Q: How can I find an attorney who works on contingency basis for business litigation case?
I need help filing a business lawsuit in San Francisco Superior Court but as a low income individual cannot afford an attorney who charges full sum of representation upfront. Where can I find an attorney who works on contingency basis?
A: Quite simply, you will need to contact attorneys until you find one willing to represent you on a contingency basis. This will be challenging. Law firms do not gamble. It will need to be a sure thing with the settlement/judgment paid immediately upon resolution. This will be based on the law firms' evaluation, not the potential client's evaluation. A client with nothing to lose, is less likely to settle. Thus, driving the firm's costs beyond what is reasonable or even feasible. Millions of Californians could think of someone to sue if a law firm was willing to finance their lawsuit and assume all the risks. A hybrid fee structure or limited-scope representation may be an option. Rob Kane California Business Attorney Orange County
A: It's basically a matter of manually going from firm to firm to inquire. Contingency arrangements for business litigation could depend on the nature of the matter. Some firms could be receptive, some may not be. It could depend on the amount of recovery, legal issues involved, the firm's confidence in a favorable outcome, strength of the evidence, and other possible factors. Good luck
A:
Finding an attorney for business litigation who works on contingency can be challenging, since these arrangements are more common in personal injury cases. However, there are several paths you can explore in San Francisco.
Start by contacting the San Francisco Bar Association's Lawyer Referral Service, which can connect you with attorneys who might be willing to work with your financial situation. You might also reach out to legal aid organizations like the Legal Aid Society of San Francisco or Bay Area Legal Aid, as they often provide resources for low-income individuals and might know attorneys who offer flexible payment arrangements.
Consider scheduling free initial consultations with multiple business litigation attorneys to discuss your case's merits and potential contingency arrangements. Be prepared to explain why your case has a strong likelihood of success, as this will make attorneys more interested in taking it on contingency. You can find potential attorneys through online legal directories, local bar associations, and referrals from other business owners. Remember that even if an attorney doesn't typically work on contingency, some might be willing to negotiate alternative fee arrangements like hybrid contingency fees or payment plans if they believe strongly in your case.
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