The Short Answer
In Tennessee, most car accident lawyers, including those at The McMahan Law Firm, charge no upfront fees. Instead, we work on a contingency fee basis, which means our payment comes as a percentage of the settlement or verdict only if we win your case. This approach allows injury victims to access quality legal representation without the burden of out-of-pocket costs.
By using a contingency model, your lawyer is financially motivated to pursue the maximum compensation possible. It’s a system designed to align your attorney’s interests with yours, so you can focus on recovery while we fight for the results you may deserve.
Key Takeaways
- No upfront costs: You don’t pay anything unless your lawyer wins your case.
- Contingency fees are standard in Tennessee car accident claims, typically 33% to 40%.
- Additional fees like filing or expert costs may apply, but are disclosed clearly.
- Hiring a lawyer often results in higher compensation and less stress.
- All terms at The McMahan Law Firm are discussed transparently and in writing.
Table of Contents
- Do You Have to Pay Upfront for a Car Accident Lawyer in Tennessee?
- What Percentage Do Car Accident Lawyers Typically Charge?
- Are There Other Legal Fees You Should Know About?
- How We Handle Fees at The McMahan Law Firm
- Why a Contingency Fee Is Often in Your Best Interest
- What’s Included in the Fee?
- How to Avoid Surprise Charges
- Is Hiring a Lawyer Worth the Cost?
- Schedule Your Free Case Review
Do You Have to Pay Upfront for a Car Accident Lawyer in Tennessee?
No, you typically don’t have to pay anything upfront to hire a car accident lawyer in Tennessee. Like most personal injury firms, we work on a contingency fee basis. That means you won’t owe us any fees unless we successfully recover compensation on your behalf.
In other words, you don’t pay unless we win. This model removes financial stress and makes legal help accessible to anyone, regardless of their current situation. You can focus on healing, and we’ll handle the legal work.
What Percentage Do Car Accident Lawyers Typically Charge?
Most car accident lawyers in Tennessee work on a contingency fee basis, with fees typically ranging from 33% to 40% of the final settlement or court award. The exact percentage often depends on the complexity of your case and whether it settles out of court or proceeds to trial.
For example, if a case goes to trial, the percentage may increase slightly due to the added time, resources, and risk involved. This is a common industry practice.
At The McMahan Law Firm, we discuss all fees clearly and upfront, in writing, so there are no surprises later. You’ll know exactly how the fee structure works before moving forward.
Are There Other Legal Fees You Should Know About?
While contingency fees cover your attorney’s services, some additional legal costs may arise during your case. These are common expenses tied to the legal process itself, not attorney fees, and may include:
- Court filing fees
- Expert witness costs
- Court reporter or deposition fees
- Medical record retrieval charges
At The McMahan Law Firm, we believe in transparency from day one. That’s why we walk you through all potential costs early in the process, so you’re never caught off guard. If any additional fees arise, you’ll be notified well in advance.
How We Handle Fees at The McMahan Law Firm
At The McMahan Law Firm, we use a “no win, no fee” model, meaning you won’t owe us any attorney’s fees unless we recover compensation for you. This is based on a contingency fee structure, not a guarantee of outcome.
We believe in complete transparency. That’s why every detail about your fee agreement is discussed clearly and documented in writing. From day one, you’ll know exactly what to expect.
Our team is committed to clarity, honesty, and communication throughout your case. You’ll never be left wondering about fees or caught off guard by hidden costs.
Why a Contingency Fee Is Often in Your Best Interest
Contingency fees offer more than just convenience. They’re designed to protect and empower injury victims. Here’s why this arrangement often works in your favor:
- No upfront costs mean you can access experienced legal representation without financial pressure.
- Your lawyer is motivated to fight for the highest possible settlement, because their payment depends on your success.
- If there’s no recovery, you don’t pay attorney’s fees, which significantly reduces your financial risk during an already stressful time.
This structure ensures that your attorney’s goals align with yours — getting you the compensation you deserve, with no unnecessary barriers.
What’s Included in the Fee?
When you work with The McMahan Law Firm, your contingency fee covers more than just legal representation. Here’s what’s included, at no upfront cost to you:
- Legal strategy and personalized guidance every step of the way
- Thorough investigations and evidence gathering to support your case
- Negotiations with insurance companies to fight for fair compensation
- Trial representation, if needed, to present your case in court
- Regular case updates and direct communication with our legal team
We handle the legal legwork so you can focus on your recovery, all with no fee unless we win.
How to Avoid Surprise Charges
No one likes unexpected costs, especially in the middle of a legal case. Here’s how you can avoid surprise charges when hiring a car accident lawyer in Tennessee:
- Ask questions during your consultation. It’s the best time to clarify what’s covered, what’s not, and when any additional costs might arise.
- At The McMahan Law Firm, we take pride in avoiding hidden fees. We’re upfront about all potential expenses and explain every part of your agreement in plain English.
- All terms are put in writing, and we provide ongoing updates on any case-related expenses, so you always stay informed.
You should never feel uncertain about what you’re paying for. Our goal is to keep the process clear, open, and worry-free.
Is Hiring a Lawyer Worth the Cost?
In many cases, yes, hiring a lawyer can significantly impact your compensation and peace of mind.
Studies have shown that injury victims who work with an attorney typically receive more in settlements compared to those who go it alone. That’s because experienced legal teams understand how to build strong cases, navigate negotiations, and push back when insurers try to underpay.
Beyond financial results, having a lawyer means you can focus on healing while we handle the legal burden. From gathering evidence to dealing with insurance companies, we take care of the hard part so you don’t have to.
Trying to manage your claim without representation can put you at a serious disadvantage as insurance adjusters aim to protect their company’s bottom line, not yours.
Schedule Your Free Case Review
If you’ve been injured in a car accident and have questions about legal fees or your rights, don’t wait. Contact The McMahan Law Firm today to schedule your free case review.
There’s no risk and no obligation, just straightforward answers from a team that’s here to help you understand your options.
