Short Answer: Maybe—but never at your expense.
If you’re wondering whether I get paid for referring you to a lawyer, that’s a completely fair and important question. The answer depends on where you live and the specific rules of your state. Here’s what you should know.
It All Comes Down to State Rules
Every state has its own ethical rules governing how attorneys may share fees—especially when it comes to referral arrangements. Most states base their rules on the ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct, particularly Rule 1.5(e), which allows attorneys to share fees under certain conditions:
- The total fee is reasonable;
- The division is either proportional to the work performed or both attorneys assume joint responsibility;
- The client agrees to the arrangement in writing.
Some states permit these types of referral arrangements. Others do not. That’s why the answer to whether I’m compensated for a referral is: maybe.
In states where it’s allowed, I do my best to follow all applicable ethical rules. In states where it’s not, I still do my best to provide support even if I don’t receive compensation.
Some states require attorneys to assume joint legal responsibility in order to share fees. In those jurisdictions, I do my best to comply with the heightened ethical requirements. That may include taking on a limited, formal role in your case—as permitted and appropriate under the rules. Even then, my role remains secondary to your primary attorney’s responsibility for representing you.
If your state allows fee-sharing and your attorney and I enter into an approved arrangement, you’ll be asked to consent to it in writing, as required by the applicable ethics rules.
Most Importantly: You Don’t Pay More
If I am eligible to receive a portion of the fee in your state, it doesn’t cost you anything extra. My portion comes entirely out of the attorney’s share—not yours. Your recovery amount stays the same, regardless of whether I’m compensated.
Let’s say you win your case, and your lawyer collects a standard 33% contingency fee. If I receive compensation in connection with that case, my share comes out of that 33%. You still receive your full 67%—no hidden costs, no funny business.
What Do I Actually Do in These Cases?
When I’m involved in a case where a fee-sharing arrangement is allowed, I don’t just disappear after the referral. I stay involved in a limited professional capacity to add value to your case and comply with ethical rules. Here’s what that looks like:
- I created and maintain the educational library you see on this site. Every article, FAQ, and guide is here to help you better understand your case—nothing is locked or hidden, and I regularly add new content to cover common and confusing topics. This includes plain-English explanations of legal procedures, strategy considerations, and tips for working with your lawyer.
- I never give direct legal advice about your specific case. That’s the job of your attorney. I fully respect that boundary and, while I do draw on my background in litigation and discuss overall case strategy with your attorney and provide them with my thoughts, I do not direct or control your attorney. They are solely responsible for your legal strategy, and I defer to their judgment in all case-related decisions.
- Law is another language, so I help translate it into English for you. When your lawyer explains something in technical terms, I can help you make sense of it in plain language. I do not tell you what to do, evaluate your legal options, or give you direction on your case—that’s your attorney’s job. I just help you understand what’s been explained to you.
- I make myself available to you when you’re confused or unsure about something your attorney said—not to second-guess them, but to help you understand what’s happening in terms you can relate to. Your attorneys are busy and, unfortunately, often can’t spend all the time it takes to help people understand complex legal issues.
In other words, if I’m being compensated for the referral, it’s because I’m continuing to contribute behind the scenes—not just passing your name along and cashing a check.
Important Note: While I am a licensed attorney, I am not acting as your primary legal representative in your personal injury case. That role belongs to the attorney you hire. My involvement is limited as I don’t manage or direct your case, rather, I operate in a consultative, supportive capacity. In states where greater involvement is required for fee-sharing, I may take on a limited role in the case as permitted and appropriate.
Because I am a lawyer, some of our communications may be protected by attorney-client confidentiality, even though I am not your lead counsel. I take that responsibility seriously and always aim to preserve your trust and privacy.
Why This Matters
I believe in transparency. You deserve to know how people in your corner are getting paid—and why. If you ever have questions about how a particular arrangement works in your state, I’ll do my best to explain it clearly and try to make sure you’re fully informed before anything moves forward.
My goals are simple: first, I want to connect you with someone I believe to be trustworthy; and second, I do my best to give you the tools you need to understand your case and feel confident in the process.
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