How Lawyers are Paid for Personal Injury Claims

When it comes to navigating the aftermath of a personal injury, understanding the financial implications is critical. A common concern involves understanding how legal fees work, especially since most personal injury lawyers, including those at Safi Law Group, are paid on a contingency basis. This article explains what this means and how it impacts you as a client.

Contingency Fee Agreement

A contingency fee agreement means that the lawyer’s fees are contingent (or dependent) upon the successful resolution of your claim. Simply put, if you don’t win, you don’t pay. This arrangement allows you to seek justice without worrying about upfront legal fees and provides reassurance that your lawyer is motivated to secure the best possible outcome for you.

Percentage of the Claim Award

With a contingency fee agreement, your lawyer’s fees are typically a predetermined percentage of the total award or settlement you receive. This percentage can vary depending on the complexity and risk associated with the case, but it’s generally between 20% and 40%. It’s important to discuss and agree upon this percentage before you proceed with your case, ensuring transparency and understanding for both parties.

What About Expenses?

In addition to legal fees, other costs may be involved in pursuing your claim. These might include court filing fees, costs for obtaining medical records, expert witness fees, and other out-of-pocket expenses. Often, your lawyer will cover these costs initially and then deduct them from your final settlement. Be sure to clarify how these costs are handled during your initial consultation.

The Advantage of Contingency Fees

Contingency fees level the playing field by allowing anyone to access legal representation regardless of their financial situation. Moreover, knowing that your lawyer’s payment depends on the result can provide additional reassurance of their commitment to your case.

At Safi Law Group, we believe in transparency and open communication about fees and costs associated with your personal injury claim. We work on a contingency fee basis to alleviate the financial strain and focus on obtaining the best possible result. If you have any questions about this process, contact us today.  We are more than happy to answer them during our initial consultation.