A medical lien is an agreement where a healthcare provider treats you now and is paid later from the settlement or judgment in your case, usually documented through a letter of protection from your attorney. It exists precisely for situations where an injured person has no health insurance or cannot afford care while their claim is pending.

Liens are negotiated when the case resolves — an experienced attorney often reduces them so more of the recovery stays with you. Ask about how liens are handled before treatment begins so there are no surprises at settlement.