Most malpractice lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, as I do. This means that the fee charged is based on a percentage of the settlement, award, or verdict. The fee is collected at the conclusion of the case. There is no requirement for a retainer or advanced deposit for costs.
Typically malpractice lawyers earn a percentage-based contingency fee on the amount recovered at the conclusion of the case. The percentage amount charged should be in writing at the beginning of the case.