Q: Delay on a settlement payment from my attorney

A: What type of settlement and how much are you supposed to receive?

A: Your post straddles a couple of different headings. If your case involves personal injury (one of your chosen categories), one possibility is that there could be liens that need to be reconciled. If the file involved considerable out-of-pocket expenses, organizing those could be another possibility. The holiday season could have slowed things down. These are only general guesses. The most reliable way to find out the reason for the delay may be to ask your attorney. Good luck

A: Delays in receiving a settlement payment can be frustrating and confusing, especially when you were expecting it months ago. It’s important to first ask your attorney for a clear explanation of the delay. There may be legitimate reasons, such as waiting for checks to clear, lien negotiations, or other administrative hurdles, but they should provide you with a timeline for resolution.

If you feel like you’re not getting sufficient answers or the delay is unreasonable, review the terms of your agreement. Settlement disbursements often include a timeline, and your attorney has a duty to act in your best interest and handle funds appropriately. You can also request a detailed accounting of the settlement funds to ensure everything is being processed correctly.

If the issue persists, you may consider contacting your state’s bar association to file a complaint or seek guidance. They regulate attorneys and can investigate whether there has been any misconduct or unnecessary delay. While this step is more formal, it’s an option to ensure your payment is handled properly. Communication is key—keep detailed records of your inquiries and their responses.