When does my lawyer get paid before my bills are paid or after?

Question

I am in a lawsuit and we settled out my lawyer wants to take his money out first then pay the bills with the remaining amount, is that the way it is done? or is he trying to take advantage of me?

Answer 1

did you sign an agreement with him???

Usually they pay the bills and then take their cut...10-30%

Answer 2

Your lawyer will take his percentage from the gross proceeds. Then he'll pay your costs (that he advanced while your case was pending). Then he'll pay any hospital or medical bills that were liened against your file or formed the basis of yoru suit. The balance is yours! This is normal practice everywhere. Good luck and I hope everything turns out well for you!

Answer 3

it depends completly on the fee agreement you have signed...make sure you look at your agreement and ensure he is following it.

I remember in professional responsibility one of our professors went over this and in some cases taking out fees first will make an attorney so much more in money.

Check with your arangement if you feel cheated contact your states bar association...attorneys are always required to participate in the fee dispute program.

First thing dispute the fees...by rule if a fee is disputed the attorney must leave the disputed portion in his trust account until the matter is resolved.

Answer 4

That's usually how it works, otherwise the lawyer probably would not get paid.

Answer 5

That's how it's usually done. The attorneys get the first cut.

Answer 6

No, re-read your contract, that is the way it is done, otherwise, he wouldn't waste his time representing you in the first place.

Answer 7

He will get paid before.

Answer 8

Now you know why lawyers are the scum of the Earth.