When faced with a pending lawsuit, many plaintiffs find themselves in need of financial support to cover living expenses and legal costs. Pre-settlement loans have emerged as a potential solution to bridge the gap between filing a claim and reaching a settlement.
Some people, when facing financial challenges during a lengthy legal battle, turn to their bank for assistance. However, traditional banking institutions like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, or your local credit union do not offer pre-settlement loans.
Instead, plaintiffs can seek out lawsuit funding companies that specialize in providing cash advances against pending legal settlements.
What Is Pre-Settlement Funding?
Pre-settlement funding, also known as legal funding or lawsuit financing, is a cash advance provided to plaintiffs in exchange for a portion of their future settlement proceeds.
This type of financing allows individuals to access funds while their case is still ongoing, helping them cover essential expenses and avoid settling for less than they deserve due to financial pressure.
Understanding Pre-Settlement Funding
Pre-settlement funding is not a loan in the traditional sense. Instead, it is a non-recourse cash advance, meaning that if the plaintiff loses their case, they are not obligated to repay the funds. The funding company only receives payment if and when the plaintiff settles or wins their case.
Pre-settlement funding can be a lifeline for plaintiffs struggling to make ends meet during a drawn-out legal process. By providing access to a portion of their expected settlement, funding companies can help level the playing field and give plaintiffs the financial breathing room they need to pursue a fair outcome.
Benefits of Pre-Settlement Funding
One of the primary benefits of pre-settlement funding is that it provides much-needed financial relief for plaintiffs who may be facing mounting bills, lost wages, and other expenses related to their case. With funds in hand, plaintiffs can focus on their recovery and work with their attorney to build a strong case.
Additionally, pre-settlement funding can help plaintiffs avoid accepting low settlement offers out of desperation. Insurance companies and defendants often employ delay tactics, hoping that financial pressure will force the plaintiff to settle for less. By securing funding, plaintiffs can hold out for a fair settlement that adequately compensates them for their losses.
How Pre-Settlement Funding Differs from Bank Loans
According to the latest industry data, 23.5 million Americans owe a collective $245 billion in personal loans, more than double the $117 billion owed in 2017. While bank loans and pre-settlement funding can both provide financial assistance, they differ in several key ways:
Eligibility Requirements
Banks typically base loan eligibility on the applicant’s credit score, income, and assets. They require extensive documentation and may demand collateral to secure the loan. In contrast, pre-settlement funding eligibility is based on the merits of the plaintiff’s case. Funding companies evaluate factors such as liability, damages, and insurance coverage when determining whether to approve an application.
At Tribeca Lawsuit Loans, we understand that personal injury plaintiffs may be facing financial challenges through no fault of their own. That’s why we don’t focus on credit scores or employment history when reviewing funding applications. Instead, we work with your attorney to assess the strength of your case and your likelihood of success.
Repayment Obligations
Bank loans are recourse debt, which means the lender can pursue repayment even if the borrower faces financial hardship. If a plaintiff takes out a personal loan and then loses their case, they are still obligated to repay the loan according to the agreed-upon terms.
Pre-settlement funding, on the other hand, is non-recourse. If the plaintiff’s case is unsuccessful, they owe nothing to the funding company. This arrangement shifts the risk from the plaintiff to the funding company, providing a safety net for those who may be hesitant to take on additional debt during an uncertain time.
Application Process and Funding Timeline
Securing a bank loan can be a lengthy and complicated process, often requiring weeks or even months for approval and funding. For plaintiffs facing immediate financial needs, this timeline may be untenable.
In contrast, the pre-settlement funding application process is designed to be quick and straightforward. At Tribeca Lawsuit Loans, we can approve applications in as little as 24 hours and have funds available within a matter of days. We work closely with plaintiffs and their attorneys to gather the necessary information and make funding decisions as efficiently as possible.
How to Obtain Pre-Settlement Funding
If you’re considering pre-settlement funding, the first step is to discuss your options with your attorney. Your legal representative can help you determine whether funding is right for your situation and guide you through the application process.
Consult with Your Attorney
Your attorney’s support and cooperation are essential when seeking pre-settlement funding. Funding companies rely on attorneys to provide case documentation and keep them informed of any developments that may impact the settlement timeline or amount.
Choose a Reputable Funding Company
Not all pre-settlement funding companies are created equal. It’s essential to choose a provider with a track record of success, transparent terms, and a commitment to customer service. Look for a company that is willing to answer your questions, provide clear documentation, and keep you informed throughout the funding process.
Submit an Application
Once you’ve chosen a funding company, the next step is to submit an application. This typically involves providing basic information about your case, including the type of lawsuit, the expected settlement amount, and your attorney’s contact information.
At Tribeca Lawsuit Loans, we’ve designed our application process to be quick and easy. Simply visit our website or call 866-388-2288 to get started. Our friendly representatives will guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.
Review and Sign the Contract
If your application is approved, the funding company will provide a contract outlining the terms of the cash advance. This document will specify the amount of funding you’ll receive, any fees associated with the advance, and the repayment process.
It’s crucial to review the contract carefully and discuss any concerns with your attorney before signing.
Receive Your Funds
Once you and your attorney have signed the contract, the funding company will transfer the funds directly to your bank account. At Tribeca Lawsuit Loans, we understand the urgency of your financial needs, which is why we strive to make funds available as quickly as possible – often within 24 hours of approval.
A Hypothetical Example
Let’s say you’ve been injured in a car accident and are pursuing a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver. Your medical bills are piling up, you’ve lost income due to missed work, and your savings are running low. You know you have a strong case, but the insurance company is dragging its feet, hoping you’ll accept a low settlement offer.
Rather than giving in to the pressure, you discuss pre-settlement funding with your attorney. Together, you decide to apply for a cash advance through Tribeca Lawsuit Loans. Within a day of submitting your application, you’re approved for $10,000 in funding.
With this money in hand, you’re able to pay your bills, keep up with your medical treatments, and give your attorney the time they need to negotiate a fair settlement. Several months later, your case settles for $100,000.
Tribeca Lawsuit Loans receives repayment of the initial $10,000 advance, along with a previously agreed-upon funding fee, directly from your settlement proceeds. You walk away with the remainder of your settlement funds, grateful for the financial support that allowed you to pursue justice on your own terms.
Key Takeaways
- Banks do not offer pre-settlement loans, but lawsuit funding companies like Tribeca Lawsuit Loans can provide cash advances against pending legal settlements.
- Pre-settlement funding helps plaintiffs cover essential expenses and avoid accepting low settlement offers out of financial desperation.
- Eligibility for pre-settlement funding is based on the strength of the plaintiff’s case, not their personal credit or assets.
- Pre-settlement funding is non-recourse, meaning plaintiffs only repay the advance if they settle or win their case.
- The pre-settlement funding application process is designed to be quick and easy, with funds often available within 24-48 hours of approval.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much pre-settlement funding can I receive?
The amount of funding available depends on the specifics of your case, including the expected settlement amount and the strength of your claim. Tribeca Lawsuit Loans offers cash advances of up to $1 million for qualifying cases.
Will applying for pre-settlement funding affect my credit score?
No, applying for pre-settlement funding will not impact your credit score. Funding companies do not perform credit checks as part of the application process.
Can I apply for pre-settlement funding if I’m receiving workers’ compensation benefits?
Yes, you may be eligible for pre-settlement funding even if you’re receiving workers’ compensation. However, the funding company will need to evaluate your case to determine whether you qualify for an advance.
How long does it take to receive funds after applying for pre-settlement funding?
At Tribeca Lawsuit Loans, we can approve applications in as little as 24 hours and have funds available within 1-2 business days. We understand the urgency of our clients’ financial needs and work diligently to provide funding as quickly as possible.