No Win No Fee Explained

The term "no win no fee" is often used although it is seldom understood. “No win no fee” is an agreement that is set out by a personal injury lawyer where he agrees to work for you for no fee. Once you sign a “no win no fee” agreement or “conditional fee agreement” your lawyer will not ask for any fees, nor will you have to pay any.

“Conditional Fee Agreements” have been hugely successful in providing compensation for innocent accident victims. These days anyone that wishes to pursue an accident claim can do so without the worry of the cost of legal fees. Prior to CFA agreements (no win no fee agreements) anyone who wanted to pursue compensation for a personal injury would have to apply for Legal Aid or Public Funding. This was a means tested system and was unfair as some victims were entitled while other victims were not. Legal Aid was withdrawn in 2000 and in its place came the Conditional Fee Agreement. This now means anyone of any financial status can pursue a genuine personal injury claim without the worry of the cost. This agreement has been very successful in providing compensation for innocent accident victims.

Although you will not have to pay any legal fees to your lawyer for his or her work you may have to pay for disbursements. Disbursements are expenses such as doctor’s fees, medical records or witness charges. Most law firms will defer payment of these fees and not request these expenses up front. Once the case is won the losing party will have to pay for these disbursements. In the event that the case loses then “after the event” insurance will pay for any disbursements. This insurance is what covers the solicitors’ fees in the event of losing the claims.