When you settle directly
Review the release carefully, confirm the payee and delivery instructions, and keep copies. California guidance says that once a claim is accepted, payment generally must be made immediately and no later than 30 days after settlement is reached, though case-specific issues can affect timing.
When you settle with a lawyer
A represented settlement commonly goes to the lawyer’s client trust account. The lawyer then resolves agreed fees, case costs, and valid liens before distributing the client’s share with a written accounting.
SettleFair is not the payee
The client states that SettleFair is not named as the recipient of settlement funds and does not take custody of the payment. Confirm the actual payee, amount, and release terms before signing.