We have experienced many situations in car accident claims or injury claims, where children were passengers in the car, and when it gets to the point where we are ready to settle the case, it is not as simple as signing off the paperwork, cutting checks, and giving it to people. The state wants to make sure that we have done what we can to protect the kid and that we are not taking advantage of them.
When it comes time to settle, we have to have a minor settlement hearing. We submit the paperwork and show that you have paid for the liens, taken care of the doctors’ bills, and are not taking advantage of the child, and the judge will want to talk with either a parent or a guardian and the children to make sure that they are okay with the settlement.
Once that is accomplished, there is a hearing. It is typically a short, simple process. Then we need to set up a minor trust account, because that money then needs to be put into a court-blocked account or a structured settlement until the child turns 18, and then, at that point, they can access their money.
If you have any questions, call or text the car accident lawyers at 612-INJURED at (612) 465-8733 for a free consultation.
