A: In almost all personal injury cases, your attorney will be paid by keeping a percentage or portion of the final settlement or court award resulting from your injury. The percentage will be discussed with you and will be the subject of what is called a contingent fee agreement. The law requires, for your protection and that of your attorney, a written contract which specifies the fee he or she will charge so there will be no misunderstanding about how much your case will cost. Most contin­gent fee agreements provide that you do not have to pay your attorney for his or her services unless, and until, the case is settled or is resolved by a court verdict in your favor. The agreement will provide that your attorney will work diligently on your case in exchange for the percentage or portion outlined in the agreement. As discussed below, however, you will be responsible for actual out-of-pocket costs.