Do I pay upfront fees if my lawyer works on contingency?+
No, you don't pay attorney fees upfront. Your lawyer advances case costs (expert fees, filings, transcripts) and recoups them plus their percentage (typically 25–40%) from your settlement or judgment. If you lose, you owe nothing.
What expenses might I have to pay separately from attorney fees?+
Some firms ask clients to split costs for expert reports, medical record retrieval, or court reporter fees. Always request a written agreement specifying which costs are covered by the attorney versus billed to you, even under contingency.
How long does a Chicago medical malpractice case typically take?+
Straightforward cases settle in 12–18 months; complex litigation can take 3–5 years. Longer timelines increase attorney hours and expert involvement, directly raising your total cost even under contingency arrangements.
Should I choose the attorney with the lowest contingency percentage?+
Not necessarily. Lower percentages sometimes correlate with less experienced attorneys or minimal support staff. Compare the full package: percentage, cost coverage, track record, and communication style. Higher percentages with proven results often yield better net recovery.