How Do You Pay for a Personal Injury Attorney?
When considering legal action, a common concern is the cost of hiring an attorney. At The Balams Firm, we represent clients on a contingency fee basis. A contingent fee agreement is commonly described as a “no win, no fee” agreement, although this phrase is somewhat misleading. Many cases are resolved through a settlement in order to avoid the costs of going to trial. This outcome, while not a clear win or loss for attorneys, still provides financial compensation for victims.
Need Legal Help After an Injury in Atlanta?
ReShea Balams is an Atlanta attorney who does not charge her clients one cent unless she gets them financial awards. The Balams Firm serves several communities in and around the greater Atlanta area, including Johns Creek, Riverdale, Decatur, East Point, Norcross, Marietta, Sandy Springs, Roswell, Dunwoody, Lawrenceville, College Park, Milton, Alpharetta, Forest Park, Duluth, and Smyrna.
Call Us NowHow Contingency Fees Work in Atlanta
Contingency fees allow you to hire a lawyer without paying upfront. Instead, the lawyer’s fee is a percentage of the settlement or judgment if you win. Contingency fees cannot be used for criminal and domestic cases, such as divorce or alimony disputes.
Key Factors That Determine Contingency Fees
According to Rule 1.5(a) of the State Bar of Georgia, contingency fees are based on factors like case complexity, the time and effort required, typical local fees, the amount of money involved, and the lawyer’s experience and reputation.
What to Expect in a Contingency Fee Agreement
A contingency fee agreement must be in writing, outlining the lawyer’s percentage and any expenses, and specifying whether they’re deducted before or after the fee. After the case, the lawyer must provide a statement with the outcome, recovery, fee, and any fee division.
Auto Accident Claim Help. Do You Qualify?
Take our quick, 2-minute quiz to see if you qualify for legal assistance.
Can You Get More Money Without a Lawyer?
After an accident, the insurance company may suggest that hiring a lawyer isn’t necessary. While this might seem appealing, especially with medical bills and lost wages, negotiating without legal advice can lead to a much lower settlement.
Call Us Now
Risks of Settling Without Legal Help
Demanding the Right Amount
Settling for too little or asking for too much could result in losing money.
Failing to Collect Evidence
Forgetting photos or witness info can weaken your case.
Giving Recorded Statements
Recorded statements may harm your claim later.
Mistakes in Medical Treatment
Delaying treatment or ignoring doctor’s orders can hurt your case.
Signing Insurance Documents
Signing without understanding can limit your settlement.
Waiting Too Long
Act quickly—there’s a time limit for filing a lawsuit.
Georgia Contingency Fees Resources
For more information on contingency fees and personal injury law in Georgia, explore resources from legal aid organizations, state bar associations, and reputable online legal guides to better understand your rights.
State Bar of Georgia
Rule 1.5 on fees in the Georgia State Bar Handbook is found in Part IV of the Ethics & Discipline section, under Chapter 1 of the Georgia Rules of Professional Conduct. These fee guidelines match those set by the American Bar Association (ABA).
Read MoreAmerican Bar Association
The ‘When You Need a Lawyer’ section of the ABA website answers a few of the most frequently asked questions about contingent fees. Some of the topics addressed include methods of settlement, reduction of legal costs, and popular billing methods.
Read MoreFind a Lawyer Who Works on Contingent Fee in the Atlanta Area
If you sustained serious injuries or your loved one was killed as the result of another party’s negligence, do not let the possible cost of having legal representation prevent you from seeking a qualified attorney for your case. Atlanta attorney ReShea Balams represents her clients on a contingency fee basis, so you pay absolutely nothing for her services unless she gets you a financial award.
The Balams Firm serves multiple communities in the greater Atlanta area, including locations in Fulton County, DeKalb County, Cobb County, Gwinnett County, and Clayton County.
Call Us Now
