Contingent Fee
/kənˈtɪndʒənt fiː/
Definitions
- (n.) A fee paid to a lawyer only if the case is won or settled favorably, usually calculated as a percentage of the recovery.
The plaintiff's attorney agreed to represent her on a contingent fee basis, receiving 30% of any damages awarded.
Forms
- contingent fees
See also
Commentary
Common in personal injury and civil litigation, contingent fees align lawyer incentives with client recovery but require clear, written agreements to avoid disputes.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.