FAQ

TIMING: When does Waters Ferris become involved in a case?

At any time, from when representation has been secured through the entire life of the case, up to the payout of settlement. There are situations where it’s necessary to call for revised planning if a lump sum settlement has resulted in loss of needs based government benefits. If a life care plan or value projections of benefits and cost of care is required, inclusion as soon as possible is warranted; otherwise, anywhere in the time line is feasible.

COMPETITION: Does Waters Ferris compete with law firms or settlement professionals?

No, we work cooperatively with law firms, structured settlement annuity professionals, insurance companies, and personal injury and trust and estate law firms other settlement support entities to help their clients navigate through the settlement decision process. Those professionals who include us on their team recommend and place annuities, review and / or draft (pooled or private) special needs trust documents, analyze life insurance needs, and do the estate planning.

FEES: What is the fee schedule and who pays the fees?

Waters Ferris fees are competitive with others in the industry for the services provided, and a fee schedule is available upon request. Customarily they’re a case expense, passed through to the client. In specific instances a law firm may hire Waters Ferris directly to work on an individual project paid for by the law firm.

FOLLOW THROUGH: What is the time span during which Waters Ferris is involved with a client?

The earliest that we can be involved in a case is during pre-mediation when a life care plan and future medical cost projections may be required. This expertise often carries through the mediation, into the form of settlement and government benefit protection discussions with the professionals involved. When the law firm and the settlement professionals have determined the forms of settlement with the client, if a trust is involved.