Most workers’ compensation attorneys represent clients on a contingency fee basis. This means hiring a workers’ comp lawyer typically costs nothing upfront. Instead, the lawyer receives a percentage of the compensation they recover for you.
At Lawrence & Associates Accident and Injury Lawyers, LLC, we’re dedicated to making quality legal representation accessible to injured workers and their loved ones. If you need help navigating the Kentucky workers’ compensation system, we’re here for you no matter your financial situation. Contact us today to discuss your case with a free, confidential consultation.
What Fee Structure Do Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Use?
While a contingency fee arrangement is the most common fee structure in workers’ compensation cases, some attorneys use other payment models in limited situations.
Contingency Fee
Under a contingency fee arrangement, the lawyer takes an agreed-upon percentage of the compensation they recover for the client. The attorney receives payment only if they recover benefits on the client’s behalf.
Because the client pays nothing out of pocket, this arrangement makes it possible for injured workers to receive legal representation regardless of their financial situation. It also creates a stronger incentive for the attorney to recover fair compensation for the client while moving the case forward as efficiently as possible.
Flat Fee
In some cases, an attorney may charge a flat fee for handling a specific part of a workers’ compensation claim. This means the client pays a predetermined amount for that service, regardless of how much time the lawyer spends on the task. Because workers’ comp cases often involve ongoing legal work, attorneys typically use flat fees only for limited assistance rather than full representation.
Hourly Fee
Under an hourly fee arrangement, the lawyer charges a set rate for each hour they spend working on the case. The outcome does not affect how much money the lawyer earns for their services. This structure creates greater financial risk for workers already struggling with the uncertainty of a workplace injury.
What Percentage Does a Workers’ Comp Lawyer Take?
In most cases, workers’ compensation attorneys charge a percentage of the compensation they recover for the injured worker. Contingency fees for workers’ comp claims vary among law firms and typically range from 10% to 35%.
Many states regulate the percentage an attorney can charge. In Kentucky, an administrative law judge must review and approve a workers’ comp lawyer’s fees to make sure they abide by state limits.
Kentucky state law generally allows attorneys to receive 20% of the first $25,000 they recover for an injured worker. They may then receive 15% of the next $25,000 and 10% of any remaining amount. In total, the fee cannot exceed $18,000.
Are There "Hidden" Costs?
Most workers’ compensation cases involve two types of expenses: attorney fees and case costs.
Attorney fees compensate the attorney for the time they spend working on the case. They are typically a percentage of the client’s overall compensation.
Case costs are separate expenses associated with building and supporting the client’s claim. These may include court filing fees, charges for obtaining medical records, and expert witness fees. Workers’ comp attorneys typically cover these costs upfront and receive reimbursement for them from the client’s compensation if the claim succeeds.
Are There "Hidden" Costs?
Most workers’ compensation cases involve two types of expenses: attorney fees and case costs.
Attorney fees compensate the attorney for the time they spend working on the case. They are typically a percentage of the client’s overall compensation.
Case costs are separate expenses associated with building and supporting the client’s claim. These may include court filing fees, charges for obtaining medical records, and expert witness fees. Workers’ comp attorneys typically cover these costs upfront and receive reimbursement for them from the client’s compensation if the claim succeeds.
Do You Pay if You Lose?
When you hire a workers’ compensation lawyer on a contingency fee basis, you only pay attorney fees if they recover compensation for you. That means you don’t pay anything if you lose your case. This approach removes much of the financial risk of hiring a lawyer.
Does a Lawyer Actually Increase Your Payout?
Injured workers who hire a workers’ compensation lawyer often recover more benefits than they would on their own. An experienced attorney can identify issues that could affect the value of your claim and advocate for the full amount of benefits you’re entitled to.
The insurance companies that handle workers’ comp claims often use aggressive tactics to minimize payouts to workers. For example, they might argue that your injury is related to a preexisting condition, suggest that your injury is less severe than it really is, or pressure you to accept a settlement before the full impact of your injury is clear. A lawyer can quickly identify where you’re being lowballed and push back on these attempts to settle for less than you deserve.
Why Hiring a Workers’ Comp Lawyer Can Be Worth It
A successful workers’ compensation claim requires careful documentation and close attention to deadlines. Any minor misstep can delay your benefits or result in a denied claim.
The right attorney can help you navigate every step of the claims process and make sure it’s done right from day one. They can also manage any related personal injury claims you file against third parties and help you determine if you have to pay back your workers’ comp benefits if you win your lawsuit.
You have enough to manage after a workplace injury. Having a trusted workers’ compensation lawyer on your side can provide peace of mind during a stressful time.
Our firm has been fighting for injured workers since 2005. While you focus on your recovery, our experienced legal team will work diligently to pursue maximum benefits on your behalf.
Get Clarity About Your Workers’ Compensation Case
At Lawrence & Associates, we’re proud to support injured workers during some of the most challenging times of their lives. We work hard for the working class every day and charge zero out-of-pocket fees for our representation. Fee transparency is part of our Client Bill of Rights, meaning we provide clear communication about what you can expect to pay from the very start.
If you have questions about the cost of hiring a workers’ comp lawyer, speaking with our team can provide valuable clarity. We’re ready to review your case, outline the benefits you may qualify for, and explain how our fees work. Call us today at (859) 251-3045 for a free, confidential consultation or fill out our online contact form to get started.
