If you have been injured because of medical malpractice, you have the right to file a personal injury claim against the liable party. To win your claim, however, you’ll likely need assistance from an attorney, which could bring up one concern: How much will it cost to hire a medical malpractice lawyer? Keep reading to learn more.
Understanding Contingency Fees
Like other types of personal injury lawyers, those who take on medical negligence cases typically work on a contingency fee basis. Instead of getting paid up front, they receive a percentage of their client’s settlement or jury award.
This type of fee structure can work in your favor since you don’t have to pay your attorney if they are not able to get you a settlement or award. This means that you can pursue compensation even if you don’t have enough money saved to hire an attorney.
A medical malpractice attorney’s fee can vary, but it typically ranges from 25% to 40%. The more complex the case is, the higher the fee percentage will typically be. In a medical malpractice case involving a complex surgical error, for example, an attorney may charge a higher fee.
Other Fees To Be Aware Of
Aside from your attorney’s fees, you may have to hire expert witnesses to corroborate your claim. While your lawyer will take care of this expense up front, it will later come out of your settlement or award once the case is resolved. However, most attorneys will not ask you to reimburse them for expert witness fees if you don’t win the case.
You may also incur additional expenses. These include any expenses that the lawyer covers during the case, such as court fees and costs for obtaining medical records and other documents.
Factors Affecting Attorney’s Fees In Medical Malpractice Cases
During your initial consultation, ask the lawyer about the percentage they will charge you if you win your claim, as well as any other expenses you will be expected to pay.
Several factors contribute to the cost of pursuing a medical malpractice lawsuit. One is the type of evidence needed to establish that malpractice occurred. If you can prove the case easily through evidence that is difficult to dispute—such as video footage—your overall costs may be lower. The opposite is true, too.
You should also consider whether it will be necessary to hire multiple expert witnesses. Keep in mind that if your case ends up in court, your lawyer will have to spend more time and cover additional expenses, so their fee will likely be higher.
The Importance Of Working With An Attorney
After suffering injuries because of medical negligence, consider beginning a claim to recover your losses. All personal injury cases are complex, but those involving medical malpractice are particularly tough. You should never handle them without representation.
To learn exactly what you’ll be expected to pay if your attorney wins your case, ask about the fee percentage during your free consultation, as well as any other expenses that might come out of a settlement or award. A skilled lawyer will clearly explain the potential costs of your medical malpractice lawsuit.
Contact Malone Law Medical Malpractice And Severe Injury Lawyers For A Free Consultation With An Atlanta Medical Malpractice Attorney
Contact Malone Law Medical Malpractice and Severe Injury Lawyers for a free, confidential consultation with an Atlanta medical malpractice attorney. We can explain your options, outline fees and case costs clearly, and start protecting your legal rights right away.
We proudly serve in Fulton County.
Malone Law Medical Malpractice and Severe Injury Lawyers
2 Ravinia Dr NE Suite 300
Atlanta, GA 30346