If you`re a California worker who has been injured on the job, you might be entitled to workers` compensation benefits to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs incurred as a result of your injury. However, navigating the workers` compensation system can be a complex and daunting task, and it`s often best to seek the help of an experienced California workers` compensation attorney.
When you hire a workers` compensation attorney in California, you`ll typically enter into a fee agreement that outlines the terms of the attorney`s compensation. Here`s what you need to know about California workers` compensation attorney fee agreements.
Contingency Fees
Most California workers` compensation lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means that the attorney will take a percentage of your workers` compensation award or settlement as their fee. The specific percentage will vary based on the attorney and the complexity of your case, but it`s typically around 15% to 20% of your award or settlement.
One benefit of a contingency fee arrangement is that you don`t have to pay the attorney`s fees upfront. Instead, the attorney will take their fee out of your award or settlement once your case is resolved.
Hourly Fees
Some California workers` compensation attorneys charge hourly fees instead of contingency fees. This means that you`ll pay the attorney an hourly rate for the time they spend working on your case. The hourly rate will vary based on the attorney and the complexity of your case, but it`s typically around $200 to $400 per hour.
Hourly fees can be beneficial if your case is relatively simple and straightforward, as you might end up paying less in fees than you would with a contingency fee arrangement. However, if your case is more complex and requires a lot of legal work, hourly fees can quickly add up and become more expensive than a contingency fee arrangement.
Fee Agreements Must Be in Writing
In California, workers` compensation attorney fee agreements must be in writing and signed by both you and the attorney. The agreement must clearly outline the attorney`s fee and how it will be calculated, as well as any other costs and expenses that the attorney might charge (such as filing fees or expert witness fees).
It`s important to carefully review and understand the fee agreement before you sign it. Make sure you know exactly how much you`ll be paying the attorney, and what services the attorney will provide in exchange for their fee.
Final Thoughts
If you`ve been injured on the job in California, hiring a workers` compensation attorney can help ensure that you receive the benefits you`re entitled to. Just make sure you understand the fee agreement before you sign it, and choose an attorney who has experience handling workers` compensation cases in California. With the right attorney on your side, you can navigate the complex workers` compensation system and get the compensation you deserve.