Most PI attorneys work on contingency — meaning you pay nothing upfront and nothing unless you win. But there are costs you should understand before signing. This free guide breaks it all down.
See the Full Cost Breakdown →Free case review. No fees unless you win.
A contingency fee means your attorney only gets paid if you win your case or reach a settlement. The standard rate is 33% of your recovery before trial and up to 40% if the case goes to trial. If you don't win, you owe nothing in attorney fees.
If your case settles before a lawsuit is filed. Many cases resolve at this stage.
After a lawsuit is filed but before trial. Discovery and depositions increase costs.
If your case goes to a jury trial. Higher fee reflects the additional work and risk.
Rare, but if the case is appealed, attorneys may charge a higher percentage.
Even with a contingency arrangement, there are case expenses your attorney advances. These are deducted from your settlement — understand them before you sign.
Hospitals and providers charge for copies of your medical records and billing summaries.
Required to file a lawsuit. Varies by state and court jurisdiction.
Medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, economists — major cost in complex cases.
Court reporter fees, videographer, transcript costs for depositions of witnesses.
Copies of official reports needed to establish fault and document the incident.
Cost to formally serve legal documents to defendants and witnesses.
Total legal costs vary widely based on the type of personal injury case and complexity.
Most common PI case. Costs depend on severity of injuries and whether liability is disputed.
Complex cases involving federal regulations, multiple defendants, and large insurance policies.
Highest cost PI cases. Multiple expert witnesses required to prove standard of care violations.
Premises liability cases. Cost depends on injury severity and property owner's insurance.
Often involves workers' comp plus third-party claims. OSHA violations can strengthen your case.
Specialized cases with trust fund claims. Many firms handle all costs with no upfront payment.
Find out what your case may be worth — and what it will cost — with a free, no-obligation consultation from a qualified personal injury attorney in your area.
Get Your Free Evaluation →No. Almost all personal injury attorneys work on contingency, meaning they only get paid from your settlement or verdict. You owe nothing if you don't win.
If your attorney works on contingency, you typically owe nothing in attorney fees. However, review your agreement carefully — some contracts require you to reimburse case expenses (medical records, filing fees) even if you lose.
The fee is a percentage of your total recovery. For example, if you settle for $100,000 with a 33% contingency fee, your attorney receives $33,000. Case costs are deducted separately — either before or after the fee, depending on your agreement.
Yes. Contingency fees are negotiable. If your case is strong with clear liability and significant damages, you may be able to negotiate a lower percentage. Always discuss fees before signing.
Attorney fees are the contingency percentage your lawyer earns. Case costs are the actual expenses of pursuing your claim — filing fees, expert witnesses, medical records, etc. Both come out of your settlement, but they're separate line items.
Simple car accident cases may settle in 3-9 months. Complex litigation (medical malpractice, truck accidents) can take 1-3 years. Longer cases typically mean higher total costs but potentially larger settlements.