How much will I have to pay my lawyer if I win my case?

If you win your case, it depends on the type of agreement you have with your attorney. Generally speaking, personal injury lawyers will work on a “contingency fee” basis, which means that they will be paid a percentage of the recovery. The amount of the fee is set at the start of the case and could range anywhere from 33%-40% of the total recovery. If you decide to settle your case, your attorney will most likely take their fee from the settlement proceeds. Other options include flat fee agreements and retainer fees. Flat fee agreements are paid upfront and typically cover the entire case, from start to finish. On the other hand, retainer fees are paid in advance and are used to cover the attorney’s hourly rates. This type of agreement is usually used if the case is expected to require extensive litigation or negotiations. In California, the primary rule is that contingency fees must be reasonable when compared to the services provided. This means that your attorney should NOT charge you more than 40% of the total recovery. If they do, they could be violating the state’s ethical rules, and you should contact the appropriate licensing board and/or file a complaint. Finally, keep in mind that personal injury lawyers may also charge you for costs related to your case, such as filing fees, court costs, expert witness fees, and other out-of-pocket expenses. These costs are generally paid upfront, regardless of the outcome of the case.

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How much will I have to pay my lawyer if I win my case?

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