A mesothelioma diagnosis can bring enormous emotional, medical, and financial challenges for patients and their families. Treatment may involve specialist appointments, hospital visits, medication, surgery, and other expenses. At the same time, a patient may be unable to continue working or may need help managing everyday responsibilities. For families affected by asbestos-related diseases, pursuing compensation can be an important consideration.
However, many people hesitate to contact a mesothelioma lawyer because they are worried about legal costs. They may wonder whether they must pay thousands of dollars upfront, how attorneys calculate their fees, and what happens if a lawsuit does not result in compensation.
In the United States, many mesothelioma law firms represent clients under contingency fee agreements. Under this arrangement, the attorney’s fee is generally tied to whether the client obtains a financial recovery. Instead of charging the full attorney fee upfront, the lawyer receives an agreed percentage of money recovered, subject to the written agreement and applicable law.
Although contingency fees can make legal representation more accessible, the terms vary between firms. Case expenses, medical liens, reimbursement obligations, and other deductions may also affect the amount a client ultimately receives.
This guide explains how mesothelioma attorney fees work, what contingency agreements usually contain, how legal expenses are handled, what questions to ask before signing, and how to compare law firms without focusing only on the advertised fee percentage.
What Is a Mesothelioma Attorney Fee?
A mesothelioma attorney fee is the amount a lawyer charges for legal services associated with an asbestos-related claim.
These services may include investigating asbestos exposure, reviewing medical records, identifying potentially responsible companies, preparing legal documents, negotiating settlements, handling asbestos bankruptcy trust claims, and representing a client in court when necessary.
The total cost of legal representation depends on the agreement between the client and the attorney, the complexity of the case, the legal work required, and the applicable rules.
Mesothelioma claims can involve complicated investigations because asbestos exposure often occurred decades before a diagnosis. A claimant may have worked for several employers, encountered multiple asbestos-containing products, or been exposed at different locations. Some responsible companies may have entered bankruptcy, while others may dispute responsibility.
Because of these complications, legal fees and expenses should be discussed clearly before representation begins.
There is no single attorney fee that applies to every mesothelioma case. Each firm may use different contractual terms, and some jurisdictions impose specific requirements or restrictions on attorney fees.
What Is a Contingency Fee Agreement?
A contingency fee agreement is a contract under which an attorney’s fee depends on the outcome of the legal matter, commonly on whether the client obtains a financial recovery.
In a typical U.S. personal injury arrangement, the attorney receives an agreed percentage of the amount recovered through a settlement or court judgment. The exact percentage and how it is calculated depend on the contract and applicable law.
For example, suppose a client signs an agreement providing for a 30% attorney fee calculated on a $200,000 recovery.
The attorney fee would be:
$200,000 × 30% = $60,000.
This example illustrates the calculation only. It does not represent a typical or guaranteed mesothelioma settlement, and the actual fee may be calculated differently under another agreement.
The client may also have case expenses, medical liens, or other deductions. These items can reduce the final amount received, depending on the contract and applicable law.
A contingency fee arrangement can be useful because it may allow a seriously ill person or family to pursue a claim without paying the full attorney fee at the beginning of the case.
However, a contingency fee does not automatically mean that the entire legal process is free. Clients should understand how expenses are handled and what they might owe if the claim is unsuccessful.
How Much Do Mesothelioma Lawyers Charge?
There is no universal contingency fee percentage for mesothelioma attorneys. The amount depends on the law firm’s agreement, the type of claim, the stage at which the case resolves, and any applicable legal restrictions.
Some firms advertise contingency fees in the range of approximately 25% to 40% of a recovery, but these figures are not a standard that applies to every attorney or jurisdiction. A particular agreement may use a different percentage or provide for different calculations at different stages.
Rather than relying on a general figure, request the firm’s actual written fee agreement.
Example of a Contingency Fee Calculation
The following examples show how different percentages would affect the attorney fee on the same hypothetical recovery.
| Hypothetical recovery | Fee at 25% | Fee at 33â…“% | Fee at 40% |
|---|---|---|---|
| $100,000 | $25,000 | About $33,333 | $40,000 |
| $250,000 | $62,500 | About $83,333 | $100,000 |
| $500,000 | $125,000 | About $166,667 | $200,000 |
| $1,000,000 | $250,000 | About $333,333 | $400,000 |
These figures are illustrations, not predictions of settlement values or recommendations about what a lawyer should charge. They show only the attorney fee before accounting for other costs or deductions.
The agreement may also specify whether the percentage applies to the gross recovery or an amount remaining after certain expenses. That distinction can materially change the calculation.
Why the Lowest Percentage Is Not Always the Best Choice
It can be tempting to select the attorney who advertises the smallest contingency fee. However, the percentage is only one part of the overall agreement.
A firm with a lower percentage might charge expenses differently, while another firm may offer a higher level of specialized support or a different arrangement for trial work. Neither situation should be assumed without examining the actual terms.
When comparing firms, consider:
- Experience with mesothelioma and asbestos litigation.
- The lawyer’s licensing and professional standing.
- The investigation and case preparation the firm proposes.
- The attorney fee percentage and how it is calculated.
- Responsibility for litigation expenses.
- How the firm handles liens and reimbursements.
- Communication, accessibility, and case management.
- The firm’s ability to handle the relevant jurisdiction and claim type.
The goal is to understand the overall financial arrangement and the quality of the proposed representation.
What Does a Mesothelioma Contingency Fee Usually Cover?
The attorney fee generally pays for the legal services described in the representation agreement.
Depending on the contract, these services may include the following.
Case Evaluation and Legal Advice
The attorney reviews the available information and assesses whether a potential claim may exist.
This can include discussing the diagnosis, exposure history, possible defendants, relevant filing deadlines, and potential legal pathways.
The initial consultation may be free, but clients should confirm this directly with the firm.
Investigation of Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos-related diseases can appear many years after exposure. A lawyer may need to investigate employment history, military service, historical worksites, product manufacturers, contractors, and other possible exposure sources.
The firm may review documents, interview witnesses, and research historical product information.
The time and resources needed for this investigation can vary considerably.
Preparation and Filing of Legal Documents
If the case proceeds as a lawsuit, the attorney may prepare the complaint, file required court documents, respond to procedural matters, and manage communications with defendants or their lawyers.
Other types of claims, including asbestos trust fund submissions, involve separate requirements and procedures.
Negotiations With Defendants
The attorney may communicate with defendants or their insurers to negotiate a possible settlement.
This can involve evaluating the available evidence, calculating damages, reviewing offers, and explaining the risks of accepting or rejecting a proposal.
Litigation and Trial Preparation
If the case does not settle, additional work may be required. This may include depositions, discovery, expert evidence, court hearings, motions, and trial preparation.
Some fee agreements specify that the contingency percentage changes if the case proceeds to trial or appeal. Others use different structures. Clients should check the exact terms rather than assume that every firm operates the same way.
Attorney Fees Versus Case Expenses: What Is the Difference?
One of the most important parts of understanding a mesothelioma fee agreement is distinguishing the attorney’s fee from case expenses.
Attorney fees compensate the lawyer for legal services.
Case expenses are costs associated with investigating, preparing, filing, or resolving the claim.
Depending on the case and agreement, expenses may include:
- Court filing fees.
- Costs of obtaining medical records.
- Employment and military record retrieval.
- Deposition transcripts.
- Expert witness fees.
- Medical or occupational expert consultations.
- Investigative services.
- Travel and accommodation for necessary legal work.
- Document production and other litigation-related costs.
Not every case incurs every expense. The amount can vary depending on the evidence, the number of defendants, and whether the case proceeds to trial.
Who Pays the Case Expenses?
There is no single answer for every mesothelioma law firm.
Some firms advance certain expenses during the case and recover them from a settlement or judgment if compensation is obtained. Other agreements may treat particular expenses differently.
The agreement should also explain what happens if the client does not receive compensation.
For example, the firm may agree to absorb specified expenses if the case is unsuccessful, or the contract may make the client responsible for certain costs regardless of the outcome. Applicable law may limit what can be charged or how the agreement must be written.
Never assume that the attorney will automatically cover every expense. Ask for the terms in writing before signing.
Why Expense Deductions Matter
Consider a hypothetical case with a $200,000 recovery, a 33â…“% attorney fee calculated on the gross recovery, and $8,000 in case expenses deducted afterward.
The calculation would be:
- Gross recovery: $200,000.
- Attorney fee: approximately $66,667.
- Case expenses: $8,000.
- Remaining amount before other deductions: approximately $125,333.
This example assumes that the fee is calculated before expenses are deducted. If the contract calculates the fee differently, the result may change.
Medical liens, reimbursement obligations, or other valid deductions may further affect the amount the client receives.
The important lesson is to request a written breakdown showing how the firm’s fee and expenses will be calculated.
What Happens if You Lose a Mesothelioma Lawsuit?
This is one of the most important questions to ask before entering a contingency fee agreement.
In a typical contingency arrangement, the attorney does not collect the agreed percentage-based fee if there is no recovery, subject to the contract and applicable law. However, responsibility for case expenses is a separate issue.
Depending on the agreement, the client may not owe certain advanced expenses if the case is unsuccessful, or may remain responsible for some costs.
The agreement should address these possibilities clearly.
Before signing, ask:
- If no compensation is recovered, will I owe an attorney fee?
- Will I be responsible for expenses advanced by the firm?
- Are there costs I must pay regardless of the outcome?
- Could I be responsible for any court-ordered costs?
- What happens if I decide to end the attorney-client relationship?
- What happens if I hire another lawyer?
- Are there any charges for withdrawing or transferring the case?
Do not rely solely on a verbal assurance that you will pay nothing if you lose. Review the contract and ask the attorney to explain any unclear language.
Do Mesothelioma Lawyers Charge Upfront Fees?
Many U.S. law firms handling asbestos-related personal injury cases offer contingency arrangements that do not require the client to pay the full attorney fee upfront.
This can be especially important for people undergoing treatment or dealing with reduced income.
However, the terms differ among firms. Some may require clients to pay particular expenses, while others advance certain costs subject to the agreement.
The availability of a free initial consultation also varies. Ask whether the consultation is free, whether any document or record charges apply, and whether the firm expects payment before filing a claim.
If an attorney requests a substantial upfront payment, ask for a written explanation of the proposed fee structure and compare it with other qualified lawyers before deciding.
Are Mesothelioma Trust Fund Claims Charged the Same Fees as Lawsuits?
Not necessarily.
Some asbestos companies entered bankruptcy and established trusts to compensate eligible people with asbestos-related injuries. A qualifying claimant may be able to submit a trust claim if the medical and exposure requirements are satisfied.
Trust claims are different from lawsuits against companies that remain subject to ordinary litigation. Each trust may have its own procedures, evidence requirements, and payment rules.
A law firm may handle trust claims under the same representation agreement as a lawsuit, or the agreement may specify a separate fee arrangement. Clients should not assume that the fee for one type of claim automatically applies to every other claim.
Ask the attorney:
- Does the agreement cover asbestos trust fund claims?
- Is there a separate fee for each trust claim?
- Does the same percentage apply to trust payments and lawsuit settlements?
- Are expenses deducted separately for each claim?
- How will the firm explain and document payments from multiple sources?
- What happens if a trust claim is denied?
If you may qualify for several trust claims, make sure the fee agreement explains how the firm will be compensated for this work.
What About Veterans’ Benefits and Workers’ Compensation?
Mesothelioma patients may have options beyond civil lawsuits, depending on their circumstances.
Veterans’ Benefits
Eligible U.S. military veterans may apply for benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs if they meet the program’s requirements.
VA disability benefits are different from civil lawsuits against asbestos manufacturers. A private attorney’s contingency agreement for a civil lawsuit should not automatically be assumed to cover VA benefits applications.
Veterans may wish to consult an accredited veterans service officer or another qualified representative about the VA process. They should ask a private law firm to clarify which services are included in its contract.
Workers’ Compensation
Some asbestos-related illnesses may qualify for workers’ compensation, depending on the applicable system, employment history, causation evidence, and filing requirements.
Workers’ compensation claims may use a different fee structure from civil lawsuits. Rules governing attorney fees can vary by jurisdiction and claim type.
A person considering both a workers’ compensation claim and a lawsuit against another responsible party should ask how the claims interact and whether separate representation agreements are needed.
Social Security and Other Benefits
Certain people may qualify for disability benefits or other assistance through government programs. These programs have their own eligibility rules, procedures, and representative-fee requirements.
Do not assume that a contingency agreement for an asbestos lawsuit also covers a disability application or another benefits claim. Ask for clarification before authorizing additional work.
What Is a Medical Lien, and How Can It Affect Your Settlement?
A medical lien or reimbursement claim may affect the amount of compensation a client ultimately receives.
Depending on the circumstances, a healthcare provider, insurer, government program, or other entity may claim a right to reimbursement from certain settlement proceeds.
The rules governing these claims vary by jurisdiction and by the source of the payment.
For example, if a health plan or public benefits program paid medical expenses related to the illness, it may have a legal or contractual right to seek reimbursement in some circumstances.
An attorney may need to identify valid liens, verify their amounts, and determine whether they can be challenged or negotiated under applicable law.
Before accepting a settlement, ask the lawyer to explain:
- Whether any liens or reimbursement claims have been identified.
- Which parties assert those claims.
- How the amounts were calculated.
- Whether the claims can be reduced or disputed.
- How reimbursement will affect the final payment.
Do not assume that the attorney fee is the only deduction from a settlement. A written closing statement should explain the financial distribution.
How to Read a Mesothelioma Attorney Fee Agreement
A fee agreement is a legally important contract. It should explain how the attorney will be paid, what work the attorney will perform, and which responsibilities belong to the client.
Take time to read the entire agreement before signing.
1. Check the Fee Percentage
Look for the exact percentage or fee formula.
Determine whether the percentage changes depending on whether the case settles before filing, after a lawsuit is filed, during trial, or on appeal.
If the agreement uses different percentages for different stages, ask the attorney to explain each one.
2. Find Out How the Fee Is Calculated
The agreement should explain whether the fee is based on the gross recovery or a net amount after specified expenses.
This distinction can affect the final amount.
Ask for a numerical example using a hypothetical settlement so you can understand the calculation.
3. Review the Expense Clause
Identify which costs the firm may advance and which costs you may have to pay.
Check whether expenses are deducted before or after the attorney fee is calculated.
Ask whether the firm needs your approval before incurring unusually large expenses.
4. Understand What Happens if There Is No Recovery
The contract should explain the consequences if the claim is unsuccessful.
Pay particular attention to whether you could be responsible for advanced expenses, court costs, or other charges.
5. Confirm Which Claims Are Included
A mesothelioma patient may have several potential claims, such as a lawsuit, asbestos trust fund claims, or other benefits applications.
Make sure the agreement identifies the claims the attorney will handle. Ask whether additional work requires a separate contract.
6. Review the Rules for Ending Representation
The agreement may explain what happens if you decide to change lawyers or terminate the relationship.
Depending on the circumstances and applicable law, a former lawyer may have a claim for fees or expenses related to work already performed. The specific rules vary.
Ask how a transfer would be handled and whether it could affect the case.
7. Ask for a Copy of Everything You Sign
Keep a copy of the signed agreement and any amendments.
If the fee structure changes, request the updated terms in writing. Do not rely on informal promises that are inconsistent with the signed contract.
How to Compare Mesothelioma Law Firms by Fees
Comparing law firms can help you find a suitable attorney, but the process should involve more than comparing percentages.
Examine Specialized Experience
Ask how regularly the firm handles asbestos-related cases and whether it has experience with the type of exposure involved in your situation.
A lawyer may need to understand historical products, workplace conditions, corporate records, medical evidence, and trust fund procedures.
Verify Professional Credentials
Confirm the attorney’s license and professional standing with the relevant legal authority.
If the claim may be filed in a state where the lawyer is not licensed, ask how the firm will arrange appropriate representation.
Request a Clear Fee Explanation
Ask each firm to explain the contingency percentage, expense policy, and possible deductions.
A lawyer should be able to describe the fee arrangement in understandable terms without pressuring you to sign immediately.
Evaluate Communication
Legal cases can take time, and clients may need frequent updates.
Ask who will manage the case, how to contact the attorney, and how often the firm typically provides updates.
Compare the Overall Arrangement
A lower percentage is not necessarily the best deal if the agreement includes different expense obligations or does not cover the work you need.
Similarly, a higher percentage does not automatically indicate better representation.
Consider the full contract, the attorney’s experience, the proposed strategy, and the quality of communication.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Mesothelioma Attorney
Use the initial consultation to understand both the legal case and the financial arrangement.
About experience
- How much of your practice involves asbestos-related claims?
- Have you handled cases involving my occupation or potential exposure source?
- Are you familiar with asbestos bankruptcy trust fund claims?
- Which attorney will be responsible for my case?
About fees
- What exact contingency percentage will you charge?
- Does the percentage change if the case goes to trial or appeal?
- Is the percentage calculated before or after case expenses?
- Which expenses will be deducted from the recovery?
- Will I owe any expenses if there is no recovery?
- Are trust fund claims covered by the same agreement?
About the case
- Which filing deadlines may apply?
- What records should I provide?
- Which companies or other parties may be investigated?
- What are the main risks or weaknesses in the claim?
- How will you communicate updates and settlement offers?
A qualified attorney should be willing to answer these questions clearly. If you do not understand a response, ask for an explanation before signing.
How Attorney Fees Affect a Mesothelioma Settlement
When a claim results in compensation, the attorney’s fee is usually only one part of the financial calculation.
The amount ultimately paid to the client may depend on:
- The gross settlement or judgment.
- The attorney fee under the written agreement.
- Case expenses.
- Valid medical liens or reimbursement obligations.
- Other legally permitted deductions.
- Any applicable distribution rules.
A Hypothetical Settlement Example
Suppose a claim resolves for $300,000 and the agreement provides for a 33â…“% fee calculated on the gross recovery.
The attorney fee would be approximately $100,000.
If the agreement also provides for $10,000 in case expenses deducted afterward, approximately $190,000 would remain before any other deductions.
If valid liens or reimbursement claims apply, the final amount could be lower. The actual calculation depends on the contract and the applicable law.
This is an illustration of how deductions can work. It is not a forecast of what any particular mesothelioma claim may recover.
Request a Written Settlement Breakdown
Before authorizing the final distribution, ask the attorney for an itemized statement showing the gross recovery, attorney fee, case expenses, liens or reimbursements, and final amount payable to you.
Review the statement and ask questions about any unfamiliar deduction.
This helps ensure that you understand how the settlement proceeds are being distributed.
Can You Negotiate a Mesothelioma Attorney’s Fee?
Possibly. Whether a fee can be negotiated depends on the attorney, the case, the applicable law, and the firm’s policies.
Some firms may be willing to discuss the percentage or clarify how expenses will be handled. Others may use standardized agreements.
If you want to negotiate, ask politely and focus on the complete financial arrangement. For example, you may request clarification about trial-related percentages, expense deductions, or whether particular claims are included.
Any agreed change should be reflected in the written contract. Do not rely on a verbal promise that does not appear in the final agreement.
If a provision seems unclear or unfair, you may seek an independent legal opinion before signing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Reviewing Attorney Fees
Choosing a Lawyer Only Because of a Low Percentage
The fee percentage matters, but so do experience, legal strategy, expense obligations, and communication.
Compare the entire agreement instead of focusing on one number.
Assuming No Recovery Means No Costs
The contingency fee may depend on recovery, but expenses are governed separately by the agreement and applicable law.
Ask specifically what happens if the case is unsuccessful.
Ignoring the Expense Calculation
Whether expenses are deducted before or after the attorney’s percentage is calculated can affect the final payment.
Request a numerical example before signing.
Failing to Read the Entire Contract
Important terms may appear in sections dealing with expenses, liens, termination, or additional claims.
Read the entire agreement and request explanations for unfamiliar language.
Assuming Every Claim Is Included
A contract for a civil lawsuit may not cover VA benefits, workers’ compensation, or every asbestos trust claim.
Ask which services are included and whether separate agreements are required.
Believing Advertised Settlement Figures Guarantee Similar Results
Law firms may advertise large verdicts or settlements, but individual cases differ.
Past results do not guarantee future outcomes, and advertised amounts may not reflect fees, expenses, liens, or other deductions.
Mesothelioma Attorney Fees for Families After a Death
When a person dies from mesothelioma or another asbestos-related illness, eligible family members or an estate representative may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim, a survival action, or certain trust fund claims.
The fee arrangement may be similar to a personal injury contingency agreement, but the legal requirements and financial distribution rules can differ.
Before signing, the family should clarify:
- Who has legal authority to bring the claim.
- Which claims the attorney will handle.
- What contingency fee applies.
- How expenses will be treated.
- Whether the agreement covers trust fund claims.
- How any recovery will be distributed under the applicable law.
Families should also ask about filing deadlines. Wrongful death limitation periods may differ from those for personal injury claims.
Because these cases can involve estate administration and several potential beneficiaries, it is important to understand who will make legal decisions and how the attorney will communicate with the authorized representative.
What If You Are Outside the United States?
Contingency fee arrangements differ across countries. The examples in this article primarily describe common arrangements used in U.S. personal injury litigation and should not be treated as universal rules.
People living outside the United States may have access to different legal aid systems, occupational disease compensation programs, civil claims, or other arrangements.
If the asbestos exposure occurred in another country, the relevant legal system may depend on where the exposure took place, where the responsible company operated, and where the claim can legally be brought.
Before signing a contract with an attorney in another country, confirm the lawyer’s qualifications, the applicable fee rules, the currency and payment terms, and the potential costs of cross-border litigation.
Seek advice from a lawyer qualified to handle the relevant jurisdiction.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mesothelioma Attorney Fees
Do mesothelioma lawyers charge upfront fees?
Many U.S. mesothelioma firms offer contingency arrangements under which clients do not pay the full attorney fee upfront. However, expense policies vary. Confirm the consultation terms, fee structure, and responsibility for case expenses before signing.
What percentage do mesothelioma attorneys take?
There is no universal percentage. Some firms advertise percentages within a broad range, often around 25% to 40%, but the actual fee depends on the agreement, the claim, and applicable law. Request the written fee terms from each firm you consider.
Do I have to pay if my mesothelioma lawsuit is unsuccessful?
The answer depends on the agreement and applicable law. A typical contingency arrangement ties the attorney’s percentage-based fee to a recovery, but the client may still be responsible for certain expenses under some agreements. Read the expense clause carefully.
Are asbestos trust fund claims included in the attorney fee?
Sometimes. The agreement may cover trust fund claims under the same fee arrangement or provide separate terms. Ask the attorney to specify which claims and services are included.
Can I negotiate the contingency fee?
You may be able to discuss the percentage or other terms with the law firm. Any agreed change should be documented in the written agreement.
Does the lawyer receive a percentage of the entire settlement?
That depends on the contract. Some agreements calculate the fee on the gross recovery, while others may use a different formula. Ask how case expenses and other deductions are handled.
What other deductions could reduce my settlement?
Depending on the case, deductions may include case expenses, valid medical liens, reimbursement obligations, or other legally permitted amounts. Request an itemized settlement statement before distribution.
Can I change my mesothelioma attorney after signing?
Changing attorneys may be possible, but the consequences depend on the agreement, the stage of the case, and applicable law. A former attorney may have rights concerning fees or expenses for work already performed. Obtain legal advice before making the change.
Are free mesothelioma attorney consultations available?
Some law firms offer free initial consultations, while others may have different policies. Confirm the terms before scheduling and ask whether any charges apply.
Can a lawyer guarantee how much compensation I will receive?
No responsible attorney can guarantee a particular settlement or verdict. The result depends on the evidence, legal liability, applicable law, and other circumstances.
Final Thoughts: Understand the Agreement Before Hiring a Mesothelioma Lawyer
A contingency fee agreement can help mesothelioma patients and families pursue legal claims without paying the full attorney fee upfront. However, the financial terms deserve careful attention.
Before hiring a lawyer, understand the exact fee percentage, how it is calculated, which expenses may be deducted, and what happens if the claim does not result in compensation. Find out whether the agreement covers asbestos trust fund claims and whether separate arrangements are required for veterans’ benefits or workers’ compensation matters.
Compare qualified attorneys based on relevant experience, professional credentials, communication, and the complete fee structure. Do not select a firm solely because it advertises the lowest percentage or the largest settlement. Ask for a written explanation and make sure you understand the agreement before signing.
Most importantly, remember that every case is different. No fee arrangement guarantees a successful outcome, and the amount a client receives depends on the particular claim, evidence, and applicable law.
Legal disclaimer: This article is for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, tax, or medical advice. It does not create an attorney-client relationship. Attorney fee rules, contingency agreements, litigation expenses, and compensation procedures vary by jurisdiction. Consult a qualified attorney about your circumstances and review the complete written fee agreement before making a decision.