A lot of our clients claim with us because of how upfront and honest we are when it comes to claiming. Unlike many companies out there on the internet, we are an ACTUAL law firm and not just a referral agency. We actually run your claim – we don’t palm you off on to someone else.
When it comes to getting a lawyer through one of the thousands of middlemen out there, it’s hard to understand what the costs for claiming are. Even going to a law firm directly can leave you confused about what you may need to pay and when.
Upfront Advice
Have you spoken to a law firm and received their paperwork only to find you’re being hit by a 25% deduction, upfront insurance fees, and other costs too? It’s a common occurrence – ever since the law changes from last year, law firms and claims companies are sometimes reluctant to discuss charges because it can put people off.
Many accident victims are still used to the idea that a 100% compensation agreement can be offered across the board – but the changes from last year have slashed lawyer’s legal fees and stopped what you can recover from your opponent. The government and the insurers want you to have to pay for making a claim; it’s not fair, but there is nothing we can do about it!
So you should always be wary about a firm that does not explain exactly how things work. When it comes to the changes you should be advised:
- What the law changes are from April 2013 and how you can no longer recover a Success Fee or premium for After The Event insurance
- That legal fees in general have been considerably slashed
- That there is a maximum deduction of up to 25% from your compensation to cover the Success Fee
- That there has been a general uplift in what you can claim for by 10%
When it comes to fees you should know:
- How much of a deduction you face for the Success Fee – a solicitor doesn’t have to take the full 25%
- Whether there are additional percentage deductions – the cap is just for the Success Fee which doesn’t stop a law firm deducting more for other fees
- How much you have to pay for the insurance – and whether there are top up fees and whether you pay this upfront or at the end of the claim
Many people face higher deductions when they access lawyers through claims management companies. In the past these middlemen would receive referral fees for passing claims over to law firms. However that was banned last year – so now they need to make money in other way; like just charging you for example.
Want our best deal with a full explanation as to where you stand right from the start? Call us now on 0800 634 7575 for help and advice.
