Gratituity for Lawyers?

I am a lawyer (not real estate though) and I did not even consider giving my lawyer a "tip." He charged us $1800 for his services and that's what he got. I would never in a million years expect a tip, nor consider giving one to a fellow lawyer. Now I know that you may need to tip other people at the closing (e.g., the title person) and maybe you will hand that to your lawyer to pass on, but you don't tip the lawyer (unless he carries your bags, helps you move, or does a little dance for you).

Why do people tip the title person?

I have no idea why you tip them, but was told to do so during two closings. At that point it seems like pocket change after you just forked over a zillion dollars to buy and close.

Are you kidding? Do you tip your doctor? Your dentist? Your boss?

I'm the original poster. I was researching information for closing costs and a few sites reference tipping the attorney. So, I was just shock that I will be out more money.

This country (and in particular NYC) has gone tip crazy. People need to stop this unneccesary habit. We aren't talking about a waitress here who depends on tips for income. A lawyer is a professional and should not be tipped. Nor should a tile person at closing.

If you're crazy about your attorney & think maybe he saved you a lot of money I think you might send them flowers or a gift basket, that's always a nice touch as a very special thank you, but yes, as a RULE it does seem out of whack, doesn't it?

I've NEVER tipped my attorney for real estate transactions. I pay him well for his advice and counsel, and that's that. I do agree, however, that if someone clearly went w-a-a-a-y above and beyond the call of duty to help bring a deal home, than perhaps I might consider a nice bottle of wine, a dinner, or something of that type as recognition of a job (extremely) well done. But under normal circumstances, absolutely not.

is it necessary to tip title person? who told you you had to do so? what is a normal %/ amount?

I too am an attorney, but not in real estate. However, if the practice starts of tipping the beloved attorney, I may change fields!