Why most injury lawyers only get paid if you win — and what that means for you.

One reason injury victims can afford strong representation is the contingency fee. Here's how it works.

No win, no fee

Under a contingency arrangement, the lawyer takes an agreed percentage of any settlement or award. If there is no recovery, you generally owe no attorney's fee — the risk shifts from you to the firm.

Read the fine print

Percentages and how case costs are handled vary, so ask whether expenses come out before or after the fee, and what happens if the case is lost. A clear written agreement avoids surprises.