“I think I need an attorney, but how will I pay for one?”  

This is one of the most common concerns we hear from accident or injury clients during their first meeting with our attorneys. The simple truth is: you can afford us.

Like the majority of Washington state personal injury law firms, Abeyta Nelson Injury Law operates on a contingency fee basis. When you hire our legal team to take your case, you pay nothing up front, nor do you pay out-of-pocket fees along the way, which means:

  • No down payment required for our team to get started 
  • No legal retainer fees
  • No hourly billing statements
  • No monthly statements mailed to you as your case progresses

Abeyta Nelson attorneys are paid a percentage of the settlement at the end of your case, but only if we win. Typically, lawyers receive one-third (33%) of a client’s total settlement or court award, but that can vary depending on the unique factors involved in your case. Any court filing fees, expert witness fees or other costs required to handle your case are also paid from your total award at the end of your case.

Even after attorney fees and costs are deducted from a client’s final settlement, research by Nolo shows that those who hire a personal injury attorney receive on average 4x larger settlements than those who do not. Abeyta Nelson attorneys are skilled at handling complex negotiations, and know how to gather required evidence and documentation to build a strong, winning case. Additionally, our legal team understands how to calculate the true value of a claim over the long-term–something most insurance companies won’t do. 

If you were involved in a car accident or serious injury, you deserve to be compensated for your losses. Contact Abeyta Nelson Injury Law today to set up a free, no-obligation initial case consultation with our attorneys. We will review the details of your accident or injury case, discuss any concerns you have, and determine the best path forward for you and your family.  

What is the difference between attorney fees and case expenses?

Abeyta Nelson attorneys are paid a percentage of the financial amount we recover for our clients, also known as a contingency fee. Attorney fees are only paid if we win your case and earn a recovery for you. You will not get billed by the hour, and you will not pay any attorney fees until the end of the case. 

Case expenses are separate from the contingency fee, and are an important part of building and strengthening your claim. These costs are paid by the attorney during the case, but reimbursed from your financial recovery at the end of the case. 

Case expenses may include: 

  • Retrieval of medical records
  • Retrieval of deposition transcripts
  • Investigative fees
  • Court filing fees
  • Expert witness fees, including writing and reviewing reports, or testifying

Abeyta Nelson attorneys will always discuss costs at the beginning of your case so you know what to expect, and provide a copy for you in writing.

What happens if I lose my case?

Abeyta Nelson attorneys resolve the majority of cases we handle on behalf of our clients–but if we don’t, you won’t pay an attorney’s fee. However, you may still be responsible for paying case-related costs. Abeyta Nelson attorneys are transparent about all fees and costs associated with our clients’ cases, and we’re available to answer any questions you may have as your case progresses.

How do I pay my medical bills after an accident?

One of the most common questions asked by our clients after an accident is, “how will I pay my medical bills?” Families may be burdened by emergency room, hospital and ongoing physical therapy bills all at once, feeling overwhelmed by a mountain of unexpected expenses. 

All of your medical bills are included in the final settlement of your claim, and any medical expenses you’ve paid related to your accident will be reimbursed to you. However, as the case progresses, your bills will either need to be paid out of pocket, or through your insurance. Typically, medical bills are covered by your health insurance or your personal auto insurance, including Personal Injury Protection (PIP), while your case is in process. 

If you do not have insurance, a doctor or hospital may agree to treat you under an agreement called a medical lien or Letter of Protection, which ensures they will be paid from your eventual settlement, instead of requiring you to pay out of pocket. An experienced personal injury attorney like those at Abetya Nelson Injury Law will review the unique details of your case and provide advice about how to cover your medical expenses as the bills come in.