Founding Partner
Hiring a car accident attorney can feel like a big step, especially when you’re unsure about the cost. After an accident, you may already be dealing with medical bills, car repairs, and time away from work, making the thought of legal expenses seem overwhelming. The good news is that working with an attorney is often more affordable than people think. In fact, many personal injury attorneys offer payment options designed to ease your financial burden while still providing the help you need to pursue fair compensation.
Understanding Contingency Fees: What You Pay
One of the most common concerns about hiring a car accident attorney is cost. Fortunately, most personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t have to pay upfront. Instead, our payment comes as a percentage of the settlement or verdict you receive. If we don’t win your case, you don’t owe us anything for our services.
In Connecticut, contingency fees in personal injury cases are governed by Connecticut General Statutes Section 52-251c. Under this law, attorneys can charge up to 33 1/3% of the first $300,000 recovered, with decreasing percentages as the amount increases. However, at Stanfield Bechtel Law, we want to do better for our clients. Instead of following the statutory maximum, we cap our contingency fee at 25% for the first $300,000, ensuring you receive a larger share of your compensation. And because contingency fees mean you only pay if we win, there are no upfront costs or financial risks. Our goal is simple—help you recover the maximum compensation possible while keeping more money in your pocket.
This approach allows you to focus on recovering without worrying about paying out of pocket for legal help. It also means we’re motivated to fight for the best possible outcome, as our success is tied to yours. Contingency fees make legal help accessible when you need it most.
Costs Beyond Attorney Fees: What to Know
While a contingency fee covers your attorney’s payment, there are additional costs involved in pursuing a car accident claim. Many of these costs are necessary to build a strong case, but they can vary depending on the details of your situation. Some common expenses include:
- Filing fees: Costs to submit your case to the court.
- Professional evaluations: Payments for expert witnesses, such as accident reconstructionists or medical professionals, to support your claim.
- Document retrieval: Fees to obtain medical records or other essential documents.
We believe in transparency, so we discuss these potential costs with you upfront to ensure there are no surprises.
The Value of Hiring an Attorney: Why It’s Worth It
Hiring an attorney after a car accident isn’t just about legal representation—it’s about maximizing your recovery and reducing stress. Studies consistently show that individuals who hire attorneys tend to recover significantly higher settlements compared to those who handle claims on their own.
An experienced attorney knows how to evaluate the full extent of your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and even pain and suffering. They handle the back-and-forth with insurance companies, pushing for a fair settlement while ensuring your rights are protected.
Additionally, attorneys build strong cases by gathering evidence, consulting professionals, and negotiating on your behalf. This allows you to focus on your health and well-being without the added pressure of managing legal details.
By hiring us, you’re investing in the best possible outcome for your case. We’ll fight for the compensation you deserve while you concentrate on moving forward.
Contact Our Experienced Middletown, CT Car Accident Attorneys
Hiring a car accident attorney doesn’t have to be expensive or stressful. At Stanfield Bechtel Law, we make legal help accessible with no upfront costs and a commitment to transparency. Don’t let concerns about cost stop you from seeking the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.