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ARTICLE · 28 SEPTEMBER 2021

We Don't Get Paid Unless You Do – A Guide To Contingency Fee Agreements

Siskinds LLP
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igh fees are often one of the first things that come to mind when hiring a lawyer.

CanadaLitigation, Mediation & Arbitration
Victoria Edwards
Victoria Edwards
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High fees are often one of the first things that come to mind when hiring a lawyer. Most lawyers bill hundreds of dollars for every hour of work and pursuing a matter to the end of trial can take hundreds of hours, if not more. The cost of competent legal representation should not be a barrier to justice. To account for the fact that many people cannot afford to pay a lawyer up front, many personal injury lawyers will take on work through a contingency fee agreement.

A contingency fee agreement means that you only pay your legal fees if you win your case at trial or negotiate a settlement. If you are unsuccessful, you do not pay legal fees. You may still be responsible for paying other legal expenses, such as disbursements, or out-of-pocket expenses, but this can be discussed with the lawyer before you enter into a retainer agreement so that you know what you are responsible for paying. Some firms do not require you to pay disbursements if you lose, while others

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