If you have been injured in an accident, you may be worried about medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses. The last thing you want is another large bill for legal fees. The good news is that most personal injury attorneys in New Mexico work on a contingency fee basis, which means you do not pay anything up front.
Here’s a breakdown of how personal injury attorneys are paid and why hiring one is often more affordable than people realize.
Contingency Fee Explained
A contingency fee means your attorney’s payment depends on the outcome of your case. If they recover money for you through a settlement or trial verdict, they receive a percentage of that amount as their fee. If they do not recover anything, you do not owe them a fee.
This arrangement allows injured people to have access to quality legal representation without the burden of paying hourly rates or large retainers.
Typical Contingency Percentages
While the exact percentage can vary, most personal injury attorneys charge between 33% and 40% of the recovery amount. Some factors that can affect the percentage include:
The complexity of the case
Whether the case goes to trial or settles beforehand
The amount of investigation and expert testimony required
Your attorney will explain the percentage in writing before you hire them, so there are no surprises later.
Case Expenses and Costs
In addition to the attorney’s fee, there may be case expenses such as:
Court filing fees
Costs for obtaining medical records or police reports
Expert witness fees
Costs for depositions and trial exhibits
In most cases, the attorney will cover these expenses up front and then deduct them from your settlement or verdict at the end of the case. This means you do not have to come out of pocket for these costs while your case is ongoing.
Why Hiring an Attorney Often Pays for Itself
Some people consider handling their injury claim on their own to save money. The problem is that insurance companies know when you do not have legal representation, and they often take advantage of that. Studies have shown that people who hire a personal injury attorney typically recover significantly more compensation than those who handle their claims alone, even after attorney fees are deducted.
An experienced attorney knows how to:
Properly value your claim
Negotiate with insurance companies
Gather evidence to strengthen your case
Present a persuasive argument in court if necessary
No Upfront Risk
Because personal injury attorneys work on contingency, there is no financial risk to getting legal help. If your case is not successful, you do not pay attorney fees. This arrangement makes it possible for anyone to have access to quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.
Choosing the Right Attorney
When choosing a personal injury attorney, do not focus solely on the percentage they charge. Experience, track record, and communication matter just as much. The right attorney will not only fight for maximum compensation but will also guide you through the process and keep you informed every step of the way.
Talk to a New Mexico Personal Injury Attorney Today
If you have been injured in an accident in Roswell or anywhere in New Mexico, our office is here to help. We will explain our fee structure clearly, answer your questions, and fight to recover the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
