After an accident, it’s completely understandable to feel lost or burdened—especially when medical expenses, lost income, and uncertainty about legal representation begin to take a toll. A key concern many people have is how much do lawyers charge for personal injury cases. Knowing the answer in advance can offer clarity and reassurance. At the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, we want every injured resident of Nassau County to understand that pursuing rightful compensation doesn’t have to be financially overwhelming. Our law firm is committed to full transparency, providing personalized guidance on how legal fees work and what options are available. With a contingency fee structure and a focus on the needs of our local community, our goal is to help clients move forward confidently while removing the financial barriers to justice.
Attorney Fees for Personal Injury Cases
When it comes to personal injury claims, most attorneys don’t charge by the hour. Instead, they use what’s called a contingency fee agreement. This means we only get paid if we secure a settlement or win your case at trial.
Here’s how it typically works:
- You pay nothing upfront.
- The lawyer advances the costs of litigation (filing fees, expert witnesses, etc.).
- If you win, the attorney takes a percentage of the final settlement.
- If you lose, you owe nothing in legal fees.
This arrangement aligns our interests with yours—we’re motivated to maximize your recovery because our compensation depends on it.
Visit: Average Personal Injury Settlement: What to Expect in Nassau County, NY
How Much Do Lawyers Charge for Personal Injury on a Contingency Fee Basis in Nassau County, NY?
Most personal injury lawyers in Nassau County work on a contingency fee basis, generally taking between 33% to 40% of the total settlement or court award. However, this percentage can vary depending on the complexity of the case, whether the matter goes to trial and other factors. In New York State, legal ethics rules and court guidelines regulate contingency fees to ensure fairness and transparency.
According to the New York City Bar Association, a common sliding scale applies, especially in medical malpractice or high-value injury cases.
What Determines the Fee Percentage?
- Case complexity – More complicated cases with multiple defendants or severe injuries may require more resources.
- Pre-trial vs. Trial – If your case settles before going to trial, fees tend to stay closer to 33%. If the trial is necessary, fees may increase.
- Medical expert and evidence cost – High litigation expenses may affect net recovery and fee structure.
Who Pays for Legal Fees If You Don’t Win Your Case?
If you don’t win your case, you typically don’t pay attorney fees under a contingency agreement. This is one of the biggest benefits of working with a personal injury lawyer.
However, there are some exceptions and clarifications:
- Court costs or administrative fees may still apply depending on your agreement.
- Reimbursement for expenses: In some cases, clients may need to repay out-of-pocket case expenses even if the attorney fee is waived.
We always ensure our fee arrangements are clear from the beginning, so there are no surprises later.
Is Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer Worth the Cost?
Yes, hiring a personal injury lawyer is often worth the cost. Studies show that injured parties who are represented by an attorney recover significantly higher settlements than those who go it alone.
According to the American Judicature Society, a skilled personal injury lawyer brings expertise in negotiation, strategy, and legal processes, giving clients a clear advantage.
Here’s why the investment pays off:
- Lawyers understand how to calculate the true value of your claim, factoring in long-term medical care, lost earnings, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
- We know how to negotiate strategically on your behalf using case law, documentation, and proven legal tactics to ensure every claim is valued accurately and fairly.
- We handle all legal procedures, including complex paperwork, strict filing deadlines, and navigating the court system so clients don’t miss critical legal steps.
- We can gather and present evidence such as medical reports, witness testimony, accident reconstructions, and expert opinions to build a strong case for maximum compensation.
In short, an experienced attorney often adds far more value than their fee ever costs.
Visit: Chances of Winning a Personal Injury Lawsuit
Get a Free Consultation with a Nassau County Personal Injury Lawyer
If you’re wondering what your case might be worth—or how much you’d actually pay for legal representation—we encourage you to reach out. At the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, we offer free consultations to personal injury victims in Nassau County.
There’s no risk, no obligation, and absolutely no fee unless we win your case. Let’s talk about your legal options today.
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