How Much Does an Attorney Get From a Wrongful Death Settlement

If a relative dies from someone else's negligence in the state of Pennsylvania, you're eligible to file a "wrongful death" against the at-fault party and seek a settlement.

However, these cases aren't as easy as they seem, and it'll be best to hire a top wrongful death attorney in Lancaster, PA, for a positive court verdict.

At Georgelis Injury Law Firm, one of the most common queries asked by patrons is how much our attorneys get from wrongful death settlements. Below, we'll examine what fees attorneys are eligible for in wrongful death claims.

Let's get started!

Understanding Contingency Fees

Many Lancaster, PA, wrongful death attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis. Thus, they're only eligible for a payment if they get a fair settlement on their patrons' behalf. Afterward, they'll collect a percentage as stated in their contracts.

An attorney working on a contingency fee basis means they won't receive a dime in legal expenses if the claim doesn't yield a fair settlement. As such, they're ready to go the extra mile to build a rock-solid case and get the maximum compensation available.

Each case differs, and your legal advisor will request a set percentage of the settlement, usually around 30% to 40% of the total compensation. You'd have to agree on these fees before signing a contract.

With this payment layout in view, receiving a $200,000 wrongful death settlement should see you doling out at least $60,000 - $80,000 to your attorney.

Contingency-fee contracts are often beneficial to those who don't have the financial power to hire top attorneys that'll litigate fiercely for their case.

Extra Expenses You Might Incur in a Wrongful Death Case

Besides attorney fees, there are other expenses you'll encounter during your litigation. Notable examples are:

●     Mailing and copying

●     Transcription expenses

●     Court reporter fees

●     Process server charges

●     Costs of retrieving medical records

●     Expert witness fees

●     Charges for private investigators

Note that the expenses on each case vary. However, seeking an expert witness to testify, linking all the dots between the at-fault party's actions to a person's death, and testifying in court might cost you thousands.

Nonetheless, fees for transcription, mailing, and filing a claim are negligible.

Before hiring a wrongful Lancaster, PA, death attorney, ensure you're clear about how you'll pay these fees.

While some legal entities will shoulder these expenses and take them from your final settlement, others might require you to settle these bills as the case unfolds.

Vital Questions to Ask a Wrongful Death Lawyer About Fees

Before hiring a wrongful death lawyer for your lawsuit, ask these questions:

●     Can you estimate how much I'll be charged for legal fees and other miscellaneous expenses?

●     How do you handle fee payments? Do you remove a share from the received settlement, or will I pay upfront?

●     Do you have a contingency-fee contract in place?

●     What happens if I don't want a lawyer's services before my case's conclusion?

Your attorney should answer these queries clearly and confidently. If you're unsure of their payment scheme, contact another lawyer for your wrongful death claim.

Call a Top Wrongful Death Lawyer in Lancaster, PA, Today

If a relative died wrongly, you're eligible to file a claim against the at-fault party. Since this procedure can be complex, consider hiring a top lawyer from the stables of Georgelis Injury Law Firm.

We operate on a contingency-fee-basis, meaning you'll not spend a cent as the claim unravels. To know more about our process, schedule a free consultation with us today, and we'll get back to you immediately.

FAQs

Is Hiring a Wrongful Death Attorney Worth It?

Yes. Hiring a wrongful death lawyer allows you to file a claim during the set statute of limitations and receive a fair settlement.

How Can I Choose the Best Wrongful Death Attorney?

Before hiring a wrongful death attorney, consider their expertise, character, and accessibility. An attorney who works on a contingency fee basis is a place.

What Is Pennsylvania's Statute of Limitations for Wrongful Death Lawsuits?

Plaintiffs have two years from the death of a loved one to file a wrongful death claim in Pennsylvania.