Some law firms are so determined to attract new business that they will go to lengths that confound even the most seasoned legal observers.

The current legal marketplace, characterized by lethargic growth, too many lawyers and a buyer’s market, has driven some law firms to literally conduct fire sales. Offers to work for free are atypical. But seemingly more prevalent are cases where law firms aggressively chase work, offering rates so low that they almost certainly will lead to an unprofitable engagement or at best result in a write-down.

Legal consultant Bruce MacEwen morbidly but aptly describes it as “suicide pricing.”