How Personal Injury Lawyers Get Paid: Understanding Contingency Fees

April 21, 2025

Worried About Paying a Lawyer Out of Pocket? Don’t Be.

One of the biggest reasons people don’t call a lawyer after an accident is fear of the cost.
But here’s the good news: you don’t pay anything up front.

In personal injury law, we work on a contingency fee basis — meaning we only get paid if you win. Let me explain how it works.

What Is a Contingency Fee?

A contingency fee means:

  • You don’t pay hourly
  • You don’t pay a retainer
  • Your lawyer only gets paid if they recover money for you

What’s Included in That Percentage?

✅ Legal advice
✅ Negotiating with insurance
✅ Gathering evidence and building your case
✅ Assisting with property damage
✅ Filing your lawsuit if needed
✅ Representing you in court
✅ Handling liens and medical bills

It’s an all-in investment — and your lawyer is just as motivated as you are to get the best result.

What About Case Costs?

In addition to the contingency fee, there may be case expenses, such as:

  • Medical records
  • Filing fees
  • Expert witnesses
  • Deposition transcripts

These costs are usually fronted by your attorney and reimbursed from your settlement. Your fee agreement should spell out exactly how this works — and I always walk clients through it as clearly as needed.

Why Contingency Fees Are Actually a Good Thing

No upfront risk for you
You only pay if you get paid
Your lawyer has skin in the game
It opens access to justice

You’re hiring a lawyer with the incentive to win big, not bill hours.

Always Ask These Questions Before You Sign:

  1. What’s the percentage if we settle vs. go to trial?
  2. Are case costs included or separate?
  3. Do I still owe anything if we don’t win?
  4. Can I see a copy of the agreement in writing?

Transparency is key — and if your lawyer isn’t upfront, walk away.

If You Don’t Win, You Don’t Pay

📞 Still unsure? Call Lawyer Gigi for a free consultation.
I’ll explain everything in clear terms — no pressure, no confusion, and no upfront cost. Ever.

The contents of this website are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Any testimonial or endorsement on this website does not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your legal matter. View the full Disclaimer.

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