ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF STRUCTURED SETTLEMENTS
by Thomas D. Begley, Jr., Esquire, CELA Advantages of Structured Settlements There are a number of potential benefits to an injured plaintiff in utilizing a structured settlement: Fiscal Restraint. The structured settlement prevents the injured plaintiff from squandering the settlement. Many clients receiving personal injury settlements have never had money, have never learned financial discipline,…
THE IMPORTANCE OF PUBLIC BENEFITS IN SETTLING PERSONAL INJURY CASES
Article by Thomas D. Begley Jr. Public benefits must always be considered in the settlement of a personal injury case. They are important for two reasons: (1) whether there is a lien to repay the public benefits, and (2) whether the plaintiff’s continued eligibility for public benefits depends on the establishment of a self-settled special…
DON’T LET LIENS UPSET YOUR PERSONAL INJURY SETTLEMENT
Article by Thomas D. Begley Jr. Unfortunately, many personal injury settlements come undone when liens have been discovered after the settlement has been agreed upon. Sometimes this is fixable, but often it is not. Here are some of the common liens that must be addressed in typical personal injury settlements: Medicaid Liens As a condition…
ALWAYS USE A PROFESSIONAL TRUSTEE FOR A SPECIAL NEEDS TRUST
[Updated January 22, 2016] Choosing a Trustee Choosing a trustee of a special needs trust is a crucial decision to be made by the grantor of the trust. The range of options includes: Parent, sibling (or other individual) Financial institution Nonprofit organization Each of these possibilities has potential advantages and disadvantages. The appointment of a…