Understanding Payment in Personal Injury Cases: What Is a Contingency Fee?

After an accident, medical bills begin to arrive, time off work adds up, and the idea of paying a lawyer can feel overwhelming. Many people worry they simply can’t afford legal help. That’s where contingency fees come in.

At Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo, most personal injury cases are handled on a contingency-fee basis. That means you don’t pay any upfront legal fees. Instead, your attorney is paid a percentage of the compensation recovered on your behalf through a settlement or court verdict. If there is no recovery, you do not owe an attorney’s fee.

Let’s say after a car accident caused by a distracted driver, you’re facing medical bills and time away from work, but you have no extra money for legal fees. With a contingency fee arrangement, you can hire an experienced personal injury attorney without paying anything upfront. Your attorney is only paid if compensation is recovered for you.

This fee structure levels the playing field. It allows injured individuals to take on large insurance companies without worrying about hourly billing or retainer fees. It also aligns your attorney’s interests with yours. Why? Your lawyer’s motivation is to get the best possible outcome because their payment depends on your success.

A contingency fee generally covers the time and resources necessary to investigate your claim, gather evidence, consult with experts, negotiate with insurers, and go to trial. The percentage is clearly outlined and accepted at the beginning of your case to prevent any unexpected developments later on.

At Cohen, Feeley, Altemose & Rambo, we believe justice shouldn’t depend on your financial situation. Our goal is to remove barriers and protect your rights throughout the legal process.