While each personal injury case is unique, therefore, the details are unique, if your attorney negotiates a settlement that you find acceptable, you should receive your check approximately sixty to ninety days from the time the settlement is agreed to. If your case goes to trial and the jury issues a settlement award, again, you should receive your check about sixty to ninety days from the time of the decision. In most cases, you can decide whether you would rather have a lump-sum payment or prefer a structured settlement where you receive a monthly (or yearly) amount.