Call Today For Your Free Consultation
No Fee Unless We Win (941) 954-4000

Client’s Edge: Contingency Fee Agreements in Personal Injury Cases

October 7, 2023 Legal Team

Navigating the complexities of a personal injury case can be a daunting and expensive endeavor. From medical bills to legal fees, the financial burden can be overwhelming for injured individuals. This is where contingency fee agreements come into play, offering a lifeline to those seeking justice and compensation for their injuries. In this blog, we will define what a contingency fee agreement is and explain how it can be a significant advantage to clients, particularly in Florida, where the standard contingency fee structure is well-defined. We’ll also introduce Shapiro Delgado Hofmann, a law firm that goes the extra mile to provide clients with added benefits when it comes to fees and costs.

What is a Contingency Fee Agreement?

A contingency fee agreement is a payment arrangement between a client and their attorney in which the attorney’s fees are contingent upon the outcome of the case. In other words, the attorney’s fees are only paid if they succeed in obtaining compensation for the client. If the case is unsuccessful, the client does not owe the attorney any legal fees. .

Advantage #1: Access to Legal Representation Without Upfront Costs

One of the most significant advantages of a contingency fee agreement is that it allows individuals to access high-quality legal representation without any upfront costs. This is particularly beneficial for those who may not have the financial means to pay for legal services out of pocket. In Florida, where the standard contingency fee is 33% of the total settlement before filing a lawsuit and 40% after a lawsuit is filed, clients can pursue their claims without worrying about the financial strain.

Advantage #2: Motivated Attorneys Working Towards Your Success

When attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, their interests are closely aligned with those of their clients. This means that they are highly motivated to secure the best possible outcome for their clients. The better the client’s case performs, the more compensation the attorney receives. This motivates attorneys to work diligently, investigate thoroughly, and negotiate aggressively on behalf of their clients.

Advantage #3: Risk Mitigation

Personal injury cases can be unpredictable, and there is no guarantee of success. Contingency fee agreements help mitigate the risk for clients. If the case is unsuccessful, clients are not burdened with additional financial obligations. They can pursue their claims with confidence, knowing that they won’t face further financial hardship in the event of an unfavorable outcome.

Advantage #4: No Costs If No Recovery

While contingency fee agreements cover attorney’s fees, there are often other costs associated with pursuing a personal injury claim, such as court filing fees, expert witness fees, and investigative expenses. Here’s where Shapiro Delgado Hofmann sets itself apart from the rest. At Shapiro Delgado Hofmann, clients don’t even receive a bill for these costs if there is no successful recovery. This added benefit ensures that clients are not saddled with any financial burdens, making it an even more attractive option for those seeking legal representation.

Advantage #5: Level Playing Field

In personal injury cases, individuals often find themselves up against powerful insurance companies and well-funded defendants. Contingency fee agreements level the playing field by allowing injured individuals to access the same caliber of legal representation as the opposing party. This ensures that clients have a fair chance at obtaining just compensation for their injuries.

The Client Advantage

Contingency fee agreements are a lifeline for individuals seeking justice and compensation in personal injury cases. They provide access to legal representation without upfront costs, motivate attorneys to work diligently, mitigate financial risk for clients, and level the playing field against well-funded opponents. In Florida, where the standard contingency fee structure is 1/3rd of the total settlement before filing a lawsuit and 40% after a lawsuit is filed, this arrangement allows clients to pursue their claims with confidence.

Shapiro Delgado Hofmann goes a step further by not even sending clients a bill for costs if there is no successful recovery. This commitment to clients’ best interests ensures that injured individuals receive the legal representation they deserve without any financial burden. If you’re facing the aftermath of a personal injury and are concerned about the costs of pursuing your claim, consider a contingency fee agreement, and reach out to Shapiro | Delgado | Hofmann for experienced and compassionate legal support. Your road to justice and compensation doesn’t have to be financially daunting—with the right representation, it can be both accessible and fair. Our personal injury attorneys serve Sarasota and Bradenton.