Discuss the Lawyer’s Fees

Why talking about fees matters

A lot of people avoid asking about money because it feels uncomfortable. But when it comes to hiring a lawyer, this is one conversation you cannot skip.

Knowing how fees work helps you avoid stress later. It also helps you compare different lawyers fairly. The lawyer you choose will play a big role in your case, and their fees will affect your financial future, especially if you win a settlement or verdict.

Being upfront about costs also shows you how transparent and trustworthy a lawyer is. If someone avoids giving you a clear answer, that’s a red flag.

Contingency fees explained

Most serious injury lawyers use what’s called a “contingency fee.” This means the lawyer doesn’t get paid unless they win your case. If you win, the lawyer takes a percentage of your settlement or court award. If you don’t win, you don’t owe them anything for their time.

This system is designed to help people who can’t afford to pay upfront. After an accident, most folks don’t have extra money lying around to pay hourly legal bills. A contingency fee gives you access to legal help without paying out of pocket right away.

How percentages usually work

In Maryland, contingency fees often range between 30% and 40% of the total recovery. The exact percentage can depend on the type of case, how complex it is, and whether the case goes to trial.

For example:

• If your case settles quickly with an insurance company, the fee might be closer to 30%.

• If the lawyer has to spend months preparing for trial and arguing in court, the fee might go up to 40%.

During your first meeting, the lawyer should clearly explain how their percentage works and when it might change.

What happens if you lose

One of the biggest fears people have is: “What if I don’t win?” With contingency fees, you don’t pay the lawyer’s time if you lose. That’s the risk the lawyer takes.

However, there are sometimes other costs—like court filing fees, charges for getting medical records, or expert witness fees. Some lawyers cover these costs upfront and only take them out if you win. Others may ask you to pay them even if you lose.

This is why it’s important to ask not just about the lawyer’s percentage, but also about case expenses.

Hourly rates and flat fees

While most injury lawyers use contingency fees, some types of legal cases might involve hourly rates or flat fees. For example, if you’re asking a lawyer to review a contract or give advice unrelated to an accident, they might charge by the hour.

Flat fees are less common in injury cases but could come up for very specific legal tasks. Always ask the lawyer to explain how they set their fees for the type of case you have.

Extra costs you should know about

Beyond lawyer’s fees, cases often involve other expenses. These might include:

• Court filing fees

• Costs of getting police or hospital records

• Expert witness fees

• Travel expenses if the case requires it

• Costs for depositions (formal witness questioning)

Some law firms cover these upfront and only subtract them from your settlement if you win. Others may bill you along the way. Clarifying this early saves a lot of headaches later.

Asking for a fee agreement in writing

Every fee arrangement should be written down in a contract, usually called a “retainer agreement.” This document spells out the lawyer’s percentage, how expenses are handled, and what happens if you win or lose.

Never rely on a verbal promise when it comes to money. Having everything in writing protects both you and the lawyer. If you don’t understand something in the agreement, ask until you’re comfortable. A good lawyer will be patient and explain.

Comparing fees between lawyers

Since most lawyers use a similar contingency system, you might wonder if it’s worth comparing. The answer is yes. Even if the percentages seem close, different lawyers may handle expenses differently, or have different rules for what happens if your case is appealed.

More importantly, you’re not just comparing fees—you’re comparing experience, resources, and communication styles. A lawyer who charges 35% but wins higher settlements may be worth more than one who charges 30% but has less experience.

Why cheaper isn’t always better

When money is tight, it’s tempting to pick the lawyer with the lowest fee percentage. But fees should not be the only factor in your decision. A lawyer’s track record, their ability to negotiate with insurance companies, and their willingness to go to trial if needed are just as important.

Sometimes paying a little more in fees results in a much larger settlement overall.

Free consultations and fees

Most Maryland injury lawyers offer free consultations. This is the perfect time to ask about fees. Since the meeting doesn’t cost you anything, take full advantage by asking detailed questions.

Here are some good ones:

• What percentage do you charge if the case settles?

• Does the percentage change if the case goes to trial?

• Who pays for court costs and expert witnesses?

• Do I owe anything if I lose?

• Will you put everything in writing?

Asking these questions early helps you avoid surprises down the road.

The link between fees and civil rights

In some cases, injury law overlaps with civil rights law—for example, if someone is hurt in police custody or denied medical care in jail. In these cases, lawyers may still work on contingency, but the fees can be structured differently depending on federal and state laws.

This is another reason why it’s important to discuss fees openly. Civil rights cases can be complicated, and you want to know exactly how the lawyer plans to handle payment.

Red flags to watch for

When discussing fees, watch out for:

• A lawyer who avoids giving you clear answers

• No written agreement

• Promises that sound “too good to be true”

• Demands for large upfront payments in an injury case

These are signs you should keep looking. Good lawyers will explain fees openly and make sure you feel comfortable.

Negotiating fees

You might wonder if you can negotiate fees. In some cases, yes. Some lawyers may be willing to adjust their percentage, especially if the case looks straightforward. Others may not, especially if the case is risky or could take years.

It doesn’t hurt to ask, but remember that the lawyer is also taking on risk by working without guaranteed pay.

How big law firms handle fees

Larger law firms sometimes have more resources to cover upfront costs like expert witnesses or accident reconstruction. They might also have more flexibility in negotiating percentages. On the other hand, smaller firms may offer more personal attention but expect you to share in costs sooner.

There’s no one-size-fits-all. That’s why discussing fees in detail is so important.

Why honesty goes both ways

Just like you want the lawyer to be honest about fees, you also need to be honest about your situation. Share any financial struggles, insurance offers you’ve received, or debts tied to your injury.

This helps the lawyer give you the best advice about fees and settlement goals.

Breaking down a sample scenario

Let’s say you settle your case for $100,000. If the lawyer’s contingency fee is 33%, they would receive $33,000. If case expenses were $5,000, those would also come out of the settlement, leaving you with $62,000.

Having this kind of breakdown upfront helps you understand what your take-home amount could look like.

Emotional relief from clear answers

Money stress can make recovery harder. Knowing exactly how fees will work can take a huge weight off your shoulders. Once you understand the system, you can focus on healing instead of worrying about surprise bills.

Timing of payment

Another important question is when fees are collected. In most cases, the lawyer’s fee and costs are taken directly from the settlement check before you receive your share. This means you don’t have to write a check or worry about paying later.

Asking about appeals

Sometimes cases don’t end at trial. If the other side appeals, the process can drag on. Ask your lawyer what happens to fees if an appeal comes up. Do they handle appeals under the same agreement, or is there a separate contract?

Bringing a family member to fee talks

It can help to bring a spouse, parent, or trusted friend when discussing fees. They may think of questions you miss or help you remember details later. Having another set of ears makes the process less stressful.

FAQs about lawyer’s fees

Here are a few common questions people ask:

Q: Do I need to pay upfront?A: In most serious injury cases, no. With contingency fees, you don’t pay unless you win.

Q: What if the case drags on for years?A: The percentage stays the same unless your fee agreement says otherwise. Always check the details.

Q: Can a lawyer raise their fee later?A: Not without your agreement in writing. The percentage you agree to at the start should hold.

Q: What if I switch lawyers halfway through?A: You may owe the first lawyer for the work they’ve already done. That’s another reason to ask questions early.

Transparency builds trust

At the end of the day, fees aren’t just about money—they’re about trust. A lawyer who explains everything clearly and puts it in writing is showing respect for you as a client.

That trust will carry through the rest of your case.

Final thoughts

Discussing lawyer’s fees might feel awkward, but it’s one of the most important steps when choosing a serious injury lawyer in Maryland. From understanding contingency percentages to knowing who pays case expenses, clear answers protect you from surprises and help you plan for the future.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions, compare options, and make sure everything is written down. A good lawyer will welcome these conversations because they want you to feel informed and confident.

When money is already tight after an injury, you deserve clear, honest answers about costs. Talking openly about fees isn’t just smart—it’s your right.