One of the most common worries after an injury is money — specifically, how anyone is supposed to afford a lawyer while also facing medical bills and lost income. This is exactly the concern that contingency fees are designed to address.
What a Contingency Fee Means
In a contingency fee arrangement, you generally do not pay attorney’s fees up front. Instead, the attorney’s fee is contingent on recovery — meaning the firm is paid a percentage of the compensation obtained, and only if compensation is obtained. If there is no recovery, you do not owe attorney’s fees.
At Petrosian Law, PC, we work on a contingency fee basis. You pay no attorney’s fees unless we recover compensation for you.
Why This Structure Exists
Contingency fees exist so that access to legal representation isn’t limited to people who can afford to pay by the hour. It allows an injured person to pursue a claim without adding another bill at an already difficult time — and it aligns the firm’s interests with yours, since the firm is generally paid only if you recover.
Fees vs. Costs
It’s worth understanding the difference between attorney’s fees and case costs. Fees refer to the payment for the attorney’s work. Costs refer to the expenses of pursuing a case — things like obtaining records or retaining experts. How costs are handled can vary, and it is something a firm should explain clearly in the written agreement. We’re always happy to walk through how this works during a consultation.
What to Expect in the Agreement
Any contingency fee arrangement should be set out in a written agreement that explains the fee and how costs are handled. Before you sign anything, you’re entitled to have your questions answered so you understand the terms.
Questions About Fees?
If you have questions about how a contingency fee would work for your situation, we’re happy to explain. Contact Petrosian Law for a free consultation.
The information in this article is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the most current legal developments — laws change over time. Nothing here constitutes legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every person and every claim or case is different, and the way the law applies depends on the specific facts involved. If you have a legal question or concern, you should consult a licensed attorney about your particular situation.