When you hire a personal injury law firm such as Phillips Law Offices in Chicago, Illinois, you often don’t have to pay any upfront fees. Instead, most personal injury lawyers operate on what’s known as a contingent fee contract. In simple terms, this means that you only pay your attorney if they successfully recover compensation for you—either through a settlement or a court verdict. If you lose your case, you owe nothing for legal fees. This arrangement allows injured victims to pursue justice without worrying about financial barriers or hourly billing.
What Is a Contingent Fee Contract?
A contingent fee contract is a legal agreement between a client and a personal injury attorney where the lawyer’s payment depends on the outcome of the case. Under this agreement, the attorney’s fee is a percentage of the total compensation recovered for the client. This percentage is usually agreed upon before representation begins and clearly outlined in the contract.
At Phillips Law Offices, we believe in making justice accessible to everyone. That’s why our clients don’t pay any fees unless we win their case. This no-risk model ensures that individuals injured by negligence—whether in car accidents, workplace incidents, or medical malpractice cases—can get quality legal representation regardless of their financial situation.
Contingency agreements also align the lawyer’s interest with the client’s. Because the attorney’s payment depends on winning, the lawyer is motivated to build the strongest possible case and secure the highest possible settlement or verdict.
How the Percentage Fee Structure Works
The percentage fee in a contingent fee contract varies depending on several factors, such as the complexity of the case, the stage at which it is resolved, and the potential risks involved. Typically, personal injury law firms in Chicago charge between 33% and 40% of the recovery amount.
For example, if your case settles before going to court, the percentage might be closer to 33%. However, if your case requires a trial or appeal, the percentage could increase to 40%, as more time, resources, and legal expertise are required.
At Phillips Law Offices, all fee structures are clearly explained before you sign any agreement. We ensure complete transparency so you fully understand how your recovery will be distributed. There are no hidden fees or unexpected costs—just straightforward communication and a partnership built on trust.
What Expenses Are Covered in a Contingent Fee Agreement?
A contingent fee contract covers the attorney’s fees, but there are also case-related expenses that may arise during the legal process. These costs might include:
- Court filing fees
- Medical record retrieval charges
- Expert witness fees
- Deposition and transcript costs
- Investigative expenses
In most cases, the law firm will advance these expenses on your behalf. This means you don’t have to pay them upfront. Once your case concludes successfully, these costs are reimbursed from the settlement or verdict. If you do not win your case, you generally do not owe the attorney for these expenses, depending on your specific contract terms.
Phillips Law Offices prioritizes fairness and transparency in every client relationship. We make sure you know exactly how expenses are handled and keep you informed throughout the entire legal process.
Benefits of Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer on a Contingency Basis
Choosing a contingency-based personal injury lawyer provides several key benefits that make it easier for injured victims to seek justice:
1. No Upfront Payments
You can focus on your recovery instead of worrying about paying attorney fees. This structure ensures that your attorney’s payment depends entirely on their ability to win your case.
2. Motivated Representation
Because your lawyer’s fee is directly tied to the outcome, they are driven to maximize your compensation. The more you win, the more they earn—ensuring that your interests are perfectly aligned.
3. Access to Quality Legal Resources
Even if you don’t have financial means, contingency agreements give you access to top-tier legal professionals, medical experts, and accident reconstruction specialists—resources that can strengthen your claim significantly.
4. Reduced Financial Risk
If your lawyer doesn’t win your case, you don’t pay attorney fees. This makes pursuing justice low-risk and affordable for accident victims.
At Phillips Law Offices, we believe everyone deserves a fair chance at justice, regardless of their financial status. That’s why we proudly offer Free Consultations and a No Fee Unless You Win guarantee.
Key Elements of a Contingent Fee Contract
A properly drafted contingent fee agreement should clearly outline several important elements to protect both the client and the attorney:
1. Fee Percentage
The specific percentage that the attorney will receive upon winning the case. This must be mutually agreed upon and documented in writing.
2. Expense Management
The contract should specify who pays for expenses during the case and how those costs are reimbursed after a settlement or verdict.
3. Case Scope
It should define the scope of representation—what services the attorney will provide and any limitations that apply.
4. Settlement Authority
Clients should maintain final approval authority over settlement offers, ensuring their interests remain the priority.
At Phillips Law Offices in Chicago, we review every detail of the agreement with our clients to make sure they fully understand each term. Our goal is to build confidence and clarity from the very beginning of representation.
What Happens If the Case Is Lost?
One of the greatest advantages of a contingent fee arrangement is financial protection. If your attorney does not win your case, you do not owe any attorney’s fees. Depending on the agreement, you may or may not be responsible for out-of-pocket expenses like expert witness costs or filing fees, but reputable firms like Phillips Law Offices typically absorb most costs in unsuccessful cases.
This structure encourages attorneys to take on cases they genuinely believe they can win and ensures clients never feel pressured by hourly billing or unexpected costs. It’s a shared commitment to justice where both sides work toward a successful outcome.
Why Choose Phillips Law Offices in Chicago, Illinois
For over 75 years, Phillips Law Offices has been one of the most trusted and respected personal injury law firms in Chicago, Illinois. Our experienced attorneys handle a wide range of cases, including car accidents, medical malpractice, nursing home abuse, workplace injuries, and wrongful death claims.
We have built our reputation on results, integrity, and client dedication. Every case we take on is personal to us, and we fight tirelessly to secure the maximum compensation possible. Our contingent fee contracts ensure that every client—regardless of income—can pursue justice without financial stress.
If you or a loved one has been injured and you’re unsure how to proceed, don’t wait. Contact Phillips Law Offices today for a Free Consultation. You can reach us at (312) 598-1829 or visit us at 161 N Clark St, Suite 4925, Chicago, IL. Remember, there’s No Fee Unless You Win.
Interesting Reads:
Is a Personal Injury Lawyer Worth It for Me?
Do I Need a Lawyer for Faulty Medical Device Injuries? Chicago, IL Personal Injury Lawyers
The post How Do Personal Injury Law Firm Contingent Fee Contracts Work? appeared first on Phillips Law Offices.