At Herrman and Herrman, our Brownsville personal injury attorneys understand that dealing with legal settlements involving minors can feel overwhelming. Questions about how a child can accept a settlement, who manages the funds, and how to ensure the child’s financial protection are common—and crucial. That’s where we come in.
When it comes to safeguarding your child’s future after a settlement, the legal process includes a vital step known as a “Friendly Suit.” This court-approved process ensures your child’s settlement is protected and handled appropriately until they reach adulthood. Here’s why a Friendly Suit is essential and how Herrman and Herrman can help you every step of the way.
What Is a Friendly Suit?
A Friendly Suit is a special legal proceeding designed to finalize settlements for minors while protecting their best interests. Because minors lack the legal capacity to accept settlements independently, the court steps in to approve and oversee the process. At Herrman and Herrman, we ensure this process is seamless, efficient, and transparent for families like yours.
When a Friendly Suit is approved, the settlement proceeds are deposited into the court registry until the child turns 18. This protects the child in two critical ways:
- Preventing poor financial decisions by ensuring funds are preserved until the child reaches maturity.
- Ensuring the funds aren’t misused by keeping them out of anyone else’s possession, including parents.
Why You Need an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
While Friendly Suits are not mandatory, they are commonly filed when the settlement is substantial or to protect the defendant from future lawsuits. Navigating this process without skilled legal representation can lead to delays, mistakes, or missed opportunities to maximize your child’s compensation. Herrman and Herrman bring years of expertise to the table, making sure everything is handled with precision and care.
What to Expect in a Friendly Suit Hearing
A Friendly Suit is typically straightforward and non-adversarial. Once the lawsuit is filed, the court appoints a guardian ad litem—an independent attorney who reviews the settlement to ensure it’s in the child’s best interest. The hearing itself is quick, often lasting just five or ten minutes, but it’s a critical step. Once the judge approves the settlement, it becomes binding, ensuring your child’s financial future is secure.
At Herrman and Herrman, we don’t just guide you through the process; we advocate for the best possible outcome for your child. Our team works closely with the guardian ad litem and other parties to ensure everything is in place for the judge’s approval.
Why Choose Herrman and Herrman?
Navigating the complexities of personal injury settlements for minors requires experience, dedication, and a deep understanding of the law. With Herrman and Herrman on your side, you can rest assured that:
- We’ll handle all the paperwork and filings, saving you time and stress.
- We’ll protect your child’s best interests and ensure their settlement is handled appropriately.
- We’ll provide clear communication and compassionate guidance every step of the way.
At Herrman and Herrman, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional legal representation to families in Brownsville and beyond. When it comes to securing your child’s future, trust the team that puts your needs first.
Contact Us Today
If you’re dealing with a personal injury settlement involving a minor, don’t leave anything to chance. Contact Herrman and Herrman today for a free consultation, and let us help you protect what matters most—your child’s future.
