You might think that once your case settles, the hard part’s over. That the paperwork is signed, the deal is done, and all that’s left is to collect your check. However, life, like the law, rarely moves in straight lines. Settlements are not moments of arrival but steps in a longer journey — the final quarter of a game that still has plays to be made.

What happens in those quiet days after the deal? Why do days stretch into weeks, and what unseen work is happening behind the scenes?

Before you get ahead of yourself, let’s pull back the curtain and see what the next chapter really looks like.

1) Settlement Is Not Instant Cash & Why It Takes Time to Close Your Case

Alright, so your case settled. That’s a big step, but it doesn’t mean the money hits your bank account the next day. There’s still work to do. The timeline depends a lot on whether we settled before filing a lawsuit or if your case was already in court.

If we settle pre-suit, things usually wrap up in 30–60 days. Fewer bills, no court filings, and a faster response from the insurance company.

Now, if your case was in litigation then it takes longer, about 60 to 90 days. Because we’re dealing with the court system, more medical bills, multiple parties like experts, and more paperwork to close out. It’s a bit like finishing the last quarter in a football game with a tougher defense.

According to the U.S. Courts Annual Report, civil cases that settle pre-suit resolve an average of 35% faster than those in litigation. We’re in the last quarter now, but the clock hasn’t run out yet. There’s still some serious game left to play before you get that final payout.

2) Checks Are on Their Way But It Usually Takes 20 to 30 Days

So, you might be wondering, “When do I actually get my money?” Well, once we settle, the insurance company cuts a check and sends it our way. Typically, that takes about 20 to 30 days. Sometimes it’s faster — maybe overnighted right to our office. Other times? It’s like the check decided to take a scenic tour between Tallahassee and Tampa.

“On average, mail delivery times within Florida can vary from 2 to 5 business days, but unexpected delays happen.” 

(Source: U.S. Postal Service Delivery Statistics)

Occasionally, the check might get delayed in the mail or lost in transit, which can slow things down. We keep a close eye on it and follow up as soon as it’s supposed to arrive. Until that check is safely in our hands, we can’t start the next steps.

3) Why We Dig Deep Into Every Medical Bill So You Don’t Overpay

Before we hand you any money, we have to make sure every medical bill is right. That means we’re not just glancing over the numbers; we’re digging in, requesting updated medical ledgers, and double-checking every charge.

Because hospital bills can be a mess. They get adjusted, sometimes overcharged, and sometimes they include stuff unrelated to your injury. We don’t want you paying for someone else’s mistake.

We’ve seen cases where a hospital slapped a $30,000 charge on your bill when it should have been $6,000. Our job is to catch that and fight to get those extra charges knocked off. We’re not just crossing T’s and dotting I’s—we’re making sure you don’t overpay a single cent.

4) The Real Battle Happens with Liens, Fights, and Double Charges 

After we settle, we have to deal with lienholders, meaning Medicare, Medicaid, your health insurance, and sometimes workers’ comp. These folks have a legal right to get paid back from your settlement, but that process isn’t always smooth.

Sometimes, you end up with double billing like when both your auto insurance and health insurance pay for the same treatment. If we don’t catch that, you could lose money that should be yours.

Hospitals don’t mind getting paid twice but we mind for you. Our job is to fight through that mess, make sure every bill is accurate, and keep as much money in your pocket as possible. Check out this video by David Carter on what happens after your case is settled.

5) You’re the Boss But We’re Here to Fight for You

At the end of the day, you call the shots. If you want to skip the waiting game and pay off your medical bills right away, that’s your choice. But from where we stand, holding the line and negotiating can save you thousands.

These negotiations aren’t quick; sometimes they take months but that’s the price of making sure you keep as much of your settlement as possible. 

“Patients who engage in post-settlement bill negotiations save an average of 25% on their medical debts.” 

(Source: Consumer Financial Protection Bureau)

Our job is not to close your case quickly. It's to ensure you leave with the most money in your pocket.

6) Closing the Case With Signatures, Notaries, and Yes, Even Swag Bags

Before you get your final check, there’s paperwork to finish, mainly release forms that officially close your case. Some insurers need your signature first; others wait until closing. We handle it all, whether in the office, via DocuSign, or with a mobile notary.

If your case was in litigation, we file a voluntary dismissal with prejudice. Fancy term, but it just means your case is closed for good — no going back.

“E-signatures are legally valid in 99% of contracts and speed up settlement processes by 30%.” 

(Source: National Notary Association)

So, whether you’re Zooming in from across the state or swinging by to pick up your pizza cutter and swag bag, we’ll get those signatures locked down and get your case officially closed.

7) The Payout is The Last Step And The Only One That Matters to You 

By the time we’re wrapping things up, you’re probably asking, “So how much am I actually getting?” We get that. We usually give you an estimate based on the bills and liens we’ve reviewed so far. However, until every bill clears and every lien is settled, it’s tough to give an exact dollar figure.

We’d rather be precise than promise something we can’t deliver. That way, there are no surprises when the check finally hits your hands. Our goal is to get you the maximum take-home compensation, without cutting corners or rushing the process.

8) Fast Is Easy But The Right Way Takes Time

Quick fixes are tempting. The idea that everything should wrap up neatly and swiftly feels good but when it comes to something as important as your settlement, fast can mean leaving money on the table. Getting it right takes patience, careful attention, and a steady hand.

Carter Injury Law isn't just pushing papers; we're holding the line, fighting the tough fights, and keeping you informed all the way through. You won’t be left wondering what’s next or left behind in the details.

If you have any questions at all, don’t hesitate. Reach out. We’re here in Florida, just around the corner, still working, listening, and fighting for you.