Reaching a settlement in a Geneva personal injury lawsuit can bring a sense of relief, often marking the end of a stressful chapter. But for many injury victims, that relief turns into uncertainty as they wonder when they will get their settlement check and what happens afterward.Â
The answer depends on several factors, but knowing the process after the settlement is finalized can help you manage your expectations and financial needs.
Finalizing the Settlement Agreement
Once you and the other party agree to a settlement after a car accident or another incident, you will sign a legal agreement. This document confirms the payment amount and typically includes a release of liability, meaning you waive the right to bring future claims related to the incident.
After both sides sign, the agreement is submitted to the insurance company or the defendant’s legal team. Only after the release is formally accepted will the payment process begin. Most insurers aim to process payments within a few weeks.
How the Settlement Check is Processed
Once the release is acknowledged, the insurance company issues the check. While this step may sound simple, you may still have to wait on internal approvals, check issuance, and mailing or electronic transfer of funds.
Settlement checks are typically sent to your attorney first and deposited into a client trust account. They will remain there until the check fully clears. Depending on the bank’s policies, this clearance can take several days.
Fees, Costs, and Liens
After the check clears, your attorney will begin resolving outstanding financial obligations, including:
- Attorney’s fees (as agreed upon in your contract)
- Court costs and litigation expenses
- Medical bills and liens from providers or health insurers
If you received medical care that was not paid upfront, your providers may have filed liens against your settlement. In some cases, these liens must be negotiated, which can extend the timeline, especially when government programs like Medicare are involved.
Receiving Your Share of the Settlement
Once all obligations are paid, the remaining amount is disbursed to you. You’ll usually review and sign a final settlement statement, which details every deduction and shows the final net amount you’ll receive.
What Factors Can Delay the Process?
Several factors may influence how long it takes to receive your funds, including:
- The complexity of your case. Larger settlements and claims involving multiple parties may take longer to resolve.
- Insurance company procedures. Some insurers are slower to process payments than others.
- Lien resolutions. Negotiating liens with medical providers and insurers can result in delays.Â
- Administrative and clerical delays. Holidays, missing signatures, or paperwork errors can slow things down.
While these delays can be frustrating, having a skilled attorney on your side can keep the process moving along an efficient timeline.
Contact Feagans Law Group About Your Geneva Injury Settlement
If you’re waiting on settlement funds or have questions about your injury case, our personal injury lawyers are here to help. Contact Feagans Law Group today for a free consultation to learn more.