If you’re thinking about hiring Morgan & Morgan for a personal injury or class action lawsuit, one of your biggest questions might be: how much does Morgan and Morgan take from a settlement? Knowing the fee structure can help you make an informed choice, especially in complex cases involving high-stakes settlements.
Founded in 1988, Morgan & Morgan is one of the largest personal injury firms in the United States. With decades of experience and multiple offices, they have the resources to handle various cases, including car accidents, medical malpractice, consumer protection, and class actions. Here, we’ll explore the contingency fees they charge, how these fees work, and the types of cases they handle.
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What Percentage Does Morgan & Morgan Take from a Settlement?
Morgan & Morgan generally operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if they win or settle your case. Their standard fee typically ranges from 33% to 40% of the settlement amount, depending on the complexity of the case and whether it proceeds to trial. Here’s what this percentage might look like:
- For a settlement of $100,000, the fee could range from $33,000 to $40,000.
- Cases resolved early may incur a lower fee, while more complex cases going to trial often reach the higher end of the range.
This percentage-based model means that the firm’s interests align with yours—they’re motivated to maximize your compensation. It’s essential to understand the scope of this fee so that you’re prepared for any financial impact.
Why Choose Morgan & Morgan? Company Overview
Morgan & Morgan handles various cases, allowing clients access to experienced attorneys in several specialties. Here are some areas they cover:
- Personal Injury: Cases include car accidents, slip-and-fall incidents, and wrongful death claims.
- Medical Malpractice: For those injured due to medical errors.
- Employment Law: Assisting workers with disputes against employers.
- Class Actions and Mass Torts: Representing groups in cases with significant societal impact.
- Consumer Protection: Defending against unfair business practices.
For example, in 2015, Morgan & Morgan helped recover $1.8 billion for victims affected by the SoCalGas gas leak in Porter Ranch, California. Cases like these reflect their dedication to achieving fair settlements, with their contingency fee model allowing clients to access representation without upfront costs.
Key Factors Influencing Settlement Fees and Amounts
Knowing what percentage Morgan & Morgan takes from a settlement is only part of the equation. Here are a few factors that impact your settlement amount and the fee structure:
1. Type of Injury
Severe injuries, like brain injuries, typically lead to higher settlements than minor injuries, like whiplash, due to the lasting impact and treatment costs. Morgan & Morgan’s fee percentage might reflect the complexity and severity of your case.
2. Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Potential
If your injury prevents you from working, your settlement may include compensation for lost wages or earning capacity. More serious impacts on future income can increase the settlement amount, affecting the total amount Morgan & Morgan takes from your settlement.
3. Medical Costs
Settlements often cover medical expenses, such as surgeries, medication, and ongoing care. Complex cases requiring prolonged medical treatment can lead to a higher Morgan & Morgan fee percentage due to the resources needed.
4. Pain and Suffering
This often includes compensation for physical and emotional distress, a less quantifiable but crucial part of many settlements. Your attorney’s dedication to capturing these damages is part of Morgan & Morgan’s fee structure.
5. Property Damage
In vehicle accidents, for example, you may receive reimbursement for property damage. Morgan & Morgan’s fee ensures you recover costs for repairs or replacement.
6. Punitive Damages
In some cases, the court may add punitive damages to penalize gross negligence. The firm works to secure these where applicable, further contributing to their contingency fee.
Additional Costs to Consider
While Morgan & Morgan’s contingency fee covers attorney services, clients should know there are additional costs. These costs are often deducted after the contingency fee and may include:
- Court filing fees
- Expert witness fees
- Medical records acquisition
These costs typically depend on your case specifics, so it’s essential to discuss them during the initial consultation to avoid surprises.
Advantages of Choosing Morgan & Morgan’s Contingency Fee Model
The firm’s contingency fee model has significant advantages, including:
- No Upfront Fees: Clients don’t pay any fees unless they win or settle, removing the financial barrier to legal representation.
- Aligned Incentives: Since Morgan & Morgan is only paid if you win, they’re motivated to fight for the best possible outcome.
- Transparent Communication: They prioritize transparency, providing clients a clear picture of the fees and settlement expectations during the initial consultation.
You may even negotiate the contingency fee percentage in some cases, particularly for larger or less complex cases. This flexibility can be invaluable for clients concerned about upfront costs.
Conclusion: How Much Does Morgan & Morgan Take from a Settlement?
Understanding what percentage Morgan & Morgan takes from a settlement helps you gauge the cost of representation. Knowing this beforehand equips you to make an informed choice about pursuing a case. Each factor that affects your case, from injury severity to the level of expertise required, can influence the fee structure.
