If you’ve been injured in an accident in Colorado, one of the first questions you might ask yourself is: “What percentage do personal injury lawyers take in Colorado?” It’s a fair question. After all, legal fees can feel intimidating if you’ve never worked with an attorney before.
The good news? Most personal injury lawyers in Colorado don’t charge you upfront. Instead, they work on something called a contingency fee. That means they only get paid if they win your case—and their payment comes out of the settlement or verdict they recover for you.
But how much is that exactly? Let’s break it down.
How Much Do Personal Injury Lawyers Charge in Colorado?
In Colorado, the standard percentage that personal injury lawyers take is usually between 33% and 40% of your settlement. Think of it like this: if your lawyer helps you recover $100,000, their fee could range from $33,000 to $40,000, depending on the agreement.
Why the range? A few factors come into play:
Complexity of your case – Cases that go to trial require significantly more time and resources than cases that settle quickly.
Stage of resolution – If your case is settled before filing a lawsuit, the percentage might be lower. If it goes to court, the fee could be higher.
Law firm experience – Highly experienced attorneys with strong track records may charge closer to the higher end of the range.
Here’s the key takeaway: you don’t pay anything upfront. Your lawyer is essentially betting on your case. If they don’t win, you don’t owe them a dime.
Why Do Lawyers Use Contingency Fees?
The contingency fee system exists to level the playing field. Let’s face it: most accident victims can’t afford to pay a lawyer hundreds of dollars per hour while also facing medical bills and lost wages.
By charging a percentage of the settlement, personal injury lawyers in Colorado make legal representation accessible to everyone—not just people who can afford expensive retainers.
It also means your lawyer is motivated to fight hard for the best outcome. After all, the more money they recover for you, the more they earn, too.
Do Personal Injury Lawyers in Colorado Cover Other Costs?
Yes—but it’s important to read the fine print. Apart from legal fees, cases often come with case expenses, such as:
Court filing fees
Expert witness costs
Medical record retrieval
Investigation expenses
Some law firms cover these costs upfront and deduct them from your settlement later. Others may ask you to reimburse them as the case progresses. Always ask your attorney how expenses are handled before signing an agreement.
Negotiating Fees with a Colorado Personal Injury Lawyer
Here’s something most people don’t realize: contingency fees aren’t always set in stone. In some situations, you may be able to negotiate:
Smaller cases – If your case is likely to settle quickly, some attorneys might lower their fee.
Larger settlements – On very high-value cases, lawyers may agree to take a smaller percentage since their share will still be substantial.
It never hurts to ask. A trustworthy attorney will explain their reasoning clearly and put everything in writing there are no surprises later.
Should You Hire a Lawyer or Settle with Insurance in Colorado?
This is a question many accident victims wrestle with. Insurance companies often try to settle quickly and for as little money as possible. That may sound convenient—but here’s the catch:
Insurance adjusters are trained to protect their company’s bottom line, not yours.
Without legal representation, it’s easy to underestimate the value of your claim (especially if long-term medical care is needed).
Studies consistently show that people who hire lawyers tend to receive higher settlements—even after accounting for attorney fees.
If you’re curious about this dilemma, check out our related post: Should You Hire a Lawyer or Settle with Insurance in Colorado?
Pros and Cons of Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer in Colorado
Let’s weigh the benefits and trade-offs.
Pros:
No upfront costs thanks to contingency fees
Better understanding of Colorado laws and court processes
Higher likelihood of maximizing your settlement
Peace of mind while you focus on recovery
Cons:
You’ll give up a percentage of your settlement
Cases can take longer if they go to trial
Not every case requires a lawyer (minor fender benders with no injuries, for example)
The decision ultimately comes down to your situation. But if your injuries are serious or your case is complicated, the pros usually outweigh the cons.
FAQs About Personal Injury Lawyer Percentages in Colorado
What percentage do personal injury lawyers take in Colorado?
On average, between 33% and 40%, depending on case complexity and whether it goes to trial.
Can I negotiate the percentage?
Yes, some attorneys may reduce their fees for straightforward cases or high-value claims.
Do I have to pay if I lose my case?
No. That’s the beauty of a contingency fee agreement—you don’t owe anything if your lawyer doesn’t win.
Final Thoughts: Understanding Lawyer Fees in Colorado
So, what percentage do personal injury lawyers take in Colorado? Most often, one-third to forty percent of your settlement. While that might sound like a lot at first glance, remember that without a lawyer, you risk walking away with far less—or even nothing at all.
When you choose to work with an attorney, you’re investing in experience, negotiation skills, and someone who will fight the insurance company on your behalf.
If you’ve been injured in Colorado, and you’re unsure about the next steps, don’t leave money on the table. Reach out to an experienced personal injury lawyer for a free consultation. You deserve to know your rights and understand what your case is truly worth.