Attorney Fee and Case Costs

Attorney Fee:

An attorney fee is the payment made to an attorney for their legal services. Attorneys typically charge fees based on various billing methods, including:

• Hourly Rate: The attorney charges an hourly rate for the time they spend working on the case. The rate may vary depending on factors such as the attorney’s experience, expertise, and the complexity of the case.

• Contingency Fee: In personal injury cases, attorneys often work on a contingency fee basis. This means the attorney’s fee is contingent upon successfully recovering compensation for the client. If the attorney doesn’t win the case or reach a settlement, they may not receive a fee. If the case is successful, the attorney will typically receive a percentage of the awarded compensation, which is agreed upon in advance.

It’s important to note that attorney fees can vary based on the attorney’s location, reputation, and the specifics of the case. Atlanta Personal Injury Law Firm’s attorney fee is contingent and openly listed on this website.

Case Costs:

Case costs refer to the expenses incurred during the legal process of handling a personal injury claim. These costs are separate from the attorney’s fee and are paid by the client. Examples of case costs include:

• Filing Fees: These are fees required to file the lawsuit or other legal documents with the court.

• Medical Records and Expert Witness Fees: Obtaining medical records, expert opinions, or witness testimony may require payment of fees.

• Court Reporter and Transcription Costs: If depositions or other court proceedings require a court reporter, their services may incur costs.

• Investigation Expenses: Costs associated with investigating the accident, such as hiring accident reconstruction experts or obtaining surveillance footage.

• Travel Expenses: If travel is necessary for the case, such as attending court hearings or meeting with witnesses, the associated costs may be included.

It’s essential to understand that case costs can accumulate throughout the process, and the client is typically responsible for paying these expenses, regardless of the case’s outcome.

It’s important to consult with an attorney directly to understand their specific fee structure, including any retainer agreements, payment plans, or fee percentages in contingency fee arrangements. Additionally, discussing case costs upfront can help clarify the financial aspects of pursuing a personal injury claim.