How Disability Lawyers Charge in Florida

Contingency Fee Arrangement

In Florida, as in most states, disability lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis. This means that you won’t have to pay upfront for their services. Instead, the lawyer will take a percentage of your back pay (the amount of disability benefits you are owed for the time before your approval). This structure makes legal representation accessible to individuals who might not have the funds to pay for a lawyer upfront.

• Standard Contingency Fee: The typical contingency fee for a disability lawyer in Florida is 25% of your back pay, up to a maximum of $6,000. If your case involves multiple appeals or if it goes to a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), the lawyer will be paid based on this percentage of the back pay awarded.
• Example: If your back pay is $20,000, the lawyer would typically receive 25% of that amount, which would be $5,000. If your back pay exceeds $20,000, the lawyer would still only be entitled to $6,000, as this is the cap set by the Social Security Administration (SSA).

No Payment for Ongoing Benefits

It’s important to note that disability lawyers are only compensated based on your back pay and past due benefits. They do not receive payment for ongoing monthly disability benefits that you may be awarded once your case is approved. This means that the lawyer’s fee is only taken from the initial lump sum you receive, not from future monthly payments.

Additional Costs to Consider

While disability lawyers in Florida usually work on a contingency fee basis, there could be some additional costs associated with your case:

Out-of-Pocket Expenses

In some cases, lawyers may charge for certain out-of-pocket expenses related to your claim. These could include:

• Copying fees for medical records and documents.
• Filing fees for appeals or hearings.
• Costs for expert witnesses (if needed).

These expenses are generally small and are either deducted from your back pay or paid separately. Be sure to discuss these potential costs with your lawyer upfront so you’re fully aware of what to expect.

Free Initial Consultation

Many disability lawyers offer a free initial consultation to assess your case. During this meeting, the lawyer will evaluate the strength of your claim and explain how they can assist you. This consultation is typically free of charge, and you won’t be expected to make any payment until you sign an agreement with the lawyer.

How to Choose a Disability Lawyer in Florida

When hiring a disability lawyer in Florida, it’s important to consider the following factors to ensure you're working with someone who will provide you with the best chance of success:

• Experience with SSDI and SSI Claims: Look for a lawyer who specializes in Social Security Disability and has a proven track record of handling SSDI and SSI claims.
• Free Consultation: Many disability lawyers in Florida offer a free consultation, where they will review your case and explain their fees. Take advantage of this opportunity to discuss the process, ask about their experience, and get a sense of whether the lawyer is a good fit for you.
• Clear Communication: Ensure that the lawyer you choose communicates clearly and is responsive to your needs. They should be willing to answer your questions and keep you updated throughout the process.