arvode

Arvode is a term used in Danish, Norwegian, and Swedish to denote the compensation paid to a professional for services rendered. It describes remuneration for expert work rather than a wage or salary and is commonly used in contracts between clients and professionals such as lawyers, consultants, architects, and medical specialists.

The arvode may be determined in several ways. It can be a fixed project fee, an hourly or daily rate, or a value-based arrangement tied to the outcome or scope of the work. In some cases, a portion of the fee may be contingent on results, though such arrangements are subject to professional rules and local regulation. The specific structure is typically laid out in the service agreement and may be influenced by the profession, market norms, and any applicable legal or ethical guidelines.

Regulation and practice around arvode vary by country, profession, and context. Professional associations often publish guidelines on fair billing, transparency, and disclosure of expenses. In legal aid or public funding contexts, separate fee schedules or subsidies may apply, distinct from standard private arvodes. Billing disputes, fee reductions, and refunds are usually handled through contractual terms, mediation, or, when applicable, professional disciplinary processes.

Etymologically, arvode is a cognate term across the Nordic languages and is widely understood in Scandinavia as a general word for remuneration for professional services. Its exact usage and restrictions reflect the norms of the respective country and profession.