Mayfield Law, LLC | June 24, 2025 | Settlements
After a personal injury case wraps up, many people assume the check is in the mail right away. But the truth is, there’s a step-by-step process that must take place before you can actually receive your settlement funds. Knowing what to expect can help reduce stress and keep you informed throughout the journey.
Here’s a breakdown of how the settlement process usually works after a case is resolved.
Step 1: Settlement Agreement is Reached
Once both sides agree on a settlement amount, the attorneys will draft a formal settlement agreement. This document outlines the terms of the agreement and must be signed by all parties.
If the case involved a lawsuit, the agreement will also include a release of liability, stating that you will not pursue further legal action against the defendant. This step is required before any money changes hands.
Step 2: Insurance Company Issues the Check
After receiving the signed agreement, the defendant’s insurance company typically has 30 days or less to issue the settlement check. This can vary by state or by the terms of the agreement.
The check is usually made payable to both you and your attorney and sent directly to the law firm handling your case. This ensures all appropriate steps are followed before funds are disbursed.
Step 3: The Check is Deposited in a Trust Account
Once the law firm receives the check, it is deposited into a special trust or escrow account. This is not your final payout just yet. Funds must clear the bank, and all necessary deductions must be calculated.
These deductions typically include:
- Attorney’s fees
- Case costs (e.g., expert witnesses, filing fees, accident reports)
- Medical liens or outstanding medical bills
Once all deductions are finalized and the funds have cleared, the remaining balance will be disbursed to you as your settlement payout.
Step 4: Liens and Bills Are Paid
Before you receive your portion of the settlement, the attorney will work to satisfy any liens or unpaid balances related to your case. This might involve negotiating with hospitals, insurance companies, or government programs like Medicaid.
Paying these debts is a required part of closing the case and ensures that no one can come after you for unpaid expenses later on.
Step 5: You Receive Your Settlement Check
Once all fees and obligations have been handled, the remaining funds are disbursed to you. This is your net settlement amount—the money you take home. Depending on the complexity of the case and the number of liens involved, the entire process from settlement to final check can take a few weeks to a couple of months.
Can You Speed Up the Process?
While some steps are unavoidable, there are a few ways to help things move along:
- Respond quickly to requests for documents or signatures
- Keep your attorney updated on any changes to medical bills
- Make sure all your treatment is complete before settlement
Taking these steps can reduce back-and-forth and minimize delays.
What If There’s a Delay in Receiving the Funds?
If the check is taking longer than expected, it may be worth asking your attorney for an update. In rare cases, delays could be caused by disputes over liens or errors in the settlement paperwork.
Contact the Brunswick Personal Injury Lawyers of Mayfield Law, LLC for Help Today
For more information, contact Mayfield Law, LLC to schedule a free consultation with our experienced personal injury attorneys. We proudly serve clients in Brunswick, GA, Nahunta, GA, as well as Glynn County and Brantley County. We’re here to offer trusted, compassionate legal guidance. Let us help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve.
Mayfield Law, LLC Brunswick
1611 Union St
Brunswick, GA 31520
(912) 457-8557
Mayfield Law, LLC Nahunta
13903 E Cleveland St
Nahunta, GA 31553
(912) 457-8557
