How Attorneys Can Help Clients With Pre-Settlement Funding

Personal injury attorneys see it all the time. A client with a strong case calls the office worried about rent. They ask when the case will settle. They mention an early offer and say they might just take it. Financial pressure can put a good case at risk. Pre-settlement funding is one tool that can help, and attorneys play a central role in making it work well for their clients.

Why funding matters to your case

An injured client who cannot pay bills is more likely to push for a quick settlement. That can undercut your strategy and leave value on the table. When a client has basic stability, you have more room to finish treatment, complete discovery, retain experts, and negotiate from strength.

Non-recourse funding also protects the client. With funding from Green Street Funding, the client repays only from a recovery. If the case is lost, the client owes nothing. That is very different from a credit card or personal loan that must be repaid no matter what.

When funding may make sense

Funding is not right for every client. It may be worth discussing when:

• The client is out of work because of the injury.
• Bills are piling up and the client is feeling pressure to settle.
• The case is likely to take time, such as a Labor Law, truck, or malpractice case.
• The client is awaiting surgery or still in active treatment.
• The client has explored other options, such as benefits or family support.

It may not make sense when the client's needs are small, the case is close to resolution, or other resources are available.

How you can guide your client

Encourage them to take only what they need. Every dollar advanced reduces what the client keeps later. Help them think through a realistic budget for essentials.

Review the agreement with them. Walk through how the amount owed is calculated, how it changes over time, and any fees. Make sure they understand the non-recourse terms.

Discourage stacking. Multiple fundings from different companies can erode a recovery quickly. Ask clients to tell you before they apply anywhere.

Keep control of the case. A reputable funding company should never try to influence your strategy, settlement decisions, or the attorney and client relationship.

What we typically need from your office

To review a request, we usually ask for a short set of documents. These often include:

• The police report, incident report, or accident report
• Key medical records, including imaging and surgical recommendations
• Insurance information and policy limits, if known
• The complaint and bill of particulars, if a suit has been filed
• A brief note on liability and case status

We know your staff is busy. We aim to keep requests focused and to follow up only when needed. All funding is subject to underwriting approval.

The attorney acknowledgment

Once a funding is approved and the client signs, we ask the attorney to sign an acknowledgment. This confirms that you are aware of the funding and will honor it from the proceeds of the case. It does not make you a guarantor, and it does not give us any role in your case. When the case resolves, you pay the amount owed from the settlement proceeds according to the agreement, after fees, costs, and liens as set out in the documents.

If the case is lost, nothing is owed. That is the core of non-recourse funding.

Confidentiality and privilege

Attorneys often ask about sharing case information. Many attorneys address this through confidentiality or common interest agreements, and practices vary. Share what you are comfortable sharing, and let us know if you have questions about our process. Rules on disclosure and discoverability of funding can vary by jurisdiction.

Ethics and professional rules

Attorneys should follow their own state's professional conduct rules on client funding, referrals, and financial assistance. Generally, attorneys should not have a financial interest in a funding company they refer clients to, and clients should be free to choose whether to seek funding at all. When in doubt, check your state's guidance.

How we work with law firms

Green Street Funding is based in New York and funds personal injury plaintiffs in many states. Availability varies by state. We focus on clear terms, responsive communication, and respect for your role as counsel. We review many case types, from construction and Labor Law to motor vehicle, premises, civil rights, and more. See the full list on our cases page, and learn more on our attorney page.

Refer a client or ask a question

If a client could use some breathing room while their case moves forward, they can apply online in minutes, and we will reach out to your office for documents. Send your client to our application.

This article is general information, not legal or financial advice. Talk to your attorney about your specific case.

← All resources