Those harmed by someone else’s negligence have a better chance of securing maximum compensation with the help of a personal injury lawyer. However, many people fail to seek legal assistance because they are worried about the cost of hiring a lawyer.
Fortunately, contingency fee structures make it easier for individuals to obtain legal representation without any upfront fees or payments. However, there is a lot to consider when selecting a personal injury law firm operating under this payment scheme.
To ensure clients have everything needed to confidently pursue a case with the help of a personal injury lawyer, we at Berry Law have put together this handy guide exploring contingency fees, how to pay for a lawyer, and what costs to expect when a case is settled.
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How Contingency Fees Work
Once a settlement has been reached or a verdict has been decided, the lawyer will take an agreed-upon percentage of the total compensation amount.
The percentage can vary from lawyer to lawyer. It is best to schedule a no-obligation consultation to learn how much one may charge.
What Does a Contingency Payment Structure Cover?
Legal Representation
Legal services are the primary costs covered by a contingency fee. These may include:
- Gathering evidence
- Investigating claims
- Preparing legal documents
- Communicating with the opposing party
- Litigating in court, if necessary
Not all contingency fee structures cover the same services. It is crucial to clarify with a lawyer exactly what services are included under their contingency fee agreement.
Expenses
In addition to legal representation, other expenses may need to be covered during a personal injury case. These can include:
- Court filing fees
- Expert witness fees
- Medical records requests
- Deposition costs
- Travel expenses
Some law firms may cover these expenses upfront and then deduct them from the final settlement amount. Others may require clients to cover these costs as they arise.
When Do I Pay Contingency Fees?
The case will need to be resolved before a client is required to pay any legal fees.
Once a settlement has been reached or a verdict has been decided, the lawyer’s fees will be taken as an agreed-upon percentage of the compensation amount.
If the case is not won, the lawyer will not receive any payment for their legal services.
However, plaintiffs may still be responsible for legal expenses such as court filing fees, which may need to be paid regardless of the case’s outcome.
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How Do I Choose a Law Firm With a Contingency Payment Structure?
When selecting a personal injury law firm operating under a contingency payment structure, it is crucial to do ample research. Factors to consider when choosing a lawyer include:
- Their track record of success with similar cases
- Their experience in the field of personal injury law
- Awards received for outstanding services
- Any additional fees or expenses that may be involved in the agreement
- The percentage of the compensation they will take as their fee
Experience is only half the equation. It is just as important to find a lawyer who provides compassionate guidance and support, boosting confidence in their ability to handle the case.
What Personal Injury Cases Can Operate on a Contingency Payment Scheme?
This payment type is applicable to a variety of personal injury cases, including but not limited to:
- Car accidents
- Slip and fall accidents
- Workplace injuries
- Motorcycle accidents
- Pedestrian accidents
- Wrongful death
- Truck accidents
- Product liability
- Catastrophic injuries
There are many more types of personal injury cases that can operate on a contingency fee basis. It is best to consult with a personal injury lawyer to determine if a case qualifies for this type of payment structure.
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Contingency Fee FAQs
What is the difference between court costs and legal fees?
Court costs refer to the expenses associated with filing a lawsuit, such as fees for document preparation and court appearances. Legal fees, on the other hand, are payments made to lawyers for their services.
When will I pay the contingency fee?
The fee will typically be paid once the case is settled or a judgment is awarded. The personal injury claims process can take weeks, months, or years. As such, client’s may not have to pay any fees until a case is successfully resolved.
How much are court fees in a personal injury case?
The cost of court fees can vary depending on the jurisdiction and complexity of the case. It is best to discuss potential court fees with a lawyer during the initial consultation to avoid confusion about what an accident survivor is responsible for.
Get Comprehensive and Compassionate Legal Support Without Upfront Costs At Berry Law
Every accident survivor deserves the chance to pursue justice and receive maximum compensation without worrying about upfront legal fees.
At Berry Law, we understand the financial burdens that can arise from a personal injury and offer our services on a contingency fee basis.
Our team of experienced personal injury attorneys will fight tirelessly to ensure maximum compensation, allowing our clients to focus on what’s most important: their recovery.
Contact us online for a no-obligation consultation to discuss potential payment options for a personal injury claim or lawsuit.
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