Many automobile accident injury victims have never needed legal representation before, and frequently have questions about paying their attorney for the services he provides. In vehicle accident cases, attorneys typically receive contingency fees. This means that your attorney agrees to accept a fixed percentage of either the settlement amount, or the amount awarded at trial. You’ll only pay this contingency fee if your attorney succeeds in winning your case. Contingency fee arrangements are generally used in cases involving physical harm to the plaintiff, such as personal injury or workers’ compensation cases. They are commonly associated with:
- Medical malpractice claims
- Automobile accident claims
- Other personal injury cases
How Contingency Fees Are Paid
In a contingency fee arrangement, attorney’s fees are deducted from the final settlement, or from the amount awarded at trial. Your attorney will also typically deduct any expenses incurred while representing you, including the costs associated with:
- Obtaining medical records
- Hiring investigators
- Obtaining expert witnesses
- Filing court documents
- Obtaining police reports
- Holding depositions
- Obtaining trial exhibits
- Disbursement of your settlement or trial award
The proceeds from your settlement or trial award are typically sent to your attorney, and he will deduct his legal fees from the total amount. Your attorney is also legally obligated to withhold the funds needed to pay off any medical liens prior to disbursing any money to you. If you need help paying for the medical care resulting from your injuries, your attorney may offer your treatment provider a letter of protection. This is a binding contract between your attorney and your hospital or doctor, guaranteeing payment out of your settlement funds or trial award. Once all of these obligations have been satisfied, you will receive the balance of the proceeds.
You Need an Attorney
Contingency fee arrangements were created to ensure that injury victims receive the legal representation they need, regardless of their financial status. If you’ve been injured in a vehicle accident, protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve. Contact the Law Office of Ben Crittenden, P.C., by clicking the Live Chat button on this page.
Related Links:
- How Much a Personal Injury Attorney May Cost
- Should I Contact an Automobile Accident Attorney After a Car Accident?
- Should I Talk To a Lawyer After a Car Accident?
- Representing Yourself After a Car Accident
- How a Prior Injury Can Affect Your Current Claim
- Types of Compensation Available for a Traffic Accident