Using Contingency Fee Arrangements For Your Personal Injury Case

Posted on: 7 March 2019

We've probably all heard the phrase, "No fees unless you win your case," but the way contingency fees work is a bit more complicated than that. Using this method of attaining professional legal help is likely the least expensive way to file a personal injury suit. You need to know what you are agreeing to before you sign the agreement, however. Read on to learn the scoop on using a contingency fee method to get your personal injury case off the ground and running quickly.

The Value of Your Case

The dollar amount you can be compensated for varies a great deal. It's helpful to understand how much you might get because of the way your attorney is paid. If the attorney determines that your injuries are too minor and your damages too inexpensive, you might be advised to go through the insurance company to be paid what you are owed for medical expenses and car repairs. The value of a case is determined by evaluating factors like the total dollar amount of your medical expenses (regardless of who is paying the bills) and your other expenses.

The Percentage Point

A contingency fee is based on a percentage of your winnings. Those winnings might come from a settlement or might come from a court judgment. The percentage fee is negotiable, but most attorneys set fees based on their experience, their reputation, local practices, and the complexity of your case. In some instances, if your case has to be litigated in court, additional costs may occur.

A Winnable Case

When you meet with the personal injury attorney for the first time, be prepared. Bring as much information as you can about the case with you to the meeting so that the attorney can review the facts of the case. They will look at the accident report, photos, witness information, insurance information, and your summary of the case in order to make a decision about representing you. Look at the situation from the attorney's point of view: a case that as has no chance of success is a waste of their time. Here are the factors that the attorney is reviewing when making a decision:

1. Is the other driver clearly at fault?

2. How much insurance does the other driver have?

3. Are you severely injured and are your medical bills very high?

4. Do you have a lot of evidence on your side?

5. Is there a chance you might be counter-sued by the other driver?

If the attorney agrees to represent you, be sure to review the contingency fee agreement carefully and note any costs not covered by the agreement. Speak to an auto accident attorney to learn more.

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