How much does it cost you to claim?
There are a number of ways in which a claimant can proceed with a claim.
Private Client Agreement.
An arrangement whereby fees are charged according to the time spent by a Solicitor on the case. If the claim succeeds the claimant would normally obtain an Order for Costs against their opponent. Should the claim fail the claimant would be faced with a bill from their Solicitor. For this type of arrangement, the Solicitor would normally expect the claimant to make payments on account, as the case proceeds.
Conditional Fee Agreement
More commonly known as NO WIN – NO FEE. Introduced by the Government in 1995 this type of agreement is rapidly becoming the most popular method of funding. If a claim is successful the opponent pays basic costs and “success fee” together with all disbursements. Should a claim be unsuccessful then the claimant pays no costs to their Solicitor, but would be responsible for any necessary disbursements (e.g. medical, engineering reports etc). In addition, if legal proceedings have been issued, they would also be liable for their opponent’s costs. Insurance may be available to cover this liability.
Legal Aid
Legal Aid is no longer available to pursue these types of cases, having been withdrawn by the Government in March 2000.