Guide
For plaintiffs in the middle of a lawsuit, financial stress can feel overwhelming. Medical bills, lost wages, and daily living expenses often pile up long before a settlement is reached. Pre-settlement funding provides critical financial relief—but it’s important to understand how it relates to your case’s value and your attorney’s negotiation strategy.
This article explores how pre-settlement funding works alongside settlement negotiations, the importance of maintaining perspective, and how Instabridge supports plaintiffs without jeopardizing their long-term recovery.
Pre-Settlement Funding: A Tool, Not a Settlement Shortcut
Pre-settlement funding gives plaintiffs access to a portion of their expected settlement in advance. This cash advance can be used to cover:
Medical expenses and ongoing care
Rent, utilities, and household costs
Everyday living expenses during recovery
It is non-recourse, meaning repayment only happens if your case settles successfully. But while this funding relieves immediate pressure, it’s not meant to replace or accelerate the settlement process itself.
How Pre-Settlement Funding Affects Case Value
It’s a common misconception that taking an advance changes the value of your case. In reality:
Your case value remains unchanged. Pre-settlement funding does not influence the amount your attorney can negotiate.
Repayment comes from your settlement. When your case resolves, the advance (plus agreed fees) is deducted from your portion of the recovery.
You keep control of your case. A reputable funding company like Instabridge does not interfere with your attorney’s strategy or push for early settlements.
This separation ensures your legal team can continue working toward the maximum possible compensation without outside pressure.
The Importance of Perspective During Negotiations
When bills are overdue and income has stopped, it’s tempting to settle quickly. Insurance companies know this and often use delay tactics to pressure plaintiffs into accepting lowball offers.
Pre-settlement funding helps plaintiffs:
Avoid financial desperation that could force them into early, undervalued settlements.
Give attorneys time to build strong cases and negotiate effectively.
Maintain emotional and financial stability during a stressful legal process.
However, it’s also important to use funding responsibly. Overfunding can leave plaintiffs with little left from their settlement after legal fees and repayment.
Tips for Balancing Funding and Case Outcomes
Borrow Only What You Need: Requesting smaller advances helps preserve your settlement.
Work With Your Attorney: They can advise on how funding may impact your financial picture.
Choose Transparent Providers: Avoid companies with hidden fees or compounding interest that could erode your recovery.
Plan for Long Cases: Consider your overall financial needs if your lawsuit could take years.
How Instabridge Protects Plaintiffs’ Interests
At Instabridge, we design our pre-settlement funding solutions to support—not hinder—plaintiffs. Our approach includes:
Transparent Terms: Clear, upfront agreements with no hidden fees.
Responsible Funding: We work closely with your attorney to ensure funding amounts align with your case’s value.
Non-Recourse Advances: You owe nothing if your case doesn’t result in a settlement or award.
No Settlement Pressure: Instabridge never interferes with your legal strategy or negotiation timeline.
This approach ensures plaintiffs have the financial breathing room they need to achieve the best possible legal outcome.
Conclusion: Financial Stability Without Sacrificing Your Settlement
Pre-settlement funding is a valuable resource for plaintiffs struggling to make ends meet during litigation. When used wisely, it can help you stay strong and focused while your attorney negotiates the compensation you deserve.
Instabridge is committed to helping plaintiffs navigate this process responsibly, offering fast, transparent funding that protects your long-term interests.
If you’re considering pre-settlement funding, contact Instabridge today to learn how we can help you maintain financial stability while fighting for justice.