A: First, the insurance company will require that you, and perhaps your spouse, sign a release. This is a document that settles your claim. In the release, you will read language stating that you are forever giving up your right to sue the person, persons, or company who was responsible for your injuries. In exchange for giving up your claim, you will receive a certain sum of money when the insurance company receives the release.

Second, your attorney will have to pay any medical bills that have not been paid and may be required to reimburse any insurance company that has expended money for medical bills such as your health insurance carrier, automobile insurance carrier or some other party who paid for your medical bills resulting from your injury.

Third, your attorney will deduct attorneys' fees, actual out-of-pocket expenses, and other possible costs associated with the claim. After all deductions have been made for medical bills, possible liens, attorneys' fees, and costs, you will receive the balance in a check processed from your own attorney's office.