Gourley, Rehkemper & Lindholm

Once a lawsuit has been won or, alternatively, a settlement is reached between a claimant and an insurance company, the settlement is paid to and disbursed by the claimant’s law firm assuming the claimant is represented.

Proceeds Deposited Into Trust Fund

The proceeds are first deposited into the law firm’s trust account. A trust account is an account that all reputable law firms have that holds client funds, and that is periodically audited by the Iowa State Bar Association.

Settlement Statement Prepared

Then, the attorney will prepare a settlement statement that details where every cent of the proceeds will be paid. At GRL Law, no funds are ever disbursed before the client gives permission, and directs the firm to disburse the funds. There exist a number of reasons why this method of disbursement is best for all parties involved, but, most importantly, the claimant.

Medical & Other Debt Cleared

First, an experienced claimant’s attorney ensures that all creditors are adequately compensated from the settlement proceeds. This is good for a few reasons. Obviously it is desirable for most injured Iowans to come out of the process without owing money to health care providers or other creditors as a result of an automobile accident.

Prevent Overpayment To Creditors

Secondly, the attorney can ensure that no creditors are overpaid and only receive recompense for what they actually paid out for the benefit of the claimant and are owed.

Offset Legal Costs

Third and very importantly, a personal injury attorney experienced in automobile accidents can often times compromise claims of health care providers and have insurance companies who have paid out benefits contribute to part of the attorneys fees that are due to the attorney. This is so important because all such offsets go directly into the pocket of the injured claimant.

Award Is Paid To Claimant

The client is then paid all proceeds that were not owed to third parties or paid as attorney’s fees or expenses. While the proceeds incorporate all the funds due to the client whether it is for pain and suffering, lost wages, emotional distress, or future medical procedures, the client is free to use the money as is best for his or her family.

Structured Settlements:
Alternative Payment Methods Arranged

There also exist additional methods of receiving compensation in special cases. For example, if the claimant is a minor and the amount of the award is over $10,000, a conservatorship generally must be set up to ensure that the proceeds go for the benefit of the minor. Also, in some instances, it may be beneficial to an injured Iowan to gain interest on a settlement and receive future payment(s). These can be monthly, yearly, or even one or a number of larger lump sum payments. These structured settlements as they are referred to, are set up by an independent financial advisor. Once again, an experienced claimant’s attorney often will have a company to which they can refer an injured Iowan, and with whom they do business. There are a number of additional considerations that may arise when payments are received and remitted. From getting the claimant the most out of the settlement, to dealing with third parties creditors from insurance companies to state or federal agencies such as Medicare and Medicaid, a proactive plaintiff’s counsel will be able to ensure that the victim in an automobile accident is protected and gets what they are owed and deserve.

At Gourley, Rehkemper & Lindholm, we take special care at every step of the claim process to ensure that your best interests are foremost front and center. With GRL Law's attorneys, you will not overpay credits, medical expenses, or legal fees. We will protect your award proceeds.

The trial attorneys at Gourley, Rehkemper & Lindholm stand ready to defend your claim for injuries from any type of accident. We are available 24 hours a day for emergencies. We will come to you, if you cannot come to us.

If you have been injured in an accident, if you have questions about your injuries, or if we may be of assistance to you in any way, please call us right away. (515-226-0500 or toll free at 1-877-GRL-LAWS)

You can always ASK AN ATTORNEY at Gourley, Rehkemper & Lindholm. You can also SEND YOUR INJURY INFORMATION to us in advance of your initial consultation so that we may review it.