How Are Workers' Compensation Attorneys are Compensated in Alabama?

Whether you've suffered an occupational accident, sustained a work-related illness, or are facing difficulties obtaining your rightful workers' compensation, securing a proficient workers' compensation attorney is paramount. If you're based in Alabama and are searching for a reliable workers' compensation lawyer like Stephen Thompson, understanding how lawyers' fees work can be quite crucial. This article digs deeper into how workers' compensation lawyers in Alabama are compensated, primarily focusing on contingency-based fees.

Workers’ compensation cases in Alabama are often complex processes demanding expertise and a strong command of Alabama's Workers' Compensation Act. Hence, a skilled attorney is indispensable in securing a favorable outcome. However, clients often express concerns about the affordability of legal representation. So, how are these attorneys compensated for their services?

Setting the Contingency Fee in Alabama

The Alabama State Bar Association regulates the setting and application of contingency fees to ensure fairness for all parties involved. Typically, a workers' compensation attorney in Alabama will charge a fee of 15% to 50% of the client's recovery.

A contingency fee agreement must be in writing and must specify the method by which the fee is to be determined. This includes detailing percentages applied in the event of settlement, trial, or appeal. It should also outline other expenses to be deducted from the recovery.

It's worth noting that in Alabama, workers' compensation cases have an additional stipulation. Under the Alabama Workers' Compensation Act, attorney fees are capped at 15% of the recovery and must be approved by a judge. The judge may reduce the attorney's fee if they deem that the proposed fee is not proportionate to the attorney's services.

Associated Costs and Deductions

Often, your attorney will incur costs while preparing your case, such as obtaining medical records, expert witness fees, and court filing fees. These expenses are typically covered by the attorney initially and are then deducted from the client's recovery, in addition to the contingency fee.

Thus, it's crucial to discuss with your attorney all possible associated cost and expense scenarios. Based on the intricacy of your case, these costs can fluctuate, affecting the final amount you receive. 

The Value of a Workers' Compensation Attorney in Alabama

Though there is typically an associated cost with securing an experienced attorney, the benefits often outweigh the expenses. Hiring a seasoned attorney like Stephen Thompson, who understands the nuances of the Alabama Workers' Compensation Act, can help increase your chances of obtaining a beneficial settlement or judgment.

A competent attorney can also help with negotiating medical bills and deal with insurance providers, reducing your stress and improving your peace of mind during a challenging recovery period.

Conclusion

Remember that hiring a workers' compensation attorney on a contingency fee basis means you only pay when – and if – you win. Consequently, in Alabama, choosing legal representation shouldn't hinge solely on the potential costs, but rather on the lawyer’s experience, the complexity of your case, and your level of comfort and trust with the attorney. Keep in mind that your primary objective is to ensure the best possible outcome for your case, and having the right attorney by your side is the first vital step in achieving that goal.

When you're looking for an Alabama workers' compensation attorney, remember the name Stephen Thompson. Reputable, dedicated, and committed to securing the fairest outcomes for his clients, Stephen ensures that you're not only understood but also adequately represented. Don't let the potential costs deter you from securing rightful compensation and a sustainable future. Remember, with contingency fees, your success is indeed our success.

Free Initial Strategy Session

All Initial Strategy Sessions are Free. If you would like to discuss your options, you are invited to fill out one of the Contact Forms. I will attempt to contact you if I think I can help you.

During your Initial Strategy Session, I will asist you in creating a strategy on how to best pursue your claim, whether it be the result of a Car Accident Claim, 18 Wheeler Injury, or, Alabama Workers' Compensation Claim. At your Initial Strategy Session, you will receive the following:

• First - I will listen to your story. You will have a chance to tell everything to someone who wants to hear what happened to you.
• Based on the information that you provide, I will give you my best advice on both what claims you have, and the next steps you should consider to proceed with your claim(s).
• If your claim is something that I think I can help you with, I will explain the services that I can provide for you, and what the next steps are that we should take. We will start working immediately.
• If your matter is something that I do not think I can help you with, then I will attempt to put you in contact with another lawyer that might be able to help you.
• Either way, what should happen is we will put to rest some of the unkowns that you may be experiencing. We will start to shed some light on what you can expect, and how to best pursue the benefits you deserve.

Don't delay getting the recovery you deserve! Contact us today for your free Strategy Session!