Construction sites are among the most dangerous workplaces, and accidents can result in life-altering injuries. If you've suffered an injury due to a construction accident in Pennsylvania, you may be considering hiring a lawyer to help you secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. However, many injured workers hesitate to seek legal help due to concerns about attorney fees and hidden legal costs.
Understanding how construction accident lawyers in Pennsylvania charge for their services is essential to making an informed decision about your legal representation. This guide will break down the different types of attorney fees, contingency fee structures, hidden costs, and court-related expenses, so you know exactly what to expect when hiring a lawyer.
How Much Does a Construction Accident Lawyer Cost in Pennsylvania?
Understanding Attorney Fee Structures
Lawyers use different fee structures to charge for their services, and personal injury attorneys often work differently from other types of lawyers. Here are the three most common ways that construction accident attorneys in Pennsylvania charge for their services:
- Contingency Fees – The most common payment structure in construction accident cases. This means that the lawyer only gets paid if they successfully recover compensation for you. Their payment comes as a percentage of your final settlement or court award.
- Hourly Rates – Some lawyers charge an hourly rate for their time. This is rare for personal injury cases but may be used in other types of legal disputes.
- Flat Fees – A fixed amount paid upfront or at different stages of the case. This is uncommon for accident claims but may apply to specific legal services like document preparation.
Understanding which fee structure a lawyer uses is crucial before signing a contract. In construction accident cases, contingency fees are the most common, as they allow injured workers to pursue justice without worrying about paying upfront.
How Do Contingency Fees Work?
A contingency fee agreement means that the lawyer will only receive payment if they win your case. Instead of billing you directly, they take a percentage of your settlement or verdict.
Typical Contingency Fee Percentages
- 25%-33% if the case is settled before trial.
- 33%-40% if the case goes to court.
- 40% or more if the case requires appeals or additional litigation.
Example Contingency Fee Calculation
Let’s say you win a $500,000 settlement:
- If the lawyer’s contingency fee is 33%, they receive $165,000.
- If the case goes to trial and the fee increases to 40%, the lawyer takes $200,000.
- The remaining amount covers medical bills, court costs, and compensation for lost wages and pain and suffering.
While contingency fees ensure that clients don’t have to pay legal fees upfront, it’s essential to understand how much of your final compensation will go toward attorney fees.
Are There Upfront Costs for Hiring a Construction Accident Lawyer in PA?
Many people assume that hiring a lawyer means paying hefty upfront fees, but most personal injury lawyers in Pennsylvania work on contingency, meaning you don’t pay anything unless you win your case. However, there are still some potential expenses that you might need to cover.
Common Legal Expenses That You May Need to Cover
Even though many attorneys work on a contingency basis, some legal costs may still arise during the course of your case. These include:
- Court Filing Fees – The cost of filing a lawsuit in Pennsylvania typically ranges between $200 and $400, depending on the complexity of the case.
- Expert Witness Fees – If your case requires medical or construction industry experts to testify, their fees can range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more.
- Depositions & Transcriptions – If depositions are needed, transcription services can cost between $500 to $1,500.
- Case Investigation & Evidence Collection – Some firms charge for gathering police reports, medical records, and expert opinions.
- Medical Record Retrieval – Some hospitals charge $50 to $500 to provide medical records needed for your case.
Some law firms cover these costs upfront and deduct them from the final settlement, but others may require clients to pay for certain costs as they arise. It’s always best to clarify this before signing a fee agreement.
Hidden Fees in Pennsylvania Construction Injury Lawsuits
Although most reputable construction accident lawyers are transparent about their fees, there are still potential hidden costs that clients may not anticipate.
Possible Hidden Costs to Watch For
- Case Expenses Deducted from Settlements – Some law firms deduct additional costs from the final settlement, which could significantly reduce your compensation.
- Administrative Fees – Some firms charge extra for things like phone calls, printing, and mailing documents.
- Appeals & Additional Litigation Fees – If your case is appealed or extended, your lawyer’s fees may increase.
- Consultation Fees – Some attorneys charge for the initial consultation if you decide not to hire them.
To avoid unexpected charges, always ask the lawyer to outline all potential costs in writing before signing a fee agreement.
Is Hiring a Construction Accident Lawyer in PA Worth It?
While legal fees can seem overwhelming, hiring a lawyer is often the best way to maximize your compensation and ensure that you receive a fair settlement.
What Can an Attorney Help You Recover?
A lawyer can help you obtain compensation for:
- Medical Expenses – Hospital bills, surgeries, therapy, and rehabilitation costs.
- Lost Wages – Compensation for time missed at work due to injury.
- Pain & Suffering – Non-economic damages for physical and emotional distress.
- Disability Benefits – Compensation if your injury prevents you from returning to work.
- Wrongful Death Claims – If a loved one died in a construction accident, an attorney can help you file a wrongful death lawsuit.
Without legal representation, insurance companies may offer low settlements, and employers may try to deny responsibility. A lawyer can fight for your best interests and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Common Problems Workers Face with Legal Fees
Many injured workers face financial obstacles when dealing with legal fees. Here are some common issues:
- Unclear Fee Agreements – Some workers don’t fully understand how much they will be charged.
- High Contingency Fees – A 40% contingency fee could significantly reduce your final settlement.
- Unexpected Case Costs – Filing fees, expert witness fees, and investigation expenses can add up.
- Delays in Receiving Settlements – Some firms deduct fees before disbursing funds, causing delays.
To avoid these issues, always ask for a clear breakdown of all potential costs before signing a contract.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania Construction Accident Legal Fees
What is the average cost of hiring a construction accident lawyer in Pennsylvania?
Most construction accident lawyers in Pennsylvania work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they win your case. The average contingency fee ranges from 25% to 40% of the final settlement or court award. If the case is settled before trial, the fee is typically lower, but if it goes to court or requires an appeal, the fee may increase.
Do I have to pay anything upfront to hire a construction accident attorney?
In most cases, you do not have to pay upfront fees. Personal injury lawyers handling construction accident cases usually work on a no-win, no-fee basis. However, there may be case-related expenses such as court filing fees or expert witness costs that you might have to cover, depending on the law firm’s policies.
What are contingency fees, and how do they work?
A contingency fee is a payment arrangement where the lawyer only gets paid if they successfully recover compensation for you. The fee is a percentage of the final settlement or award, typically ranging from 25% to 40%. This structure allows injured workers to seek legal representation without worrying about upfront legal fees.
Are there any hidden legal fees I should be aware of?
While most reputable lawyers are transparent about their fees, there can be additional costs deducted from your settlement. These may include case investigation expenses, court filing fees, expert witness fees, and administrative charges for document preparation and depositions. It is important to clarify with your lawyer which costs you might be responsible for.
What happens if I lose my construction accident case?
If you lose your case, you typically do not have to pay attorney fees under a contingency agreement. However, you may still be responsible for certain expenses, such as court filing fees or expert witness fees, if they were not covered by the law firm.
Contact Fulginiti Law Today
Hiring a construction accident lawyer in Pennsylvania is often the best way to secure fair compensation. While legal fees vary, most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning you only pay if you win.
If you’ve been injured in a construction accident, don’t hesitate to seek legal help. Contact Fulginiti Law today to discuss your case and explore your options.
