Ross Mann Personal Injury Lawyers | January 16, 2026 | Personal Injury
If you were injured in an accident, you may be worried about medical bills, missed work, and how you will afford a lawyer. One of the most common questions people ask is how much a personal injury lawyer costs.
In Lexington, Kentucky, most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means their pay comes from your settlement or verdict—not out of your pocket.
Keep reading to learn more about how contingency fees work, the typical percentage that lawyers take, and the factors that can affect this amount. Understanding these details can help you feel more confident as you proceed with your claim.
What Is a Contingency Fee?
A contingency fee is a payment arrangement in which a lawyer is only paid if they recover compensation for you. Instead of charging hourly rates or upfront retainers, the attorney’s fee is a percentage of the total recovery.
This structure benefits injured clients by removing the financial barrier to hiring legal help. You can pursue a claim without paying anything up front, and your lawyer has a strong incentive to work hard on your case.
Typical Contingency Fee Percentages in Lexington, KY
In most personal injury cases, there is no “typical” contingency fee percentage because the exact value depends on specific factors, including:
- Whether the case settles or goes to court
- How long the case takes to resolve
- The amount of work required to prove liability and damages
- The level of resistance from insurance companies
Cases that require extensive investigation, expert witnesses, or trial preparation often involve more time and resources. As a result, the contingency fee may be higher to reflect that effort.
Your fee agreement should clearly explain the percentage your lawyer will take and when that rate applies. A reputable firm will review this information with you before you sign anything.
How Are Case Costs and Expenses Handled?
In addition to attorney’s fees, personal injury cases often involve costs that may include:
- Filing fees
- Medical record retrieval
- Expert witness fees
- Investigation expenses
Some law firms deduct these costs from the settlement amount after the case is resolved, while others cover them upfront and reimburse themselves later. It is essential to inquire about how costs are handled to avoid any surprises at the conclusion of your case. Like the percentage to be used, these cost details should also be in your fee agreement and clearly explained to you.
Do You Pay Anything if You Lose?
In most contingency fee arrangements, you generally do not pay attorney’s fees if your lawyer does not recover compensation. This reduces the risk of injury for clients and enables them to pursue justice without fear of incurring large legal bills.
However, you should still ask whether you could be responsible for certain case expenses if the claim is unsuccessful. A clear explanation up front helps you understand your financial responsibilities.
Is Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer Worth It?
Many accident victims try to handle claims on their own, especially when insurance companies seem cooperative at first. Unfortunately, insurers often aim to minimize payouts. Without legal guidance, you may accept a settlement that does not fully cover your medical costs, lost income, or long-term needs.
A qualified personal injury lawyer can:
- Investigate the accident
- Gather evidence and medical records
- Handle insurance negotiations
- Pursue full compensation for your losses
While deducting a percentage of your compensation as your lawyer’s fee may sound significant, many clients recover more overall with legal representation than they would on their own.
Questions to Ask Before Signing a Fee Agreement
Before hiring a lawyer, it is important to ensure that all of your questions related to your case and the lawyer’s services are answered.
You should generally consider asking:
- What percentage will you take if the case settles?
- Does the percentage change if a lawsuit is filed?
- How are case costs handled?
- Will I owe anything if we do not win?
Clear answers help you make an informed decision and build trust with your legal team.
Contact a Lexington Personal Injury Lawyer at Ross Mann Personal Injury Lawyers for Help
Understanding contingency fees can make the legal process feel less overwhelming after an accident. If you have questions about costs or your legal options, speaking with a Lexington personal injury lawyer can provide clarity and peace of mind.
If you were injured in an accident in Lexington, and need legal help, contact our Personal Injury attorneys at Ross Mann Personal Injury Lawyers, to schedule a free case review today.
We proudly serve Fayette County and the surrounding areas.
Ross Mann Personal Injury Lawyers – Lexington
501 Darby Creek Rd UNIT 48
Lexington, KY 40509
(859) 413-3900
