Personal Injury in California

California ( CA)
Average: Free / Contingency
Last Updated: Mar 2026
Low Estimate
Free / Contingency
Simple / Uncontested Cases
Average Cost
Free / Contingency
Typical Personal Injury Case
High Estimate
Free / Contingency
Complex / Contested Cases
Cost Component Low Average High
Total Cost Estimate Free / Contingency Free / Contingency Free / Contingency
Court Filing Fee $400

What to Know About Personal Injury Costs in California

Most personal injury lawyers in California work on a contingency fee basis, typically charging 33-40% of the settlement amount. This means you pay nothing upfront, and the attorney only gets paid if you win your case.

Sources: ABA, State Bar Rules - Standard contingency: 33.33% pre-suit, 40% after litigation

Other Legal Costs in California

Explore more practice areas and legal service costs in California.

Divorce & Family Law

Average: $17,500

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DUI / DWI Defense

Average: $5,000

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Criminal Defense

Average: $10,000

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Bankruptcy

Average: $3,500

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Real Estate Law

Average: $2,500

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Immigration Law

Average: $7,500

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Estate Planning

Average: $2,500

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Business Law

Average: $5,000

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Traffic Violations

Average: $500

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Compare Personal Injury Costs in Nearby States

See how California compares to other West states for personal injury costs.

WA

Washington

Avg. $375/hr
AZ

Arizona

Avg. $325/hr
CO

Colorado

Avg. $350/hr
OR

Oregon

Avg. $325/hr
UT

Utah

Avg. $300/hr

Compare Personal Injury Costs in Other States

See how California compares to other states for personal injury costs.

All States Comparison All Costs in California