How Much Do Personal Injury Lawyers Make?
Understanding personal injury lawyer fees helps you budget for legal representation. The good news: most personal injury attorneys work on contingency, meaning you pay nothing unless you win.
Contingency Fee Structure Explained
The standard payment model in personal injury law:
- No upfront costs: You don't pay hourly or retainer fees
- Percentage of settlement: Lawyer takes a portion only if you win
- Risk-free: If you lose, you owe nothing for attorney fees
Typical Contingency Fee Percentages
- Pre-lawsuit settlement: 33% (one-third) is standard
- After lawsuit filed: 40% due to additional work
- Appeals: May increase to 45% in some cases
- Simple cases: Some lawyers offer 25% for straightforward matters
Example Calculation
If you receive a $100,000 settlement with a 33% fee:
- Attorney fee: $33,000
- Your portion: $67,000 (minus case expenses)
Additional Case Costs
Beyond attorney fees, cases may incur expenses:
- Court filing fees: $200-$500+
- Expert witnesses: $1,000-$10,000+
- Medical record retrieval: $50-$200 per provider
- Depositions: $500-$2,000+ each
- Accident reconstruction: $2,000-$10,000+
How Costs Are Handled
- Firm advances costs: Reputable firms pay upfront
- Deducted from settlement: Costs reimbursed at case end
- If you lose: Many firms absorb the costs
Why Contingency Fees Benefit You
- Access to legal help without upfront money
- Lawyer is motivated to maximize your settlement
- Levels the playing field against insurance companies
- No financial risk if your case is unsuccessful
Questions About Fees to Ask
- What is your contingency fee percentage?
- Does the percentage change if we go to trial?
- How are case expenses handled?
- Are there any costs I'll owe if we lose?
- Can I get the fee agreement in writing?