Running a law firm can be an incredibly rewarding career, but it's not without its challenges, particularly when it comes to securing funding. Traditional loans can be difficult to obtain, and many lawyers can't or don't want to rely on personal savings to finance their practices. That's where attorney funding comes in.
Attorney funding is a type of financing that enables lawyers to receive upfront cash in exchange for a portion of their future fees. This can be particularly useful for attorneys who work on contingency or settlement-based cases, as they may not receive payment until the case is resolved. By obtaining funding, these attorneys can cover their operating expenses while they wait for settlements or court rulings to come through.
Unlike traditional loans, attorney funding is not based on a lawyer's credit history or financial position. Instead, lenders evaluate the potential value of the lawyer's cases and offer funding based on that assessment. This makes it easier for attorneys to obtain the capital they need, even if they have poor credit or are just starting their practices.
Attorney funding is typically structured as a non-recourse loan, which means that the lender assumes the risk of non-payment. If a funded case doesn't result in a settlement or verdict, the lawyer is not on the hook for repayment. This can be a major advantage over other types of financing, which may require full repayment regardless of the outcome of the case.
Answers to some of our most commonly asked questions.
Attorney funding can be used for a variety of case types, including personal injury, medical malpractice, product liability, and more.
The amount of funding you can receive will depend on the specifics of your cases and the lender's evaluation. Some lenders offer funding of up to $1 million or more.
Repayment terms for attorney funding are typically structured as a percentage of the fees recovered from funded cases. The exact percentage may vary based on the lender and the specifics of the case.
No, attorney funding is not based on credit score or financial position. Instead, lenders evaluate the potential value of your cases and offer funding based on that assessment.
The timeline for obtaining attorney funding may vary based on the lender and the specifics of your cases. Some lenders offer fast turnaround times of just a few days.
Yes, attorney funding is legal and considered ethical by most legal professionals. However, it's important to ensure that any funding agreement complies with state and federal laws and regulations.