Educational Use Only: Actual fee agreements vary by attorney and jurisdiction. Always get your fee agreement in writing before signing. Some states cap contingency fees.
Most PI attorneys charge 33% before filing suit, 40% after, and up to 45% at trial
Health insurance, Medicare/Medicaid, or hospital liens that must be repaid from settlement
Filing fees, expert witnesses, deposition costs, investigation โ€” deducted from settlement
Gross Settlement
Attorney Fee
Medical Liens / Subrogation
Case Costs & Expenses
Your Net Payout

Understanding Contingency Fees

A contingency fee means your attorney only gets paid if you win. If you lose, you owe no attorney fee โ€” though you may still owe case costs depending on your agreement.

The standard fee is 33.3% if the case settles before a lawsuit is filed, rising to 40% after filing and up to 45% if the case goes to trial.

Medical liens reduce your payout significantly. Always ask your attorney about negotiating lien reductions โ€” many hospitals and health insurers will accept less than their original claim.

Contingency fee vs. hourly fee โ€” which is better for your case? โ†’