When it comes to legal matters, one common concern is the cost associated with filing a lawsuit. People often wonder if they need to pay a substantial amount of money to initiate legal proceedings. In this article, we will explore the expenses typically involved in filing a lawsuit and how they can vary depending on the circumstances.
Common Lawsuit Expenses
When you hire an attorney, they may try to settle your claim before filing a lawsuit. During this process, they incur various costs, such as ordering medical records, making copies, postage, and potentially meeting with your doctors to discuss your injuries. If your attorney successfully settles your case without resorting to a lawsuit, your expenses are typically minimal.
However, in some situations, a lawsuit becomes necessary. Reasons for filing a lawsuit can include disputed liability or discrepancies in damage valuation. When a lawsuit is filed, litigants generally incur higher expenses compared to cases settled pre-lawsuit. The initial filing fee for a circuit court civil lawsuit is usually $150. Additionally, if a jury demand is made, an extra fee of $85 applies. As the litigation progresses, various motions might need to be filed, each with a filing fee of $20. Throughout the course of the legal process, there will be additional costs, such as lay and expert witness fees, ordering more medical records and bills, fees for private investigators, court reporters, and depositions.
Most law firms provide clients with the option to have the firm advance the costs. This means that the firm pays all the necessary expenses as they arise and then recovers the reimbursement from the settlement or verdict. Alternatively, clients can choose to cover the costs themselves, but this option is often avoided due to the high expenses associated with it.
Contingency Fee Example
To understand the financial dynamics of a lawsuit, let’s consider a real-world example of a contingency fee arrangement. Suppose a client settles their case for $33,000, and the law firm has advanced $3,000 in costs on the client’s behalf. In this scenario, the $3,000 is deducted from the total settlement amount, leaving $30,000. The attorney then receives one-third (1/3) of this amount as their fee, which in this case would be $10,000, while the remaining $20,000 goes to the client.
It is important to note that the total cost of a lawsuit is unpredictable. The expenses associated with bringing a lawsuit depend on various factors, such as liability, the extent of the client’s injuries and medical treatment, whether a lawsuit needs to be filed, and the number of laypeople and expert witnesses required. However, potential clients should not be discouraged from seeking legal advice because these expenses are typically covered by the law firm, and clients do not have to pay anything out of pocket.
Our Dedication to Our Clients – In and Out of the Courtroom
At News Explorer Today, we understand the concerns and questions individuals have when it comes to legal matters. We are dedicated to providing our clients with comprehensive support and guidance throughout their legal journey. Our team engages in open and thorough discussions to analyze each client’s unique situation, needs, and desired outcome for their case. We encourage our clients to ask questions and seek clarity regarding all fees associated with retaining an attorney.
If you have any legal concerns or questions, do not hesitate to reach out to us at News Explorer Today. We are here to provide you with the reliable information and guidance you need.
FAQs
Stay tuned for some frequently asked questions about the cost of filing a lawsuit.
Conclusion
Filing a lawsuit comes with various expenses, but the exact cost depends on the circumstances surrounding each case. It is crucial to consult with an experienced attorney who can guide you through the legal process and provide you with accurate information. Remember, when it comes to legal matters, it is essential to seek advice from trusted professionals who can provide you with the support you need.