It depends on the firm. At Boland Aarab we only collect a fee if we have worked for it. And never on money you could have collected without our help.
The percentage that personal injury lawyers take, commonly known as the contingency fee, typically ranges from 20% to 40% of the total compensation awarded to the client. However, the exact percentage can vary based on factors such as the complexity of the case, the stage at which it is resolved (whether it settles before trial or proceeds to court), and the specific agreement reached between the attorney and the client.
Here’s a breakdown of the typical contingency fee structure:
- Standard Range: The standard contingency fee often falls between 33.3% to 40%. This means that if the attorney secures a settlement or judgment for the client, they would receive that percentage of the total amount awarded.
- Negotiation and Complexity: In less complex cases or situations where a settlement is reached without going to trial, the contingency fee may be on the lower end of the scale. For more complex cases that require extensive litigation, negotiation, or court proceedings, the fee may lean toward the higher end.
- Expenses: In addition to the contingency fee, clients should discuss how case-related expenses will be handled. Some attorneys deduct these costs (e.g., filing fees, expert witness fees) from the final settlement or judgment, while others may require clients to cover these expenses separately. At Boland Aarab we usually cover those expenses.
- Initial Consultation: Many personal injury attorneys offer free initial consultations to assess the case’s viability. During this consultation, the attorney may discuss the potential contingency fee, providing transparency to the client.
It’s crucial for clients to have a clear understanding of the fee structure and any associated costs before entering into a representation agreement with a personal injury lawyer.
