Hiring a lawyer can feel overwhelming and difficult, especially when you’re worried about the costs. But here’s something you should know—you can get expert legal representation without paying anything upfront. In California, personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, this means that you don’t pay unless they win your case. Let’s break down how this works and why it benefits accident victims.
What Is a Contingency Fee?
A contingency fee is a payment arrangement where your lawyer only gets paid if they secure compensation for you. Instead of paying out-of-pocket for legal fees, your attorney’s payment comes from a percentage of your settlement or court award. If they don’t win your case, you owe nothing.
Why Is This a Good Deal for You?
It’s common that many accident victims hesitate to seek legal help because they assume they can’t afford it. A contingency fee structure eliminates that barrier. Here’s why it works in your favor:
- No upfront costs: You don’t have to worry about paying expensive retainers or hourly fees.
- No financial risk: If your attorney doesn’t win your case, you don’t owe them a dime.
- Stronger legal support: Lawyers working on contingency are motivated to get you the highest settlement possible because their payment depends on it.
What Percentage Do Lawyers Take?
Most personal injury attorneys charge between 33% and 40% of your final settlement. The exact percentage may vary depending on factors like case complexity, whether it goes to trial, and the law firm’s policies. Your lawyer should clearly explain their fee before you sign anything.
What If My Case Goes to Trial?
If your case doesn’t settle and goes to trial, your attorney’s contingency fee may be slightly higher due to the extra time and resources needed. However, your lawyer will discuss any potential changes in fees before proceeding so there are no surprises.
What Expenses Might Be Deducted?
Even with a contingency fee, there may be additional case-related costs, such as:
- Court filing fees
- Expert witness fees
- Medical record retrieval costs
- Investigation expenses
Some law firms cover these costs upfront and deduct them from your settlement, while others may require reimbursement. Always ask your lawyer how these expenses are handled.
Don’t Let Cost Keep You from Seeking Justice
Insurance companies count on accident victims being afraid to take legal action. They want you to believe that hiring a lawyer is too expensive, so you’ll accept their lowball offers. But with a contingency fee arrangement, you can level the playing field.
At Sedaghat Law Group, we believe that everyone deserves quality legal representation, no matter their financial situation. You focus on healing—we’ll focus on fighting for your compensation.
If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, don’t hesitate to reach out. Your initial consultation is free, and there’s no risk in learning about your options. Contact us today and let’s discuss your case.
