One of the biggest concerns many people have after experiencing an injury in an accident is how much hiring a personal injury lawyer will cost. It’s a completely understandable concern. You’ve likely got medical bills piling up, time off work to consider, and financial stress looming overhead. The idea of adding legal fees to this burden can seem daunting.
The good news is that in Long Island—and generally across New York State—personal injury lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis. But what exactly does that mean, and what other costs might you need to consider? Let’s dive into the details to clear up any confusion.
A contingency fee is the most common payment structure used by personal injury attorneys. It simply means that your attorney’s fees are contingent on winning your case. If you don’t win, you don’t pay any attorney’s fees.
Typically, contingency fees in Long Island range between 33% to 40% of the settlement or court award, with 33% being the most common figure. This fee is agreed upon before your attorney begins representing you, ensuring transparency from the very start.
Contingency fees level the playing field, allowing anyone injured due to someone else’s negligence to get quality legal representation without having to pay upfront. It aligns your lawyer’s interests with yours, motivating them to maximize your compensation because their payment directly depends on the outcome of your case.
While attorney fees are often the main consideration, there are other expenses associated with personal injury cases you should be aware of:
Typically, law firms will cover these costs upfront and deduct them from your settlement or court award at the conclusion of your case. If your case is unsuccessful, some law firms absorb these costs entirely, while others might expect reimbursement. It’s crucial to clarify these details with your attorney before signing any agreements.
The contingency fee model provides significant benefits, especially for injured parties:
When faced with legal fees, you might wonder if hiring a lawyer is worth the expense. Statistics consistently show that individuals who hire experienced personal injury attorneys receive significantly higher settlements or awards than those who attempt to handle cases alone. This means the increased compensation typically far outweighs the contingency fees.
Your attorney not only negotiates aggressively with insurance companies but also guides you through complex legal procedures, handles all communication and documentation, and helps alleviate the stress of pursuing a claim during your recovery.
When hiring a personal injury attorney on Long Island, transparency about fees and expenses is essential. A reputable lawyer will openly discuss potential costs, answer your questions clearly, and provide a straightforward explanation of their contingency fee agreement.
At Palermo Law, for instance, we pride ourselves on clear communication and will always return our clients calls within 24 hours. We always outline our fee structures upfront and ensure clients understand exactly how costs are handled.
At Palermo Law, we’ve spent over three decades serving the Long Island community, securing substantial settlements and verdicts for our clients. Our dedication goes beyond winning cases—we’re committed to providing compassionate, transparent, and highly personalized service.
We never charge upfront fees. Instead, we focus entirely on achieving the best possible outcome for your case. Our initial consultations are always free, giving you peace of mind and clarity about your legal options without any financial risk.
If you’ve been injured on Long Island and have questions about costs, potential compensation, or anything related to your personal injury claim, we’re here to help.
Contact Palermo Law today for your free, no-obligation consultation. Let our experience guide you toward the compensation and justice you deserve.