Mark Casto | April 4, 2025 | Personal Injury Lawyer Near Columbus Georgia
Many personal injury victims worry about the cost of hiring a personal injury lawyer after an accident. Fortunately, most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, allowing you or a loved one to pursue justice without paying upfront fees. Learn more here.
What Is A Contingency Fee?
Contingency fees allow lawyers to represent clients without requiring upfront payment. Instead, lawyers earn a percentage of the compensation awarded if the case is successful. This allows victims to work with experienced personal injury without any financial concerns, which is invaluable if you are facing injuries, lost wages, or pain and suffering.
When Are Contingency Fees Paid?
Generally, contingency fees are deducted from a settlement or judgment only after the case is over. This means you do not owe attorney fees if your lawyer does not secure a negotiated settlement or favorable verdict in court. However, you may be responsible for some litigation expenses. These costs may include:
- Court filing fees
- Service of process fees
- Expert witness fees
- Medical record retrieval costs
- Copying fees
- Postage fees
- Other litigation expenses
Your personal injury lawyer will explain all costs you may be responsible for and how they will be paid. You should expect to receive a written fee agreement that carefully spells out the terms of representation and potential expenses, as Georgia Court Rules require. Knowing what to expect can help avoid surprises later.
Typical Contingency Fee Percentage
The percentage a lawyer takes from a settlement or court award can vary. Contingency fees typically range from 33 to 40 percent of the total settlement or court award. The percentage may vary based on factors such as:
- The complexity of the case
- The stage at which the case is resolved
- Whether the case goes to trial
Understanding how contingency fees work helps clients plan for legal representation costs. By discussing the fee structure with their lawyer upfront, clients can make informed decisions about pursuing their claims.
What Happens if the Case Is Lost?
One of the biggest concerns for clients is what happens if their case is unsuccessful. Fortunately, in most situations, clients do not have to pay attorney fees if they do not win their case. However, clients should carefully review their agreement to understand their responsibility for case-related expenses.
Advantages of Contingency Fees in Columbus Personal Injury Cases
The contingency fee provides many benefits for personal injury victims. It makes legal services accessible so you and your family will not need to pay hourly or upfront fees to pursue a case. It also gives lawyers a financial incentive to work their hardest and recover maximum compensation on your behalf since it directly impacts what they earn.
You get access to an experienced personal injury team that may otherwise have been too expensive to afford while facing medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses. With little financial burden upfront, you can focus on your recovery while your lawyer fights for your rights.
Contact the Columbus Personal Injury Lawyers at Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm Today
If you were injured in an accident in Columbus, GA, and need legal help, contact our Columbus personal injury lawyers at Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm to schedule a free case review today.
Mark Casto Personal Injury Law Firm
233 12th St #808
Columbus, GA 31901
(706) 940-4030
