2007-07-21 08:52:08 · 4 answers · asked by n_miller9616 1 in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
Normally, the client pays their medical bills aout of whatever settlement they receive. The attorney receives a portion, or percentage of the settlement as his/her fee.
2007-07-21 08:55:33 · answer #1 · answered by fangtaiyang 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The attorney doesn't settle the claim. Only the client can agree to a settlement. The attorney just handles the paperwork.
As to who pays the bills, that depends on how the contract between the attorney and the client is written. In most cases, the client authorizes the attorney to take the money from the settlement and pay the bills, so the client doesn't have to.
However, it is allowable (though uncommon) for the contract to specify that the attorney turns over everything other than their fees to the client, and the client makes all payments themself.
2007-07-21 15:55:55 · answer #2 · answered by coragryph 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Coryagrph is exactly right. I represent defendants (like the folks you sued). When I settle a case w/ your attorney I will require him or her to pay the meds out of your settlement proceeds if the providers have a lien b/c if the lien is not paid and you are supposed to pay the dr. but don't, my client or firm can get sued for not seeing that their lien is paid so I require your lawyer to do it. Hope that helps.
2007-07-21 16:37:26 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
The attorney gets his percentage(and fees if any) off the top, then the medical bills get paid, then you get whats left.
2007-07-22 10:10:06 · answer #4 · answered by sbyldy 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋