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The Truth About ‘No Fee Unless We Win’ in New York

Why no fee unless we win matters

If you were injured in New York and are worried about how much hiring a lawyer might cost you, you’re not alone. For many people, the phrase “no fee unless we win” sounds too good to be true. But is it? In this article, we’ll break down what this model really means in NYC personal injury cases, how it protects you, and how it works in practice. If you’re considering legal action but concerned about upfront costs, this could be the reassurance you need.

What Does “No Fee Unless We Win” Mean in NYC?

In simple terms, this model means your personal injury lawyer only gets paid if you receive a settlement or win your case in court. There are no upfront costs, no hourly fees, and no financial risk for you.

This is called a contingency fee arrangement, and it is the standard payment model for most personal injury attorneys in New York. It allows anyone, regardless of income, to access high-quality legal representation after an injury.

“Contingency fee NY personal injury” means the attorney’s fee is contingent upon the success of your case.

How Contingency Fees Work in New York

Under New York law, most personal injury lawyers work on a one-third contingency, meaning they receive 33.33 percent of the total compensation only if they recover money for you.

Here is what that typically includes:

  • Free consultation: You discuss your case with the lawyer at no cost
  • Case expenses fronted by the firm: Filing fees, expert witnesses, investigators, and more
  • Lawyer only paid if you win: If your case is unsuccessful, you owe nothing

This system makes it possible for injured New Yorkers to pursue justice without the stress of legal bills.

“Do NYC personal injury lawyers work on contingency?” Yes, and it is one of the most client-friendly models in the legal industry.

Realistic Case Study: Maria’s Story

Maria, a 38-year-old delivery driver in Queens, suffered a fractured wrist when she slipped on an unmarked wet floor in a building lobby. She couldn’t work and faced medical bills she could not afford.

Maria was hesitant to call a lawyer, worried it would cost thousands upfront. But after a free consultation, she learned the firm would take her case on a contingency basis: no fee unless they won.

The firm handled everything. They gathered evidence, negotiated with insurance, and filed the lawsuit. Five months later, Maria received a 90,000 dollar settlement. Her attorney’s fee was 30,000 dollars, exactly one-third. The rest covered her lost wages and medical expenses. Maria paid nothing out-of-pocket, ever.

Her words: “I was scared to call a lawyer because I thought I couldn’t afford one. I’m so glad I did. I didn’t risk anything, and they got me real help.”

Common Misconceptions Debunked

“It must be a scam” Legitimate NYC personal injury firms operate under strict state rules. Reputable firms, like ours, offer signed agreements clearly outlining fees and responsibilities.

“I’ll still owe something if I lose” No. In a proper contingency arrangement, you owe nothing if the case isn’t successful. The law firm assumes the financial risk.

“They’ll just settle quickly to get paid” Skilled attorneys maximize your outcome. Your success is their success, so they are motivated to negotiate or fight for the highest compensation possible.

Benefits of “No Fee Unless We Win” for Clients

  • Zero upfront cost
  • High-quality legal support regardless of income
  • Lawyer is incentivized to win
  • All costs are explained upfront
  • You get peace of mind

It is a risk-free path to justice for injury victims who are already dealing with enough stress.

Related search: “injury attorney no upfront cost NYC”

How Much Do Injury Lawyers Charge in NY?

In most cases:

  • 33.33 percent if the case settles
  • Slightly higher if the case goes to trial and incurs litigation costs

These terms are outlined in a signed retainer agreement. At Cohan Law Firm, we walk every client through this agreement to ensure transparency and comfort.

Transparency Is Our Priority

You have a right to understand exactly how attorney fees work before you commit to legal action. That is why we offer a free downloadable guide explaining:

  • How contingency fees are calculated
  • What costs are deducted from a settlement
  • How your attorney’s payment is handled

What Does No Win No Fee Mean in New York?

This popular phrase simply means your lawyer does not get paid unless you do. It reflects the contingency model and is designed to remove the biggest barrier most injury victims face when seeking legal help: fear of high fees.

In New York, this model is governed by ethical and legal rules. Attorneys must clearly explain all terms in writing, and clients must sign a retainer agreement that lays everything out in plain language.

For injury victims, this means peace of mind and access to justice. You do not need to drain your savings or go into debt to protect your rights.

Why This Model Benefits Everyone

Contingency fees do not just benefit clients. They align the interests of lawyer and client, creating a true partnership. When your attorney’s success depends on your success, you can feel confident they are doing everything possible to win your case.

This model also empowers people who might otherwise never pursue a claim. It levels the playing field against powerful insurance companies and ensures that your financial situation does not block your access to justice.

When to Contact a Lawyer

If you have been injured and are unsure whether you have a valid claim, the best first step is to schedule a free consultation. A lawyer can evaluate your case, explain your options, and help you understand what to expect.

At Cohan Law Firm, we are committed to transparency and client-first service. Our team has handled hundreds of cases on a contingency basis, recovering millions for injured New Yorkers.

Ready to Talk? It Costs You Nothing

If you or a loved one was injured in NYC, we are here to help. Request a free case review today. Let’s answer your questions, evaluate your options, and help you pursue justice without financial pressure.

Schedule your risk-free consultation now or download our free guide to better understand your rights.

It costs nothing to ask. It could cost everything if you don’t.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship.

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