If you are getting ready to hire an accident attorney, then the attorney who you are thinking about hiring might have told you that he or she works on a contingency basis. For some people, this term a little confusing. However, it's pretty simple: your lawyer will not charge you a set fee up front for his or her legal services. Instead, you'll be charged a percentage of your settlement, and that money will be taken out of your settlement before you receive it. Some of the things that you will want to know about hiring an attorney on a contingency basis are listed here.

1. Different Attorneys Charge Different Percentages

Be aware that not every attorney charges the same rate. Rates are generally given in a percentage term. For example, an attorney might charge you 35 percent of your settlement. Don't assume that the first amount that you are told is the amount that you are going to have to pay. Another attorney in your area might charge a lower percentage, so it pays to go to a few consultations. You can also ask the attorney if the percentage is negotiable; some attorneys are not willing to negotiate their rate, but it's worth asking about so that you can save some money.

2. You May Have to Pay Some Out-of-Pocket Costs

With a contingency fee, you do not have to pay your attorney's fees up front. However, you may still have some expenses before you get your settlement. For example, your lawyer might expect you to pay out-of-pocket expenses that the firm would otherwise have to pay, such as the cost of mailing or filing documents. If you're not sure about this, make sure that you ask about whether or not you will be expected to pay some out-of-pocket costs before you receive your settlement so that you will be prepared for these costs, if applicable.

3. It Can Help You Get a Bigger Settlement

If you are a little bit unsure about the idea of hiring an accident attorney on a contingency basis, then you should know that it can be a positive thing in many ways. For one thing, you might be more likely to get a bigger settlement if you choose to hire an attorney in this way. After all, if your lawyer is able to help you get a bigger settlement, then he or she will get more money out of the deal, too. Therefore, before shying away from hiring an attorney on a contingency basis, consider the perks of it.