re: Are Top Lawyers Really Billing At $800/hr?

Experienced lawyers (i.e. the white hairs) at big law firms in Texas bill between $600-$1,200/hr (possibly rare circumstances where they bill more) depending on the practice area and specialties. You could request the less experienced partner that bills $500/hour, but you'll pay for them to spend hours figuring out what Gandolf already knew. You might find the relevant expertise in a small firm for a fraction of the rate, but it may take you a while to locate them.

- 3rd yr associate in a Texas firm.