No Fees Unless We Win
At Lerner, Moore, Silva, Cunningham & Rubel (LMSCR), we believe clients should always understand how fees work before hiring an attorney. No surprises. No hidden charges.
That is why we handle personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis: you pay no upfront fees, and we only get paid if we recover compensation for you.
How Contingency Fees Work in California
A contingency fee means your attorney’s fee is based on a percentage of the compensation recovered in your case. If we do not receive compensation for you, you do not owe attorney fees.
California law helps protect clients by requiring contingency fee agreements to be in writing. Before we begin representing you, we will explain how our fees work, answer your questions, and provide a written agreement that clearly outlines the terms of our representation.
Our Standard Contingency Fees
Our contingency fee is typically 33% to 40% of the recovery, depending on the circumstances and complexity of your case. The exact percentage will be discussed with you before we represent you and clearly explained in the written fee agreement.
We believe you should know what to expect from the start. Your fee agreement will clearly explain how attorney fees and any applicable case costs are calculated, so you can move forward with a clear understanding of the financial terms of your representation.
Understanding Case Costs and Payment
Case costs are separate expenses and not included in attorney’s fees. Building a case requires expenses such as:
- Court Costs: Charges required to file documents and move your case through the court system.
- Deposition Costs: Recording sworn testimony and preparing written transcripts for use during your case.
- Expert Fees: Compensation for specialists who provide professional opinions to support your claim.
- Investigation Expenses: Gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and documenting how the accident occurred.
- Litigation Expenses: Additional expenses that may arise if your case proceeds through the trial process.
- Medical Records: Obtaining records and medical documents to prove your injuries and treatment.
Over the course of your case, LMSCR may advance these costs, so you are not required to pay them as they are incurred. Case costs are typically reimbursed from the recovery at the conclusion of your case, in addition to attorney fees.
What You Never Pay
When you hire LMSCR for a personal injury case, you will never pay for:
- Upfront Attorney Fees: No retainer or advance payment is required.
- Hourly Billing: No charges based on time spent on your case.
- Consultation Fees: Your initial consultation is always free.
- Hidden Charges: We explain all fees and costs upfront.
Our goal is to make quality legal representation accessible when you need it most, not create another financial burden while you are recovering.
Frequently Asked Questions About Contingency Fees
Do I have to pay anything upfront?
No. We do not charge upfront attorney fees for personal injury cases. Your initial consultation is free, and we only collect an attorney fee if we recover compensation for you.
What happens if we do not win my case?
If we do not recover compensation, you do not owe attorney fees. However, we may charge for costs.
Are case costs included in the contingency fee?
No. Attorney fees and case costs are separate. Your written fee agreement will explain how case costs are handled and when they are reimbursed.
How much does a personal injury lawyer cost in California?
Most California personal injury attorneys, including LMSCR, work on a contingency fee basis. Rather than paying hourly rates or upfront retainers, you pay an agreed-upon percentage of the recovery if your case is successful.
Will I receive a written fee agreement?
Yes. California law requires contingency fee agreements to be in writing. Before we begin representing you, we will review the agreement with you so that you understand exactly how fees and case costs work.
If you have been injured, do not let concerns about legal costs prevent you from seeking top-quality representation. Lerner, Moore, Silva, Cunningham & Rubel will fully explain your financial options and exactly what to expect before your case begins. To learn more, call 909-889-1131 or contact us online to schedule a free case review. Our offices are located in Ontario and Victorville, California.
