Structured Settlement Fraud

Two Edward Stone Law cases were featured prominently in today’s Wall Street Journal – “Firms Help Settlement Holders Cash Out Payments Meant to Last a Lifetime”.  What the WSJ article fails to describe is the high pressure predatory sales tactics used to raid large structured settlement annuities that were intended to last a lifetime.  The Taylor and Lafontant cases highlight just how far the factoring industry has fallen in recent years and how important it is to obtain independent professional advice.  Instead of providing needed liquidity, as advertised, bad actors target large structured settlement annuities and shop for courts and judges they know will rubber stamp petitions that don’t meet the best interest standard required under state and federal law.  If a slick annuity salesperson tries to convince you to fake your relocation to another state with promises of “cash now”, think twice. You could lose your identity (true story) and wind up destitute (truer still).  If you or someone you know has been victimized by structured settlement fraud, Edward Stone Law will evaluate your transaction at no charge, and let you know if help if available.  You can reach us via email at eddie@edwardstonelaw.com or via telephone at (203) 504-8425.