There’s a relatively common question in the general public about whether lawyers still receive payment if they lose your case – especially in personal injury claims. This question often arises because many people worry about unexpected bills or court costs while they’re also trying to recover from an accident.
Whether or not an attorney charges you if they fail to secure compensation depends on the fee arrangement you and your lawyer agree upon. However, almost all personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they do not receive payment for their work unless they win compensation for you.
Common Fee Arrangements for Lawyers
Maryland attorneys, like those in other states, often use a range of fee structures. These are some of the most common:
- Hourly rates
- Flat fees
- Contingency fees
- Mixed or hybrid fees
- Retainers
- Pro bono services
Hourly rates and flat fees can mean you pay for the lawyer’s time and expertise regardless of how your case turns out. On the other hand, contingency fees are usually linked to whether you recover any compensation. Each arrangement has its advantages, so it’s best to discuss them in detail before you sign any agreement.
Contingency fees are especially common in personal injury cases, allowing people with limited resources to hire quality legal representation without paying large sums in advance. Still, if your attorney loses your case under a contingency fee agreement, you might not owe attorney’s fees – but certain costs and expenses could still apply.
Why Contingency Fees Are So Common in Personal Injury Cases
Contingency fees are popular among personal injury lawyers for several reasons. For one, clients who have been injured in a car accident or other situation often face steep medical bills and lost wages, making them wary of additional financial risks. Law firms offer a contingency fee arrangement to enable injured victims to pursue justice without worrying about hourly rates or mounting legal expenses.
A contingency fee agreement can also motivate your lawyer to work diligently on your behalf. If they only get paid when you do, they have a strong incentive to negotiate or litigate effectively. That said, each law firm may handle costs differently, so it’s important to clarify how fees and expenses will be addressed if the case isn’t successful.
What Happens if a Lawyer Loses Your Case?
Under a contingency fee arrangement, you typically won’t pay attorney’s fees if your lawyer doesn’t win any money for you. However, it’s still helpful to understand how costs and fees might be handled. Take note of the following:
- Ask about case-related expenses upfront.
- Confirm whether you’ll be billed for court filing fees or expert witnesses.
- Check if you are responsible for copying costs, travel fees, or medical record retrievals.
- Review your agreement for information on how fees might differ if you settle rather than go to trial.
- Request that all terms be put in writing before your case begins.
You can avoid surprises by carefully reviewing your contingency fee contract and speaking openly with your lawyer. Every law firm has its own approach to covering extra expenses.
Contact Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers in Maryland for Help Today
If you’re uncertain about how attorneys get paid if they lose, remember that many personal injury firms won’t charge a fee unless you recover compensation. However, you should always confirm how any additional costs will be handled. After an accident, it’s wise to speak with an experienced lawyer as soon as possible to discuss your options.
Most injury attorneys in Maryland offer a free initial consultation, which can be an invaluable opportunity to learn about your rights, explore potential strategies, and understand fee arrangements. That way, you can focus on healing while your lawyer strives to secure the financial recovery you need.
For more information, please contact Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a confidential consultation with a personal injury lawyer. Our team is available to assist clients in Lanham, Frederick, Rockville, Waldorf, Annapolis, and Lexington Park, Maryland.
We proudly serve Charles County, Prince George County its surrounding areas. Visit our law offices at:
Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers – Waldorf Office
8 Post Office Rd Waldorf, MD 20602
(301) 932-9997
Available 24/7
Alpert Schreyer Personal Injury Lawyers – Lanham Office
4600 Forbes Blvd Ste #200 Lanham, MD 20706
(301) 936-0011
Available 24/7