Personal injury attorneys typically charge for their services on a contingency fee basis. This means the attorney’s fees are contingent upon the client winning the case or obtaining a settlement. If the client does not win the case, the attorney does not receive any payment for their services. Here’s a breakdown of the typical fee structure and additional costs involved:
Contingency Fees
- Standard Rates: The most common contingency fee arrangement is 33% to 40% of the final settlement or award. This percentage can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the stage at which it is resolved, and the attorney’s experience and reputation.
– Before Filing a Lawsuit: If the case is settled before a lawsuit is filed, the fee is often around 33%.
– After Filing a Lawsuit: If a lawsuit is necessary, the fee might increase to 40% or more due to the additional work involved.
- Sliding Scale: Some attorneys use a sliding scale for their contingency fees, which may change based on specific milestones in the case. For example, an attorney might charge 33% if the case settles before trial, 40% if it goes to trial, and 45% if an appeal is necessary.
Additional Costs
In addition to the contingency fee, clients may also be responsible for other costs and expenses associated with the case. These can include:
– Filing Fees: Costs for filing documents with the court.
– Expert Witness Fees: Fees for expert witnesses who provide testimony or analysis.
– Medical Records: Costs for obtaining medical records and reports.
– Depositions: Expenses related to taking depositions, including court reporter fees and transcript costs.
– Investigative Costs: Costs for private investigators or accident reconstruction experts.
– Administrative Expenses: Various administrative costs such as copying, postage, and travel.
Fee Agreements
Before agreeing to representation, clients should:
– Review the Fee Agreement: Understand all terms and conditions, including the contingency fee percentage and what additional costs will be deducted from the settlement or award.
– Discuss Costs: Clarify how costs will be handled if the case is not successful and whether the attorney advances costs upfront.
– Negotiate: Some aspects of the fee agreement may be negotiable, especially in straightforward cases or if the client is comparing multiple attorneys.
Personal injury attorneys typically charge 33% to 40% of the settlement or award as a contingency fee. Clients should carefully review and understand the fee agreement and any additional costs they may be responsible for.
**This is for informational purposes only. If you’d like us to connect you with a personal injury attorney, contact us today.**
