Although many personal injury cases are wrapped up before you see any money from the other party, it's possible to ask for and receive an interim payment. This payment is a partial payment that the other side makes to you, and your attorney will know the best time to approach the other party's legal team with this request. There are some pros and cons of asking for an interim payment in a personal injury case, including the following.

Pro: You'll Have Funds For Your Expenses

The biggest advantage of getting an interim payment in your personal injury case is that you'll have money to use for your injury-related expenses. Serious personal injuries often come with high costs. Not only will you have bills for your medical care and medication, but you'll often be unable to work while you recuperate. The idea of getting a large settlement can be appealing, but you can quickly drain your finances as you wait. An interim payment puts money in your pocket for your bills.

Con: It Won't Come Automatically

In order for the other party's legal team to agree to give you an interim payment, the attorneys have to be fairly convinced that their client was negligent or otherwise responsible for your injury. Sometimes, the details around a personal injury case are so evident that there's no doubt. Other cases can have a lot of gray area, and this can mean that the attorneys aren't in a hurry to automatically agree to an interim payment.

Pro: It Feels Like A Partial Victory

There's little question that personal injury cases, especially when they're complicated and drag on, can be draining. You may question the merits of your case and wonder if you'll ever get compensated for your injury, which can be demoralizing. When you receive an interim payment, it can feel like a partial victory that makes all that you're going through worthwhile.

Con: It Can Make Your Final Settlement Less Thrilling

In a drawn-out personal injury case, you'll often feel a sense of satisfaction when you get a large settlement at the end. An interim payment has many advantages, but because it's taken into account during the settlement discussion, the final settlement that you receive will be less. Depending on your mindset, and how much of the interim payment money you've spent, the final settlement may be a bit anticlimactic. Talk to your personal injury lawyer to determine whether you're in a good position to ask for an interim payment in your case.