The experts at Shlesinger & deVilleneuve almost always work on a contingency fee for personal injury claims. What that means is that they only get paid if you win your case. In the unusual event that you lose your personal injury claim, the attorneys also receive nothing in attorney fees. The percentages may sometimes appear on the higher end, but remember, the attorneys are also risking not getting paid at all. Typically, a personal injury claim is accepted on a 33.3% contingency. For example, if the attorneys at Shlesinger & deVilleneuve obtained a settlement of $15,000, their fee would be $5,000. Often times, the same attorney could be earning more by charging an hourly fee which is commonly between $200-400 per hour, but the attorneys at Shlesinger & deVilleneuve know that most folks will not be able to afford that and the contingency fee allows everyone to get expert representation, regardless of ability to pay.
If Your Case Moves to the Next Phase
If your case requires the additional step of filing a lawsuit, the contingency of many firms will typically increase from 33.3% to 40%. The rationale behind the increase is that a lot more work goes into filing and pursuing a lawsuit than negotiating a settlement. A trial may not happen for almost a year, and your attorney will be spending a lot more time preparing for trial. Trials often involve depositions of the parties and witnesses and a lengthy discovery period which can take months depending on the complexity of the case.. Preparing for trials may also involve attending many court hearings leading up to the trial. Finally, your experienced attorney from Shlesinger & deVilleneuve will prepare and file numerous legal proceedings in preparation for trial. The trial itself can last anywhere from one day to several weeks. However filing a case can often result in a higher settlement without the need for a trial, which is why at Shlesinger & deVilleneuve, our percentage does NOT increase unless the case actually goes to trial
Get Help With Your Legal Case
So, is it worth it? Why not just try the negotiations without a lawyer? There is a famous quote from Abraham Lincoln, “[h]e who represents himself has a fool for a client.” Lawyers are almost always able to get a more favorable result than you would get on your own. Furthermore, attorneys know the ins and outs of all of the tort laws in Oregon. They are able to help you navigate the difficult journey of a monetary settlement or a civil trial.
For help determining your next steps in a claim, contact our firm. We have the experience to help ensure you get fair compensation.
