The average contingency rate falls between 20-40%, with most lawyers charging around 33% to 35% of the total amount recovered in a case. The exact percentage can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the lawyer's experience, and the stage at which the case is resolved.
A retainer agreement is an arrangement where clients make an upfront payment to secure legal services, regardless of the case's outcome. In contrast to contingency fees, where the lawyer takes on financial risk, clients in retainer agreements are responsible for associated costs, including the initial upfront payment.
District Attorney Diana Becton has spent most of her professional career as a judge, lawyer, and manager. In 2017, she was sworn in as the 25th District Attorney for Contra Costa County. Following her appointment from the Board of Supervisors, she was elected to the position in June 2018, and re-elected in June 2022.