How We Helped a Client Overcome a $419,000 Veterans Administration Lien in a Missouri Personal Injury Case
At Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers, we understand that every personal injury case is more than just a legal battle—it’s about helping people through some of the most difficult moments in their lives. Recently, we faced a particularly challenging situation that required a combination of determination, skill, and negotiation.
One of our clients, a widow who lost her husband in a tragic auto accident, was facing a $419,000 lien from the Veterans Administration (VA). Her husband had been rear-ended by another driver, leading to his untimely death. While we were also pursuing a products liability case against the vehicle manufacturer, the case at hand involved the insurance company of the negligent driver.
Unfortunately, the other driver’s insurance only provided Missouri’s minimum coverage of $25,000, and while our client’s husband had underinsured motorist coverage, that only added another $50,000 to the settlement pot. In total, our client was looking at a mere $75,000 in insurance funds. It was a far cry from the true value of her husband’s life and the emotional and financial toll this accident had caused.
The Challenge: Navigating a Massive Veterans Administration Lien in Personal Injury Litigation
On top of everything, we discovered that the VA had placed a lien of $419,000 on the settlement. In personal injury litigation, liens like these are often attached when a person receives medical treatment paid for by the government. Federal law requires us to protect these liens, making it a complex and potentially overwhelming situation for our client.
What made this lien even more daunting was that, unlike medical facilities in Missouri—which generally do not have a right to reimbursement in wrongful death cases—the VA lien is a “super lien,” akin to Medicare’s position. This meant that we had a legal obligation to address and satisfy this lien before our client could receive the compensation they deserved.
Finding a Solution: Negotiating with the VA
Most law firms would have walked away from a case with such a large lien against such a small settlement. But at Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers, we don’t give up—we dig in and get to work.
I personally reached out to the Veterans Administration and kept contacting representatives until I connected with the decision-maker for VA liens. It quickly became clear that the VA wasn’t trying to take the entire settlement—they simply wanted to recover a portion for the government. Unlike Medicare, which is often notoriously rigid, the VA showed a willingness to listen and negotiate.
After several conversations, I successfully negotiated a 95% reduction in the lien. This dramatic reduction allowed our client to keep the majority of her settlement—offering the financial relief she urgently needed after losing her husband.
The Result: A Better Outcome for Our Client
Thanks to our relentless effort and the willingness of the Veterans Administration to work with us, we were able to reduce the lien from $419,000 to just $20,000. This allowed our client to receive a significantly larger portion of the available funds—money that could help her move forward with her life, despite the overwhelming grief and hardship.
This is just one example of how we go the extra mile for our clients. Personal injury cases, especially those involving wrongful death and complex liens like those from the VA, are never easy. But with the right approach, we can often secure better outcomes for the people we represent.
Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers: A Trusted Advocate Law Firm for Injury Victims
Tyson Mutrux has earned a stellar reputation in Missouri, with a 10.0 Avvo rating and recognition among the Best Medical Malpractice Lawyers in St. Louis (2020). Honored by The National Trial Lawyers’ Top 40 Under 40, his commitment to clients is reflected in countless positive reviews and proven case results.
Experienced Personal Injury Litigation Attorneys Serving St. Louis and Columbia
If you’re facing challenges in personal injury litigation, Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers can help. We proudly serve clients in St. Louis, Columbia, and the surrounding areas, protecting their rights and fighting for the compensation they deserve. Whether you’re dealing with a complex injury case or a difficult lien, our team puts your needs first.
We understand the emotional and financial weight of personal injury cases, and we are committed to helping you navigate the legal process while fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Contact Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers – Serving Clients Across Missouri in Municipality Cities
If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence, navigating the aftermath can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s a car crash, slip and fall, or another personal injury, you deserve a legal team that understands Missouri’s laws and fights for your recovery every step of the way.
At Mutrux Firm Injury Lawyers, we’re proud to support injured individuals and families throughout the state. We serve communities across Missouri—from Springfield to St. Charles, from Independence to Jefferson City, and in municipalities like Ballwin, Hazelwood, Raytown, and Cape Girardeau. Whether you live in Boone County, Greene County, or anywhere in between, our team is ready to help.
Call us today at (888) 550-4026 or visit www.tysonmutrux.com for a free case investigation. Let’s make sure your rights are protected and your voice is heard.
Hello, I also have a seriously injured client with a 100k policy limit tender and an as yet unknown huge VA lien. I can’t seem to locate who to call or contact in the VA to settle it. Thank you.
Don,
There should be a local VA office in your area. Contact the head legal counsel of the local VA office and they should be able to point you in the right direction. Call me if you have any problems.
Hello,
I am a paralegal and am also trying to reach someone at VA to ask for a lien waiver/reduction on a PI case. If you can point me in the right direction, I would appreciate it.
Thank you.
Zulma