How Much Can I Expect An Attorney To Charge To Handle A Medical Malpractice Case?

Hospitals and doctors are expensive, and can be even more of a burden when something goes wrong. Through medical malpractice lawsuits, patients and their families can recover financial compensation after a medical injury. But lawyers are often expensive—what if you can’t afford an attorney?

You can read more details about “medmal” lawyer costs across the country here. Since the costs of a medical malpractice attorney can vary by state and city, it is important to talk to a Colorado medical malpractice lawyer in a city near you to get legal advice about your injury case. You can also read more about how to pick the right medical malpractice attorney here.

Colorado Medical Malpractice Costs

Most attorneys who believe a case has merit will take the case without payment up front. They will take the case on a contingency basis, which means they will receive a percentage of your award if and when you recover for your injuries. Contingency fees average between 25 and 40 percent. 

Most attorneys charge a smaller percentage if the case is settled before the attorney does all the work necessary to go to trial. If you and your attorney agree to a contingency fee, the attorney must put the agreement in writing and provide you with a signed copy. There are hourly and fixed fee agreements available as well. Colorado does not place a limit on attorneys’ fees in a medical malpractice action, so long as they are not considered “unreasonable.”

The attorney’s out of pocket costs are, in many cases, not included in the attorney’s fees. You should be sure to pay attention to how an attorney will bill you for costs. In a medical malpractice case, these expenses can be quite high. Many attorneys will decline a case unless there is potential for a substantial verdict or settlement.