Legal Question in Sexual Harassment in California

Re: Sexual harrasment settlement

55% sounds steep. I have never heard attorneys fees go beyond 45%, but whatever the fee is, it should not be a surprise as it should be part of the agreement between an attorney and the client long before the settlement is reached.

Thanks,

Arkady Itkin

http://www.arkadylaw.com

Re: Sexual harrasment settlement

Given that your case settled and did not go to trial, 55% is on the very high side. In fact, it would be the highest of which I have heard. Typically, the fee is 33% for settlements and 40% for a verdict or a settlement achieved 30 days before trial. I have heard of them reaching 45%.

The actual percentage is negotiable and should be appear in the retainer agreement so there really shouldn't be that much sticker shock whatever it is.

Re: Sexual harrasment settlement

I would imagine that 55% might be both the fee and costs that the attorney incurred combined -- for experts, depositions, photocopies, etc. I agree that the actual attorney's fees are covered by the retainer agreement.

Re: Sexual harrasment settlement

50% has been upheld, based on the nature of the case and the risk to the attorney. However, he is required to notify you that this is not a set fee and a negotiated amount. Did he notify you of that? Let me know if you want my help.

Best,

Daniel Bakondi, Esq.

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