If you’ve been injured in an accident and are considering hiring a personal injury lawyer, one question you might have is: What percentage does a personal injury lawyer take from a settlement?
Standard Contingency Fees in Personal Injury Cases
Most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they win your case. The standard contingency fee percentage typically ranges from 33% to 40% of the total settlement or court award.
33% (One-Third Rule) – This is the most common percentage for cases that settle before a lawsuit is filed.
40% or More – If a case goes to trial, the attorney’s percentage may increase due to the additional work, legal expenses, and risks involved.
For example, if you receive a $100,000 settlement, and your lawyer’s contingency fee is 33%, they will receive $33,000, leaving you with $67,000 before any additional case costs.
The percentage a lawyer takes can vary based on several factors, including:
Case Complexity – If a case involves disputed liability or requires expert witnesses, the fee might be higher.
Stage of Resolution – Cases that settle early usually have lower fees, while those that go to trial often require a higher percentage.
State Regulations – Some states have laws that limit contingency fees in certain types of cases.
Law Firm Policies – Different firms may have different pricing structures based on their experience and track record.
Contingency Fees vs. Case Costs
While contingency fees cover the lawyer’s services, there are additional case costs involved in pursuing a personal injury claim. These expenses can significantly impact your final payout and include:
Common Case Costs
Filing Fees: Charges for submitting legal documents to the court.
Service Fees: Costs of delivering legal documents to the defendant.
Investigation Costs: Expenses for obtaining medical records, police reports, and witness statements.
Court Reporting Fees: Payments for transcription services during depositions and hearings.
Witness Fees: Compensation for individuals who provide testimony.
Expert and Consultant Fees: Payments to specialists who provide professional insights or testimony.
Mediation Fees: Costs associated with alternative dispute resolution services.
Jury Fees: Expenses related to jury selection and service if the case goes to trial.
Administrative Costs: Miscellaneous expenses such as postage, copying, and phone charges.
Some law firms cover these expenses upfront and deduct them from your settlement, while others may require you to pay them as they arise. Always clarify cost responsibilities before signing a representation agreement.
Experience in personal injury cases – A lawyer with a strong track record can maximize your settlement.
Transparent fee structure – Make sure you understand all costs before signing an agreement.
Communication and client support – Choose a lawyer who keeps you informed and involved throughout your case.
Key Takeaways
Most personal injury lawyers take between 33% and 40% of a settlement, depending on the complexity and stage of the case. Since they work on a contingency basis, you don’t have to pay anything upfront—they only get paid if you win.
Before hiring a personal injury lawyer, discuss their fees, additional costs, and payment terms to ensure transparency and avoid any surprises.
At Armstrong Lee & Baker LLP, we are dedicated to fighting for the rights of injured clients. Our team provides relentless advocacy and compassionate support, ensuring you get the best possible outcome while staying fully informed about your case. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you on your path to recovery.
Result
$35,800,000
$35,800,000 settlement for a refinery worker injured in a flash fire.
Result
$10,000,000
$10,000,000 confidential settlement. Our client was injured in Dallas, Texas.
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$6,000,000
$6,000,000 for a client who suffered internal organ injuries when she crashed a forklift after receiving inadequate training.
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$5,500,000
$5,500,000 for client who suffered surgical low back injury while lifting heavy equipment at work.
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$4,000,000
$4,000,000 settlement for mother and daughter hit by a plumbing van.
Result
$3,000,000
$3,000,000 settlement for an offshore worker who fell 20 feet from a derrick.
Josh Lee and the rest of the staff are all amazing. They kept me up to date and informed. I was treated like a priority every time I called, Josh even called me back on a Saturday, when the office was closed. They got me way more money than I thought even possible! I am more than satisfied and so grateful that I chose this firm. If you want a very personable, honest attorney who looks out for your best interest and gets results, call them!
Mary G.
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I live roughly eight hours from Armstrong Lee & Baker and communication exceeded my expectations all my needs were met at every level Mr Adam and his wonderful team guided me step by step,I definitely recommend Mr Adam if ever you need a lawyer that will fight very hard for you.He was successful with my injury case got me what I deserve and more,I am forever grateful to Mr Adam and his wonderful team God bless you all
Adam B.
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I couldn’t have asked for better representation. From day one, they took great care of me—not just as a client, but as a person. Throughout the entire injury case from my car accident, they kept me informed, made sure I felt supported, and handled every step with professionalism and confidence. At the end of the day, they got the job done. Grateful to have had them in my corner. Highly recommend.
Carl T.
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Omg…Armstrong Lee & Baker are nothing short of amazing . From the very beginning of my initial call they where totally attentive. The entire team from Priyanka , Monique, Lydia, Eddie , and more are Par-Excellence. Priyanka & Monique , Brianna keep me in the loop on every level . Especially being my first time having to experience hiring an attorney I did not know what to expect. They all coached me play in and out on all procedures . Eddie kept me in the loop on all of my Dr. Appts. He also made sure I received all of my meds. DoorStep! The entire team are amazing ! As for me” Armstrong Lee & Baker are far beyond 5 stars … I give um a 10+”. Thank you Armstrong Lee & Baker.
Apple G.
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I originally hired Jim antler and after a year of him stringing me along he declined my case said it wasn’t worth nothing. That’s when I called Adam at Armstrong Lee and Baker him and his associates took care of me like family got all the medical needs taken care of. Got me my next surgery Back on my feet and also got me awarded a check way bigger than what I was expecting. thank you Adam and your associates at Armstrong, Lee and Baker.
Kirby C.
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I cannot recommend Kelly Viktorin at Armstrong Lee & Baker highly enough. After being injured at work, I was incredibly discouraged as many attorneys wouldn’t take my case due to the complexities involved. From our very first consultation, Kelly and her team jumped right in, demonstrating a level of dedication and expertise that immediately put me at ease. Throughout the entire process, their communication was outstanding. I was consistently kept informed of any updates and felt like a priority. Kelly truly went above and beyond to fight for me, and I am so grateful for her hard work and commitment. If you’re facing a challenging work injury case, especially with a Texas non-subscriber, don’t hesitate to reach out to Kelly Viktorin. You’ll be in excellent hands.
Toby B.
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When I got injured my company didn’t have workers comp. They had something called non subscriber insurance.
I tried a dozen or more lawyers and no one would take my case.
I lost my house in Texas so right as I was moving back to where I was from, Florida, o call Armstrong and Lee. They said they could take my case. Shortly after I meet Adam Grable.
Adam took the case and unraveled it like a champ. It was a difficult case and that’s why other lawyers didn’t take.
Over the next year, Adam because a friend and a member of the family.
I found him brilliant and personable and when needed he found for me.
In the end, we took a settlement even though Adam told me he had a good shot at trial. He understood i wanted this behind me!
If you ever find yourself needed a lawyer trust me Adam Grable will be on your side!
Joshua Lee believes in aggressive, tough advocacy and a client-centered approach to every case. Joshua draws from a wide body of experiences and a robust understanding of the law. Joshua graduated from the New York University School of Law in New York City, which is considered among the best law schools in the world. Our lawyers have 25+ years of combined experience.
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