Reacting to long-standing criticism of lawyers' obscure fee-setting practices, the Japan Federation of Bar Associations has decided to ask its members to give prospective clients a written estimate of the cost before rendering a legal service.

The measure will be complemented by a parallel plan by the federation to compile an informal list of the legal services available for people seeking assistance, particularly for litigation.

The federation says it plans to publish the suggested fee list in a booklet and make it available at law courts and other legal service centers.