In Huntington Beach, California, it may take approximately six months to undergo all the steps, negotiate with the defendant’s insurance company, agree on a settlement amount, and sign the release. You will receive the money within 2 to 4 weeks as the cheque will be deposited and fetched by your lawyer. If your case goes to court, the trial date may take about 6 months to 2 years, per California court rules. However, the settlement will be delayed. After the court verdict, you will have to sign the release, and it will take another 2 to 4 weeks to receive it.