settlement

[nu2u]

I recently settled after 7 years in a medical malpractice case. My lawyer told me durring negotiations he would make sure i got the check in two weeks. Now he's saying they usually recieve the check within 30 days and then another 7 days to clear their account. It's been 30 days and he's not reponding to my emails. Is this standard and is there a time limit on how long the insurance company has to pay?

[KC405]

Well, first of all it is unusual for a case to drag on for 7 years. But assuming it did then yes it could take a few weeks for the check to be issued. The time limit for the insurance company to pay should be negotiated between your lawyer and the insurance company. However, I would be concerned that your lawyer is not responding to your emails. I would not wait for longer than 30 days for the check.

[patty nj]

My personal Injury lawsuit has taken 5 years. And on June 4, 2008 my lawyer called me and told me my case was settled. It is Now September 7 2008 and I have not recieved 1 penny of my settlement. I call and ask where is it? and it's alway's a different excuse. I am ready to file a grievance with the Attorney Bar. The last time I called, 2 days ago, he told me that because I'm calling him and asking where it is he is now going to hold it even longer.....I have had it.

[KC405]

I would tell him you will file criminal charges against him for theft if he does not come up with the money.