Attorney Fees

Many prospective clients have apprehension about working with an attorney because of the unpredictability and uncertainty of the fee structure. Many feel that they would not be able to afford the services. As a result, some may either try to represent themselves or make the wrong legal choices.

By working with an experienced, trusted attorney, you will receive personalized service that pays dividends in the end. However, investing in the best can be costly – at least, that is the assumption. 

Learn more about how attorney fees work and what to expect when retaining a lawyer for your case. Here is the truth behind attorney fees and high-quality legal services.

How Much Are Attorney Fees?

Many variables can affect how much an attorney charges. While there is no set algorithm, understanding these factors can help anticipate the type of fees and how much you could be looking to spend for the case. To determine what a lawyer’s services will cost, consider these factors:

• type of the case
• the complexity of the type of work and time that will need to be invested
• level of experience needed to win

For the type of case, typically more complex issues will warrant higher attorney fees. Factors such as serious injury accidents including brain or spine injuries will be more challenging. It is also a reason why a lawyer charges higher fees. An occurrence like a bicycle accident may warrant a lower fee since it is not as complex and does not involve as many parties. 

It is important to keep in mind, however, that higher attorney fees may lead to a higher settlement for the client. Sometimes paying these higher fees is necessary to succeed in these more complicated cases.

An experienced attorney will often charge more than someone newer in the field since they are better versed in how to handle the case. However, that is not to say that a newer attorney should be avoided. Many that are new to the legal field are eager to put their best work in and develop quality relationships with their clients. Their strong work ethic may make up for their fewer years on the job. 

Different Types of Attorney Fees

The amount you will end up paying to a lawyer is largely dependent on the fee structure. Different types include contingency fees, hourly fees, upfront costs, and fee changes. 

Contingency Fees

Contingency fees are what a lawyer receives only if they win the case for their client. Therefore, if the case is not successful, the client should not need to pay fees. This type of structure can be very desirable for a client that has a weaker case and is unsure if they will win.

Typically in these arrangements, the lawyer will agree to accept a fixed percentage which they will collect only from the total amount of what the client is awarded. For example, if the fixed percentage is 20% $50,000, the client will receive $40,000, and the attorney will receive $10,000.

Hourly Fees

Hourly fees will differ, as the lawyer charges a set rate for every hour that they work with the case. Regardless of the outcome, the client will pay this agreed-upon amount for all of the hours that the attorney spends. Hourly fees can depend on the law firm’s specialty and the attorney’s years of expertise.

Upfront Costs

Upfront costs vary from firm to firm, but there is sometimes a lump sum that is paid before the attorney begins working on the case. The benefit of this arrangement is that both the client and lawyer agree on an appropriate amount before the work is done. Rather than getting billed for the unexpected time the attorney puts into the case, the flat fee includes all necessary legal services.

Fee Changes

Fee changes can occur if different circumstances arise during the lawyer’s work with the case. An example of this would be increased fees if the case goes to trial. This is applied because a case that escalates requires more time invested and overall work. This is something that your attorney should discuss with you through the development of the case. 

Retainer Fees

A retainer is a contract between an attorney and a client. It states the agreement to take on a case, the service time frame, and other associated fees. This structure is notable because the client pays the established fees before the work begins. 

Litigation Costs

This term encompasses all of the expenses during a lawsuit. Sometimes these costs will be separate from predetermined attorney’s fees. Some additional expenses are for case preparation. For example, this can include paying for an expert witness to deliver a credible testimony.

For Additional Questions

Navigating the legal world can be challenging and stressful for those who are not familiar with it. At Alpha Accident Lawyers, we can discuss your case and help guide you.

Whether you or a loved one has struggled with anything from a car accident, bike accident, or wrongful death, we are here to advocate and help you in the best ways they can.
Give us a call today to learn about your options and discuss attorney fees. We offer a no-risk consultation and are available to assist 24 hours a day, seven days a week.