No Upfront Costs: Clients typically don't pay any upfront fees or retainers to the lawyer. Risk Sharing: The lawyer assumes the risk of financing the case in exchange for the potential of earning a larger fee if successful. Success Fee: If the client wins, the lawyer's fee is usually a percentage of the settlement or judgment, sometimes with an additional "uplift" or percentage increase on their normal fee. Limitation on Uplift: In South Africa, the Contingency Fees Act, 1997 limits the uplift fee to a certain percentage, often not exceeding 25% of the total amount awarded. Formality: Contingency fee agreements must be in writing and signed by both the client and the lawyer. Transparency: Clients should be informed about the potential fees and the terms of the agreement. Commonly Used For: Personal injury claims, medical negligence, and other cases where the client might not be able to afford legal fees upfront.