The single biggest barrier people imagine to hiring an injury lawyer is cost. In reality, virtually every personal injury attorney in Arizona works on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay no hourly rate and no upfront retainer. The attorney's fee is a percentage of the recovery, and if there is no recovery, there is no fee.
No Win, No Fee — Literally
This structure exists precisely so that injured people, who are often out of work and facing mounting medical bills, can access experienced legal representation regardless of their financial situation. The lawyer takes on the financial risk of the case.
How the Percentage Works
Contingency percentages in Arizona commonly range around one-third of the recovery, though the figure can vary based on the complexity of the case and whether it settles or goes to trial. The exact percentage is spelled out in a written fee agreement before any work begins, so there are no surprises.
Because the attorney only gets paid if you do, their incentive is fully aligned with yours: to maximize the recovery. The more they secure for you, the more the case is worth to everyone.
Costs vs. Fees: An Important Distinction
There is a difference between the attorney's fee (the percentage) and case costs (expenses like filing fees, expert witnesses, medical record charges, and accident reconstruction). In most Arizona contingency arrangements, the firm advances these costs and is reimbursed from the recovery.
A good fee agreement explains exactly how costs are handled and whether you owe anything if the case does not succeed. Read it carefully and ask questions, a reputable attorney will walk you through every line.
What This Means for You
The contingency model removes the financial risk of pursuing a claim. You get experienced representation, the firm fronts the costs, and you owe a fee only if money is recovered for you. There is no reason to delay a free case review over worries about cost, because the review itself is free and the representation costs you nothing upfront.
Have questions about your own situation? Get a free, confidential case review. You pay no fee unless you win. Call 973-566-5599.
This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, consult a licensed Arizona attorney.