Most injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This simply means they only get paid if they win your case or reach a settlement. However, lawyer fees are not the only expense you should expect to pay in your case.
You may still need to part with some money, even if you lose the case. For instance, if you sued Uber for personal injury, you would have to pay other court-related costs, such as court filing costs and deposition costs.
Types of Lawyer Fees
Understanding the different lawyer fee structures for injury cases is important so you can choose the legal representation that best suits your current financial situation. Here are the two types of fee structures mostly used for these cases;
Contingency Fees
As mentioned earlier, this is one of the most common fee arrangements in injury cases. Under this arrangement, your lawyer doesn’t charge you any upfront fees. Instead, they receive a percentage of the compensation you get if you win the case.
If you don’t win, you don’t owe any legal fees. The percentage taken as the contingency fee can vary depending on the complexity of the case and whether it goes to trial. In general, however, contingency fees range from 33% to 40% of the final settlement or court award.
Contingency fees provide a financial safety net for clients, especially those facing financial strain due to medical bills or lost wages. Lawyers often invest significant time and resources in contingency cases, assuming the risk of losing their investment if the case fails.
Hourly Rates
While less common in injury cases, some lawyers may charge hourly rates for their services. Under this arrangement, you’re billed for the time your lawyer and their staff spend working on your case. Hourly rates can vary significantly depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
Your lawyer may choose this payment structure if they cannot determine the amount of work your case will require. However, it is important to note that hourly billing can quickly add up and result in higher legal costs compared to contingency fees.
Other Costs Involved in Injury Cases
In an injury case, you should be aware of other costs beyond lawyer fees. Understanding these additional costs can help you prepare for and make informed decisions during the entire process. Common expenses you may encounter in these cases include:
- Court filing fees
- Expert witness fees
- Medical records retrieval fee
- Investigation costs
- Deposition costs
- Travel costs
- Photocopying
- Postage
It’s essential to discuss these potential costs with your lawyer upfront and clarify who will be responsible for paying them. Some attorneys may cover these expenses upfront and deduct them from your final settlement, while others may require you to pay them as they arise.
Related Questions
What Is the Typical Contingency Fee Percentage for Personal Injury Lawsuits?
The typical contingency fee percentage for injury cases is usually 33% -that is, one-third- of the final settlement. However, this figure can go up to 40%, depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, the likelihood of success, the type of settlement, and the lawyer’s experience, reputation, and location.
What Are Expert Witness Fees?
Expert witness fees are fees paid to professionals who can provide testimony that may be helpful to your case. Examples of expert witnesses include medical professionals, accident reconstruction experts, or vocational experts. The fees for expert witnesses vary based on their expertise, the complexity of their involvement, and the duration of their testimony.
Why Are Lawyer Fees Higher for Personal Injury Lawsuits That Go to Trial?
Lawyer fees are higher for injury lawsuits that go to trial due to the increased time, effort, and resources required. Trials involve lots of preparation, including gathering evidence and conducting depositions. This process often spans several days or weeks, all of which can result in higher legal fees compared to cases that settle out of court.
Conclusion
Before hiring a lawyer for your injury case, discussing and understanding their fee arrangements is important. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about how fees are calculated, what expenses you may be responsible for, and whether there are any additional costs you should be aware of.