Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Detailed Answer: Satisfying Medical Bill Liens in Wyoming
When you reach a settlement or verdict in a Wyoming personal injury case, you must satisfy any medical provider liens before distributing your recovery. Wyoming law allows health care providers to claim a lien under Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 30-9-110 and § 30-9-111. These liens attach to any settlement or judgment related to your injury. Follow these steps to ensure proper lien satisfaction:
1. Identify All Medical Liens
Under Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 30-9-110, a health care provider must file a lien within six months of treatment. Providers include physicians, surgeons and hospitals. Review your case to identify any filed liens.
2. Obtain Lien Statements
Request detailed statements from each provider. The lien statement should include: the patient’s name, date of service, nature of treatment, total charges and lien amount. Compare each statement against your medical bills and insurance payments to confirm accuracy.
3. Negotiate Lien Amounts
You can negotiate with providers to reduce the lien amount. Providers often agree to a percentage of billed charges or accept payment in full at a discounted rate. Document all negotiated agreements in writing to avoid future disputes.
4. File a Motion to Approve Settlement (If Required)
If your case resolves through a court-approved settlement, file a motion to approve the settlement and lien payments. Include a proposed order detailing the parties, settlement amount and how liens will be satisfied. Under Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 30-9-111, the court may direct payment of liens directly from settlement funds.
5. Satisfy Liens in the Order Required
Wyoming statutes prioritize lien payments: first, hospital liens; second, physician liens; third, other providers. Pay providers in that order. Obtain lien satisfaction releases or lien waivers once each provider receives payment.
6. Distribute Remaining Settlement Funds
After all liens and case-related expenses (attorney fees, court costs) are paid, distribute the remaining funds to the injured party. Keep a record of all disbursements for your file.
Helpful Hints
- Track statutory deadlines for filing and enforcing liens under Wyoming law.
- Verify that lien statements include reference to Wyo. Stat. Ann. § 30-9-110.
- Use written agreements when negotiating lien reductions.
- Consult with your attorney before signing any settlement documents.
- Obtain signed lien releases to clear all claims.