Legal Question in Personal Injury in Virginia
Who pays court costs in a contingency case? Me or my Law office?
Hello. I am currently in a case against a nail salon, and was made to understand through my Lawyers that I was not liable for any monies unless my case is to win. I've been presented with a sizable bill, and my case has not been heard yet. Is this the norm? Should I pay this before my case is heard? Thanks for your response.
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Who pays court costs in a contingency case? Me or my Law office?
In a contingency fee arrangement, the client is usually obligated to pay costs associated with getting the litigation going such as court fees for filing the lawsuit as well as other costs such as those incurred for serving subpoenas upon witnesses or conducting certain discovery actions such as depositions.
Re: Who pays court costs in a contingency case? Me or my Law office?
Read your retainer agreement (that you signed) for the answer to this question. Since I don't know its terms, and you haven't said what it is you are being billed for, there's not enough info here. Any answers you might receive here are pure speculation. Maybe the agreement says you are liable for expert witnesses, deposition reporters, and other court costs. If you win the case, the other side will have to pay these costs.