Yes, you are correct. Spells that require a material component can be cast only by handling that component or holding the focus. Material components with a cost or are consumed (or both) are the exception, you need specifically those components.
Do you need to hold a focus to cast spells?
All spellcasters need to hold their focus except clerics, they can have tattoos if they want. The spell focus needs to be presented during the casting. Usually that means a free hand. In some cases, a sigil on a shield works (holy symbols).
Does a spellcasting focus replace materials?
By the rules, your spellcasting focus is equal to your component pouch, and a component pouch holds all the material components you need “except for those components that have a specific cost”.
Do Warlocks get a focus?
Warlocks with an arcane focus gain the benefits of having an arcane focus, as explained in the PHB (that is to say, they do not need material components that are not consumed and that do not have a listed cost). Warlocks without an arcane focus do not gain those benefits.
Are there cost in material components for spells?
‘Coz that would be awesome. Leave the gun. Take the cannoli. In case of the spell Resistance, a component pouch or a spellcasting focus can replace the material components because no cost appears in the material components description. In case, for example, of the spell Heroes’ feast, there is a cost in the material components.
Do you have to have a component to cast a spell?
But if a cost is indicated for a component, a character must have that specific component before he or she can cast the spell. If a spell states that a material component is consumed by the spell, the caster must provide this component for each casting of the spell.
Can you cast a spell without a focus?
Yes, you can cast prepared spells which require only Verbal and/or Somatic components when deprived of your focus. (As long as you can produce the Verbal and Somatic components, that is.) The focus only functions to replace (subject to the limitations you mentioned) such Material components as are required.
Do you get paid after you cast a spell?
Regarding your question, YES I’ve encountered them a lot. They will cast your spell and they will ask for money after.
