An agreement to resolve a claim or lawsuit without going to trial (or before the trial finishes). Usually involves a payment from the defendant or their insurer in exchange for you releasing all claims.

In a personal injury case:

• Most cases end in settlement.

• Once you sign a release and accept payment, you typically cannot go back and ask for more money later, even if new problems arise.

What to know:

• Carefully review the release before signing.

• Consider future medical needs and how long the money must last.