Frequently Asked Questions -
Pre-Settlement Legal Funding         

Why not borrow from a bank?  

Always consider the bank first. However, most banks cannot give any monetary value to your contingent fee cases for borrowing purposes under federal and state laws. However, to the extent that you or your firm has a current bank line, LawFin can also augment that loan or pay it off, thereby releasing your collateral to you! 

How much can I borrow? 

The law firm's borrowing power is based upon an estimate of the total value of your case portfolio - whether contingent or otherwise, as determined by you and our experienced underwriters. Banks won't and can't loan your law firm the amount of money it needs. We do. 

What expenses can I pay? 

You may utilize the proceeds for ANY business related purpose, including case expense, experts, advertising, payroll, general office expenses, retirement plan funding or to relieve everyday cash flow problems. It's working capital for your law firm. 

How long does it take? 

Applying for attorney loans at LawFin is quick and easy: 

1. Fill out a short application (which can be done conveniently online).
2. Send Lawfin certain documents as requested.
3. Funding can occur as soon as five business days thereafter.

What are the terms of the loan?    

We offer flexible repayment terms and interest-only payments for the first two years. Generally, principal payments are then amortized equally over the following two years. 

Are monthly payments tax deductible?   

Yes, all monthly interest payments made to LawFin are tax deductible as "ordinary and necessary" business expenses, which will save you and your law firm money. You receive no tax benefits when you finance your own cases - unless you lose! In addition, interest on loans for client expenses can usually be charged to the client (check your local state ethics rules or call us to receive a copy of the opinion in your jurisdiction). 

Is LawFin in any way associated with our legal cases? 

ABSOLUTELY NOT. LawFin is not involved with your clients or legal cases. We have a working relationship with the law firm as any lender would. You, of course, remain in complete control of your entire portfolio. 

How do I know if I need pre-settlement lawsuit funding?

You need lawsuit funding when you have exhausted ALL other possible options and have nowhere else to turn.   

Are there any application fees?

No. We are happy to review your case and tell you the amount of investment we would make. There is no obligation on your part until you decide to accept our proposal. 

What does it mean to “invest in a lawsuit”?

LawFin literally buys a piece of the future settlement proceeds of your lawsuit. We give you cash today in exchange for a specific amount of any settlement or judgment that is derived from the litigation. If the case is lost you owe us nothing and keep our initial advance. This is known as a non-recourse advance. 

Why can’t my attorney lend me money?

The American Bar Association prohibits attorneys from lending money to clients for anything but case expenses. This prohibition exists to prevent any conflicts of interest from arising. 

What role will LawFin play in the management of my case?

LawFin will play no role in the case strategy of your case. That is left to you and your attorney. 

Does your company provide legal advice?

NO. 

What happens if I lose my case?

You owe us absolutely nothing. We risked our funds on your case and we lost.

Does my Attorney have to be involved in the process?

Yes. The cooperation of your Attorney is a MUST. 

How long does it take?

From the time we have all the information we need from the clients’ attorney, we will have a decision within 48 hours. 

What are your interest rates or fees?

Our fees vary and are determined on a case-by-case basis because no two cases are identical. Your repayment amount will be provided and thoroughly explained to you and your attorney, prior to your signing and accepting this agreement. We strongly suggest speaking to your attorney to review this legal document. 

Are there any Additional Fees, such as Monthly Fees, involved?

NO! There will be a specific repayment amount, due and payable only after the case resolves itself successfully. 

If I am approved, how do I get the lawsuit funding?

We will fax your Agreements to your Attorney’s office for signing and execution. Once we receive the completed Agreements back we will send your check immediately. We utilize Federal Express Standard Overnight Delivery, to ensure a safe and efficient transaction.

What, if anything, will LawFin require from the attorney after the deal is closed?

LawFin will periodically call your attorney to update us on the status of your case. 

If my case has settled, and I am just waiting for my check, can you help me?
No. Our pre-settlement advances are designed specifically for cases PRIOR to settlement. 

Why is this NOT A LOAN?

Loans are repayable absolutely. We purchase an interest, which is 100% contingent upon the future outcome of the case.

Do you fund cases that are currently on appeal?

We will be more than happy to review cases on appeal and fund those cases, should they be approved.