Updated: May 24, 2026 · 8 min read
How much does it cost to hire a personal injury lawyer?
The cost of hiring a personal injury lawyer can vary widely depending on the firm, the complexity of your case, and the fee structure they use. However, most personal injury law firms, especially those in New York, operate on a contingency fee basis. Here's what that means and other factors to consider: Contingency Fee Basis: In this arrangement, you don't pay any legal fees upfront. Instead, the lawyer takes a percentage of the settlement or court award as their fee. If you don't win the case, you typically owe nothing to the lawyer for their legal services. The percentage can vary but often ranges from 30% to 40% depending on the case and its complexity, with one-third (33.3%) being the most common arrangement in New York. Costs and Expenses: While you may not owe legal fees if you don't win, some firms might still require you to pay for costs incurred during the case, such as filing fees, costs for obtaining medical records, or fees for expert witnesses. It's essential to clarify this point during your initial consultation. Free Consultation: Most reputable personal injury law firms offer free initial consultations. This meeting allows you to assess whether the lawyer is a good fit for your needs and to inquire about their fee structure. Additional Costs: Regardless of the fee structure, be sure to ask about any additional costs you might incur, such as court filing fees, costs for obtaining medical records, or any other miscellaneous costs that might not be covered in the contingency fee. Fee Agreement: Always make sure to read the fee agreement carefully and ask questions if you have them. This agreement should outline the exact fee structure and any other financial obligations you might have. Hiring a personal injury lawyer is an important step towards pursuing the compensation you deserve. At our firm, we're committed to transparency and affordability. Our New York personal injury attorneys operate primarily on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don't pay unless we win your case. For a detailed understanding of how this could apply to your specific situation, call us at (646) 647-3398.What percentage do personal injury lawyers take in New York?
In New York, the percentage taken by personal injury lawyers commonly ranges between 33.3% (or one-third) and 40% of the settlement amount or court award. These percentages are usually determined by a contingency fee arrangement, meaning you don't pay anything upfront and only owe the attorney a fee if you win the case. It's crucial to clarify the exact percentage during your initial consultation with any law firm. The fee percentage can sometimes vary based on the complexity of the case, whether the case goes to trial, or the stage at which the case is resolved. For example, some New York personal injury attorneys might charge a lower percentage if the case is settled before filing a lawsuit or going to trial, and a higher percentage if a lawsuit is filed and the case proceeds to court. New York court rules (22 NYCRR 603.25, 691.20, 806.27, 1015.15) establish fee schedules that regulate contingency fees in personal injury and wrongful death cases. Fees that comply with the applicable department's schedule are deemed fair and reasonable; fees exceeding the schedule may be considered unconscionable. Additionally, under NY Rule of Professional Conduct 1.5, attorneys may not charge excessive or illegal fees. Medical malpractice cases have a separate statutory sliding-scale cap under Judiciary Law § 474-a. The exact terms should be clearly spelled out in a written fee agreement that you and the attorney sign. At our firm, our New York personal injury lawyers work strictly on a contingency fee basis. We are committed to transparency and make sure our clients fully understand our fee structure before proceeding with their case. For a more detailed understanding of our fee structure and how it could apply to your case, call us at (646) 647-3398.How can The Orlow Firm help maximize my case?
At The Orlow Firm, we understand that every personal injury case is unique, requiring a tailored legal strategy to secure the best possible outcome for our clients. Our team of seasoned New York personal injury attorneys brings a combination of knowledge, experience, and resources to each case. We carefully analyze the facts and construct compelling arguments to meet the necessary burden of proof for your specific circumstances. Our meticulous approach begins with an in-depth investigation of your case. We gather essential evidence, consult with expert witnesses, and leave no stone unturned to build a robust case. We also excel in skillful negotiations and will pursue every avenue for a favorable settlement before even considering going to trial. Through years of practice, we have built a strong network within the New York legal community. Our relationships and reputation can often make a difference when selecting expert witnesses or strategizing the best course of action. Effective communication is a cornerstone of our legal service. Throughout the process, you'll be kept up-to-date on the latest developments in your case, ensuring you're well-informed and prepared for any decisions that may arise. In cases that do go to trial, we offer aggressive representation aimed at pursuing the best possible outcome. Moreover, our contingency-based fee structure means you won't pay any legal fees unless we win your case. Simply put, our multi-faceted approach strengthens your position for a favorable outcome, whether that's a settlement or a win in court. To find out how we can apply our experience to your personal injury case, don't hesitate; call us today at (646) 647-3398.Sources & Legal References
- 22 NYCRR § 1015.15 – Contingent Fees in Personal Injury and Wrongful Death (Cornell Law)
- 22 NYCRR § 603.25 – Personal Injury Claims, First Department (Cornell Law)
- NY Rules of Professional Conduct, Rule 1.5 – Fees (NYCourts.gov)
- NY Judiciary Law § 474-a – Contingent Fees in Medical Malpractice (Justia)
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Written byParalegal & Office ManagerB.A.Sc., Political Science & Government, John Jay College of Criminal Justice (CUNY), 22+ years at The Orlow Firm, Bilingual: English and Spanish
