Contingency Fee Calculator
See what you actually keep from a settlement after the attorney’s contingency fee and case costs are deducted.
How it works
Attorney fee = fee base × fee% · Net recovery = gross − attorney fee − costs (fee base = gross, or gross − costs)
In a contingency arrangement the attorney is paid only if you win, taking an agreed percentage of the recovery — commonly one-third. Two details drive your take-home: whether the percentage is applied to the gross settlement or to the amount left after case costs (experts, filing fees, medical liens), and how large those costs are. Charging the fee on the post-cost amount leaves you slightly more, so the fee agreement’s wording matters.
Worked example
A $100,000 settlement with a 33.33% fee on the gross means $33,330 to the attorney. Subtract $5,000 of costs and liens and you net $61,670 — about 62% of the settlement. Charging the fee on the after-cost $95,000 instead would leave you roughly $1,665 more.
Frequently asked questions
What is a typical contingency fee?
One-third (33.33%) is the common benchmark for cases that settle before trial; the fee often rises to 40% if the case goes to trial or appeal. Some claim types are capped by state law.
Are case costs separate from the fee?
Usually yes. The percentage fee is the lawyer’s pay for their work, while costs — court fees, expert witnesses, records, medical liens — are expenses that are reimbursed on top, out of your share.
Does the fee come out before or after costs?
It depends on the retainer agreement. "Gross" contracts take the percentage first, then subtract costs; "net" contracts subtract costs first. The net approach generally leaves the client with a bit more.
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Educational estimate only — not legal, tax or financial advice. Actual settlements, awards and payoffs depend on the facts, jurisdiction and negotiation. Consult a licensed attorney.