If you’ve been injured in an accident and are considering hiring a personal injury lawyer, you may be wondering how much it will cost. The good news? Our Raleigh, NC personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay anything upfront. This type of fee structure helps make legal representation accessible—especially when you’re already facing medical bills, lost income, and other expenses.
So how exactly do contingency fees work in personal injury cases? Let’s break it down.
What Is A Contingency Fee?
A contingency fee means that your lawyer only gets paid if they win your case—either through a settlement or a court judgment. If you don’t receive compensation, your attorney doesn’t get paid.
Typically, the attorney’s fee is a percentage of your total recovery, usually between 33% and 40%, depending on the complexity of the case and whether it goes to trial. This arrangement allows you to hire skilled legal representation without any out-of-pocket cost at the start of your case.
Why Do Personal Injury Lawyers Use Contingency Fees?
Contingency fees are common in personal injury law because:
- Many accident victims can’t afford to pay legal fees upfront.
- The system ensures lawyers are motivated to fight for the highest possible settlement.
- It provides access to justice for people regardless of income level.
- It shifts much of the financial risk to the attorney, not the client.
How Are Contingency Fee Percentages Determined?
The percentage your lawyer charges may vary depending on several factors:
- Type of case: Complex cases (like medical malpractice or product liability) may justify a higher percentage.
- Stage of resolution: If your case settles quickly, the fee may be lower. If it goes to trial or appeal, the percentage may increase.
- State laws and regulations: Some states place caps or guidelines on contingency fees.
Most personal injury attorneys will clearly outline the percentage and terms in a written fee agreement before you commit to working with them.
What Other Costs Might Be Involved?
While the contingency fee covers your lawyer’s compensation, there are other case-related expenses that may arise, including:
- Filing fees
- Expert witness fees
- Costs for medical records and documentation
- Court reporter and deposition costs
- Investigation and accident reconstruction fees
Some lawyers will advance these costs and deduct them from your settlement at the end. Others may expect you to reimburse them regardless of the case outcome. Make sure to clarify how these expenses are handled in your agreement.
Example Of A Contingency Fee In Action
Let’s say you win a $90,000 settlement. If your attorney’s fee is 33%, they would receive $29,700. If there were $4,000 in case-related expenses, those would typically be deducted as well, leaving you with a net recovery of $56,300.
Always ask your lawyer to walk you through the numbers so you fully understand what to expect.
Contingency fees offer a fair and practical way for injury victims to access quality legal help without the financial burden of hourly fees. By tying the lawyer’s payment to the success of your case, it also ensures they’re fully invested in your outcome.
If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, don’t let cost concerns keep you from pursuing justice. Schedule a consultation with our personal injury lawyer to discuss your case and understand how a contingency fee arrangement can work for you. At Burton Law Firm, we are here to help you.