- Most Personal Injury Attorneys Work on a Contingency Basis
- Common Fees in Personal Injury Cases
- Frequently Asked Questions About California Accident Claims
- Speak to a Manhattan Beach Personal Injury Lawyer Today
Being involved in an accident in Manhattan Beach can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with injuries and mounting bills. Amidst this turmoil, the thought of hiring a personal injury attorney might seem like an additional burden. However, the right attorney can be a game-changer, helping you secure the compensation you deserve without adding financial stress. But how much will it cost to hire a personal injury attorney?
At the Law Offices of Scott Dinsmore, we understand your concerns. In this post, we’ll break down the cost of hiring a personal injury attorney and explain why it’s an investment that can ultimately benefit you.
Most Personal Injury Attorneys Work on a Contingency Basis
If you’ve hired a lawyer for a business matter, estate proceeding, or to defend yourself against a criminal charge, you were probably required to pay a part of their fee — called a retainer — as a condition for representing your case. Personal injury attorneys are a little different.
Most personal injury attorneys (including Scott Dinsmore) accept cases on a contingency basis. This means they collect their fees as a percentage of the compensation they recover for their client. These fees vary, depending on the stage the case settles, but are usually around one-third of the settlement before filing a lawsuit. Your attorney will tell you upfront how much of a percentage they will collect for their services.
Why Is a Contingency Fee Arrangement Beneficial?
- No Upfront Costs: You don’t have to worry about legal bills piling up while you’re already dealing with medical expenses and lost wages.
- Motivated Representation: Your attorney’s payment is tied to your success, so they are motivated to win the best possible settlement for you.
- Risk-Free: If your case doesn’t win, you owe nothing for attorney fees.
Fees to Expect in a Personal Injury Case
While most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency basis, there are additional costs that you might incur during your case. Here’s a breakdown of potential expenses:
- Deposition Costs: Fees for taking depositions, which are sworn out-of-court testimonies.
- Transcript Costs: Charges for official transcripts of depositions or court proceedings.
- Court Costs: Filing fees and other charges associated with taking your case to court.
- Investigators and Expert Witnesses: Costs for hiring professionals to support your case with evidence and testimony.
- Gathering Information and Evidence: Expenses for collecting and organizing necessary documentation.
- Copy and Postage Fees: Costs for duplicating documents and mailing them.
- Travel Expenses: Any travel-related costs your attorney incurs while working on your case.
- Trial Preparation Costs: Expenses associated with preparing your case for trial.
Note: Many accident cases are settled before going to court, which can help minimize these cost of hiring a personal injury attorney. Depending on your agreement, these fees might be deducted from your final settlement.
Frequently Asked Questions About California Personal Injury Claims
How long do I have to file a personal injury claim?
In California, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is typically two years from the date of the injury. This means you have two years to file a lawsuit against the responsible party. However, there are rare exceptions, such as if the injury was not discovered immediately. It’s crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss any important deadlines.
What should I do immediately after an accident to support my personal injury claim?
After an accident, your immediate priority should be your health and safety. Seek medical attention right away. To support your personal injury claim, follow these steps:
– Document the scene: Take photos and gather evidence from the accident scene.
– Obtain contact information: Get the names, addresses, and phone numbers of any witnesses.
– File a police report: Ensure there is an official record of the incident.
– Keep medical records: Maintain detailed records of all medical treatments and expenses.
– Contact a personal injury attorney: Get legal advice early to guide you through the process.
Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Yes, California follows a comparative negligence rule. This means that even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover compensation. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault and your damages were $100,000, you would receive $80,000.
Speak With a Manhattan Beach Personal Injury Lawyer
Dealing with the aftermath of an accident can be daunting, but you don’t have to face it alone. At the Law Offices of Scott Dinsmore, we are committed to fighting for the compensation you deserve. While every case is unique, and costs can vary, we promise to provide transparent and supportive legal services to help you through this challenging time. We’ve been protecting the rights of Manhattan Beach residents for more than 30 years, securing millions of dollars in settlements for our clients.
Contact us today at sdinsmore@lawinmb.com or call (310) 318-1220 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us help you understand your options and start your journey toward recovery and justice.
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