What You Need to Know Before Hiring a Los Angeles Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Los Angeles, you’re probably wondering two things:
1️⃣ Do I really need a lawyer?
2️⃣ How much will it cost to hire one?

At The Law Offices of Gerald L. Marcus, we’ve represented thousands of injured victims throughout Los Angeles and Southern California for more than 38 years.

We know the confusion that follows a crash—medical bills pile up, insurance adjusters call nonstop, and you’re left wondering how to move forward without getting buried in debt.

The truth is simple: you can afford a top-rated accident lawyer in Los Angeles—because you pay nothing unless we win.

Understanding How Car Accident Lawyers in California Get Paid

Most reputable car accident lawyers in California, including our firm, work on a contingency fee basis.

That means you don’t pay any upfront fees.
Instead, your lawyer’s payment comes as a percentage of your settlement or jury verdict.

This system exists for one reason—to level the playing field between accident victims and massive insurance companies with endless resources.

The Standard Contingency Fee in California

In California, the average contingency fee for personal injury and car accident cases typically ranges from:

• 33⅓ % (one-third) of the settlement if the case resolves before a lawsuit is filed.

• 40 % (or more) if the case goes to litigation, arbitration, or trial.

At The Law Offices of Gerald L. Marcus, we believe in full transparency. Our clients always know exactly what percentage applies before signing anything. There are no hidden fees, no retainers, and no surprise costs.

Why Contingency Fees Protect Injury Victims

Many people hesitate to hire a lawyer because they assume it’s expensive.
But contingency fees actually protect you, not the lawyer.

Here’s why:

• No Risk: If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing.

• Motivated Representation: We only get paid when you get paid—so our goals are 100 % aligned.

• Access to Justice: You don’t need thousands of dollars to take on a powerful insurance company.

This payment structure ensures that every injured victim—regardless of income—has access to world-class legal representation.

What Does a Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer Actually Do for You?

When you hire an experienced accident lawyer in Los Angeles, you’re not just paying for legal advice—you’re investing in results.

Our firm handles every detail of your case from start to finish, including:

1. Investigating the Accident

We launch an immediate investigation—gathering police reports, witness statements, traffic-camera footage, black-box data, and expert accident reconstructions.

2. Proving Liability

California follows a “comparative negligence” system, meaning each party’s fault percentage affects compensation. We gather the evidence needed to prove the other driver’s negligence and maximize your recovery.

3. Handling the Insurance Companies

Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts or deny valid claims. We handle all communications and negotiations to protect your rights—and your case value.

4. Calculating Full Damages

We document every loss—medical bills, lost wages, property damage, future medical care, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma—to ensure you’re compensated for the full impact of your injuries.

5. Negotiating Maximum Settlements

Our attorneys have recovered over $450 million for accident victims. We know what your case is worth—and we won’t settle for less.

6. Taking Your Case to Trial (If Needed)

While most cases settle, we prepare every case as if it’s going to court. Insurance companies know we’re ready to fight—and win—in the courtroom, which often leads to stronger settlements.

Breaking Down Common Legal Fees and Case Costs

While contingency fees cover your attorney’s compensation, there are also case expenses—the costs of building and proving your claim. These may include:

• Police and medical record fees

• Expert witness reports

• Accident reconstruction specialists

• Court filing and deposition fees

• Document preparation and copying costs

At The Law Offices of Gerald L. Marcus, we front all these costs for our clients.
You don’t pay a dime until your case is resolved—and if we don’t win, you owe nothing.

Example: What a Typical Fee Looks Like

Let’s walk through an example:

• You hire our firm after a car accident in Los Angeles.

• We settle your case for $300,000.

• Our contingency fee is 33⅓ % (about $100,000).

• Case expenses (filing fees, experts, etc.) total $5,000.

You would receive $195,000 net—and pay nothing out of pocket during the entire process.

Flat Fees vs. Hourly Fees vs. Contingency Fees

To understand why contingency fees are ideal for accident cases, compare them to other structures:

For injury victims, contingency is the only fair system that ensures quality representation without financial stress.

Why Los Angeles Accident Lawyers May Charge More

The percentage your lawyer charges can vary depending on the complexity and risk of your case. Factors that influence fees include:

1. Severity of Injuries

Catastrophic injuries like traumatic brain injuries or spinal damage require extensive medical evidence and expert testimony.

2. Disputed Liability

If the insurance company argues you were partially at fault, your lawyer must invest more time and resources proving otherwise.

3. Litigation Costs

Cases that go to trial involve depositions, medical experts, accident reconstruction, and court appearances—significantly increasing workload.

4. Defendant’s Behavior

When the at-fault party denies responsibility or acts in bad faith, it often takes aggressive litigation to force accountability.

At Gerald L. Marcus Law, we’ve built a reputation for taking on tough cases and winning—even when insurance companies try every trick in the book to avoid paying.

Do You Still Owe Money if You Lose?

No. If we don’t win your case, you pay nothing.
That’s the power of a contingency agreement. It ensures every client has zero financial risk.

We take the financial burden off your shoulders, invest in your case, and only get paid when you do.

How to Know If You’re Being Charged Fairly

Not all law firms are upfront about fees. Before hiring any Los Angeles accident lawyer, ask these critical questions:

1. Is your fee percentage negotiable?

2. Do you advance all case expenses?

3. Will you provide a written fee agreement?

4. Do you charge for consultations?

5. Will I owe anything if we lose?

A trustworthy attorney will answer every question clearly and give you a written, transparent breakdown.
At The Law Offices of Gerald L. Marcus, we guarantee that transparency from day one.

The Hidden Costs of Going Without a Lawyer

Trying to handle your own car accident claim might seem like a way to save money—but it almost always costs victims far more in the long run.

Insurance companies use advanced algorithms and legal teams to minimize payouts.
Without legal representation, you risk:

• Settling for pennies on the dollar

• Missing out on medical expenses and lost wages

• Signing documents that waive your rights

• Getting blamed for the accident

Data shows that injured victims represented by lawyers receive 3–5 times higher settlements than those who go it alone.
Hiring an experienced Los Angeles accident lawyer is not an expense—it’s an investment in your recovery.

Top Benefits of Hiring The Law Offices of Gerald L. Marcus

When you hire our firm, you’re not just hiring a lawyer—you’re gaining a team of aggressive, dedicated advocates who have fought and won against every major insurance carrier in California.

✅ No Fee Unless We Win
✅ Free Consultation 24/7
✅ $450 Million + Recovered
✅ 38 Years of Experience
✅ Award-Winning Trial Lawyers
✅ Offices Throughout Southern California

We’ve built our reputation on results—not excuses.
When insurance companies see our name, they know we mean business.

California Law on Attorney’s Fees in Personal Injury Cases

Under California Business & Professions Code § 6147, attorneys who charge contingency fees must provide a written fee agreement outlining:

• The percentage charged;

• How costs are handled; and

• How fees are calculated if the case settles early or goes to trial.

This law ensures clients are fully informed and that lawyers act with transparency and fairness.

At The Law Offices of Gerald L. Marcus, every client receives this written agreement before we begin. You’ll always know what to expect—no surprises.

Common Misconceptions About Lawyer Fees

Let’s clear up a few myths:

• ❌ Myth: Lawyers charge hourly for car accident cases.
  ✅ Truth: Most Los Angeles accident lawyers work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless you win.

• ❌ Myth: I can negotiate with insurance myself and save money.
  ✅ Truth: You’ll likely recover far less without an experienced lawyer fighting for full compensation.

• ❌ Myth: All lawyers charge the same percentage.
  ✅ Truth: Fees vary based on experience, case complexity, and whether litigation is required.

How to Choose the Right Accident Lawyer in Los Angeles

Choosing the right lawyer can make or break your case.
Here’s what to look for:

1. Proven Track Record: Check verdicts and settlements.

2. Local Experience: Los Angeles has unique traffic laws and insurance practices—choose a firm that knows them inside out.

3. Trial Experience: If your lawyer doesn’t go to trial, insurance companies won’t take your claim seriously.

4. Client Reviews: Read real reviews and testimonials to see how past clients were treated.

5. Personal Attention: Avoid assembly-line firms. You deserve personalized service and direct communication.

At Gerald L. Marcus Law, we pride ourselves on being small enough to care—big enough to win.

When Should You Hire a Lawyer After a Car Accident?

The sooner, the better.
Every day you wait, evidence can disappear, and your claim’s value can drop.

You should contact an accident lawyer immediately if:

• You suffered any injury, pain, or medical treatment;

• The insurance company is delaying or denying your claim;

• You’re being blamed for the crash; or

• You’re not sure what your claim is worth.

We offer free, no-obligation consultations 24/7, and you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Real Results: What We’ve Achieved for Los Angeles Clients

• $5,200,000 — Auto vs. Truck Collision

• $2,750,000 — Rear-End Freeway Crash

• $1,400,000 — Pedestrian Struck in Crosswalk

• $950,000 — Uber/Lyft Passenger Injury

Every case tells a story—and every story deserves justice.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much do accident lawyers charge in Los Angeles?

Typically 33⅓ %–40 % of the final settlement or judgment, depending on whether the case settles or goes to trial.

2. Do I pay anything upfront?

No. We advance all costs and only get paid when you do.

3. What if I lose?

You owe nothing. Period.

4. How much is my case worth?

That depends on your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term impact. We can evaluate your claim for free.

5. Can I switch lawyers if I’m unhappy with mine?

Yes. You have the legal right to change lawyers at any time—even mid-case.

Take Action Now — Get a Free Consultation

If you’ve been injured in a Los Angeles car accident, don’t wait.
Insurance companies are already building their defense—start building yours now.

At The Law Offices of Gerald L. Marcus, our mission is simple:
Protect the injured. Demand accountability. Deliver results.

📞 Call (818) 784-8544 for immediate help! 
💬 Free Consultation | No Fee Unless We Win