Many victims of accidents feel bombarded by the pressures of the legal scene. It is hard to know which decisions to make. Selecting a good lawyer is an important step. However, it is first important to understand the associated fees.
Attorneys fees are charged in three ways: contingent, flat, or hourly. For most personal injury cases, contingent fees are utilized. This means no fees will be charged for services unless money is recovered for damages. The amount of money the attorney is paid for the case is a percentage of the judgment awarded. A typical percentage is between 30 and 50 percent. With this system, any person, regardless of their financial background, can access the judicial system.
Make sure you are aware of how the contingent fee will be calculated. Contingent fees normally do not cover extra expenses such as court costs. Therefore, ask the attorney if additional expenses will deducted from the settlement or not.
Flat fees can also be used. They do not cover additional expenses such as phone calls or photocopies, so make sure to investigate the costs thoroughly.
Hourly rates are another fee option. Be aware that there may be differing hourly rates for hours spent in court versus hours spent preparing the case.
Ask for a written agreement of the payment terms before you start working with an attorney.
If you or a loved one has been injured and is in need of legal assistance, contact the Minneapolis personal injury lawyers of Terry, Slane & Ruohonen P.L.L.C. by calling 612-362-0000 today.
