One of the most significant barriers to hiring an attorney for many people is the price. Many individuals struggle to get by day-to-day, and when they become injured or terminated, they are particularly vulnerable to financial troubles. Contingent fee agreements allow anyone to hire an attorney with no money up-front. The attorney only gets their fees paid if the client wins or settles their case. If you are looking to hire an attorney, you will want to be well-versed on contingent fee agreements.
How Does a Contingent Fee Agreement Work?
Whenever you go in for your initial consultation, you will want to talk to your attorney about payment for their attorney’s fees. In some instances, like personal injury or employment cases, attorneys will accept a case on a contingent basis. This means the attorney will discuss a fixed percentage fee they will receive if you win your case. Generally, this is 25-50% of the amount you recover. If you don’t win anything in your case, then you will not be required to pay your attorney.
How Can an Attorney Afford to Work for Free?
The key when it comes to a contingency fee agreement is the belief that the client has a good case. When an attorney accepts a case on contingency, it is because they believe that you were wronged and had a good enough case to receive compensation. Your attorney may have to front expenses for court fees, filing fees, witness fees, and more. They will be working countless hours with no promise to get paid, other than the fact that they believe strongly in your case. If an attorney accepts your case on contingency, it is a risk, but they are willing to advocate for you.
How Do I Find an Attorney Who Has a Contingency Fee Agreement?
Before you hire an attorney, you will discuss payment at length. How and when your attorney will be paid will be listed in your client agreement. If you have any questions about contingency fees and how it may apply, talk to your attorney. They should be happy to explain how payment will work and what fixed percentage applies in your case.
Do you have a personal injury case, a wrongful termination case, or a sexual harassment case, but cannot afford an attorney? Contact the Law Offices of Tanya Gomerman and get the help you deserve. Call (415) 545-8608 to schedule a FREE attorney consultation.