When someone is injured in an accident in the San Joaquin Valley, one of the first questions they often ask is: “How much will it cost to hire a personal injury lawyer?” The answer depends on the type of fee arrangement your attorney uses.
At Nelson, Rozier, and Christenson Attorneys at Law, we understand that affordability is critical—especially when injuries mean unexpected medical bills, lost income, and family stress.
Below, we’ll explain the common fee structures used in personal injury cases, so you know what to expect.
Contingency Fees: The Most Common Arrangement
Like personal injury lawyers in the Central Valley and those who represent clients in Kings County, Exeter, and across the Sierra Foothills, Ryan Nelson and Clayton Christenson of NRC Law work on a contingency fee basis. This means:
- You pay nothing up front to hire your lawyer.
- Your attorney only gets paid if you win your case or reach a settlement.
- The lawyer’s fee is typically a percentage of the recovery (often around one-third).
This arrangement is designed to give injured victims access to legal help regardless of their financial situation. Whether you were hurt in Pixley, near the Tule River, or while traveling through Reedley or Tipton, contingency fees ensure that quality representation is available without an immediate out-of-pocket burden.
Hourly Rates and Flat Fees
While less common in personal injury cases, some attorneys may charge hourly rates or flat fees.
- Hourly rates mean you pay for each hour your lawyer works on your case. This model is more typical for business disputes or cases not involving injury compensation.
- Flat fees are set amounts for specific services, like drafting a simple legal document. These are rarely used in accident cases.
For injured victims in smaller communities like Connell, Sunland, and Terra Bella, hourly billing can feel intimidating and unpredictable. That’s why contingency agreements remain the most trusted approach in personal injury law. At NRC Law, we will never ask an injured party or accident victim for money up front or charge hourly rates.
Other Potential Costs
In addition to attorney fees, there are other case-related expenses to consider. These may include:
- Filing fees and court costs
- Costs for obtaining medical records and police reports
- Expert witness testimony
- Investigative expenses
At NRC Law, we advance these costs for our clients and are only reimbursed if your case is successful. That way, you can focus on healing while we handle the details.
Affordable Legal Help in the Central Valley
Whether you live near Valley Oak woodlands, Elderwood, the California Delta, or the wetlands and wildlife refuges surrounding the San Joaquin Valley, accidents can change your life in an instant. Having an experienced lawyer on your side should not add to your financial stress.
At Nelson, Rozier, and Christenson Attorneys at Law, we proudly serve victims across Visalia, Kings County, Dinuba, and beyond. Our mission is to fight for your rights without adding extra financial burdens along the way.
Contact NRC Law Today
If you’ve been injured in an accident and are wondering about the costs of hiring a lawyer, the good news is: you don’t pay unless we win.
📞 Call NRC Law at (559) 713-0159 today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Our attorneys are ready to answer your questions, explain your options, and fight for the compensation you deserve.