What Happens When You Sue Someone Who Can’t Pay?

What Happens When You Sue Someone Who Can’t Pay?

If you’ve been injured or harmed due to someone else’s negligence or abuse, you have the right to seek compensation through a lawsuit.

While it’s straightforward to sue and win against someone who can pay the damages, the process can feel more uncertain when the defendant has no money. But does that mean you should avoid pursuing legal action? Absolutely not.

Here’s what you need to know about suing someone who can’t pay and how PrimeCare Network can help you secure a pre-settlement cash advance while your case is pending.

Winning a Lawsuit Isn’t Dependent on the Defendant’s Financial Status

The court’s decision is based on the evidence and facts of the case—not on the defendant’s ability to pay. A judge or jury may find the defendant liable and award you a judgment even if the person is insolvent or “judgment-proof.”

While collecting the awarded amount can be challenging, a judgment opens up avenues for compensation, even when immediate payment isn’t possible.

How You Can Still Recover Damages

Insurance May Cover the Judgment

One of the most common ways to recover compensation in cases involving an insolvent defendant is through their insurance policy. Depending on the nature of the case, this could involve:

  • Auto Insurance: If the defendant caused a car accident, their auto insurance provider might cover your damages up to the policy’s limit.
  • Homeowners’ or Renters’ Insurance: If you were injured on someone’s property, their liability coverage might pay your claim.
  • Business Insurance: For injuries occurring on business premises, a company’s liability insurance may be responsible for damages.

Insurance typically covers claims without going to court. However, lawsuits become necessary if there’s disagreement about fault or the compensation amount.

Other Parties May Be Liable

Sometimes, someone other than the direct defendant may be held financially responsible for your damages. For instance:

  • Parents of Minors: If the defendant is a minor, their parents might bear liability for their child’s actions.
  • Employers: If an employee caused harm while on the job or acting under their employer’s direction, the employer may share responsibility.

Defendant’s Assets and Future Income

Even if the defendant has no money now, they may have assets or income in the future. Here are some ways you could collect:

  1. Seizure of Assets: The court can order the sale of personal or business assets to satisfy a judgment.
  2. Wage Garnishment: Future earnings may be garnished until the judgment is paid in full.
  3. Liens on Property: You may place a lien on their property, requiring payment if they sell the asset in the future.
  4. Judgment Interest: A judgment accrues interest over time, increasing the amount owed.

No Money Doesn’t Always Mean No Resources

In some cases, defendants may appear insolvent but have wealth protected in trusts or under other legal protections. While this can complicate the process, an experienced attorney can help you uncover hidden assets or financial resources.

Why Filing a Lawsuit Is Worth It

It’s important to remember that a judgment does not expire. While a claim can expire due to the statute of limitations, a judgment remains enforceable and can help you recover damages if the defendant’s financial situation improves.

Waiting to file a lawsuit until the defendant has money may lead to missed deadlines, so consulting a lawyer early is crucial. With legal advice, you can take the necessary steps to secure a judgment, even if payment will take time.

How PrimeCare Network Can Help

While pursuing a lawsuit, you may face financial hardships—especially if you’re unable to work or have mounting medical bills. This is where pre-settlement funding can make a difference.

What Is Pre-Settlement Funding?

Pre-settlement funding is a cash advance based on the expected proceeds of your lawsuit. With PrimeCare Network, you can access funds before your case is resolved, helping you cover immediate needs like:

  • Medical bills
  • Rent or mortgage payments
  • Utility bills
  • Everyday living expenses

The best part? Pre-settlement funding is non-recourse, meaning you don’t repay the advance if you don’t win your case.

How to Apply for Pre-Settlement Funding

Getting started is simple:

  1. Call us at 888-474-8473 to discuss your case with our team.
  2. Apply online at https://www.primecarentwk.com/apply-now.
  3. Once approved, receive your funds quickly—often within 24-48 hours.

Don’t let financial strain stop you from pursuing justice. PrimeCare Network is here to support you every step of the way.PrimeCare Network provides pre-settlement funding, also known as consumer litigation funding, through various products depending on your state of residence or cause of action. Many consumers receive pre-settlement funding via a purchase agreement, which assigns a portion of the pending proceeds from their legal claim. In certain states like SC and CO, funding may take the form of a pre-settlement loan (sometimes referred to as a lawsuit loan). These transactions differ significantly, so it’s essential to carefully review and understand the terms offered by any funding company.Take Control of Your Financial Future Today You don’t have to wait for your case to settle to access the funds you need. Call 888-474-8473 or Apply Now with PrimeCare Network to bridge the financial gap while your case is in progress. Let us help you focus on recovery, not financial stress.

PrimeCare, Prime Financing

PriceCare Network

PrimeCare Network provides comprehensive financing for personal injury patients across the United States. For medical providers, we cash advance and manage existing medical liens. For lawyers, we can ensure their clients get the necessary treatment in a timely manner. For patients, we provide pre-settlement financing for living and medical expenses, as well as comprehensive care coordination. PCN uses NorthstarDoc providers network to connect patients with providers.