Personal injury lawyers in Missouri and throughout the country earn money by reaching settlements or winning verdicts for their clients. They charge their clients a contingency fee, which allows them to collect a percentage of the client’s ultimate compensation.
What Is a Contingency Fee?
A contingency fee is contingent upon the outcome of the case. The attorney only earns their fee if they successfully recover compensation for their client. The attorney doesn’t get paid unless the client does.
Contingency fees are usually a percentage of the client’s settlement or verdict award. Typically, personal injury lawyers charge between 33% and 40%. Attorneys may charge more if the case is more complex, if it goes to trial, or if the lawyer has significant experience.
The attorney should explain their contingency fee policy before they are officially hired. Many attorneys also explain their contingency fee in writing in a retainer agreement.
Is It Worth It To Hire a Personal Injury Attorney?
Hiring a personal injury attorney has several benefits for personal injury victims.
The attorney can negotiate with the insurance company and their legal team on your behalf, and they’ll show the insurance company you’re serious about seeking full compensation. A personal injury lawyer also gathers evidence and files documents on your behalf so that you can focus on your recovery.
Further, contingency fees are a set percentage of your compensation, so you’ll never be stuck with a legal bill you can’t pay. If your case fails, you won’t have to pay attorney’s fees.
Contingency fees may seem high, but they account for the risk an attorney takes by working on a case they may not get paid for. At the same time, they allow an injured party to retain legal representation without paying any upfront fees. An experienced attorney can also increase the value of your case dramatically.
Are There Other Expenses in Personal Injury Cases?
Legal fees are not the only expenses associated with personal injury cases. There may be medical liens and legal costs, too.
Medical liens may arise if you seek medical care after a car accident. Providers may assert a lien on future personal injury settlements to ensure they are paid for their services.
Legal costs are distinct from the attorney’s legal fees. They may include administrative costs, court filing fees, or expert witness fees. Not all attorneys handle these expenses the same, so check with your lawyer to see how they will work in your case.
How Are Contingency Fees Paid in Kansas City, MO?
Settlement checks are usually sent to the attorney. Your attorney will pay their legal fees, reimburse costs, and pay off any medical liens from the settlement amount. Once any outstanding debts are paid, the attorney will send the remainder to the client.
In addition, the insurance company can pay the compensation as a lump sum or as a structured settlement, where payments are made monthly over a certain period. A lump sum is the most common way personal injury claims are paid.
Contact The Personal Injury Law Firm of Dickerson Oxton in Kansas City, MO Today
If you were injured in an accident someone else caused in Kansas City, MO, you could recover compensation for your injuries and losses. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you fight for compensation. Our experienced attorneys work for a contingency fee, so we can begin work on your case at no upfront costs to you.
For more information, contact the Kansas City, MO personal injury law firm of Dickerson Oxton to schedule a free initial consultation.
We serve in Jackson County and its surrounding areas across Missouri:
Dickerson Oxton – Kansas City Office
1100 Main St #2550, Kansas City, MO 64105
(816) 268 1960
Hours: Monday to Friday,
from 9 am – 5 pm