Understanding Contingency Fees
Quick Answer
A contingency fee means the attorney is paid a percentage of the recovery and nothing if there is no recovery. Florida contingency fee agreements must be in writing, disclose the percentage tiers, and explain how case costs and liens are handled before you sign.
Key Takeaways
- No recovery means no attorney fee.
- Costs — records, filing, experts — are distinct from the fee.
- Medical liens and subrogation reduce the net, and are negotiable.
Fees Versus Costs
The fee compensates the lawyer's work. Costs are amounts advanced for records, filing fees, depositions, and expert witnesses. Your written agreement should state clearly how each is handled at resolution.
What Reaches You
The net recovery is the settlement minus fees, costs, and any health insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, PIP, or provider liens. Negotiating those liens down is part of the representation and directly increases what you keep.