What are contingent attorney fees?

The contingent fee system is the "key to the courtroom" for thousands of Americans. It allows people who suffered an injury to bring a suit without having to have the money up front to pay their attorney.

If the plaintiff receives no compensation, the attorney receives nothing - not even reimbursement for the costs of litigation. Since attorneys bear all the financial risk if there is no recovery or if the recovery does not cover their costs, they act as gatekeepers - not accepting frivolous or unjustified lawsuits. Attorneys also strive for efficiency, since extra costs come from their bottom line, rather than the client's pocket.

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