who publish legal content are responsible for ensuring it does not constitute misleading marketing under SRA standards. Legal writers producing content for law firms should flag where statements may be misleading or where claims need caveats. Ultimately, the firm is responsible for compliance with SRA rules on client communications.
Should legal writers charge VAT?
Yes, if annual taxable turnover exceeds £90,000. Legal content writing is standard-rated at 20%. Most law firm and publisher clients can reclaim VAT. If below the threshold, no VAT is charged.
Can I use this template for free?
Yes. Tidybill's free plan lets you create up to 5 invoices per month at no cost, with no credit card required. You can use the Legal Writer invoice template straight away after signing up.