How do personal injury attorneys in Yuma County work on a contingency fee?
Personal injury attorneys typically work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if they win or settle a case on behalf of their clients. Here’s how it generally works:
Initial Consultation: The attorney will offer a free initial consultation to evaluate the case. They will discuss the details of the accident or incident that caused the injury, assess the strength of the case, and determine if there is a viable claim.
Contingency Fee Agreement: If the attorney believes the case has merit, they will propose a contingency fee agreement. This agreement outlines the terms of the attorney’s payment, stating that they will receive a percentage of the compensation awarded or obtained through a settlement.
Percentage of Recovery: The contingency fee percentage is typically agreed upon between the attorney and the client. The percentage can vary but is commonly around 33% to 40% of the total recovery. The attorney’s fee is contingent upon successfully resolving the case, so if there is no recovery, they do not receive a fee.
Costs and Expenses: While the attorney’s fee is contingent, the client is usually responsible for certain costs and expenses incurred during the legal process. These costs may include court filing fees, expert witness fees, medical records, and other relevant expenses. The client typically reimburses the attorney for these costs, whether or not the case is successful.
Legal Representation and Case Management: Once the attorney and client agree to the contingency fee arrangement, the attorney will begin working on the case. They will investigate the incident, gather evidence, interview witnesses, consult with experts if necessary, negotiate with insurance companies, and handle all legal aspects related to the claim.
Settlement or Trial: The attorney will aim to negotiate a fair settlement with the responsible party or their insurance company. If a settlement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to trial. In either situation, the attorney will represent the client’s best interests and advocate for maximum compensation.
Payment upon Successful Resolution: If the attorney successfully resolves the case through a settlement or trial verdict, they will receive their contingency fee from the compensation awarded. The attorney deducts their agreed-upon percentage from the total recovery and provides the remaining amount to the client.
It’s important to note that the specific details of contingency fee arrangements may vary between attorneys and jurisdictions. It’s advisable to discuss the terms and any potential additional costs with the attorney during the initial consultation to ensure a clear understanding of the agreement.