If you’ve been seriously injured in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to significant compensation. However, pursuing a personal injury claim can be complex, time-consuming, and expensive. This is where contingency fee lawyers can help.
What Exactly is a Contingency Fee Lawyer?
A contingency fee lawyer is a type of attorney who only collects payment if they successfully win or settle your injury case. The fee is a percentage of the settlement amount, typically ranging from 25% to 40%.
This contrasts with an hourly fee lawyer who bills by the hour regardless of outcome. Contingency fee arrangements shift the financial risk from client to attorney, providing greater access to legal services.
When Are Contingency Fees Useful?
Contingency fees are most common in personal injury cases where someone is clearly at fault, such as:
- Auto accidents
- Premises liability
- Medical malpractice
- Defective products
- Workplace injuries
The lawyer only gets paid if they obtain compensation for you. There is less financial risk for clients who could not otherwise afford the legal costs.
Benefits of Hiring a Contingency Fee Lawyer
There are many advantages to hiring an attorney on a contingency fee basis:
- No Upfront Costs: You pay nothing upfront or throughout the case. Attorney fees only come from money received at resolution.
- Increased Access to Legal Help: The fee structure makes representation affordable for those who couldn’t pay high hourly rates.
- Motivated Representation: The lawyer is incentivized to get the largest possible settlement since their pay is tied to case outcome.
- Payment Flexibility: Fees come out of the final award, so you don’t have to pay anything until your case settles.
- Experienced Counsel: Contingency lawyers are often highly skilled since compensation relies on their success.
Questions to Ask a Prospective Lawyer
When evaluating contingency fee lawyers, key questions to ask include:
- What is your overall success rate for similar cases?
- What will your contingency fee percentage be?
- What case expenses will be my responsibility?
- How frequently will you update me on progress?
- Who handles expenses if we lose the case?
- How many cases like mine have you handled?
Vetting qualifications thoroughly gives you the greatest chance of success.
Contingency Agreement Contract
Before retaining a lawyer, they will present a contingency fee agreement outlining:
- Fee percentage amount (typically 30% – 40%)
- Case expenses you’ll be responsible for (experts, filing fees, etc.)
- Billing method and payment terms
- Conditions which would modify the agreement
Review thoroughly before signing to ensure terms are clear and fair.
Seeking Damages with a Contingency Lawyer
A qualified contingency fee lawyer can seek economic and non-economic damages on your behalf, including:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Loss of future earnings
- Rehabilitation and caretaking costs
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium
- Emotional distress
Keep in mind the fee comes out of your total settlement. But their expertise ultimately puts more money in your pocket than negotiating alone.
Finding the Right Contingency Representation
Don’t just Google “contingency lawyers near me.” Vet each one thoroughly based on experience, case results, reputation, and lawyer-client compatibility. This extra due diligence means you’ll have the right counsel to maximize your injury claim and get you the largest recovery possible.
FAQS
Q: What types of cases are best suited for a contingency fee lawyer?
A: Contingency fees work best in personal injury cases with clear liability, such as auto accidents, premises liability, medical malpractice, defective products, and workplace injuries.
Q: What expenses will I be responsible for when working with a contingency fee lawyer?
A: You may have to pay certain case expenses even with a contingency arrangement, including expert witness fees, filing fees, investigation costs, etc. Ask your lawyer for details.
Q: How can I find the best contingency fee lawyer for my case?
A: Don’t just search online. Thoroughly research each lawyer’s experience, case results, client reviews, and qualifications to find the best match for you who can maximize your claim.
Call For a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one suffered serious injury in an Atlanta accident, the dedicated personal injury attorneys at Humprey & Ballard Law can help. Our experienced legal team has been fighting for injured victims in Atlanta for over 20 years – and we know how to maximize compensation for your injuries and losses.
Don’t wait to call us at 404-446-9854 for a free, no-obligation consultation on your case. At Humprey & Ballard Law, we handle all types of personal injury claims, including:
With convenient offices in Lenox Center Tower, we make it simple to meet our attorneys face-to-face. We’ll review the details of your case at no cost, advise if you have grounds to pursue a claim, and discuss your legal options moving forward.
At Humprey & Ballard Law, every client matters. Our No Fee Guarantee means we only get paid if we win money for you. We won’t rest until you receive maximum compensation. All it takes is one call to 404-446-9854 to get started. You can also visit us online at https://hbinjurylawyers.com/Contact/ to request your free case evaluation today.
Don’t leave your family’s future to chance. The dedicated Atlanta personal injury lawyers at Humprey & Ballard Law will fight for you. Call 404-446-9854 now to schedule a free consultation. Let us help you get the compensation you deserve after your accident in Georgia.
