My Lawyer Is Pressuring Me to Accept a Low Settlement Offer in New York City
Being injured in an accident is difficult enough – but when your own lawyer pressures you to accept a low settlement, it can leave you feeling betrayed and powerless. In New York City, you alone have the right to decide whether to settle or go to trial. Your attorney may advise you, but they cannot force you to accept a settlement against your wishes.
At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, our NYC personal injury attorneys help clients who were pushed into unfair settlements – fighting to secure the full compensation they deserve.
Can My Lawyer Force Me to Settle My Case in New York?
No. Only the client decides whether to settle a case. Your lawyer may recommend settlement options, but they cannot legally accept an offer without your consent.
Your lawyer’s duty is to:
- Explain your case, risks, and potential outcomes;
- Offer professional advice – not pressure; and
- Follow your final decision, whether to settle or proceed to trial.
Why Some NYC Lawyers Push Clients to Settle Quickly
While most attorneys act in good faith, some prioritize speed or convenience over the client’s best interests. Common reasons include:
- Avoiding trial: Some lawyers prefer quick settlements to skip lengthy litigation.
- Financial incentive: The faster the case ends, the sooner they get paid.
- Overloaded caseloads: Attorneys managing too many cases may “clear files” prematurely.
- Risk aversion: Trials can be unpredictable and time-consuming.
- Misjudged fairness: Some genuinely believe the offer is reasonable based on insurance or liability issues.
Regardless of their motive, you should never feel pressured into giving up your right to full compensation.
Warning Signs Your Lawyer Is Pressuring You to Settle
If you notice any of these red flags, your lawyer may be prioritizing their own convenience over your recovery:
- They fail to explain your claim’s value or how damages were calculated.
- They dismiss your concerns or say, “This is the best you’ll get.”
- They discourage further negotiation or discussion about the trial.
- They seem impatient or unwilling to push the case further.
Remember: in New York, you have the final say. A personal injury lawyer works for you – not the other way around.
How to Evaluate a Settlement Offer in New York City
A fair settlement in New York should fully account for your economic and non-economic losses, including:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering damages (often substantial under NYC law)
- Long-term care, rehabilitation, or disability costs
- Emotional distress and loss of enjoyment of life
Insurance companies in New York City rarely start with their best offer. An experienced trial lawyer can leverage pressure, evidence, and negotiation to maximize your payout.
What to Do If You Feel Pressured to Settle
If your lawyer is urging you to take an offer that feels unfair, here’s what to do:
- Ask for a detailed explanation. Request that your attorney justify the settlement in writing – including how they calculated damages.
- Speak up clearly. Tell your lawyer you’re uncomfortable with settling. If necessary, put your concerns in writing.
- Get a second opinion. Could you contact another New York City personal injury attorney to review your case and offer an opinion? Many provide free consultations.
- Change lawyers. You can switch attorneys at any time. Your new lawyer can take over your case seamlessly.
Know Your Rights as a New York Client
Under New York law, you have these key rights:
- You control settlement decisions. Your lawyer can’t settle without your permission.
- You can revoke authority. Any prior permission to negotiate can be withdrawn at any time.
- You can switch attorneys at any stage. The courts allow substitution without delay.
- You’re entitled to fair compensation. Don’t settle early if your injuries or expenses are ongoing.
A quick settlement may benefit your lawyer – but a fair settlement benefits you.
Get a Free Second Opinion from a New York City Personal Injury Lawyer
If your lawyer is pressuring you to settle for less than you deserve, you have options. At Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, we assist clients across Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens, Staten Island, Yonkers, and Nassau County who require trusted legal advice and strong representation.
Well:
- Review your case and the settlement offer,
- Explain your legal rights under New York law, and
- Take over your case if necessary to fight for the maximum compensation you’re entitled to.
Call 1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462) today for a free consultation.
You don’t pay us unless we win – that’s our Fee Guarantee.
Why Choose Greenstein & Pittari, LLP
- Experienced New York City trial lawyers
- No fee unless we win your case
- Offices across all five boroughs and Long Island
- Bilingual legal services available
- Hundreds of satisfied client testimonials
- Award-winning attorneys recognized by Super Lawyers and Best Lawyers