If you’ve been injured and are considering making a claim, you may have heard of “No Win No Fee” agreements. While Irish solicitors are not permitted to advertise such arrangements directly, many firms offer similar agreements that allow clients to pursue legal action without paying upfront legal fees.
At John O’Leary Solicitors, we believe that access to justice should not be limited by financial concerns. Understanding how legal fees work is an essential step in deciding whether to proceed with a claim. Here, we explain how legal fee structures operate in Ireland and what you should consider before instructing a solicitor.
What Is a No Win No Fee Agreement?
A No Win No Fee arrangement, also known as “No Foal No Fee,” is a legal fee structure where a solicitor agrees not to charge legal fees unless the case is successful. If the case is won—either through settlement or in court – the solicitor’s fees are paid from the compensation awarded.
Such agreements exist to ensure that individuals can pursue legitimate claims without the financial burden of upfront legal costs. However, solicitors in Ireland cannot openly advertise these agreements due to regulations set by the Law Society of Ireland.
If you are considering a claim, it’s important to discuss legal fees with your solicitor upfront to understand any potential costs involved.
Why Do Some Solicitors Offer No Win No Fee?
Litigation can be expensive, and many claimants may not have the financial means to fund legal proceedings. This type of arrangement ensures that:
✅ Clients can access legal representation without paying upfront legal fees.
✅ Solicitors take on cases they believe have strong merit.
✅ Compensation is maximised, as solicitors work diligently to secure the best possible outcome.
That said, it’s important to clarify the terms of any agreement with your solicitor to ensure full transparency.
Understanding Legal Costs & Fees in Personal Injury Cases
The Solicitors Acts and Law Society of Ireland Regulations place strict rules on how solicitors can charge for personal injury claims. Here’s what you need to know:
- Solicitors cannot advertise No Win No Fee services – If you see a website advertising this directly, it may be an unregulated “claims harvesting” site.
- Legal fees must be agreed upon in advance – Always ensure you understand how fees will be handled before signing any agreement.
- Out-of-pocket expenses (disbursements) may still apply – Even if legal fees are covered, you may still need to pay for medical reports, expert witnesses, or court stamp duty.
Before proceeding with a claim, it’s always advisable to speak directly with an experienced solicitor to get a clear understanding of potential costs.
What Happens If You Lose a Claim?
If a claim is unsuccessful, the financial implications depend on the specific agreement you have with your solicitor. Some key points to consider:
- Some agreements cover all legal costs, while others may require you to pay certain disbursements.
- If the case goes to court and is unsuccessful, you may be liable for the other party’s legal costs.
- Legal insurance options may be available to cover potential costs in unsuccessful claims.
This is why choosing the right solicitor is crucial—ensuring you work with a firm that fully explains your legal position and any financial risks involved.
Choosing the Right Solicitor for Your Claim
If you are considering pursuing a personal injury claim, selecting the right solicitor is a critical step. Here’s what to look for:
✅ Experience in similar cases – Ensure your solicitor specialises in personal injury claims and has a strong track record of success.
✅ Transparency about legal fees – A reputable solicitor will clearly outline any potential costs before you proceed.
✅ Law Society compliance – Verify that the firm follows Irish legal advertising rules and does not engage in unregulated claims harvesting.
✅ Client reviews & testimonials – Look for positive client feedback and case studies demonstrating successful outcomes.
At John O’Leary Solicitors, we take pride in our professional approach, ensuring that every client receives clear legal guidance tailored to their case.
Frequently Asked Questions About No Win No Fee Agreements
Are No Win No Fee agreements legal in Ireland?
Yes, these agreements are legal in Ireland, but solicitors cannot advertise them directly. The Law Society regulates how legal services can be promoted to prevent misleading claims.
Do I have to pay anything upfront for a personal injury claim?
This depends on the agreement you have with your solicitor. Some cases may require covering out-of-pocket expenses like medical reports, while others may not.
What happens if I lose my case?
If your case is unsuccessful, your solicitor will explain any financial implications. In some situations, you may still need to pay for certain costs, such as court fees.
How do I know if my case qualifies?
The best way to determine if you have a valid claim is to speak with an experienced personal injury solicitor who can assess the merits of your case.
How do I find a solicitor that offers these agreements?
Since solicitors cannot advertise No Win No Fee services, the best approach is to contact a reputable personal injury law firm and discuss your options directly.
Contact John O’Leary Solicitors Today
If you have been injured and are considering a personal injury claim, our team at John O’Leary Solicitors is here to help.
📍 Visit Our Office: Main Street, Tallaght Village, Dublin 24
📞 Call Us: (01) – 4271000
📧 Email Us: info@johnolearysolicitors.com
We offer confidential, expert legal advice to help you understand your rights and options. Contact us today to discuss your case.