Personal injury lawyers are typically paid on a contingency fee basis. This means that the lawyer’s fee is contingent upon the client winning the case or obtaining a settlement. Here’s how it works:
- No Upfront Costs: Clients usually don’t have to pay anything upfront. The injury lawyer will cover the costs of investigating the case, filing court documents, and other necessary expenses.
- Percentage of Recovery: If the client wins the case or receives a settlement, the lawyer takes a percentage of the recovered amount as their fee. This percentage can vary but is often between 25% and 40%.
- No Win, No Fee: If the lawyer is unable to secure a settlement or win the case, the client typically does not have to pay the lawyer for their services. However, clients might still be responsible for certain court fees or other related expenses, depending on the agreement.
- Fee Agreement: Before taking on a case, the lawyer and client will sign a contingency fee agreement that outlines the percentage the lawyer will receive and how expenses will be handled.