No Win, No Fee Claims in Northern Ireland
No Win, No Fee Claims in Northern Ireland
“No Win, No Fee” claims are not allowed under the law in Northern Ireland. Our solicitors will guide you towards alternative ways of keeping 100% of your personal injury compensation — often at no cost to you — if you’ve suffered in an accident that wasn’t your fault.
- Get the maximum compensation you deserve
- Expert solicitors offering independent advice
- Pursuing claims in Northern Ireland since 1993
- Ethical “No Win, No Fee” alternatives
- Free initial consultation on your claim
What is a “No Win, No Fee” Claim?
You’ve probably seen TV adverts for legal firms offering “No Win, No Fee” agreements. The main selling point is that you’re not charged any solicitor’s fees unless your claim is successful.
You may also have noticed from the adverts that there is a focus on personal injury claims, employment disputes and medical negligence cases. Road traffic accidents, slips and trips, unfair dismissal and misdiagnosis claims are often targeted by no win, no fee solicitors.
No win, no fee has been praised for making legal action more accessible to people on lower incomes. But there are also concerns surrounding no win, no fee:
- It arguably increases the likelihood of frivolous claims.
- Claimants can be left with big legal bills they weren’t expecting.
- Claimants can lose up to 33% of their damages to cover their own solicitor fees.
While these arrangements — also called contingency agreements or damages-based agreements — are popular in England and Wales and, in a more limited form, the Republic of Ireland, they are not allowed under the law here in Northern Ireland.
Let’s take a look at the reasons why.
“No Win, No Fee” Claims are Illegal in Northern Ireland
All solicitors in Northern Ireland are governed by the Law Society of Northern Ireland, which has banned all no win, no fee arrangements. Part V of the 1976 Solicitors (Northern Ireland) Order says that no solicitor can accept payment only in the event of success.
If you are offered no win, no fee agreements by solicitors in Belfast and Northern Ireland, you should be aware that they are doing so illegally. We would strongly recommend you avoid any solicitors who are breaking the law in this way and suggest you make a professional conduct complaint against them to the Law Society of Northern Ireland.
Alternatives to “No Win, No Fee” Claims
We will never offer a no win, no fee arrangement or enter into any agreement that results in us taking a percentage of your compensation. We believe you should get 100% of the compensation you’re awarded.
Our solicitors are committed to being transparent about all costs and legal fees. We believe there are better, more ethical alternatives to no win, no fee agreements, which will give you the legal support you need no matter what your financial circumstances.
This starts with a free initial consultation. We will listen to your situation, offer legal advice on whether your claim is viable and present you with possible options for proceeding — all totally free of charge. If you decide to start a claim, we will use a range of options to maximise the compensation you receive and minimise your legal fees. These include:
- Out-of-Court Settlement – We settle the majority of cases without going to court. If the accident wasn’t your fault, we can insist on your legal fees being paid by the other party’s insurer.
- Legal Aid – In the unlikely event that your case does go to court, you may be entitled to claim legal aid to cover your legal costs. We will advise if you can claim and help you to access legal aid.
- After the Event Insurance (ATE) – ATE insurance, sometimes called litigation insurance, protects you from having to pay the other party’s legal costs if your claim is unsuccessful. We will always advise you if we think it’s unlikely your claim will be successful, so this situation is unlikely to arise.
- Legal Expenses Insurance – If you check your home insurance and car insurance policies, you may find you’re already paying for insurance to cover your legal costs.
Why Choose Reid Black?
We have vast experience of helping people in Northern Ireland to limit their financial exposure and keep the damages they are awarded when making personal injury claims. Our solicitors have been using this approach successfully since 1993. While we aren’t able to offer no win, no fee agreements, we will use all of our experience to get the maximum compensation you deserve.
Our Specialist RTA & Personal Injury Claim Solicitors
Our Specialist RTA & Personal Injury Claim Solicitors
Peter Lynch
30 YEARS EXPERIENCE
30 YEARS EXPERIENCE
- Peter Lynch of Reid Black Solicitors is one of Northern Ireland’s Leading Road Traffic Accident Experts.
- He will act for you solely and does not accept referrals from insurers or Accident Management companies thus ensuring we have your interests first.
- Have an initial no-cost chat about any Road Traffic Accident to see if you have a case.
- He acts in Car Accidents, Cycling & Motorbike Accidents and Pedestrian Accident Claims.
- Peter will be able to Fast track your claim to get you the compensation you deserve.
Libby Smyth
20 YEARS EXPERIENCE
20 YEARS EXPERIENCE
- Libby Smyth is one Northern Ireland’s leading Road Traffic Accident and Personal Injury Solicitors.
- She will handle your Road Traffic Accident Claim effectively and efficiently, keeping your best interests as her prime concern.
- Specialist in all types of personal injury claims, with a focus on Road Traffic Injury Claims.
- Libby can expedite your injury claim to ensure you get your compensation as fast as possible.
- If you’ve been injured as a result of a Road Traffic Accident, contact Libby today for free initial chat to see if you’re eligible for a claim.
Eilis McQuillan
14 YEARS EXPERIENCE
14 YEARS EXPERIENCE
- Elis McQuillan has extensive experience dealing with Road Traffic Accident Claims in Northern Ireland.
- She will prioritise your interest’s first and act solely on your behalf.
- Specialist in all types of Road Traffic Accident Claims and Litigation, including Car Accidents, Cycling Accidents and Motorbike Accidents.
- Ellis can Fast Track your Road Traffic Accident Claim, so you get your compensation as soon as possible.
- Contact Ellis today for a free initial consultation to determine if you’re entitled to a Road Traffic Accident Claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
Keep 100% of Your Personal Injury Compensation Claim
If you’ve suffered a personal injury that wasn’t your fault, you’re entitled to compensation. We’ll offer free initial legal advice and support you in finding ethical ways to ensure 100% of the payout awarded goes to you. You don’t need “No Win, No Fee” to get the money you deserve.
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News and Case Studies
Accreditations
Client Testimonials
Client Testimonials
Andrew Aicken
08:51 20 Apr 18
Great service from a professional company. Eilis McQuillan handled a case for me and was outstanding. I was kept informed at every stage and would recommend Reid Black without hesitation.
Victoria J
10:12 18 May 18
I would highly recommend this company and I have used them a few times . Absolutely Fantastic company .
Alan Cromie
14:54 08 Nov 15
I approached Reid Black Solicitors having known Hamill Clawson for many years as a good dependable lawyer and having been badly let down and grossly overcharged by another solicitor. He referred me to his colleague, David French who was very approachable and went out of his way to help resolve matters equitably in a timely and stress free manner.As a busy professional, this invaluable advice from Hamill and, especially his partner David was greatly appreciated. I am impressed by the high standard of service offered by this Firm and would recommended their services without caveat.read more
Stephen Lavery
09:12 21 Feb 20
1st class service. Case was resolved quickly, handled with sensitivity and professionalism. Couldn’t recommend Eilis highly enough. Very happy.
Conor Mccomish
21:47 25 Jul 20
David helped me get a licence reinstated with the council. Very fast, efficient and professional service. I would highly recommend this company.
Seema King
17:07 30 Sep 20
Highly recommend Reid Black Solicitors. David French handled my case and guided me step by step. Very fast and professional. Made my whole experience stress free. Couldn't be more thankful. 🙂
Jonathan Loughlin
16:52 29 Nov 20
Highly experienced staff have helped me massively and would recommend them to anyone 10☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
Adrian Bodle
14:57 23 Jul 21
I would highly recommend Reid Black Solicitors. my experience was totally stress free and easy from the start. David handled my case in a professional manner, notifying me every step of the way. Thank you for all your hard work. A1read more
James Cullen
14:53 23 Jul 21
Had the best service from all at Reid black from David and Karen who dealt with my claim, all in all a great service I would highly recommend this Company to anybody wanting a professional service, thankyou to everyone at your office. odyread more
TONIK TZW (tonik_tzw)
14:17 29 Jul 21
Reid and Black were absolutely outstanding and extremely professional in their handling of my case, They were well organised, timely and informative in their updates as the case progressed. The outcome was even better than anticipated which can only be due to the excellent knowledge, tenacity and determination in seeking a satisfactory outcome. I would highly recommend their services to anyone.read more
Phoebe Brigginshaw
17:09 08 Dec 21
Karen was wonderful and took fantastic card of us as first time buyers. Excellent service all round, thank you so much!
David Raeburn
11:48 10 Feb 22
I would like to thank Reid Black solicitors for the outstanding work you have done for all the veterans who have mostly suffered in silence and would never have thought to start any sort of compensation claim against the MOD,also to find out that your firm does not take a penny from the veteran's settlement just shows the amazing integrity of Reid Black.read more
Luke Tedford
12:26 31 Mar 22
Just want to start off by Thanking Eilis for helping me through everything. I arrived in with very little expectations to get anywhere and I came out with exactly what I wanted, all thanks to the hard work and dedication of Eilis. When I first met Eilis she gave me the warmest reception and was fully understanding and complient with what I wanted. The best solicitors in Belfast hands down! would very highly recommend to anyone!read more
Jude Campbell
13:18 11 May 22
We would like to thank Reid Black Solicitors and specifically David French for helping us in a recent professional negligence case. His professionalism was a breath of fresh air and the positive outcome we received has been a weight off our shoulders, we would highly recommend David and his team.read more
CJ MCKIMM
11:13 05 Jun 22
A big thanks to David and the team for sorting out my hearing loss claim. Very professional, polite and efficient throughout.
Leonidasz Rafael
14:29 25 Jun 22
at this location The staff is very kind quick helpful hilarious Mr Hamill very professional defense attorney I recommend to everyone protection and tranquility are highly guaranteed always provides the best and fastest help if you are looking for the best defense attorney Mr Hamill 💯💯read more
Russdamuss
07:02 26 Nov 23
Was recommended Reid Black by others on my claim from the MOD. From start to end this company have been brilliant in particular DF whom was personally dealing with my case. If you are looking for a professional solicitors to deal with claims against the MOD look no further. Thank you all at Reid Blackread more
tomsturdy1
09:51 28 Nov 23
I cannot recommend this firm highly enough. For any ex army out there with hearing problems please contact them. The process was easy and more importantly they do not take any money from you unlike a lot of firms that take up to 33%. I thoroughly recommend Reid Black.read more
Wayne Perry
19:16 08 Dec 23
What a fantastic group of people to work with from start to finish. I thoroughly endorse this firm of solicitors to any former service personnel who have suffered hearing loss and/or tinnitus as a result of live firing in pipe ranges in Northern Ireland. These guys acted on my behalf following a simple hearing assessment and secured a sizeable settlement from the MoD for me. They did not take ANY of my compensation in payment, but claim a separate payment directly from the MoD for their work. David even declined an initial derisory offer from the MoD and secured a much better one which was 500% (yes 500%) above the original offer. If you or you know anyone who suffers the same problems, I would urge you to get in touch with David French or one of his colleagues at Reid Black solicitors. The only downside is the amount of time you have to wait for the MoD to play ball. On the plus side you’ll probably forget you’ve claimed at all and so it’s a great surprise when you finally get a result!read more
Bob Parry
05:00 12 Jan 24
I am absolutely delighted at the result David French and the whole team at Reid Black managed to negotiate for my hearing loss claim. It was a long process, but none of that due to RB, rather the bureaucracy and feet dragging of the MoD. There was one small period of frustration on my part when I had not heard from them in a while, but it transpired that their communications with me via e-mail had gone into my spam box, that I don't regularly check, so this frustration was my fault completely. David received an initial settlement offer, but refused it and negotiated a 33% increase in the offer on my behalf. I thoroughly recommend this Business to any former service personnel that served in NI after 1987, that have suffered hearing injuries. Thank you Reid Black.read more
thomas Gray
18:04 21 Feb 24
I cannot speak highly enough of Reid Black Solicitors. From start to finish, my experience with their team has been exceptional. The professionalism and expertise displayed by the solicitors at Reid Black is truly commendable. They were not only knowledgeable but also dedicated to providing personalized solutions tailored to my legal needs. The level of attention and care they demonstrated throughout the process reassured me that I was in capable hands. The communication from the firm was outstanding. I was kept informed at every step, and my questions were answered promptly. This level of transparency made the legal process much more manageable and less stressful. What sets Reid Black Solicitors apart is their commitment to client satisfaction. They went above and beyond to ensure that I felt supported and understood. The genuine concern for their clients is evident in every interaction. I would wholeheartedly recommend Reid Black Solicitors to anyone seeking legal assistance. Their professionalism, expertise, and commitment to client satisfaction make them a standout choice. Thank you to the entire team for making a potentially challenging experience smooth and successful.read more
Claire Watt
19:39 26 Feb 24
Kathryn was superb throughout the process and helped me through what was a difficult period. Kathryn was always very quick to respond to my emails and on hand to answer any questions that I had. I would highly recommend the services of Kathryn and Reid Black Solicitors.read more
Kerry Whann
16:28 04 Mar 24
A Separation of a marriage is a really devasting and stressful time. My daughter used the services of Kathryn Aiken. Kathryn is such a lovely lady, with a real kindness and total understanding of the situation. She gave my daughter excellent legal advice and guided us safely through the whole process. Yes it did take time to finally come to an agreement on matters, but all throughout Kathryn was available to answer emails promptly or take a phone call. Nothing was ever a bother. That means a lot to have that total backing and support. We felt totally at ease meeting Kathryn at her office to sign documents and as upsetting as it sometimes was we were shown total empathy and comforted on occasions were needed. The quotation Kathryn gave me at the start of the process was near enough spot on at the end. I would not hesitate to recommend Kathryn to anyone in need of help. you are 100% in the best professional hands. I will be using Kathryn again in the future. Thank you for everything. Kerry and Naomi.read more
Alan Munce
18:18 14 Mar 24
Ref - Military hearing loss claim. I am speechless - having left the Army 32 years ago I never expected to qualify for any sort of payout. Getting in touch with Reid Black Solicitors was more a case of - 'try it and see, nothing ventured, nothing gained.' Absolutely dumbfounded by the amount you have recovered for me. I never expected any payout to be in the 5 figure bracket. We have a modest income and lead a modest lifestyle, but now, all our current financial challenges are over. A 'Thank you' seems totally inadequate, but we are truly grateful for your efforts and the result. Thank you. Kind Regards Alan Munceread more
