How Much Does a Personal Injury Lawyer Cost?

Most lawyers charge by the hour and often require a retainer, which can range anywhere from $5,000 to $50,000 just to reserve their time.

Personal injury cases work differently:

They are almost always handled on a contingency fee basis, which means the client pays nothing upfront. The attorney’s fee is contingent upon successfully recovering compensation. If the case does not result in any recovery, the client owes no attorney fees, making it possible for anyone—regardless of financial situation—to access quality legal representation.

Throughout the life of a personal injury case, there are often additional expenses, such as filing fees, hiring expert witnesses, obtaining medical records, or covering other administrative costs. These are typically advanced by the law firm on the client’s behalf. If the case results in a recovery, the firm is reimbursed from the settlement or award. If there is no recovery, the firm absorbs these costs, which reduces financial risk for the client.

One major advantage of a contingency fee arrangement is that it aligns the interests of the attorney and the client. Both parties benefit from a higher settlement or award, which encourages the attorney to work diligently and maximize the client’s recovery. Contingency fees also make legal representation accessible to individuals who might otherwise be unable to afford it, since payment comes only from the recovery at the conclusion of the case.