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

No Fee Unless We Win: How Do Personal Injury Attorneys Get Paid?
Calendar icon May 15, 2025 | Reading Time: 4 min

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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Testimonials

  • I am writing to let you know what an outstanding job George Gridelli did for me in my personal injury lawsuit. His professionalism and expertise were evident at our first metting and he and his paralegal Diane D'Andrea took care of me as if I was a friend and not merely a client. They both went above and beyond for me in so many ways that it would be too numerous to list and I am grateful to have had such an exemplary team represent me. When working with George and watching him in court he personified to me what a lawyer is supposed to be - an honest, extremely compentent man who helped guide me through the legal system. I could not have obtained better representation anywhere else at any price. To me that says a lot abut you and your firm's integrity. Thank you again for representing me and for having such stellar individuals working for you! I will continue to recommend your firm.

    Carol

  • Cellino Law is an amazing firm with a great team. I worked with Greg Pajak and his assistant, Tracey Falconer. I cannot express enough how dedicated they are. The personal attention I received was excellent; they were always available to help with questions and concerns and put me at ease in the unknown territory I found myself in. I highly recommend them to anyone needing representation. A huge thank you to them for all they accomplished for me!

    Liane

  • My wife and I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for a fantastic job as our attorney. We could not have been more pleased with the work you and your team has done on this case. This past four years or so has been such a roller coaster for our family. We are very pleased and grateful with the result. We have made a good choice by choosing you. Thank you.

    Dave

  • Thank you for all your help. It has been a long journey. At last, the light at the end of the tunnel. Also, thank Tom for the help and work he put in.

    Ron

  • I can only say great things about my attorney Allan Silverstein. He is professional, he calls back right away, he keeps me informed, and makes me feel comfortable as this entire ordeal is stressful. I have total confidence in his ability to handle whatever comes his way. He is no nonsense and very good at his job. Thank you Allan... he is a true asset to the team!

    Mrs Steward

  • I want to thank your law firm for settling my lawsuit where others failed. You treated me with the utmost respect and care, because of your law firm the dream of owning my own home finally came true. For the first time in a long time, we're living out our dream home. Thank you a million times over. Thank you for making my dream come true.

    Marcy