1. What Is a No Win No Claim Agreement?
A no win no claim agreement, also known as a Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA), allows you to pursue compensation without paying legal fees upfront. If your claim is unsuccessful, you won’t have to pay your lawyer’s fees.
2. How Does No Win No Claim Work?
- You file a claim with a no win no claim lawyer.
- Your lawyer covers legal costs during the case.
- If you win, the lawyer takes a percentage of your compensation.
- If you lose, you don’t pay legal fees (but may owe court fees or insurance costs).
3. What Types of Claims Qualify for No Win No Claim?
- Personal Injury Claims – Car accidents, workplace injuries, slips and falls.
- Medical Negligence – Claims against doctors, hospitals, or healthcare providers.
- Employment Disputes – Unfair dismissal, discrimination, or workplace accidents.
- Housing Disrepair – Landlord negligence causing unsafe living conditions.
- Accidents in Public Places – Injuries from unsafe premises or hazards.
4. Benefits of a No Win No Claim Agreement
- No Financial Risk – You won’t pay legal fees unless you win.
- Access to Legal Help – You can hire an experienced lawyer without upfront costs.
- Better Case Outcomes – Lawyers work harder since their payment depends on winning.
5. How Much Do No Win No Claim Lawyers Charge?
If you win, the lawyer’s fee is usually a success fee deducted from your compensation, typically 20-40% of the settlement. This is agreed upon before the case begins.
6. What Happens If You Lose the Case?
- You won’t pay legal fees, but you may need to cover court fees or opponent’s costs.
- Some firms offer After the Event (ATE) Insurance to protect you from these costs.
7. How Long Do No Win No Claim Cases Take?
- Minor Claims – Can be settled within a few months.
- Moderate Cases – May take 6 months to a year.
- Serious Injury Claims – If the case goes to court, it can take over a year.
8. Common Misconceptions About No Win No Claim
- “It’s completely free” – You won’t pay upfront, but a success fee applies if you win.
- “Only certain cases qualify” – Many personal injury and negligence cases qualify.
- “Lawyers take all the money” – The majority of compensation still goes to the claimant.
9. How to Choose the Best No Win No Claim Lawyer
- Experience – Choose a lawyer with a proven track record in your type of claim.
- Fee Transparency – Ensure you understand the success fee and any potential costs.
- Client Reviews – Look for positive feedback and testimonials.
10. When to Contact a No Win No Claim Lawyer
If you’ve suffered an injury, workplace accident, or financial loss due to negligence, contacting a lawyer early can improve your chances of a successful claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to pay anything if I lose?
Legal fees are waived, but court costs or third-party expenses may apply unless covered by ATE insurance.
How much compensation can I receive?
The amount depends on injury severity, medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Can I switch lawyers during a no win no claim case?
Yes, but you may need to settle any outstanding legal costs with your current lawyer.
How long do I have to file a no win no claim case?
Time limits vary by case type and location, typically between 1-3 years.
Are all personal injury claims accepted under no win no claim?
Lawyers assess case strength before accepting it under a no win no claim agreement.
What percentage do lawyers take if I win?
Most firms charge between 20-40% of the final settlement as their success fee.