Road Accident Fund Lawyers’ Fees: No Win, No Fee Explained

Understanding No Win, No Fee (Contingency) Agreements

If you’ve been injured in a road accident in South Africa and want to claim compensation from the Road Accident Fund (RAF), you may be concerned about the cost of hiring a lawyer. Many attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis, often referred to as a No Win, No Fee agreement, which allows accident victims to seek justice without the financial burden of upfront legal fees.

What is a Contingency Fee Agreement?

A contingency fee agreement is a legal arrangement where an attorney agrees to represent a client without charging fees upfront. Instead, the lawyer’s payment is contingent upon successfully securing compensation for the client. If the claim is unsuccessful, the client does not have to pay attorney fees.

How No Win, No Fee Works

  1. Free Consultation – Most attorneys offer an initial consultation at no cost to assess the viability of your RAF claim.
  2. Signing the Agreement – If the lawyer takes your case, a contingency fee agreement is signed, outlining the terms and percentage of legal fees.
  3. Case Preparation & Litigation – The attorney gathers evidence, consults medical experts, and files the claim with the RAF.
  4. Settlement or Court Judgment – If the claim is successful, the attorney deducts legal fees from the awarded compensation.

How Much Do RAF Lawyers Charge on a No Win, No Fee Basis?

South African law regulates contingency fees to protect claimants. According to the Contingency Fees Act of 1997, attorneys may charge:

  • A maximum of 25% of the awarded amount, OR
  • Twice the normal attorney fee for the work done, whichever is lower.

This ensures that claimants receive a fair portion of their compensation and prevents excessive legal fees.

Benefits of Hiring a No Win, No Fee Lawyer

  • No Upfront Costs – You don’t pay legal fees unless you win your case.
  • Access to Justice – Anyone can pursue a claim, regardless of their financial status.
  • Motivated Representation – Your lawyer has a vested interest in winning your case.
  • Risk-Free Legal Assistance – If your case is unsuccessful, you owe nothing in attorney fees.

Choosing the Right RAF Lawyer

When selecting a Road Accident Fund lawyer, consider the following:

  • Experience in RAF Claims – Choose a lawyer with a proven track record in RAF settlements.
  • Transparency – Ensure that the contingency fee agreement is clear and follows legal guidelines.
  • Client Testimonials – Check reviews or ask for references to gauge the lawyer’s reputation.

If you’ve been injured in a road accident, hiring a No Win, No Fee lawyer is an excellent way to claim compensation without financial risk. At PM Attorneys, we specialise in the Road Accident Fund and RAF claims, ensuring our clients receive the maximum possible payout while adhering to fair legal fee structures.

Contact PM Attorneys today for a free consultation and let us fight for the compensation you deserve!