# Contingency Fee

> A fee arrangement where an attorney is paid a percentage of the client's recovery only if the case is successful.

**Category:** Legal Fees
**Canonical URL:** https://drugsmonitor.com/glossary/contingency-fee
**Last updated:** 2026-06-11

Contingency fees are the standard arrangement in plaintiffs' mass tort cases. Typical contingency percentages range from 33% to 40% of the gross settlement or judgment, plus reimbursement of advanced case expenses.

Contingency fees align the attorney's financial interest with the client's, as both benefit only from a successful outcome. However, the percentage and expense terms vary significantly between firms and should be clearly stated in the engagement letter.

Some states regulate contingency fee percentages in personal injury cases, and some mass tort settlements include court-approved caps on attorney fees. Always review and understand the fee agreement before signing.

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*Glossary entry from DrugsMonitor.com.*