What Is Contingency Inheritance Recovery?
Contingency means we share the risk with you. Instead of charging hourly rates or demanding retainers, we get paid only when you get paid. If we don't recover anything, you owe us nothing.
This model exists because we believe that access to justice shouldn't depend on how much money you have in the bank. Many heirs are owed substantial inheritances but can't afford the $300-$600/hour attorneys charge to fight for them.
$0 Upfront
No retainers, no hourly bills, no surprises
Aligned Interests
We only win when you win
Level Playing Field
Fight back even against wealthy opponents
How Contingency Works
Here's how a typical contingency arrangement works:
- Free Case Evaluation: We review your situation at no cost and assess whether contingency makes sense for your case.
- Agreement: If we decide to work together, we agree on a percentage of any recovery — typically between 25-40% depending on complexity.
- We Handle Everything: We cover all costs during the investigation and recovery process. You pay nothing out of pocket.
- Recovery: When we successfully recover funds, we deduct our agreed percentage. The rest goes directly to you.
- No Recovery = No Fee: If for any reason we don't recover money, you owe us nothing. Zero.
Example: If we recover $500,000 on a 30% contingency, you receive $350,000. You paid nothing upfront, took no financial risk, and walked away with money you might never have seen otherwise.
When Contingency Makes Sense
Contingency inheritance recovery is ideal when:
- You believe you're owed a significant inheritance but can't afford legal representation
- The estate involves substantial assets that justify the effort
- There's clear evidence of wrongdoing, hidden assets, or improper distributions
- You want professional representation without financial risk
- The executor or other parties have more resources than you
What Kinds of Cases Qualify?
We evaluate contingency cases involving:
- Hidden or undisclosed assets: Property, accounts, or valuables not included in the estate inventory
- Executor misconduct: Self-dealing, misappropriation, or breach of fiduciary duty
- Will contests: Challenges based on undue influence, lack of capacity, or fraud
- Improper distributions: Calculations that shortchange certain beneficiaries
- Trust disputes: Trustees who aren't following trust terms or acting in beneficiaries' interests
Generally, we look for cases where the expected recovery significantly exceeds the costs of investigation and any legal proceedings.
Why Some Attorneys Won't Take Contingency Cases
Most estate attorneys work on hourly billing. They get paid regardless of outcome, which means they have no financial incentive to carefully select cases or work efficiently.
We're different. Because we share the risk, we're highly selective about the cases we take — and highly motivated to win the ones we accept. This alignment of interests means we're not just your advocate; we're your partner with real skin in the game.
Find Out If Your Case Qualifies
Free, confidential case evaluation. No obligation.
📞 (425) 675-0937We respond within 24 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage do you take?
Contingency percentages typically range from 25-40%, depending on case complexity, the amount at stake, and the expected timeline. We discuss this transparently during your free consultation.
What if my case is small?
We typically work with estates valued at $250,000 or more, as smaller cases may not justify the resources required. However, every situation is unique — call us to discuss yours.
Are there any hidden costs?
No. In a true contingency arrangement, we advance all costs. You pay nothing unless and until we recover money for you.
How long does the process take?
Timelines vary widely depending on complexity and whether litigation is required. Simple cases may resolve in months; contested matters can take years. We'll give you a realistic estimate during consultation.
What if we don't win?
If we don't recover any money, you owe us nothing. That's the fundamental promise of contingency representation.