Questions
When another firm is the one who tries the case.
One contract. One fee. The client signs the split before any fee is divided.
Why would another firm try my case?
Some cases, such as birth injuries, death cases, and larger medical malpractice claims, are tried with a firm that already does that work. This office tells you at the start if that is the plan.
Do I pay two lawyers' fees?
No. You sign one contract with one percentage. The firms divide that fee between them.
Do I have to agree before the fee is divided?
Yes. The client agrees in writing before any fee is divided, and a lawyer from each firm signs the contract. If a firm is added later, you sign a new contract that names it.
How is the fee split between the firms?
On a personal injury, property damage, or wrongful death contingency, the firm with primary responsibility receives at least 75 percent of the fee and the other firm at most 25 percent, unless the firms share the work about equally and a court approves another split.
Who is responsible for my case?
Each lawyer. Every lawyer on the case is responsible for representing you and for the acts of the other lawyers in the case. You can talk with any of them.
Who do I call?
You still call this office. You do not look up the other firm and go there on your own. This office does not pay the client part of its fee. The savings are the lower percentage.
More on this: Referral to other counsel. Other questions.
By Shabsi Kabacznik, Florida Bar No. 1038917. Updated . General information, not legal advice for your case.