News & Articles

Understanding the Process and Court Approval Requirements Settlements involving minors are subject to heightened judicial scrutiny to ensure that any resolution serves the child’s best interests. Unlike adult cases, minor settlements typically require court approval through probate or guardianship proceedings, where judges carefully evaluate both the fairness of the settlement and the proposed use of funds. Structured settlements play a central role in many minor cases becaus

Protecting Public Benefits Eligibility A Special Needs Trust (SNT) is a critical legal and financial tool designed to enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities while preserving their eligibility for means-tested public benefits such as Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Rather than disqualifying a beneficiary from essential government assistance, an SNT allows settlement funds to be used for supplemental needs that improve daily living, medic

Benefits in High-Value Cases Attorney fee deferrals provide a sophisticated planning mechanism that allows counsel to receive earned fees over time rather than in a single lump sum at settlement. When properly structured and coordinated with tax professionals, fee deferrals can offer meaningful financial advantages, including income smoothing, tax deferral potential, and enhanced long-term wealth planning for law firms and individual practitioners. In high-value cases, fee de

A Comprehensive Guide for Plaintiffs and Attorneys Structured settlements are more than an alternative to a lump sum — they are a strategic financial and legal tool designed to provide long-term security, stability, and clarity after a personal injury settlement. By converting all or a portion of a settlement into a customized stream of future payments, structured settlements can align with a claimant’s medical needs, lifestyle, and financial goals while also satisfying court