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For a costs question, identify what information changes the answer, including treatment status, proof custody, insurance posture, and filing windows.
Cost Guide
Court Filing Fees | Attorney Raffi Naljian
If your case goes to litigation, court filing fees and related costs become part of your case expenses. Attorney Raffi Naljian explains what these costs are, how much they typically run, and how they're handled in contingency fee arrangements. Understanding these costs helps you make informed decisions.
Wondering about litigation costs?
Raffi Naljian
California Personal Injury, Litigation & Criminal Defense Attorney
Raffi Garabed Naljian is an active California attorney listed under State Bar #238919. The State Bar profile lists personal injury, litigation, criminal law, and business law among his self-reported practice areas, and Naljian Law Offices describes a Glendale practice handling criminal defense and civil litigation, including personal injury matters.
View Full ProfileIs This the Right Attorney for Your Case?
Litigation costs can add up, but they're sometimes necessary to achieve fair compensation. Raffi Naljian discusses these costs upfront and helps you understand when litigation makes financial sense for your case. Also searched as: Rafi Nanaljian, Raffi Nalian, Rafi Naljian.
Topic preparation notes
Prepare the right information before you contact Raffi Naljian, Esq.
These notes explain what the issue may involve, which documents make the first review stronger, and when a direct consultation may be more useful than further browsing.
What to bring into intake
For deadline topics, the first review should include the incident date, defendant type, public-entity involvement, and any claim notices already received.
What to Do Next
- 1Ask your attorney about potential litigation costs
- 2Understand the difference between fees and costs
- 3Discuss how filing fees are handled
- 4Ask about cost responsibility if case loses
- 5Get estimates before litigation begins
- 6Understand when costs are deducted from recovery
- 7Review your fee agreement carefully
Evidence Checklist
- Fee agreement detailing cost handling
- Estimate of potential filing fees
- List of anticipated litigation costs
- Understanding of deposition costs
- Expert witness fee estimates
- Court reporter cost estimates
Understanding costs helps you decide.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not asking about costs before litigation
- Confusing attorney fees with case costs
- Not understanding cost responsibility
- Ignoring costs when evaluating settlements
- Not getting cost estimates upfront
- Forgetting costs reduce net recovery
How the Process Typically Works
1
Pre-Litigation
Discuss potential costs with attorney
2
Filing
Initial filing fee paid
3
Discovery
Deposition and document costs incurred
4
Trial Preparation
Expert and exhibit costs
5
Resolution
Costs deducted from recovery
Damages You May Be Able to Recover
- •Costs are typically reimbursed from recovery
- •Higher recovery may justify litigation costs
- •Cost-benefit analysis important
- •Some costs recoverable from defendant if you win
Frequently Asked Questions
What are typical court filing fees?
In California, filing a personal injury lawsuit costs approximately $435-$450 for the initial complaint, with additional fees for motions and other filings throughout the case.
Who pays for filing fees in contingency cases?
Typically, the attorney advances these costs, then reimbursement comes from your settlement or verdict. Ask about responsibility if the case is unsuccessful.
What other litigation costs should I expect?
Beyond filing fees: deposition costs ($300-$500+/hour for court reporters), expert witness fees, medical record costs, and potentially travel expenses.
Can I recover costs from the defendant?
If you win at trial, you may be entitled to recover some costs from the defendant. The court determines what costs are recoverable.
How do costs affect my settlement decision?
Costs reduce your net recovery. Sometimes accepting a settlement that avoids significant litigation costs is better than trial risk.
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Important Disclosures
Attorney Advertising. This website is designed for general information only. The information presented at this site should not be construed as formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. No attorney-client relationship is formed by viewing this website or submitting a contact form. Results vary based on the specific facts and circumstances of each case.