We believe everyone deserves access to justice, regardless of their financial situation. That’s why all our claims are handled on a No Win No Fee basis – meaning you can pursue compensation without upfront costs or financial risk.
But what exactly does “No Win No Fee” mean, and how does it work in practice? Here’s everything you need to know.
What does No Win No Fee mean?
No Win No Fee is a type of legal funding arrangement, formally known as a Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA) or Damages Based Agreement (DBA).
It’s simple: you don’t pay any legal fees unless your claim is successful.
If your claim succeeds
We deduct an agreed percentage fee (plus VAT) from your compensation. This fee is capped and agreed with you in writing before we start work on your case.
If your claim is unsuccessful
You pay nothing for our legal services. Your claim is also protected by After the Event (ATE) insurance, which covers other costs if your claim doesn't succeed.
How much do No Win No Fee Solicitors charge?
At Courmacs Legal, our success fee is clearly explained upfront in your Agreement. This percentage is capped between 15-30% (plus VAT) of your compensation, depending on the amount you receive.
What you need to know:
- The success fee is only taken if you win
- It's agreed in writing before we start your claim
- There are no hidden charges or surprise costs
- You have 14 days to cancel at no cost
What is ATE Insurance?
After the Event (ATE) insurance is an important protection included with your claim. This insurance covers additional legal costs – such as expert fees or the other side’s costs – if your claim is unsuccessful.
This means even if your claim doesn’t succeed, you won’t be left facing unexpected bills. The ATE policy gives you genuine peace of mind throughout the claims process.
If you terminate this Agreement or discontinue your claim after an ATE policy has been arranged, the insurer may not agree to cancel the policy. You may therefore remain liable for any premium (in whole or in part) or for any costs incurred under the policy terms. We will advise you of any such potential liability before you make a decision to cancel.
How does the Process work?
Here’s how our No Win No Fee process works from your first contact through to receiving your compensation.
Step 1: Eligibility Check
Contact us for a claim assessment. We’ll review your situation and let you know if you have a valid claim.
Step 2: Sign Your Agreement
If we can help, we’ll send you a Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA) or Damages Based Agreement (DBA) that clearly explains:
- What our success fee will be
- What's covered by ATE insurance
- Your rights throughout the process
- What happens if you need to cancel
You have a 14-day cooling-off period to review everything and change your mind if needed.
Step 3: We Handle Your Claim
Once you’re signed up, our legal team gets to work, we will:
- Gather evidence and documentation
- Carry out any necessary surveys or reviews
- Communicate with the other side
- Keep you updated at every key stage
Step 4: Receive Compensation
If your claim is successful, we’ll deduct our agreed fee (plus VAT) and pay you the remaining compensation. If your claim isn’t successful, you pay nothing.
Are there any risks with No Win No Fee?
While No Win No Fee agreements work well for most clients, it’s important to understand the full picture:
If your claim is does not succeed
You won't pay our legal fees, and ATE insurance covers other costs. You're financially protected.
If you cancel after the 14-day cooling-off period
You may be liable for fees, as our insurance doesn't cover mid-process cancellations.
If your claim succeeds but you're unhappy with the service
You have the right to complain to us directly, and if unresolved, to the Legal Ombudsman.
Your Rights as our Client
When you work with us, you have the right to:
- Clear, upfront information about costs
- Know who's handling your claim
- Be kept informed
- Ask questions
- Make an informed decision
If you ever feel your rights aren’t being respected, you can raise concerns with us directly, seek independent advice from Citizens Advice, or make a complaint to the SRA.
Do I need a Solicitor to make a claim?
Important Information:
This page provides general information about no win no fee agreements at Courmacs Legal.
You do not need to use a solicitor or claims management company to submit a complaint or claim through the Financial Conduct Authority’s redress scheme. You can make a claim directly to the relevant organisation at no cost.
Before you decide whether to use our services, we will explain your options, including how to make a claim yourself, so that you can make an informed choice.
Your specific agreement will be set out clearly in your Conditional Fee Agreement (CFA), which you’ll receive before we begin work on your claim.
Courmacs Legal is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). SRA Number: 819044.
For independent information about no win no fee agreements, visit the SRA’s consumer guidance or contact Citizens Advice.
