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No Fee Unless We Win: How Do Personal Injury Attorneys Get Paid?

Accidents can happen anytime — whether it’s a car crash, a slip and fall, or an injury at work. No matter how they happen, the impact can be overwhelming, and in serious cases, life-changing. While the immediate aftermath of an accident can be stressful, the process of working with a personal injury attorney shouldn’t be.

At Cellino Law, we understand that an accident can lead to serious financial strain. Between medical bills, lost wages, vehicle repairs, and the possibility of higher insurance premiums, many people simply can’t afford to take on additional costs. That’s why we handle personal injury claims on a contingency fee basis — meaning you don’t pay us anything unless we win your case.

What is a Contingency Agreement?

A contingency agreement is a payment arrangement used by many personal injury attorneys in New York. Instead of charging upfront fees or hourly rates, the attorney’s fee is dependent on the outcome of the case. If your attorney secures a settlement or a favorable verdict for you, they take a percentage — typically 33 1/3% — of the total amount awarded.

If your attorney is not able to recover a settlement for you, you don’t owe any attorney’s fees. It’s that simple.

What’s Covered in the Contingency Fee?

At Cellino Law, our contingency fee covers the legal work involved in preparing and pursuing your case. This includes investigating the accident, communicating with insurance companies, consulting with medical experts, negotiating a settlement, and if necessary, representing you in court.

It’s worth noting that additional case-related expenses — such as court filing fees, medical record requests, or expert witness fees — are paid separately, but these costs are typically advanced by the firm and reimbursed from the settlement if your case is successful. We’ll go over all of these details with you during your consultation so there are no surprises along the way.

Why Do Personal Injury Attorneys Use Contingency Agreements?

We believe that everyone deserves access to legal representation — especially after suffering a personal injury due to someone else’s negligence. When you’re dealing with physical pain, missed paychecks, medical appointments, and the uncertainty of what comes next, you shouldn’t have to decide between getting legal help or staying afloat financially.

How This Agreement Benefits The Client

There are some clear advantages to working with a law firm that uses contingency agreements:

  • No Upfront Costs: You won’t have to pay anything out of pocket to get started.
  • No Hourly Billing: You can reach out with questions without worrying about running up a bill.
  • Shared Goals: We’re motivated to get you the best outcome possible because our fee depends on it.
  • Low Risk: If your case doesn’t result in compensation, you don’t owe us anything.

This setup gives you the peace of mind to focus on healing — while we focus on building your case.

What to Expect During Your Free Consultation

When you reach out to Cellino Law, the first step is a free case consultation. During this meeting, we’ll take time to listen to your story, answer your questions, and review the details of your case. If we believe we can help, we’ll explain how the contingency agreement works and what the next steps will be.

We’ll also be transparent about any potential costs associated with your case and how they would be handled if you decide to move forward. Our goal is to give you the information you need to make an informed decision.

Cellino Law Is Here To Help Injury Victims

An unexpected accident can change your life in an instant. In the days and weeks that follow, it’s common to feel overwhelmed — physically, emotionally, and financially. The legal process shouldn’t add to that burden.

At Cellino Law, our mission is to take as much of that weight off your shoulders as we can. When you work with us, you get a team that’s experienced, compassionate, and ready to fight for the outcome you deserve. And because we work on contingency, you don’t have to take on any financial risk to get started. If you or a loved one has been injured and you’re considering taking legal action, reach out to us today. Your consultation is free, and there’s no risk in learning about your options. Give us a call today at 888-888-8888 to learn how we can help you.

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New York Personal Injury Lawyers

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Construction Accident

“thank you so much for putting your all into this and making sure my family and I wouldn’t have to worry anymore!”

— Anthony M.

Personal Injury

“They consistently went above and beyond to make sure my family and I were taken care of.”

— Ira M.

Manhattan, New York
Motorcycle Accident

“The excellent lawyers at Celino Law offices are assisting me with a recent motorcycle accident case.”

— Justin V.

Manhattan, New York
Slip and Fall Accident

“I’m glad I chose Cellino Law, the best decision ever.”

— Joseph C.

Manhattan, New York
Personal Injury

“They were with me and my husband from the beginning to the end of our case.”

— Maria R.

Manhattan, New York
Personal Injury

“From the beginning they came out and met with my uncle and myself and assured us that everything would be taken care of from beginning to end.”

— Eshaunda R.

Manhattan, New York
Car Accident

“I’m very thankful that I took the step to reach out about my case with Cellino Law.”

— Selin S.

Manhattan, New York
Car Accident

“Instead of feeling like “just another case,” I felt valued and respected every step of the way.”

— Gabriella T.

Brooklyn, New York
Car Accident

““Best law firm around‼️”

— Karon O.

Rochester, New York
Mass Tort

“They made me feel comfortable throughout this experience. I was treated with respect and dignity, they kept me well-informed throughout the process, and the outcome was better than I could have expected. I highly recommend Cellino Law!”

— Sandy L.

Rochester, New York
Personal Injury

“they made me feel very comfortable, almost like a family member.”

— Carol W.

Rochester, New York
Car Accident

“AMAZING ATTORNEYS AND PARALEGALS!”

— Donna B.

Rochester, New York
Car Accident

“They have been respectful of our circumstances and responsive to our many questions. And they get results.”

— Nick P.

Rochester, New York
Slip and Fall Accident

“I would highly recommend this law office to any individual that has gone through a traumatic experience. Very reliable, effective and efficient.”

— Tatyanna W.

Rochester, New York
Pedestrian Accident

“after being dropped by a Buffalo attorney who stated I would not even see $10,000 from my accident, the Cellino Law team were amazing and able to get me 9.5 times what the previous attorney said I would get.”

— Nichole L.

Rochester, New York
Slip and Fall Accident

“even when I felt doubtful going through a law suit the reassurance was there,I do recommend their services ,if you are looking for professional and concerned firm Cellino Law is it”

— Barbara B.

Rochester, New York
Car Accident

“I had the unfortunate experience of being involved in a car accident, but I was incredibly fortunate to have Cellino Law Firm represent me in my lawsuit.”

— Guinevere S.

Rochester, New York
Car Accident

“As someone who had never pursued legal action before, I appreciated how simple they made the process.”

— Brenda P.

Rochester, New York
Car Accident

“The start of every conversation I was asked how I was doing, how the recovery from my injury/surgery was going. They gave light in a dark time for me.”

— Jessica A.

Rochester, New York
Car Accident

“The staff made me feel valued and my case mattered.”

— Sharetta M.

Rochester, New York
Car Accident

“Took me from 6k to 120k. Helped me get a vital surgery with her representation that essentially saved my life.”

— Allan R.

Amherst, New York
Personal Injury

“I was impressed with how professional and patient my lawyer has been on this journey from the beginning to end.”

— Tabitha M.

Amherst, New York
Personal Injury

“I would 100% recommend Cellino Law for anyone needing a lawyer.”

— Megan S.

Amherst, New York
Truck Accident

“There aren’t enough words to express the professionalism, the respect, and genuine compassion that I was given from the very beginning of the first phone call.”

— Patti D.

Amherst, New York
Trip & Fall

“Cellino Law is one of the best law firms”

— Helen P.

Amherst, New York
Car Accident

“My case just resolved for a significant amount and I am extremely satisfied. If you are ever injured in a car accident don’t hesitate to call Cellino Law.”

— Monique B.

Amherst, New York
Trip and Fall

“They were professional and knowledgeable and helped my son receive the compensation he deserved.”

— K.R

Amherst, New York
Car Accident

“I was in a car accident in February and didn’t know what to do next. That’s when I decided to contact Cellino Law and get some guidance. It was the best decision I could have made!”

— Katie B.

Amherst, New York
Car Accident

“Best Law Firm period!”

— Pedro A.

Buffalo, New York
Car Accident

“Great team and very attentive. Highly recommend to anyone recently in a car accident.”

— Randi B.

Buffalo, New York
Car Accident

“They are very knowledgeable and take dedicated time to make sure you get what you deserve and will keep working to your best interest.”

— Katrina M.

Buffalo, New York
Personal Injury

“If you need a compassionate and skilled attorney, I highly recommend Cellino Law. They truly care about their clients.”

— J R.

Buffalo, New York
Car Accident

“Their professionalism made a stressful situation much easier. Highly recommend!”

— Eric B.

Buffalo, New York
Car Accident

“They were incredibly professional, knowledgeable, and always made me feel supported and informed throughout the entire process.”

— Anne S.

Buffalo, New York
Car Accident

“They treat you like more than just a case, and make you comfortable throughout the whole process.”

— Ann W.

Buffalo, New York
Car Accident

“My attorney came to my home because at that point I was unable to walk…”

— Crisanne

Rear-End Accident

“…the attorney that they gave me was a godsend.”

— Merri

Slip and Fall Accident

“Recently I had a slip and fall at a restaurant and injured my knee. It led to me missing work and having to go to multiple doctors appts, MRIs and now PT. A friend of mine suggested I contact an attorney given the severity of the injury. I reached out to Cellino Law and spoke with Brigitte Cellino and her paralegal Katie C. They have been so helpful and informative throughout this whole process, and have been checking in on me frequently to see how I’m doing. Class acts at Cellino, the best around! Call them if you’re looking for a lawyer!”

— Paul K.

Buffalo, New York
Personal Injury

“I was hoping my attorney would help me figure out how I was going to help take care of my family…”

— Anthony

Car Accident

“I was in a car accident in February and didn’t know what to do next. That’s when I decided to contact Cellino Law and get some guidance. It was the best decision I could have made!”

— Katie B.

Amherst, New York
Car Accident

“Getting into a car accident is scary and stressful, figuring out what to do next is even more overwhelming. The staff at Cellino law firm are so kind, understanding and helpful. They treat you like more than just a case, and make you comfortable throughout the whole process. Brigitte Cellino and her assistant Katie C, are the best, and go above and beyond for their clients!”

— Ann W.

Buffalo, New York
Car Accident

“My attorney was able to find the woman that hit me and because of that we were able to have a case…”

— Paulette

Camper Trailer

“We had purchased a camper, and they didn’t put the lug nuts on the wheels…”

— Cristiane

Personal Injury

“I am incredibly grateful for the exceptional service provided by Cellino Law, specifically attorney Joseph DeGeneres and his outstanding assistant, Ian. From the very beginning, Joseph demonstrated a remarkable level of professionalism and expertise. He took the time to explain every detail of my case, answered all my questions, and provided honest, realistic expectations. Ian was always available to assist, ensuring that communication was seamless and that I was kept informed throughout the process. Their dedication and commitment to my case resulted in a favorable outcome, and I couldn’t be happier with the results. I highly recommend Cellino Law to anyone in need of legal representation.”

— Chris C.

Rochester, New York
Burn

“After Cellino Law helped me reach a settlement, my life has been a complete one hundred eighty.”

— Melissa

Rear-End Accident

Nick Davis, my lawyer from Cellino Law, listens! Shortly after I was severely rear ended in a car accident I realized I’d need a lawyer and sent emails to a few top companies. Nick Davis was the first to respond (others took days or didn’t respond) and he listened. He worked hard for me and always kept me informed. He and his paralegal Laurie Pecora were always available to answer my questions and explain the process. I am very happy with the outcome and highly recommend Cellino Law.”

— Sherry R.

Rochester, New York
Compound Fracture

“They were professional and knowledgeable and helped my son receive the compensation he deserved.”

— K.R.

Amherst, New York
Car Accident

“I can’t thank Cellino Law enough for everything they have done for me. When Denis Bastible took my case for a rear end car accident over 3 years ago I had no idea what this would turn into. I had to have 3 years of treatment on my back and eventually leading to a back surgery, which at 25 years old is a nightmare. Denis and his paralegal Marisa were nothing but a huge help to me the entire way through the lawsuit process. They were very reassuring that this would end well for me and extremely easy to contact throughout the entire process. If I could give them more than 5 stars I would.”

— Tyler M.

Amherst, New York
Truck Accident

“I said to them ‘if you were going to use a law firm who would you use?’ and time after time the name Cellino came up.”

— Andre

Truck Accident

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Truck Accident

Truck Accident

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