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| Detail | Hourly | Contingency | Flat Fee |
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Understanding Fee Structures
Hourly: You pay for each hour of work regardless of outcome. Best when outcome is uncertain or you need limited work. Contingency: Attorney takes a percentage (usually 33%) only if you win. Best for injury and employment cases. Flat Fee: One fixed price for the entire matter. Best for predictable work like contracts, immigration, or simple disputes.
Which fee structure is best for my case?
It depends on your case type and risk tolerance. For personal injury and employment cases, contingency fees are standard because you pay nothing upfront and only pay if you win. For business disputes with uncertain outcomes, hourly may be necessary. For routine matters (contracts, immigration forms), flat fees offer predictability.
Can I negotiate attorney fees?
Yes, attorney fees are almost always negotiable. For contingency cases, you may be able to negotiate a lower percentage for larger cases or clear liability. For hourly work, ask about blended rates, fee caps, or alternative arrangements. Always get the fee agreement in writing.
What additional costs should I expect?
Beyond attorney fees, expect case costs: filing fees ($200-$500), service of process ($50-$150), deposition transcripts ($500-$2,000 each), expert witnesses ($2,000-$10,000+), medical records ($50-$500), and miscellaneous copying and postage. In contingency cases, these costs are often advanced by the attorney but repaid from your settlement.
What if I lose with an hourly attorney?
With hourly billing, you pay regardless of outcome. This is a significant risk for uncertain cases. If you cannot afford to lose the hourly fees, a contingency arrangement (where you pay nothing if you lose) may be safer, even though the percentage is higher if you win.