Accidents can change an entire life in a matter of seconds. Whether it is a car collision, a slip and fall case, or a work injury, the post-accident process will be difficult. A majority of victims are burdened with many problems, including hospital bills, lost wages, and the stress of recuperation.
If you have been in an accident, it’s crucial to immediately consult a lawyer. The personal injury lawyers at Crandall & Pera Law are a great example of ideal lawyers. The firm has gotten over 250 five-star reviews and secured over $100 million in compensation. Many victims hesitate to hire lawyers, thinking about the cost. What they don’t know is the existence of the contingency fee system.
With the contingency fee system, accident victims can access quality legal representation without upfront costs. This blog post discusses how it works and why it is often a game-changer for those seeking justice.
What is a Contingency Fee Arrangement?
A contingency fee agreement means that the attorney is paid only for the results obtained in your case. The fee is a share of the settlement or court award and does not include an hourly rate or any upfront fees. In case of failure, the client does not need to pay anything for the time and effort of an attorney.
How Does It Work?
1. Initial consultation: Usually free
2. Signing the agreement: You agree on a percentage for the lawyer in case of success.
3. Case Preparation: There are no direct costs as the lawyer works on your case.
4. Resolution: In case you win, the attorney will take a fee from your settlement.
5. No win, no fee: In case of an unsuccessful case, generally, no attorney fees are owed.
Advantages for Accident Victims
Access to Justice
This is the greatest advantage: it opens the courthouse doors for all people, regardless of their financial capability. You never have to dig into your pockets to hire a competent attorney.
No Upfront Costs
In a time when you might be out of work and facing medical bills, not having to pay legal fees upfront is a huge relief.
Aligned Interests
Your attorney has an interest in achieving the best possible result because the attorney only gets paid when you have a successful outcome.
No Financial Risk
If your case isn’t successful, you aren’t stuck with a huge legal bill on top of your other concerns.
Expert Representation
Contingency fees allow you to retain experienced lawyers whom you otherwise could not afford within your price range.
Peace of Mind
You can focus on recovery, knowing that legal matters are put in the hands of experts who actually believe in your case.
Questions to Ask Your Lawyer
Before agreeing to a contingency fee arrangement, ask:
1. What exact percentage will you charge?
2. Will the fees change if we go on trial?
3. Who pays for case-related expenses?
4. What happens if we lose the case?
5. Will you provide references from clients in the past?
Conclusion
The contingency fee agreement levels the playing field for the accident victim. Now, people are going to be able to get their justice without having to worry about huge legal bills that might keep them from even trying. It isn’t perfect, but for many, it will mean the difference between fair compensation and being left to deal with an accident on one’s own.
Keep in mind that every case is different. If you have become a victim of an accident, do not be held back by the thought of front-end costs for litigation from contacting an attorney for the purposes of reviewing your potential case. Most attorneys offer a free consultation wherein you can discuss your case and the possible contingency fee arrangement involved. By having the right attorney on your side and being fully informed about the contingency fee system, you will be able to focus on the most important issues: your recovery and fighting for compensation.
