The cost to sue someone is typically between $2,000 and $10,000, depending on the nature of the case, court filing fees, attorney rates, and other legal expenses. More complex lawsuits can cost significantly more, especially if they involve expert witnesses, multiple motions, or go to trial.
Lawsuits are often financially demanding, which can be discouraging if you’re already facing hardship due to injury, job loss, or other personal stress. In addition to legal fees, plaintiffs may also have to cover medical bills, transportation costs, and basic living expenses while the case moves forward.
For individuals who don’t have the upfront capital to sustain a lawsuit, pre-settlement funding by state may be an option. This type of financial support provides access to part of your future settlement while the case is still ongoing, helping to bridge the gap between legal action and financial survival.
Typical Legal Costs When Filing a Lawsuit
Lawsuits vary widely in cost based on the type of case, the jurisdiction, and whether or not the case proceeds to trial. Here are the primary expenses to be aware of when suing someone:
1. Filing Fees
Courts usually charge a fee to initiate a lawsuit. In civil courts, filing fees often range from $100 to $500, depending on the state and type of case. Additional fees may be required for motions, document submissions, and case management.
2. Attorney’s Fees
Attorney fees are often the most significant cost in a lawsuit. There are generally three structures:
- Hourly rates: Common in contract disputes or business litigation; can range from $150 to $500+ per hour.
- Flat fees: Used for simpler legal actions.
- Contingency fees: In personal injury cases, attorneys often take a percentage (usually 33–40%) of the final settlement or award, rather than charging upfront.
3. Service and Administrative Costs
Serving the defendant with legal paperwork is required and usually costs between $50 and $100. There may also be charges for document copying, mailing, and notary services.
4. Expert Witnesses
In complex cases, expert witnesses may be needed to testify. Their rates can range from several hundred to thousands of dollars per hour.
5. Deposition and Discovery Costs
During the discovery phase, parties exchange information and conduct depositions. Costs for court reporters, transcripts, and legal research can add up quickly.
6. Trial and Jury Fees
If your case goes to trial, additional costs may include jury fees, trial exhibits, and further attorney time—all of which increase your total financial exposure.
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When Legal Costs Become a Financial Burden
Even with contingency-based arrangements, many plaintiffs still face steep financial challenges during a lawsuit. Medical bills, lost wages, and daily living expenses can make it difficult to wait for a fair outcome, especially if a case takes months or years to resolve.
This is where Pegasus Legal Capital can help. We provide non-recourse cash advances to individuals involved in personal injury cases, helping to ease the financial pressure that often builds while waiting for a lawsuit to conclude.
Our funding is not a loan—you only repay us if your case results in compensation. If your case is unsuccessful, you owe nothing. It’s a risk-free way to stay financially stable while your legal team works on your behalf.
How Our Pre-Settlement Funding Supports Plaintiffs
We work with clients who are dealing with unexpected financial hardship due to their injuries. These are just some of the situations where pre-settlement funding can make a difference:
- You’re behind on rent, utilities, or car payments
- You’re unable to return to work due to your injuries
- You’ve delayed or stopped medical treatment because of cost
- You have children to care for and limited access to childcare
- You’ve already exhausted savings or borrowed from family and friends
Our process is fast, straightforward, and built around your needs. There’s no credit check, no social security number required, and no upfront costs. Once your case is reviewed and approved, funds can be delivered within 24–48 hours.
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What Makes a Lawsuit Expensive?
Not all lawsuits are created equal. The total cost of suing someone can vary significantly based on several factors. If you’re preparing for legal action, understanding what drives up costs can help you plan more effectively.
- Case complexity: Lawsuits that involve multiple parties, disputed liability, or detailed legal arguments are typically more expensive to pursue.
- Length of litigation: A case that resolves in a few months will cost far less than one that drags on for a year or more through multiple court appearances or appeals.
- Expert testimony: Some cases require input from specialists such as doctors, engineers, or accident reconstructionists. These professionals often charge high hourly rates.
- Discovery demands: The process of gathering and reviewing documents, conducting depositions, and analyzing evidence can result in thousands of dollars in additional expenses.
- Trial preparation: If a case goes to court instead of settling, both sides must invest time and money in building exhibits, preparing witnesses, and attending proceedings.
For many people, these costs are daunting—especially if they’re unable to work due to injury or facing other financial hardship.
Even when a lawyer works on contingency, the costs associated with filing and maintaining a case don’t disappear. This is exactly where pre-settlement funding can serve as a bridge.
Your pre-settlement funding consultation is free - contact us today!
The Bottom Line on the Cost to Sue Someone
The cost to sue someone is often thousands of dollars, and the process can be lengthy and financially draining—especially if you’re also recovering from a personal injury.
Even with contingency-based legal fees, everyday living costs don’t stop, and the burden can become overwhelming.
If you’re feeling that pressure, Pegasus Legal Capital is here to help. Our non-recourse cash advances give you the resources you need to keep going while your legal team fights for the outcome you deserve.
Let us help you move forward—on your terms.
Your pre-settlement funding consultation is free - contact us today!
