Mani Ellis & Layne Accident & Injury Lawyers | June 25, 2025 | Contingency Fees
If you’ve been injured in an accident and are considering hiring a personal injury lawyer in Ohio, you may wonder how much it will cost. Personal injury cases can be complicated and costly. However, understanding how lawyers get paid can help you make an informed decision.
Everyone, regardless of their financial situation, deserves access to top-quality legal help after an injury. This article will discuss how personal injury lawyer fees work, focusing on contingency fees.
What Are Contingency Fees?
Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means the lawyer’s payment is contingent upon the outcome of your case. If you win or settle your case, the lawyer will take a percentage of the compensation you receive. If you do not win, the lawyer typically does not get paid.
Contingency fees allow injured victims to afford legal representation without worrying about upfront costs. This system ensures that people who have been injured in accidents can access skilled legal services without the financial burden of paying out-of-pocket for attorney fees.
Contingency fees mean you don’t pay your lawyer unless you win your case. This makes legal representation affordable for those who may not have the resources to pay upfront.
Standard Percentage Rates in Ohio
The percentage that a lawyer takes for a personal injury case in Ohio typically ranges from 33% to 40% of the total settlement or verdict. However, this percentage can vary based on several factors. These factors include the complexity of the case and whether the case settles out of court or goes to trial.
- If your case settles without going to trial, the fee will typically be around 33%.
- If your case goes to trial, the lawyer may charge a higher percentage, typically 40%. This is due to the increased time, effort, and resources involved in preparing for and participating in a trial.
Before beginning your case, your lawyer should clearly explain the fee structure and ensure you understand the percentage they will take in the event of a settlement or trial. This will be outlined in a contingency fee agreement.
Are There Any Other Costs?
Aside from the lawyer’s fee, there may be additional costs associated with your personal injury case.
These costs can include:
- Court Filing Fees
- Medical Records Fees
- Expert Witness Fees
- Investigation Costs
- Deposition Costs
In some cases, your lawyer may pay these costs upfront and deduct them from your settlement at the end of the case. However, it’s important to have a clear understanding of how these costs will be handled before you sign any agreements. It’s also essential to know if these additional costs are deducted before or after the lawyer’s fee is taken. Your attorney should explain how these costs are factored into the overall settlement.
Don’t forget that in addition to a lawyer’s contingency fee, there may be other costs associated with your case. It is important to understand how these costs are handled before you agree to representation. Having a clear understanding of the mechanics of your lawyer’s fee will prevent surprise or confusion later on.
Important Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer
Before signing a contingency fee agreement, here are some important questions to ask your lawyer:
- What percentage of my recovery is your fee? Confirm the exact percentage the lawyer will take if you win your case.
- What happens if we go to trial? Ask if the percentage will change if the case doesn’t settle and goes to trial.
- Are there any additional costs? Inquire about any extra costs that may arise during the case, such as court fees or investigation costs.
- How are costs handled? Ask if the costs are deducted before or after the lawyer’s fee is taken from your settlement.
By asking these questions upfront, you can avoid surprises later and ensure that you fully understand the terms of the contingency fee agreement.
The standard contingency fee percentage of 33% to 40% is designed to reflect the complexity and time commitment of personal injury cases. It also takes into account the lawyer’s risk of not being paid if the case is lost. Still, remember to ask these key questions about fees and additional costs upfront. This will help you avoid any surprises and ensure that you understand how your lawyer will be paid.
Why Do Lawyers Take These Percentages?
The percentage charged by personal injury lawyers is typically set between 33% and 40% because personal injury cases can be complex and time-consuming. Lawyers invest significant time, effort, and resources into building your case. They gather evidence and negotiate with insurance companies, and potentially take your case to trial, all without a guarantee of recovery.
The lawyer’s contingency fee reflects the risk they are taking by working on your case without payment. Remember, they only get paid if you win or settle. Additionally, if your case is particularly challenging, involves substantial medical records, or requires expert testimony, the lawyer’s workload will increase. All of this justifies the higher percentage.
Reach Out to Our Law Office for a Free Consultation
At Mani Ellis & Layne Accident & Injury Lawyers, we understand that the financial strain of an accident can be overwhelming. That’s why we offer contingency fee arrangements, so you don’t have to worry about paying upfront. Our skilled personal injury lawyers are here to help you understand your legal options and fight for the compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured and is concerned about lawyer’s fees, don’t hesitate to contact us. We offer free consultations to discuss your case and help you determine the best course of action.
Contact the Personal Injury Law Firm of Mani Ellis & Layne Accident & Injury Lawyers for Help Today
For more information, please contact an experienced lawyer at Mani Ellis & Layne Accident & Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation today. We have convenient locations in Columbus, OH, and Charleston, WV.
Mani Ellis & Layne Accident & Injury Lawyers – Columbus, OH Office
20 E Broad St Suite 1000, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 587-8423
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 39.96270905583009, -82.99956356191063
Mani Ellis & Layne Accident & Injury Lawyers – Charleston, WV Office
10 Hale St Suite 501, Charleston, WV 25301
(304) 720-1000
Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 38.348382927211865, -81.635109451865