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Glossary

Closing statement

A written breakdown given at the end of a contingency fee case. It shows the amount recovered, the lawyer's fee, each cost and lien paid, and what the client receives.

Last reviewed By the Editorial team 1 min read

General information, not legal advice. Talk to a licensed attorney in your state.

Quick answer

A closing statement is the written breakdown a lawyer gives at the end of a contingency fee case. It shows the total recovered, the lawyer's fee, each cost and lien paid from the money, and the amount the client receives. (In a trial, "closing statement" can also mean a lawyer's final argument, but that is a different thing.)

In a car accident claim#

Under the ABA's model rule, when a contingent fee case ends, the lawyer must give the client a written statement of the outcome and, if there is a recovery, what you receive and how it was worked out. States adopt their own versions, and some add more. In Florida, until you approve the closing statement, your lawyer cannot pay any money to anyone, including you, without a court order.

The closing statement is where you can check the numbers against your Fee agreement. The written contract that hires a lawyer. It says what work the lawyer will do, how the fee is worked out and who pays the costs of the case. Glossary: the percentage the lawyer takes, whether Case costs. Out-of-pocket expenses of pursuing a claim, such as filing fees, medical records, expert witnesses and court reporters. They are separate from the lawyer's fee. Glossary came off before or after the fee, and each Lien. A legal claim on part of your settlement by someone who paid for your care, such as a hospital, health plan or Medicare. Glossary or health plan repayment. Our guides to contingency fees and fee agreements show what to compare, and red flags covers what to do if something looks wrong.

Example#

Questions people ask

Do I have to sign the closing statement?

Practices vary by state. Some states, such as Florida, require the client to approve it before any money is paid out. Either way, you can ask questions and see receipts before you agree.

What if the closing statement does not match my fee agreement?

Ask the lawyer to explain the difference in writing. If it is not resolved, you can contact the lawyer disciplinary agency in the state where the lawyer is licensed.

Sources

  1. American Bar Association, Model Rules of Professional Conduct, Rule 1.5: Fees — the written statement at the end of a contingent fee case
  2. The Florida Bar, Rules Regulating The Florida Bar, Chapter 4 — Rule 4-1.5(f) and the Statement of Client's Rights for Contingency Fees
  3. American Bar Association, Center for Professional Responsibility, Consumer FAQs — as of October 2026

Last reviewed October 29, 2026 by the Accident Claim Facts editorial team. Found an error? Tell us.

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