Which type of cases are contingent fees prohibited in?

Contingent fees are specifically prohibited in criminal and domestic relations cases due to the ethical considerations surrounding the representation of clients in these sensitive areas. In criminal cases, allowing contingent fees could lead to conflicts of interest and undermine the principle of justice, as lawyers could potentially benefit financially from the conviction or acquittal of a client. This would distort the attorney’s motivation, leading to questions about the integrity of the legal representation.

In domestic relations cases, such as divorce and child custody matters, the emotional and familial stakes are particularly high. The prohibition against contingent fees here aims to avoid any appearance of exploitation or profiting from disputes that could significantly impact the lives of clients and their families. The law seeks to ensure that attorneys work in the best interests of their clients, without financial incentives influencing the outcome.

The other categories mentioned—civil, corporate, and commercial cases—do not have the same prohibitions, as contingent fee arrangements can often be appropriate in those contexts. This distinction highlights the ethical obligations that lawyers must uphold in different types of legal practice, particularly where the implications of their work can have profound effects on individuals' lives.