If you’re considering taking legal action for medical malpractice, it’s only natural to be concerned about the fees associated with such a significant case. You’re already dealing with the emotional, mental, and perhaps physical complications caused by negligence, so the last thing you want to think about is the complexity of legal fees and if you’ll receive enough compensation for your damages. 
However, the cost of hiring a Kansas City medical malpractice lawyer may be more affordable than you may think. Before signing any contract, it’s crucial to understand all the associated fees and how they may affect the outcome of your claim.
Understanding Contingency Fees
Most attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. This means that you don’t pay large upfront fees or extensive hourly rates. Instead, your lawyer only gets paid if you win the case, usually taking a percentage of the settlement or verdict amount. The percentage charged by medical malpractice lawyers varies based on factors such as:
- The complexity of the case
- The amount of time required to prepare and defend the case
- The lawyer's experience and reputation
The contingency fee arrangement benefits clients as it eliminates financial risk, and your lawyer works tirelessly to get you a fair recovery.
Before signing any agreement, ensure you fully understand what you’ll be paying once your case settles. In addition to the contingency fee, there may be other costs associated with medical malpractice lawsuits incurred during the legal process, such as:
- Fees related to the investigation and preparation of your case, such as obtaining medical records, hiring expert witnesses, and conducting depositions.
- Court costs, such as fees for filing, processing, and deposition transcript, which vary depending on the jurisdiction and complexity of your case.
- If your case goes to trial, there may be additional expenses for trial preparation, including jury consulting fees, mock trial expenses, and court reporting fees.
Schedule a Free Consultation
Most medical malpractice lawyers offer free consultations to evaluate your case so there’s no risk to you. You can use this meeting as an opportunity to ask questions about the lawyer's experience in handling similar cases, their success rate, and the type of fee arrangement they offer, such as their contingency fee percentage.
It’s essential to clearly understand all potential legal fees and the associated costs relating to the complexities of a medical malpractice claim. A reputable lawyer should be transparent about all fees and expenses during the consultation.
Why You Need to Hire a Medical Malpractice Lawyer
Pursuing a medical malpractice lawsuit is challenging without professional guidance. There are numerous levels of negligence by physicians, nurses, other hospital personnel, and even hospital or clinic administration. Medical malpractice lawyers have the legal expertise and resources to thoroughly investigate your case and determine the facts that prove liability. They’ll gather and analyze medical records, consult with additional experts, and build a strong case on your behalf.
An experienced lawyer will also negotiate with insurance companies and other parties involved in the case to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages, such as:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Loss of future income earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disfigurement
- Wrongful death
Finally, a medical malpractice attorney ensures your lawsuit is filed correctly and within the required timeframe. In Missouri and Kansas, the statute of limitations for filing a claim is two years from when the injury was discovered or should reasonably have been discovered. If you don’t file your lawsuit within the statute of limitations, it will be dismissed, and you won’t be able to recover compensation.
Have You or a Loved One Been Injured Due to Medical Malpractice in Kansas City, Missouri?
If you believe you or a loved one has been harmed due to medical practice you should speak with an experienced medical malpractice lawyer as soon as possible. Please feel free to contact us online or call our office directly at 816.832.4688 to schedule your free consultation. We are proud to serve Kansas City, Missouri and the surrounding area and look forward to speaking with you.
