Patent ID: 8229797
Filing Date: 2012-07-24
Classification: G06Q

Abstract:
1. A method comprising: enabling, by a computer system, a client to post a contingency matter on a website managed by an operator; obtaining, by the computer system, from the client a first agreement binding the client to an operator lien wherein a contingency fee payable to the operator is secured by the operator lien, wherein the contingency fee is contingent on an outcome of the contingency matter; enabling, by the computer system, a contingency professional to bid on the contingency matter; obtaining, by the computer system, from the contingency professional a second agreement binding the contingency professional to enforce the operator lien before payment to the client of any proceeds received from the contingency matter; enabling, by the computer system, the client to select the contingency professional to handle the contingency matter; and permitting, by the operator, exchange of direct contact information between the client and the contingency professional only after the obtaining the first and second agreements, thereby assisting in preventing the client and the contingency professional from circumventing the first agreement and the second agreement.