Contingency Fee
Definition
A payment arrangement where your attorney only gets paid if you win your case. The fee is typically 33% of your settlement or verdict, and you pay nothing upfront.
Real-World MVA Example
Your lawyer takes your car accident case on contingency. You settle for $90,000, and your attorney receives $30,000 (33%). If you had lost, you'd owe nothing.
Related Terms in Attorney & Representation
Retainer
An upfront fee paid to hire an attorney. Most personal injury lawyers work on contingency instead, meaning no retainer is required and they only get paid if you win.
Contingency Fee Agreement
The written contract between you and your attorney that spells out the percentage they'll take from your settlement or verdict, plus how costs and expenses are handled.
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