Contingency Basis, no Settlement, still owe $$?

Florida
A friend of mine was injured while taking a self defense class three years ago. She slipped while "sparring" and broke her kneecap and has since accumulated many medical bills. She has retained an attorney on a contingency basis and he is now talking about how she will owe him fees and repayment of expenses (ie.. ordering medical records, etc.) if they do not receive a settlement.
I was under the impression that the object of contingency basis is that if there is no settlement, there is no money out of the plaintiff's pocket. Am I wrong in this thinking? Please give any advice you have.
Thank you!
Candace

The lawyers fees yes, but there are other fees that can accumulate like court costs, copy costs, and others that she may be responsible for.

name of state: CA

Hi. i do know somebody that knows of a way to collect money before the case settles. it really helps people with lawsuit while their case is still pending. If interested send me an email and we can talk more.