How to Pay for a Personal Injury Lawyer After Medical Bills Empty Your Wallet

When you’re injured due to someone else’s negligence, it can put a dent in your bank account. You may have to miss work to receive treatment or take a pay cut because you can no longer work in the position that you used to. On top of work-related costs, you have medical bills to pay and other damages.

You decide to file a lawsuit because you need the money, but how can you afford to hire a lawyer when you’re already hurting? Here is what you need to do if you want to file a personal injury claim.

Set Up a Consultation

Most lawyers offer a free consultation. During your consultation, he or she will tell you whether you have a case. If the attorney is willing to take your case, then there is a good chance that you will receive a settlement by the end of the trial. Make sure to bring medical records, police reports and any other documentation that you have to prove negligence and to prove that you suffered an injury.

Discuss Fee Structure

Once you know that you have a case, you can discuss the lawyer’s fees. He or she will explain to you what the costs are. Most work on a contingency fee basis. This means that he or she will take a percentage of the settlement at the end. Normally the lawyer takes about 30% of the settlement. Additionally, the attorney can explain whether the court costs and other fees will come out of your settlement.

Fight for Settlement

Once you have a lawyer on your side, he or she will fight for your settlement. The attorney won’t receive payment unless you win. This gives him or her an extra incentive to fight for your case. If you try to file a claim on your own, you are more likely to lose.

The other party may also have a lawyer to fight against your settlement. Likewise, insurance companies sometimes take advantage of people who don’t have a lawyer. You may receive far less than you deserve. Your lawyer will help gather evidence, build your case and increase your chances of receiving money.

If you suffered a personal injury, you deserve to have a lawyer represent you. As the lawyers at Cohen & Cohen explain, most lawyers work for a contingency fee, so you don’t have to worry about paying him or her upfront. Set up your first consultation as soon as possible!