It’s important to note that at Bashore Green, we handle cases on a “contingent fee” basis. This means our fee is “contingent” (or dependent) on the outcome of your case. In other words, we don’t get paid unless your case settles or goes to trial and wins.
It is important for you to note how this works, so here’s a short Q&A of how the contingent fee process works at Bashore Green:
What is a typical contingent fee?
Like most lawyers, our firm charges 33 percent (or one-third) of the gross amount recovered in cases of motor vehicle accidents and general negligence cases. The fee may be higher in complicated medical malpractice and product liability cases. However, we will update you if your case requires a higher contingent fee than the standard 33 percent.
Why is the contingent fee higher in cases of medical malpractice and product liability?
Medical malpractice and product liability cases are riskier, more complex, and more labor-intensive than most other personal injury cases. Few attorneys actually handle medical malpractice or product liability cases, and even fewer handle them well. The increased fee takes these things into account.
Do I have to pay my attorney anything beyond the contingent fee?
There are almost always expenses associated with pursuing a personal injury and medical malpractice claims. Case expenses may include the cost of obtaining records, filing fees, expert witness fees, deposition costs, etc.
At Bashore Green we can advance all expenses so that you do not have to pay out of pocket. When the case is settled, clients are responsible for reimbursing those case expenses.
What can I anticipate in terms of case expenses?
Case expenses vary widely, depending on the case. Some cases resolve with very little expense incurred. Complex auto accident or other personal injury cases may involve multiple experts and witnesses. Our team is very judicious about these types of expenses, and most cases will not require them.
What happens if my case doesn’t settle, and I don’t win at trial? Do I still have to pay you?
To be clear, if your case does not settle, and if we do not get a verdict in your favor, you do not owe us anything.
Why are contingent fee arrangements beneficial to me?
Contingent fee arrangements are beneficial to clients for a number of reasons. First, the lawyer assumes the risk of losing; that is, the client is not “out of pocket” anything unless there is a settlement or favorable verdict. Second, the lawyer is incentivized to get the best possible outcome for his or her client; after all, the lawyer’s fee is directly proportional to the client’s recovery.
Regardless of how your case goes, be assured that the experienced auto accident attorneys at Bashore Green will do everything possible to get you the compensation you deserve.