As someone who has been injured due to the negligence of another party, you may be wondering whether you can afford to hire a personal injury attorney in Massachusetts. While the prospect of legal fees may seem daunting, there are several factors to consider when determining the cost of hiring an attorney.
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Contingency Fees
One of the most important factors in determining the cost of a personal injury attorney is whether they work on a contingency fee basis. This means that the attorney will only receive payment if they are successful in securing a settlement or judgment in your favor. Generally, contingency fees range from 33% to 40% of the total recovery, depending on the complexity of the case. This means that if you receive a settlement or judgment of $100,000, the attorney’s fee would be $33,000 to $40,000.
Hourly Rates
If your case is particularly complex, or if you require ongoing legal representation, your attorney may charge you an hourly rate. Hourly rates can vary widely depending on the attorney’s level of experience and the complexity of the case. According to the American Bar Association, the average hourly rate for a personal injury attorney in Massachusetts ranges from $200 to $500 per hour.
Case Costs
In addition to attorney fees, there may be other costs associated with your case. These can include fees for expert witnesses, court fees, and travel expenses. Your attorney will likely cover these costs up front and then deduct them from your settlement or judgment at the end of the case. You should discuss these costs with your attorney before hiring them to ensure that you are comfortable with the potential expenses.
Expected Recovery
When considering whether you can afford to hire a personal injury attorney in Massachusetts, it is important to determine the potential recovery in your case. The amount you can recover will depend on a variety of factors, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of your lost wages, and any ongoing medical expenses. Your attorney can help you estimate the potential recovery in your case, which will help you determine whether hiring an attorney is a worthwhile investment.
Timing
Finally, it is important to consider the timing of your case when determining whether you can afford to hire an attorney. Personal injury cases can take several months or even years to resolve, and you may require ongoing legal representation during this time. You should discuss the potential timeline of your case with your attorney and determine whether you are comfortable with the potential fees over the long term.
Overall, while the cost of hiring a personal injury attorney in Massachusetts may seem daunting, there are several factors to consider when determining affordability. By considering contingency fees, hourly rates, case costs, expected recovery, and timing, you can make an informed decision about whether hiring an attorney is the right choice for you.