When you’ve been hurt in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be wondering, “How much does a personal injury lawyer cost in North Carolina?” Medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering can place a huge burden on you and your family. Explore everything you need to know about personal injury lawyer costs and how an experienced attorney can benefit you after an accident.
Why You Might Need Personal Injury Representation in North Carolina
A personal injury case arises when someone is injured because of another party’s negligence. This could include motor vehicle accidents, workplace injuries, slip and fall accidents, medical malpractice, or defective product claims.
In 2023, the U.S. saw 62 million injuries, with over 222,000 preventable deaths. In fact, the leading cause of death for those under the age of 44 is accidental injuries.
North Carolina personal injury laws are unique because the state follows the contributory negligence rule. Therefore, if you’re even slightly responsible for the accident, you may be barred from receiving compensation. This makes it imperative that you hire a personal injury lawyer who understands the nuances of the law and can build a strong case in your favor.
The Costs of Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer in North Carolina
The cost of hiring a personal injury lawyer in North Carolina is usually structured as a contingency fee agreement. This means:
- No upfront fees. You don’t pay anything when you hire a lawyer.
- The lawyer only gets paid if you win. The attorney’s fee comes as a percentage of the settlement or court award.
- Percentage of fee varies. The complexity of the case can impact the percentage of the attorney’s fees.
The contingency fee model is beneficial for injury victims in North Carolina for many reasons. Some of these include:
- Access to justice. Even if you don’t have money to put toward your legal fees upfront, you can still hire a qualified lawyer.
- Aligned interests. Your lawyer only gets paid if you win the case, which ensures the attorney fights hard for you.
- No financial risk. You won’t be left with legal bills if your case is unsuccessful.
- Level playing field. Insurance companies have teams of lawyers who can be intimidating to negotiate with. The contingency fee allows you to stand up to them with the help of a knowledgeable legal advocate without having to worry about the financial burden of legal fees.
Factors That Affect Costs
To break fees down even further, the percentage fee and costs can vary based on several factors:
- Complexity of the case. Cases involving multiple parties, severe injuries, or disputed liability may require more time, professional testimony, and extensive litigation.
- Stage of the case. If your case settles early through negotiations, the fee may be lower. If the case goes to trial or involves extensive litigation, the fee may increase.
- Expenses and case costs. In addition to attorney’s fees, there are often out-of-pocket expenses, such as court filing fees, professional witness fees, and trial costs.
- Experience of the lawyer. A highly skilled personal injury lawyer with a strong track record may charge a higher percentage.
Comparing the Cost of Hiring a Lawyer vs. Not Hiring a Lawyer
Some accident victims may choose to handle claims on their own to try to save money. However, hiring a personal injury lawyer recovers significantly more than those who try to go it alone.
Insurance companies often offer lower settlement options to underrepresented individuals. Without a lawyer who understands North Carolina personal injury laws, you could lose out on compensation.
While attorney fees may reduce your total settlement slightly, in most cases, you could end up with greater compensation for injuries and damages with the help of a skilled legal representative.
Why You Should Choose Grimes Yeoman, PLLC
When you’re considering how much a personal injury lawyer costs in North Carolina, consider the value of the legal team you hire. Grimes Yeoman, PLLC, tailors representation to fit your needs. We have a proven track record for handling personal injury cases with positive results.
Our team fights tirelessly against insurance companies that try to minimize your payout. Grimes Yeoman, PLLC, charges on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t pay unless we win your case.
FAQs
How Much Do Most Personal Injury Lawyers Charge?
Many personal injury lawyers work based on a contingency fee. This means they are only paid if they secure compensation for you. If they win your case, they request an established percentage of the winnings. Some firms also adjust rates based on case complexity and if the case settles before going to court or if court is necessary. This arrangement allows clients to pursue claims without upfront costs.
What Should I Expect From My Personal Injury Lawyer?
You should expect your personal injury lawyer to handle all aspects of your case, including negotiating with insurance companies, gathering evidence, investigating the accident, and representing you in court, if needed. A good attorney should keep you informed about case progress, answer any questions you have, and provide honest advice about your options.
Do Personal Injury Attorneys Work a Lot?
Personal injury attorneys typically work long hours if their cases require extensive research, client communication, and court appearances. They often manage multiple cases at once, involving various deadlines and demands. Since most attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, they’re highly motivated to dedicate significant time and energy to each client’s success.
What Makes a Good Personal Injury Attorney?
A good personal injury attorney combines legal knowledge, negotiation skills, and compassion. They should have experience handling cases similar to yours and a proven track record of successful outcomes. An exceptional attorney keeps clients informed and makes sure they understand legal terms and procedures. They should care about their clients’ recovery and well-being.
Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer
Hiring a personal injury lawyer can increase your chances of a successful case outcome. Contact Grimes Yeoman, PLLC, today to schedule a consultation and let us help you fight for full compensation after an accident.
