Am I legally intitled to a breakdown of the exact amount ofa settlement and where the money went?
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Am I legally intitled to a breakdown of the exact amount ofa settlement and where the money went?
My personal injury lawyer said the insurance company offered $25,000 and after medical bills and his fees I would receive around $13,000. He gave me a check for $5300 and did not give me a settlement summary. I have caught him lying to me many times concerning the progress of my case and i dont trust him. I’m waiting for a call back from the insurance adjuster to find out what the amount of the settlement actually was. If I cash the check does that legally end the case even if I am owed more?
Asked on November 15, 2010 under Personal Injury, Virginia
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 14 years ago | Contributor
No, you are not giving up your rights to your settlement by cashing the check. I can not say about the state of Virginia but in New York the client is given a breakdown as to where the settlement proceeds have gone and that breakdown is filed with the State. I would contact either your local bar association and ask about it or another attorney and ask about it or your local grievance committee and ask about it. You absolutely have a right to know where each penny of the settlement proceeds went and do not feel bad about asking. It is your case and your money. And if there was some funny business going on you have a right to bring an action as well. Good luck.
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