Personal injury cases encompass everything from car collisions and slip and fall injuries to product liability and medical malpractice. The cost of building these cases can vary significantly.

Still, most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis to allow the injured and their families to recover damages without increasing their financial stress. The San Bernardino personal injury lawyers at LA Century Law can help you understand how attorney fees apply to your case.

How Do Personal Injury Lawyer Fees in California Work?

Operating on a contingency fee basis means that instead of charging clients an hourly fee, lawyers take a percentage of any personal injury settlement or award their client receives. The fee compensates them for their time, expertise and costs incurred during the legal process.

The specific percentage that lawyers take for personal injury cases varies but averages between 33% and 40% in most personal injury cases in California. For example, if a client receives a settlement of $100,000, the lawyer’s fee, at 33%, would be $33,000. The remaining $67,000 goes to the client.

Several factors can influence the exact percentage. The complexity of the case, the potential risk involved and the stage at which the case resolves can all impact the fee. Some lawyers charge a sliding scale fee, where the percentage might be lower if the case settles early and higher if it proceeds to trial. Note that most personal injury claims are settled without going to trial.

Clients need to understand the fee arrangement before hiring a lawyer. This ensures transparency and avoids any surprises later on. Furthermore, if your attorney is unable to win a settlement or award, you typically owe nothing.

What Do the Fees of a Personal Injury Case Cover?

The fees from a personal injury case compensate the attorney for a range of services and expenditures associated with championing your claim. This includes the attorney’s legal expertise and experience, which are paramount for understanding the nuances of the laws governing your specific type of claim and adeptly navigating the legal system. The fees also address the investigative efforts essential for building a solid case. This can encompass everything from gathering evidence to hiring expert witnesses and conducting detailed depositions.

These personal injury lawyer fees in California also incorporate the administrative and operational costs intrinsic to any legal practice. This covers office overhead costs, staff salaries and other routine expenses that arise during representation. It also considers court-related expenses. Filing lawsuits, making court appearances and other related fees are all part of the legal journey.

Is it worth hiring a personal injury attorney? The severity of your injuries, the nature of your claim and the evidence available in your case will all impact the cost of damages and value of your claim. Cases with substantial evidence and clear fault determination typically take less time and resources to conclude, but having an attorney ensures you adequately value your losses.

How can you afford a personal injury attorney?

Affording a personal injury attorney is often more accessible than many realize. Your attorney will tell you upfront if you have a strong case for compensation. The contingency fee arrangement allows clients to obtain legal representation without immediate financial burden. If the attorney does not win the case, the client can typically walk away without a heavy financial burden, and most personal injury attorneys will not take a case without confidence that they can win.

What Are the Benefits of Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney?

If you suffered an injury due to someone else’s negligence, you would likely benefit from hiring an attorney to handle your claim. Personal injury lawyer fees may make you hesitate, but these professionals can often recover significantly larger settlements than you could on your own.

Consider the ways a lawyer will contribute to your case:

• They understand the intricacies of the legal system and can navigate the complexities of your claim more efficiently.
• An attorney can assess the full extent of damages, ensuring you do not settle for less than you deserve.
• Attorneys can skillfully negotiate with insurance companies, increasing the chances of a favorable settlement.
• If the insurer refuses to offer a fair settlement, an attorney will represent you in court, advocating for your best interests.
• Personal injury attorneys offer compassionate support along with the objective professionalism you need.

The initial consultation is always free. Even if you do not ultimately need legal representation, you can walk away from your case evaluation with a better understanding of your legal options and the peace of mind from having someone address your questions.

Speak With a Personal Injury Attorney Today

In the aftermath of a personal injury caused by another person or party, there is no time too soon to contact a personal injury attorney to learn more about your options for recovering damages. Find out your personal injury lawyer’s fee structure at a consultation.

At LA Century Law, we believe you have the right to experienced legal representation to help you hold the at-fault party in your case responsible for their actions and the damage they caused. Contact us in San Bernardino, California by phone or using our online form to schedule your free consultation today. We will discuss the fee structure upfront so you can move forward without stress.