Sword & Shield: The Forge Companies Blog

The Forge Companies Expands into Texas Market with Dallas and Houston Presence

Wed, 27 May 2026 18:22:40 GMT

The Forge Companies Expands into Texas Market with Dallas and Houston Presence

The Forge Companies strengthens its national footprint with strategic expansion into the Texas market

Understanding Trust Planning in the Settlement Space

Thu, 14 May 2026 14:42:29 GMT

by N atalie Cannella Williams, JD

Fiduciary Counsel, Advocacy Trust

by N atalie Cannella Williams, JD

Fiduciary Counsel, Advocacy Trust

Understanding Trust Planning in the Settlement Space:

Demystifying What Happens Post-Settlement and How Proper Trust Structure Protects Clients

The goal of this article is to discuss the challenges that arise post-settlement, understand what a corporate trustee’s role is in trust administration, explore trust structures that can protect clients, and identify situations where trust planning may be appropriate. By incorporating trust planning into the settlement phase, attorneys can safeguard the client’s long-term stability and preserve the integrity of the settlement they worked hard to secure.

Post-Settlement Landscape:

The transition from litigation to life after the settlement can be a delicate time for both the plaintiff attorney and their client for a variety of reasons. A sudden influx of funds can disrupt benefits, strain family dynamics, and create financial pressures that many clients are not prepared to manage on their own. Without some form of protective structure, those post-settlement challenges can grow quickly and unexpectedly.

Sudden-wealth dynamics can destabilize even the most grounded clients. Individuals who have lived with scarcity may struggle to manage a lump sum responsibly. Family members may see the settlement as communal property. Friends may ask for loans. Predatory lenders and salespeople may appear within days. Clients with cognitive limitations, mental-health challenges, or addiction histories face additional layers of vulnerability. Without structure, oversight, and support, settlement funds can evaporate quickly.

For clients who receive means-tested benefits, the risks are even more acute. For example, a single deposit into a personal checking account may trigger the loss of TennCare (Tennessee’s Medicaid program), Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Families First (Tennessee’s Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program), or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Reinstating those benefits can take months, during which time the client may lose access to medical care or essential services.

Minor children are a particularly vulnerable group. As such, Tennessee law requires more safeguards for settlements on behalf of minor children and can require additional oversight for managing those proceeds. For example, Tennessee Code § 29-34-105 requires that a court conduct a hearing if a tort claim settlement on behalf of a minor involves a settlement of $10,000 or more, a structured settlement, or a minor who is not represented by a licensed attorney. Even the most sophisticated families often underestimate the complexity of managing funds over the course of many years. A parent or relative may be well-intentioned but ill-equipped to handle fiduciary responsibilities.

The risks outlined above are not hypothetical – they are issues that generate panicked phone calls months after a case closes. This can lead to situations that create family conflict, loss of benefits, or allegations that the attorney should have forewarned the client. These are problems that proper trust planning is designed to prevent.

What a Corporate Trustee Actually Does:

Many trial attorneys have only a passing familiarity with corporate trustees. They may assume that trustees simply distribute funds or manage investments. In reality, the trustee’s role is far more comprehensive and aligned with the attorney’s goal of protecting the client.

Fiduciary Duty and Neutrality. Trustees operate under a strict fiduciary standard, which provides the legal and ethical framework that governs every decision a trustee makes. Tennessee law imposes several core fiduciary duties on trustees, each designed to protect the beneficiary and ensure the trust is administered with integrity and care.

The Tennessee Trust Code outlines several key obligations. The duty of loyalty (TN Code § 35-15-802) requires the trustee to administer the trust solely in the interest of the beneficiary. The duty of care (TN Code § 35-15-804) obligates the trustee to administer the trust under the prudent person standard. The duty to administer (TN Code § 35-15-801) ensures that the trustee continues to manage the trust in good faith in accordance with the trust’s terms and purpose until the trust terminates or a successor trustee takes over. Trustees must also observe the duty of impartiality (TN Code § 35-15-803), treating beneficiaries fairly when multiple interests are involved, and the duty to inform and report (TN Code § 35-15-813), which requires keeping beneficiaries reasonably informed about the trust’s administration and providing clear and accurate accounting. To summarize, the fiduciary standard is important because it ensures that decisions are made solely in the beneficiary’s best interest, grounded by the principles of loyalty, prudence, and transparency.

Distributions and Budgeting. One of the most meaningful roles a trustee plays is helping beneficiaries understand how to pace their resources. A corporate trustee brings structure to this process by developing a plan of distribution, reviewing distribution requests, balancing immediate needs with long-term goals and sustainability, and helping clients understand the purpose and limits of the trust. This guidance is particularly important when a settlement trust must last for decades or serve as the beneficiary’s financial foundation. By providing budget support, monitoring spending patterns, and preventing depletion of trust resources, a corporate trustee can provide stability and informed guidance, while also maintaining accurate records of every distribution to support transparency and long-term planning.

Investment Management. Settlement funds require a thoughtful investment strategy that accounts for the beneficiary’s age, life expectancy, medical needs, trust duration, and appropriate risk tolerance. Corporate trustees work with investment professionals to build portfolios tailored to the trust’s purpose and duration. Ensuring that investment decisions align with the trustee’s fiduciary duties helps preserve the assets of the trust, especially if the settlement proceeds are intended to support the beneficiary for decades.

Benefits Compliance. For clients receiving means-tested benefits, such as TennCare or SSI, compliance is not optional. Corporate Trustees can utilize trust funds to assist the beneficiary, or the beneficiary’s legal guardian, as needed in the pursuit of government benefits. For example, the trustee can collaborate with care advisors to evaluate the beneficiary’s needs, understand the services they rely on, and determine how trust resources can supplement public benefits. By coordinating benefits compliance with thoughtful care planning, the trustee helps preserve eligibility while ensuring the beneficiary receives the support necessary to enhance their quality of life.

Long-Term Support for Clients and Families. Perhaps most importantly, corporate trustees provide continuity. They remain involved long after the attorney’s role has ended, offering guidance, structure, and stability as the client’s needs evolve. This behind-the-scenes work is what transforms a settlement from a temporary resource into a long-term foundation.

Examples of Trust Structures that Protect Clients:

Not every client needs the same type of trust. The key is customizing the structure to match what is appropriate for the client’s current circumstances, as well as long-term plans. Several trust types are particularly relevant in the personal-injury space.

Special Needs Trusts. For clients receiving or who have a need for means-tested government benefits post-settlement, a first-party special needs trust (often abbreviated “SNT”) is often essential. It allows settlement proceeds to enhance the client’s quality of life without jeopardizing the public benefits that provide medical care, long-term services, and essential daily support. A corporate trustee plays a critical role here, not only ensuring compliance with federal and state rules, as well as managing distributions, but in understanding the client’s lived reality and administering the trust in a way that supports both dignity and stability.

Consider a thirty-year-old former bull rider who sustained a catastrophic traumatic brain injury and quadriplegia in a vehicle accident. He now lives with his parents, who have become his full-time caregivers and the center of his daily life. Despite the severity of his injuries, the family remains deeply committed to helping him experience joy – time on the boat together, camping trips, and shared routines that preserve a sense of normalcy. His mother cannot work outside of the home due to the level of care he requires, so she receives caregiver pay through an agency that the trust partners with, ensuring she can continue providing the support he depends on.

In this family’s case, the special needs trust does far more than preserve TennCare and SSI. It creates continuity. The trustee understands the family’s rhythm, the beneficiary’s needs, and the practical realities of his care. The trustee knows the professionals involved, from the CPA to the care coordinators, and manages the financial and administrative responsibilities that keep the beneficiary’s world stable. And when his parents are no longer able to serve as caregivers, the plan is for his siblings to step in. Because a corporate trustee has been involved from the beginning, that transition will be seamless: the trustee already knows the beneficiary’s routines, the family’s expectations, how the trust supports and enhances daily life, and the long-term plan for sustaining the beneficiary’s care.

This is the quiet, but profound, value of a corporate trustee in the special needs trust context. It is not simply about compliance. Rather, it is about continuity, stability, and ensuring that the settlement continues to support the beneficiary throughout his or her life.

Settlement Protection Trusts. These trusts are designed for clients who do not receive government benefits, but still need structure. The trust provides financial support and creditor protection. This type of trust is especially valuable for clients with limited financial experience or those at risk of exploitation, such as minor children.

A powerful example comes from a case involving three minor children whose mother was tragically killed in a vehicle accident. The children received a life-altering settlement, one that, if managed wisely, could create true generational wealth. From the beginning, the beneficiaries were included in age-appropriate conversations about the “big picture.” Long before they turned eighteen, they were introduced to concepts of financial responsibility, stewardship, and the purpose of their trusts. These early discussions were designed to equip them with a solid foundation. The trustee worked alongside the family to help the children understand how money functions, how it can support long-term goals, and how thoughtful decision-making preserves options for the future.

Now that all three beneficiaries are adults, the impact of that early structure is undeniable. They have learned to advocate for themselves and to appreciate the value of pacing, planning, and protecting their resources. Instead of being overwhelmed by sudden wealth at eighteen, they entered adulthood with a foundation of financial literacy and a healthy respect for the responsibilities that accompany significant assets.

Settlement protection trusts can be a useful mechanism that not only safeguards settlement proceeds, but also shapes a beneficiary’s habits, builds confidence, and creates continuity across the years when children grow into adults. With a corporate trustee providing consistent guidance, the trust becomes a stabilizing force that helps beneficiaries navigate a world of money with maturity and intention.

Spendthrift and Creditor-Protection Provisions. Spendthrift and creditor-protection provisions shield trust assets from creditors, lawsuits, and family conflict, and can be particularly important to clients with unstable family dynamics or vulnerabilities. This is accomplished by language incorporated in the trust instrument that restricts the beneficiary from pledging future distributions and prevents creditors from seizing trust assets. Although the beneficiary is unable to access large sums of money from the trust at his or her direction, he or she can still receive ongoing distributions at the Trustee’s discretion. This ultimately prevents misuse of funds and protects trust assets should the beneficiary become the subject of a lawsuit. Ultimately, when paired with a corporate trustee, spendthrift and creditor protection provisions can create a barrier between the beneficiary’s resources and the outside world, ensuring that the settlement continues to serve its intended purpose even when circumstances change.

Two real-world examples illustrate this protection in action. In one case, a sixty-year-old beneficiary used his settlement proceeds to fund an asset protection trust. Several years later, he experienced a sudden medical event that resulted in staggering medical invoices. While his employer-provided insurance ultimately covered the bulk of the expenses, the trust’s spendthrift provisions ensured that the trust assets were never at risk. Potential creditors could not access the trust resources, giving the beneficiary and his family peace of mind during a stressful period.

In another case, a young man undergoing a contentious divorce faced the possibility that his settlement funds would be factored into alimony calculations. Because those funds were held in an asset protection trust with strong spendthrift language, the court could not treat the trust assets as available resources. The trust shielded those funds from being pulled into the divorce proceedings and preserved the assets for their intended purpose: to support the beneficiary’s long-term needs.

In both instances, the corporate trustee was pressured (sometimes, aggressively) to turn over information about the trust or to make the assets available. The trustee’s role, however, is to uphold the terms of the trust and the protections built into it. Corporate fiduciaries are trained to navigate these requests with clarity and professionalism, ensuring that the trust’s protective provisions remain intact. Its experience with creditor inquiries and third-party demands allows the corporate trustee to respond appropriately, without the emotional pressure or uncertainty that can accompany these moments.

Withdrawal Provisions and Age-Attainment Language. Many trusts include withdrawal provisions or age-attainment milestones that allow beneficiaries to access a portion of their funds at certain ages or intervals. When drafted thoughtfully, these provisions strike a balance between giving beneficiaries meaningful autonomy and preserving the long-term purpose of the settlement. They also create natural checkpoints for financial education, goal-setting, and responsible decision-making, especially when a corporate trustee is involved to help guide the process.

A recent example illustrates how effective these provisions can be. One minor beneficiary’s trust included age-attainment language that allowed him to withdraw a set percentage of trust in five-year increments once he reached adulthood. As he approached the first milestone, the corporate trustee worked closely with him to understand his goals and help him think strategically about how to use his withdrawal rights. After he reached his first eligibility point, he chose to withdraw funds to purchase a rental property. A year later, he exercised another portion of his withdrawal right to pay for college tuition, allowing him to pursue his education without incurring debt.

This kind of structured flexibility is one of the strengths of age-attainment and withdrawal provisions. These strategies in trust planning can give beneficiaries room to grow into their financial lives while still protecting the core of the settlement. With a corporate trustee providing continuity, guidance, and administrative support, beneficiaries are better equipped to make decisions that reflect both their immediate needs and long-term goals.

Directed Trusts. Directed trusts promote a collaborative framework in which the trustee works alongside other professionals or powerholders, such as investment advisors or distribution advisors, who are authorized to direct specific fiduciary functions. This structure offers a level of flexibility that can be invaluable in complex situations involving sophisticated beneficiaries, particularly when their long-term objectives call for a more nuanced use of trust assets. It also permits a family’s other professional advisors to play a role in the administration or management of the trust.

Tennessee’s directed trust framework is codified in Tennessee Code § 35-15-710, which provides that when a “[t]rustee, trust advisor, or trust protector [is required] to follow the direction of a trust advisor, trust protector, or trustee, and the trustee, trust advisor, or trust protector acts in accordance with such direction, then the trustee, trust advisor, or trust protector so directed must be treated as an excluded fiduciary.” This is the statutory backbone that allows Tennessee trusts to bifurcate fiduciary responsibilities, as the trustee’s liability is limited so long as the trustee follows the directions of the directing party.

By way of example, certain beneficiaries may want to invest in Bitcoin, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), or other digital assets. By structuring the trust as directed with respect to investments, the appointed power holder can pursue investment strategies that reflect their interests and risk tolerance, while the corporate trustee continues to manage the administrative responsibilities of the trust.

When Should Plaintiff Attorneys Think About Trust Planning?

The earlier trust planning begins, the smoother the settlement process will be for both the attorney and their client. There are several scenarios that may trigger a conversation about trust planning:

The client receives TennCare, SSI, or other means-tested benefits;
The client has cognitive limitations, mental-health challenges, or addiction history;
The client is a minor or young adult with limited financial experience;
The settlement is large enough to create a spendthrift risk;
The client will receive multiplate payment streams (such as lump sum and structured settlement payments); or,
The family dynamic is strained or financially dependent on the client.

In these instances, considering trust planning early and perhaps involving a corporate trustee, can prevent rushed decisions during the settlement process, avoid benefit loss, and ensure the trust is drafted correctly before funds are disbursed.

Trust Planning as a Standard Part of Plaintiff Advocacy:

Ultimately, trust planning can be a core component of responsible representation for clients who are vulnerable or whose settlement calls for a complex structure that is guided by several professionals to ensure the funds are preserved. By incorporating trust planning into the settlement phase and partnering with a corporate trustee, plaintiff attorneys can protect their clients’ futures, reduce their own exposure, and ensure the settlement they fought for truly serves its intended purpose. When a trust is incorporated into the settlement structure, the settlement stops being a temporary resource and becomes a foundation for long-term stability, dignity, and security.

Spooner Phillips Elected to NSSTA Board of Directors

Mon, 04 May 2026 20:39:43 GMT

Spooner Phillips Elected to NSSTA Board of Directors

The Forge Companies is proud to announce CEO Spooner Phillips’ election to the National Structured Settlement Trade Association Board of Directors.

After the Win: Protecting Clients from Post-Settlement Surprises

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 16:58:29 GMT

After the Win: Protecting Clients from Post-Settlement Surprises

The mediation ends the way plaintiff lawyers hope it will: a hard-fought case, a seven-figure number, and a client who finally exhales. The family hugs in the hallway. Someone says, “Now we can move forward.”

Two days later, the client calls with a different kind of fear.

A benefits caseworker has warned that the settlement could jeopardize Medicaid. A family member is asking for “just a small loan.” The treating physician is recommending additional procedures—expensive ones. And the client asks the question no one wants to answer off the cuff: “How do I make this money last?”

Settlements don’t arrive in a vacuum. They land in the middle of real life—public benefits, medical uncertainty, family pressure, and financial inexperience. The recovery meant to provide security can, without coordinated planning, create immediate risk.

Today, the size of the settlement is only half the outcome. The other half is whether the client can preserve health coverage, maintain stability, and sustain long-term security.

At the same time, the settlement planning landscape has grown significantly in both scale and complexity. Industry reporting shows structured settlement annuity premium reached approximately $9.5 billion in 2024—the highest annual volume on record¹. As that market has expanded, structured decisions increasingly intersect with Medicaid and SSI eligibility rules, Special Needs Trust requirements, tax considerations, and long-term financial planning. For catastrophically injured clients, these are not abstract concerns—they often determine whether a recovery protects the future or creates new complications within months of distribution.

Public benefits are often the first pressure point. Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income are asset-tested programs, and distributing funds without a coordinated strategy can disrupt eligibility before safeguards are in place.

Future medical needs create another layer of exposure. Clients frequently assume Medicare will seamlessly step in. In reality, Medicare Secondary Payer considerations and forward-looking treatment planning require deliberate attention, and late-stage discussions limit flexibility.

And then there is the human element. A lump sum offers freedom—but it also concentrates risk. Market volatility, taxable investment earnings, medical unpredictability, and family expectations converge at once. Without a structure that balances liquidity and long-term stability, a recovery can erode far faster than anyone anticipates.

The common thread is not the client—it is the process. Settlement planning is still too often handled in pieces, requiring attorneys to coordinate structured settlements, trusts, benefits analysis, and long-term financial planning across multiple providers.

Over the last two decades, The Forge Companies have worked alongside plaintiff firms as this landscape has evolved. Founded in 2003, Forge was built around a simple premise: settlement planning should not be an afterthought, and it should not require attorneys to coordinate disconnected providers.

Today, Forge brings structured settlement planning, government benefits considerations, Medicare Set-Asides, trust planning and administration, long-term financial planning, and law-firm-focused financial services into one integrated platform.

By aligning these moving parts early, the focus shifts from reacting to post-settlement surprises to proactively protecting outcomes.

Winning the case is a milestone. Protecting the recovery is what makes it last.

About The Forge Companies

Since 2003, The Forge Companies (Forge) have been a trusted partner for plaintiff attorneys and their clients, guiding them through the complexities of the settlement planning process. Forge’s platform spans four core business lines—Forge Consulting, Advocacy Wealth Management, Advocacy Trust, and Forge Capital—delivering customized structured settlement annuity planning and insurance solutions; wealth management and long-term financial planning for injured families; Special Needs Trust planning and administration; and law-firm-focused financial services, including streamlined E&O underwriting, IOLTA organization and audit support, payroll administration, case cost accounting, plaintiff advance solutions, and enhanced financial reporting. One integrated platform delivering long-term strategies designed to support clients not only through the settlement process but also through the rest of their lives.

¹ Independent Life, Structured Settlements and Medicaid: Building the Legal Framework for Benefit Protection.

The Forge Companies Announces Acquisition of Capital Now Funding

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 18:22:49 GMT

The Forge Companies Announces Acquisition of Capital Now Funding, Expanding the Forge Capital Suite of Services

Strategic acquisition strengthens financial solutions available to plaintiff attorneys and their clients.

The Forge Companies and TA Announce Strategic Partnership

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 13:42:57 GMT

The Forge Companies and TA Announce Strategic Partnership

Partnership strengthens Forge’s integrated platform as settlement planning becomes increasingly critical for personal injury law firms and the families they serve.

The People and Purpose Behind Advocacy Trust

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 21:42:20 GMT

The People and Purpose Behind Advocacy Trust

As part of The Forge Companies, Advocacy Trust is built on a shared belief that meaningful work starts with understanding the real challenges clients face. Our team is driven by more than trust administration—it’s guided by purpose, empathy, and a commitment to the people and families we serve.

Meet members of the Advocacy Trust team as they share the motivations behind their work and the experiences that inspire them to serve individuals and families every day.

Kate Maloney, President

As President of Advocacy Trust, Kate Maloney’s path began with an interest in social work, driven by a desire to help others. While her career ultimately led her to trust administration, that passion never changed.

For Kate, building meaningful client relationships and supporting individuals and families is both an honor and a privilege.

Jaclyn Berry, Chief Revenue Officer

Jaclyn Berry has always had a heart for people. Whether serving the unhoused in her community or supporting families through her work, her commitment to helping others has remained constant.

After navigating complex care needs as a parent, Jaclyn gained a deeper, personal understanding of the challenges many Advocacy Trust clients face. That experience continues to shape her work and reinforces her “why”—ensuring families feel supported, understood, and advocated for every step of the way .

Kelli Gardner, Chief Fiduciary Counsel

For Kelli Gardner , nothing is more fulfilling than using her skills and knowledge to help others. Throughout her legal career, she has worked closely with individuals with disabilities, their families, and their advisors to navigate the complexities of special needs trusts and public benefits.

Joining Advocacy Trust gave Kelli the opportunity to work alongside a passionate, knowledgeable team committed to finding real-world solutions for clients. Being part of an organization focused on advocacy and meaningful outcomes is central to her “why.”

Jasmine Walker, Senior Trust Manager

From the very beginning of her career, Jasmine Walker worked with court-created, special needs, and elder service trusts. Over time, she discovered her true calling in special needs trust administration.

For Jasmine, the ability to advocate for families and build meaningful client relationships brings a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment. Knowing she can make a difference in the lives of those she serves is what makes her work especially rewarding.

Amanda Luthy, Special Asset Manager

For Amanda Luthy , no two days in the trust industry are the same. Each day brings new challenges and opportunities to support clients in meaningful ways.

Amanda finds fulfillment in using her knowledge and experience to contribute to positive outcomes for those Advocacy Trust serves. She is also inspired by the optimism, competence, and compassion of her fellow team members, making collaboration and shared purpose central to her work.

Shawn Mitchell, Senior Trust Officer

After working in a traditional trust environment, Shawn Mitchell began to reflect on the impact of his work and the difference he wanted to make.

At Advocacy Trust, Shawn found his “why” in serving clients whose trusts play a critical role in their daily lives. Helping individuals navigate benefits and access resources they may not have known were available allows Shawn to make a meaningful difference—one that continues to inspire him every day.

Laura Schlesing, Trust Officer

Laura Schlesing’s journey to Advocacy Trust is shaped by personal experience and a deep desire to find purpose in her work. After stepping away from her finance career to care for her family through significant challenges, she returned to the industry with a renewed sense of direction.

At Advocacy Trust, Laura finds fulfillment in walking alongside clients with empathy, patience, and understanding during some of life’s most difficult moments. Being able to relate to clients and help guide them through complex, emotional processes is what makes her work truly meaningful.

Nick LaMorte, Trust Officer

Nick LaMorte’s “why” is rooted in his passion for helping others. Combining that passion with his interest in finance and trust services makes his work especially meaningful.

Surrounded by colleagues who share a deep commitment to clients, Nick finds fulfillment in providing support that creates real, lasting impact for individuals and families.

Chris Matthews, Trust Officer

Shaped by his parents’ example, Chris Matthews has always carried a desire to serve others. That foundation guides his work as a Trust Officer at Advocacy Trust.

Chris finds purpose in supporting individuals and families who have faced life-changing challenges. Being part of a team that provides meaningful services and long-term support allows him to make a lasting impact in the lives of those he serves.

Advocacy Trust’s Chief Fiduciary Counsel Named to Special Needs Alliance

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 20:23:49 GMT

Advocacy Trust’s Chief Fiduciary Counsel Named to Special Needs Alliance

Kelli Gardner, JD, Chief Fiduciary Counsel at Advocacy Trust, a proud part of The Forge Companies, selected as the newest member of the Special Needs Alliance

Don’t Just Earn Fees. Build Your Future.

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 15:10:20 GMT

by Marcy Espinosa Hanson, RSP

President, Forge Consulting

Don’t Just Earn Fees. Build Your Future.

As a contingent-fee plaintiff attorney, your work brings life-changing results to your clients, and a successful case often ends with a well-earned payday. But when those fees arrive as a single lump sum, the celebration can be short-lived. A large check often means a large tax bill, sometimes big enough to take a significant bite out of your success. Without the right strategy, much of your hard work can be diminished the moment you receive it.

That’s where fee deferral comes in. Fee deferrals provide a smarter way forward. Instead of taking all your fees at once, you can defer and structure them into future payments, creating a financial plan that works as hard as you do.

Five key advantages of deferring your fees:

1. Turn Lump-Sum Fees into Steady, Reliable Income

A big payday can bring immediate gratification, but it doesn't guarantee long-term stability. A fee deferral plan gives you the option to set up a schedule of recurring payments, giving you a more predictable and consistent income stream that can enhance both your personal life and professional practice.

2. Manage When Taxes Come Due

With a deferral, you don't have to recognize all of your earnings in the year they're received. Instead, you have the power to push income into future years, which means more control over when taxes are paid. That timing flexibility helps you plan ahead to avoid draining liquidity just to cover an immediate tax bill.

3. Reduce the Size of your Tax Hit

Large lump sums can push you into the highest tax brackets in a single year. Spreading fees across multiple years helps you smooth income, potentially lowering your overall tax burden by keeping you in more favorable brackets.

4. Leverage Deferral for Potential Growth

One of the most powerful advantages of a fee deferral plan is the ability to grow assets before taxes are paid. Depending on the deferral method, your fees may be placed in a structured annuity or invested in market-based vehicles. In either case, deferral allows more of your money to remain at work until distributions begin, which can provide an opportunity for compounding growth that isn’t available when taxes are paid up front.

5. Align Income with Your Future Goals

Everyone's goals are different. Whether you're saving for retirement, children's education, reinvesting in your firm, or simply ensuring a reliable income stream later in life, by tailoring how and when you receive payments, you can create a financial plan that truly aligns with your personal goals and provides the security you need.

Why Work With The Forge Companies?

Deferring fees isn’t as simple as asking to get paid later. It requires careful planning and structuring to ensure the strategy works as intended. At The Forge Companies, we work with contingent-fee plaintiff attorneys to create deferral solutions that fit their practice, align with their long-term goals, and provide confidence and stability well beyond the next case.

Get Started Today!

If you’re considering fee deferral, now is the time to explore your options before your next settlement closes. Connect with our team to start the conversation and learn how your fees can work harder for your future.

A Partnership with Purpose: How Montag & Caldwell Strengthens Advocacy Wealth Management's Client-First Mission

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 19:17:41 GMT

A Partnership with Purpose

How Montag & Caldwell Strengthens Advocacy Wealth Management's Client-First Mission

At The Forge Companies, every decision we make starts with one question: Will this improve the lives, outcomes, and service experience of those we serve?

When we welcomed Montag & Caldwell (M&C) into the Advocacy Wealth Management (AWM) family in August 2024, it wasn’t just a business move. It was a purposeful step to strengthen our ability to deliver the highest level of care, planning, and investment solutions to a diverse client base.

As Tommy Johnson , CEO Emeritus of AWM, said, “Our clients, especially injured parties and their families, deserve not only the highest level of care and understanding, but also a full array of financial planning and investment options to help secure their futures. Partnering with Montag & Caldwell allows us to expand the range of services we offer and support each client’s unique circumstances with even greater care.”

By broadening our reach while staying true to our client-first values, we continue to deliver exceptional wealth management for injured individuals, their families, the attorneys who serve them, and law firms nationwide.

A Unified Approach to Lasting Wealth Management

The integration of M&C into AWM brings together two firms with complementary strengths and a shared commitment to delivering thoughtful, results-driven wealth management. AWM has long served as a fiduciary to more than 1,000 families, guiding them through the complexities of financial decision-making after injury. M&C adds deep experience with institutional clients, including retirement plans, endowments, foundations, and other organizations, and a history of providing investment strategies to other wealth advisory firms.

Charlie Markwalter , CEO of AWM and Portfolio Manager for M&C, explained, “Montag & Caldwell’s long tradition of developing proprietary investment strategies aligns perfectly with Advocacy Wealth Management’s dedication to guiding clients through life’s most complex financial decisions. Together, we will provide thoughtful, personalized solutions that address the specific needs of each client we serve.”

When the acquisition was finalized on August 1, 2024, the combined entity managed more than $2.5 billion in assets. By June 30, 2025, that figure had grown to over $2.9 billion, a reflection of both expanded capabilities and the trust placed in this partnership to deliver meaningful, measurable results. M&C will continue operating as Montag & Caldwell, an Advocacy Wealth Company , maintaining its name and legacy as a valued member of The Forge Companies.

This enhanced platform offers broader investment strategies, from proprietary equity and fixed-income portfolios to customized asset allocations tailored to each client’s goals. It brings together more than 20 credentialed professionals, including Chartered Financial Analysts and Certified Financial Planners, collaborating to provide well-rounded, strategic guidance. It delivers a seamless experience that blends disciplined investment management with comprehensive planning for individuals, families, law firms, and institutions.

Every recommendation, strategy, and decision is grounded in a deep understanding of client priorities, whether that means safeguarding a legal settlement, managing a multi-generational family portfolio, growing a law firm’s reserves, or meeting the fiduciary responsibilities of an institutional account.

Looking Ahead

The integration of Montag & Caldwell into Advocacy Wealth Management is more than a milestone; it’s a foundation for continued growth and innovation. With expanded capabilities, a deep and diverse team, and a unified commitment to delivering thoughtful, personalized solutions, we are positioned to meet the evolving needs of those we serve. Whether protecting a settlement, managing complex institutional assets, or guiding long-term planning, our focus remains the same: providing a wealth management experience that delivers meaningful results and enduring value.

Trust Services That Stand Out From the Rest

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 18:13:15 GMT

As part of The Forge Companies, Advocacy Trust offers a holistic platform for trust clients as well as plaintiff attorneys and their clients, providing the attention, guidance, and personalized support needed to navigate even the most complex financial situations.

From trust planning to administration, their team is committed to helping clients protect settlements, achieve financial security, and plan with confidence; today and into the future.

Products & Services

Special Needs Trusts
Settlement Trusts
Asset Protection Trusts
Minors Trusts
Administrative Services
Philanthropy & Charitable Giving

What Sets The Forge Companies Apart

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 19:24:41 GMT

Since 2003, The Forge Companies have been a trusted partner to both legal professionals and clients, guiding them with clarity and care through every phase of the settlement process.

Unlike traditional financial firms or money managers, we focus solely on those who have endured life-altering events, providing comprehensive, client-centered solutions designed exclusively for individuals and families navigating life after a personal injury settlement, and the plaintiff attorneys who represent them.

Whether you’ve partnered with us for years and want to explore how we can do even more together, or you’re just getting to know us, we’d love to talk about how we can support you and your next case!

A Name Forged in Justice - Still Guiding Us Today

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 18:28:30 GMT

When The Forge Companies were founded more than 20 years ago, every part of our identity was created with intention —from our name to our logo.

Our logo was inspired by one of the most enduring Celtic symbols, representing eternal justice and strength. It was a fitting choice for a company built to support plaintiffs and the attorneys who fight for them. The name “Forge” was more than a brand; it was a mission:

• To forge ahead with innovative solutions in the settlement industry
• To uphold justice through unwavering allegiance to our clients
• To gain strength through shared knowledge and trusted partnerships

Two decades later, that mission still guides us. Whether we’re protecting benefits, navigating complex settlements, or providing long-term financial support, we remain committed to the values our brand was built on.

What we stand for hasn’t changed. Only the ways we serve have grown.

The Forge Companies Announce Strategic Partnership with Attorney Rebecca Blount

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 14:16:19 GMT

The Forge Companies Announce Strategic Partnership with Attorney Rebecca Blount

Leveraging Decades of Legal Experience to Better Serve Plaintiffs and Their Attorneys

Advocacy Trust Celebrates Major Milestone

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 20:24:58 GMT

Advocacy Trust Celebrates Major Milestone

Advocacy Trust, LLC Celebrates 10 Years of Excellence in Trust and Fiduciary Services

Full Circle Coverage Announces New Partnership with Golden Bear

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 14:35:42 GMT

Full Circle Coverage Announces New Partnership with Golden Bear

Full Circle Coverage Partners with Golden Bear Insurance to Expand E&O Insurance Solutions

Full Circle Coverage Included in UGA Bulldog 100

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 19:41:27 GMT

Full Circle Coverage Included in UGA Bulldog 100

Congratulations to our team at Full Circle Coverage for being named to UGA Bulldog100.

Full Circle is led by two outstanding UGA Alumni:

Cory Phillips, Principal - Class of 2003

Charlie Culverhouse, Managing Partner - Class of 2004

The Forge Companies Announce Andy Mayer as New Settlement Consultant

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 20:03:02 GMT

The Forge Companies Announce Andy Mayer as New Settlement Consultant

Bringing Nearly Three Decades of Banking Knowledge to Support Families and Enhance Settlement Planning Services

Every Step of the Way

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 19:32:00 GMT

At The Forge Companies, our commitment to clients extends beyond financial planning—we’re also here for life’s unexpected challenges. Our team is dedicated to providing top-tier services by designing customized plans that address immediate and future needs, ensuring our clients are supported through every phase of their journey. If you’d like to learn more about how we can help your clients, connect with us today!

Heart of Forge: Atlanta Team Helps the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 20:56:36 GMT

Heart of Forge: Atlanta Team Helps the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy

For this Heart of Forge spotlight, we are thrilled to highlight our Atlanta office! Last month, members of our Forge Consulting, Advocacy Trust, and Advocacy Wealth teams spent the morning with Zobida Dat and Jenifer Hossler from the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy (GCCA). Together, they assembled goodie bags for GCCA’s upcoming Trunk or Treat event. We stuffed bags full of fun surprises and encouraging notes for kids and their families.

The Georgia Center for Child Advocacy supports sexually and physically abused children through prevention, intervention, therapy, and collaboration. These services are provided at no cost to children who reside in or were abused in DeKalb or Fulton County. GCCA equips adults and youth with awareness, prevention education, and resources to take action.

To learn more about the life-changing work that the Georgia Center for Child Advocacy does or to get involved, head to their website at https://georgiacenterforchildadvocacy.org/ .

About The Heart of Forge

The Heart of Forge campaign is a celebration of the remarkable contributions our team members make beyond the workplace. Through acts of service, volunteer work, and community involvement, they embody our core values of trust, respect, excellence, empathy, and selflessness. At The Forge Companies, we believe that giving back is essential to who we are, and this campaign allows us to shine a light on the many ways our team is making a positive impact on the communities we serve. Stay tuned as we continue to share these inspiring stories of generosity and dedication.

Heart of Forge: Shawn Mitchell Volunteers with the Iredell County Sheriff's Office

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 21:10:19 GMT

Heart of Forge: Shawn Mitchell Volunteers with the Iredell County Sheriff's Office

We are thrilled to highlight Shawn Mitchell , a Trust Officer on our Advocacy Trust team, for his incredible work with the Iredell County Sheriff's Office during their Youth Outdoor Education Week.

Shawn dedicated his time to help teach a dozen young participants, aged 8-16, important skills and safety techniques for outdoor activities. From Hunter Education and Bow Hunting to Black Powder Firearms and Boating Safety, these kids learned invaluable lessons from experts like Shawn and the N.C. Wildlife Resource Commission personnel.The week culminated in an exciting range day, where the youth had the chance to put their knowledge to the test by safely handling and shooting the firearms they had studied.

Shawn, thank you for embodying our core values of trust, respect, and excellence and for helping educate the next generation in meaningful ways. Your dedication to empowering and mentoring youth through hands-on experiences is truly inspiring!

About The Heart of Forge

Heart of Forge: Laura Schlesing and her dedication to Gigi's Playhouse of Charlotte

Thu, 15 Aug 2024 18:32:39 GMT

Heart of Forge: Laura Schlesing and her dedication to Gigi's Playhouse of Charlotte

We are thrilled to highlight one of our Trust Officers, Laura Schlesing . Laura is a dedicated board member of Gigi's Playhouse of Charlotte, a remarkable Down Syndrome Achievement Center 100% volunteer-run with just two paid staff members. Gigi's Playhouse aims to change the world's perception of Down Syndrome, offering free educational, therapeutic, and career development programs to embrace individuals with Down Syndrome, their families, and communities. Their vision is to create a global message of acceptance and support.

Laura's connection to Gigi's Playhouse is not just professional; it's deeply personal and profoundly impactful. Her 10-year-old son, who has Down Syndrome, has faced and overcome numerous challenges early in life, including a battle with leukemia from 2016 to 2019. Despite these hurdles, he has thrived, a testament to the support and opportunities provided by Gigi's Playhouse. Laura's journey with her son fuels her passion and commitment to this cause, especially as the center rebuilds from the impact of COVID-19.

Laura is planning Gigi's Playhouse's annual gala at the Ballantyne Resort on October 11, 2024, aiming to raise crucial funds for Gigi's Playhouse. This event will support their programs, bring in new resources, and further their mission to serve families with special needs in our community. Learn more about Gigi's Playhouse and their upcoming gala here: Gigi's Playhouse.

Laura, we want to express our deepest gratitude for your unwavering dedication and the difference you are making beyond the office. Your personal and professional commitment to serving the special needs community is truly inspiring, and we are honored to have you as part of our team. Thank you for all that you do!

About The Heart of Forge

Advocacy Wealth Management and Montag & Caldwell Join Forces

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 16:28:57 GMT

Advocacy Wealth Management and Montag & Caldwell Join Forces

Heart of Forge: Charlie Feehan and His Incredible Volunteer Work with Make A Miracle

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 20:43:16 GMT

Heart of Forge: Charlie Feehan and his incredible volunteer work with Make A Miracle

We proudly highlight the President of Abacus Advisors , Charlie Feehan , for his incredible volunteer work with the non-profit Make A Miracle.

In March, Charlie traveled with Make a Miracle to San Juan de Lurigancho, Lima, Peru – the poorest section of Peru with an average monthly household income of just $139. During this incredible journey, Charlie and the volunteers:

• Dedicated the third floor of a wellness/community center serving the community of San Antonio de Padua;

• Distributed backpacks to students preparing for the new school year;

• Built three homes for needy families;

• Spent valuable time with the students his family sponsors to go to college, fostering a personal connection and providing opportunities for kids since there is no public aid or assistance for kids to go to college.

Make A Miracle is a non-profit with the mission to bring hope and lasting change to Colombia and Peru. They work with individuals and communities to transform lives through education, scholarships, housing and community projects. To learn more about the life-changing work that Make A Miracle does, or to get involved, head to their website at www.makeamiracle.net .

About The Heart of Forge

The Forge Companies Announces Hillary B. Cranford as new Senior Financial Consultant

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 20:13:22 GMT

The Forge Companies Announces Hillary B. Cranford as New Senior Financial Consultant

The Forge Companies attracts top talent with the addition of Cranford to the Settlement Planning team

Advocacy Trust Expands Board of Managers

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 17:15:30 GMT

Advocacy Trust Welcomes Industry Veterans to Enhance Client Care Standards

Advocacy Trust (AT) is thrilled to announce the growth and expansion of its Board of Managers with the addition of Mrs. Leslie Coyle, CTFA, CFP®, Mr. Rob Ragsdale, CFP®, AIF, and Mr. Steven Stewart. With a combined industry experience exceeding 60 years in trust and financial services, these esteemed individuals strengthen AT’s commitment to excellence.

AT is a Tennessee chartered trust company with reciprocity in many states throughout the country, enabling the company and its team to provide the absolute best care and services to beneficiaries nationwide. With over $1B in assets under administration, AT specializes in enhancing the lives of clients, families, and caregivers through investment, trust, tax, and fiduciary services. This commitment and dedication is further strengthened and enhanced by AT's extensive team of professionals, ensuring round-the-clock client support. The expansion of the Board of Managers is a pivotal step in AT's ongoing mission to deliver unparalleled care to clients both present and future.

Kate Maloney , President of AT, expressed her enthusiasm for the new appointments, stating, “I am thrilled to have Leslie Coyle, Steve Stewart, and Rob Ragsdale join our Board of Managers. They bring a wealth of knowledge to us that will be invaluable as we continue to grow the company. We look forward to their insight and support towards our mission to provide best-in-class trust services to the individuals and families we work with.” Coyle, Stewart, and Ragsdale join forces with current AT Board of Managers members: Mr. Jay Butler, CEO of AT, Mr. Spooner Phillips, Founder and CEO of The Forge Companies (TFC), Mr. David Paventi, COO of TFC, Mrs. Beth Allen, Chief Marketing and Relationship Officer of TFC, and Mr. Sean Coleman, Managing Director at Bay Point Advisors, LLC.

“Advocacy Trust, with our focus on clients living with special circumstances, strives to set the standard for their needs with empathy and professionalism. Adding Rob, Steven, and Leslie to the board gives us a wide base of expertise to leverage to ensure we always provide world class financial, medical and general life care needs” states AT CEO, Jay Butler .

About Advocacy Trust
Advocacy Trust offers a comprehensive suite of services including special needs trusts, settlement trusts, asset protection trusts, minors trust planning, and fiduciary and administrative services. As part of The Forge Companies, Advocacy Trust is committed to providing tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of its clients.

About The Forge Companies
The Forge Companies focus on guiding plaintiff attorneys and their clients through the entire settlement planning process. To make this process more inclusive, they established an investment management firm, Advocacy Wealth Management, to complement existing annuity planning services and a trust company, Advocacy Trust, offering a full range of traditional and special needs trust services.

For Media Inquiries:
Beth Allen
Chief Marketing and Relationship Officer, The Forge Companies
ballen@forgeconsulting.com

IOLTA Accounting Made Easy

Fri, 03 May 2024 17:20:23 GMT

With the help of our Forge for Business partner, Abacus Advisor, understanding and managing your IOLTA account doesn't have to be stressful. Their team of accountants, payroll professionals, and seasoned business executives have over 200 years of collective experience. They provide services including, but not limited to:

IOLTA clean-up to reconcile IOLTA balances with client information
Monthly reconciliations, client-level accounting for client costs and trust transactions
Bill-pay for firm and client expenses
Settlement support for plaintiff firms.

A Testimonial From Our Friend Gibson Vance

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 12:35:47 GMT

We are incredibly honored to have our close friend Gibson Vance share his experience working with The Forge Companies. At The Forge Companies, trust isn’t just a product we offer; it’s the goal of our relationship. We have over 150 teammates and together, we have worked to build our core values of trust, respect, excellence, empathy, and selflessness, allowing us to build genuine, lasting relationships with our clients and with each other.

New Year's Insurance Checklist

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 19:08:52 GMT

by Charlie Culverhouse, CIC, CLCS

Managing Partner, Full Circle Coverage

Start your new year by ensuring you and your family are properly covered in 2024! Follow these tips to make sure you have the right insurance coverage for a secure and prosperous new year:

Review your homeowners/renters insurance.
If you own a home, review your homeowners insurance policy to ensure it covers the current value of your home and its contents. If you're renting, review your renters insurance to make sure it adequately covers your personal belongings.

Update your home inventory.
If you received treasures and trinkets this holiday season, ensure they are safeguarded by adding them to your home inventory list. An updated home inventory list makes filing a claim more manageable and efficient. Talk to your agent about these new items to ensure they don't need additional coverage.

Review your health insurance.
Ensure that your health insurance coverage is adequate for your family's needs. Check if there are any changes in your health status or if there are new family members. Understand the terms of your policy, including copayments, deductibles, and coverage limits.

Evaluate your auto insurance policy.
Assess your auto insurance coverage, considering any changes in your driving habits, vehicle values, or the number of drivers in your household. Ensure that you have sufficient liability coverage and consider adding comprehensive and collision coverage based on your vehicle's value.

Review your life insurance policy(s).
Evaluate your life insurance needs, especially if there have been significant changes in your life, such as the birth of a child, marriage, or other life events. Ensure that the coverage amount aligns with your family's needs in the event of the unexpected.

Make sure your beneficiaries are up to date.
Check and update the beneficiaries on your life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and other relevant documents. Ensure that these designations reflect your current wishes.

Consult with an Insurance Professional:
Our team is here for you! Whether you're a current client or you need clarification about your insurance needs or coverage options, our insurance professionals are here for you! We can help you navigate the complexities of insurance and tailor coverage to your specific situation.

Settlement Planning Services for You And Your Clients Made Easy

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 16:23:43 GMT

At The Forge Companies, we pride ourselves in providing a full range of settlement planning, wealth management, trust planning, and business administration services, making all aspects of the settlement process easy for you and your clients. Get immediate access to our team’s expertise and help protect your client’s settlement recovery while offering a newfound sense of financial freedom.

More Than Just Insurance Coverage

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 20:41:07 GMT

At Full Circle Coverage, we pride ourselves on building personal relationships with clients so that we can best serve them and protect what matters most. We are more than just insurance coverage. We are a smart solution for individuals, families, and businesses who have more to protect.

Forge for Business- We Practice the Business of Law

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 19:43:01 GMT

Forge for Business provides a broad range of financial services tailored to meet the needs of contingent fee attorneys, law firms, and general businesses. Services include bookkeeping, IOLTA accounting, payroll, insurance services, attorney fee deferral products and solutions, lien solutions, and more.

Abacus Advisors

You do the law; we do the financials. Enabling attorneys to focus on revenue generation while we manage the firm's business.

Bookkeeping

Monthly reconciliations including client-level IOLTA reconciliations
Bill pay services
Settlement support services
Financial improvement projects

Payroll

Payroll processing, electronic timekeeping, PTO accrual and tracking, electronic employee and employer reporting
Federal, State, and local tax management
On-boarding and off-boarding
Employee handbook consulting and development

Abacus PEO/Benefits Consulting Group

The increasing cost of providing health insurance benefits to employees is a significant issue for all businesses, including law firms. To that end, we have partnered with two best-in-class organizations to offer an opportunity to identify the best option for each business. Contact us today for a side-by-side proposal of group health benefits and a PEO option.

Full Circle Coverage

More than just insurance coverage. We are a smart solution for individuals, families, and businesses who have more to protect.

Deferral Solutions

As a contingency fee-based attorney, you have the unique option to defer your fees and delay the recognition of taxable income on your cases. Several options exist today, including:

Structured Attorney Fees
Market-Based Structured Attorney Fees
Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation
409(a) Deferral Solution

ZipLiens

We are an industry leader in subrogation and lien resolution. From Medicare and Medicaid to ERISA and Hospital liens, our on-staff attorneys and legal experts have the knowledge and experience to handle your liens efficiently and get your clients what they deserve. Benefits of outsourcing subrogation include:

Significant Time And Cost Savings
Complete Process Transparency
Responsive Communication
Better Reductions And Happier Clients

Why Choose The Forge Companies

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 14:53:17 GMT

At The Forge Companies, we are ready to be your advocate. Our company is made up of over 150 professionals with decades of industry experience and is well known for the caring support provided to plaintiffs and their families who have dealt with adversity and financial challenges. From structured annuities, traditional and special needs trust services, insurance solutions, financial planning and so much more, we welcome any opportunity to provide the best client care in the industry.

Tips to Ensure a Hauntingly Safe Halloween

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 20:19:47 GMT

by Charlie Culverhouse, CIC, CLCS

Managing Partner, Full Circle Coverage

Halloween is just around the corner, and we're all gearing up for a night of tricks, treats, and spooky surprises. But before you dive headfirst into the festivities, it's crucial to remember that safety should be a top priority.

Whether you're a parent keeping an eye on your little monsters or a grown-up ready to embrace your inner child, we have some helpful tips to help you avoid a nightmare on your street!

Ensure your house's trick-or-treating path is clear of any tripping or slipping hazards, such as electrical cords, hoses, sprinklers, branches, and debris.
Plan your route in advance to avoid streets that don't have streetlights or sidewalks.
Advise your children to only eat their candy once they get home so you can inspect it for signs of tampering, such as discoloration, tiny pinholes, open wrappers, or no wrapper.
Drive Safe! Be alert and drive at reduced speeds in residential areas. Always designate a sober driver before attending or hosting Halloween parties.
Ensure your furry friends are secure and away from the front door to prevent them from escaping when greeting trick-or-treaters.
Use battery-operated candles instead of real flames in jack-o'-lanterns to prevent fires.
Secure all tails, capes, and other long trailing fabric on costumes to avoid tripping hazards.
Carry flashlights or glow sticks and add reflective tape to costumes for visibility.
Consider face paint and make-up instead of a mask to help your monsters see better.
Always travel in a group and make sure young trick-or-treaters are accompanied by a responsible adult.

By following these Halloween safety tips, you can ensure that your spooky celebrations are full of fun and laughter, with all the frights confined to the realm of make-believe. For even more protection this holiday season, talk to our Full Circle Coverage team about a comprehensive insurance plan tailored to your needs!New Paragraph

Mediation Time? The Forge Companies Can Help!

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 17:25:23 GMT

Allow The Forge Companies to be a dependable resource for you and your client right from the beginning and find comfort in the knowledge that we will continue to stand as strong advocates long after the mediation process concludes.

Advocacy Trust Announces Opening of New York Office

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 12:24:00 GMT

Advocacy Trust Expands to New York

Offering Top-Tier Trust Services

Advocacy Trust LLC is pleased to announce the opening of its full-service Trust Office in New York, led by Sinead Fitzsimons , Senior Trust Manager, located at 529 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY.

Kate Maloney, Chief Fiduciary Officer, expressed her enthusiasm about the expansion of top-tier trust services in New York. "We are thrilled to expand our top-quality trust services in New York and to have this effort led by Sinead Fitzsimons, a veteran in the special needs trust arena."

With over 25 years of expertise in trust administration, Sinead specializes in aiding individuals with special needs and guiding their families through the intricacies of Supplemental Needs Trusts. Sinead will collaborate with Trust Officer, Hilda Cabrera , supported by our team of professionals, collectively bringing decades of experience in managing intricate trust affairs.

Established with the mission to deliver exceptional trust services to individuals and families affected by significant loss or adversity, Advocacy Trust has been guided by core values that underscore the significance of trust, excellence, and respect. In conjunction with its affiliated entities, Forge Consulting, a settlement planning firm, and Advocacy Wealth Management, an investment advisory practice, Advocacy Trust has the team, the knowledge, and the capability to assist clients seeking comprehensive financial solutions beyond a standard plan.

For questions or additional information regarding this announcement, please contact Beth Allen, Marketing Director of The Forge Companies, at 706-856-2535.

AWM Insights - A Tale of Fat Tails

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 13:24:24 GMT

AWM's Robbie Wright provides a summary of the first quarter Insights from Advocacy Wealth Management. You can read the latest edition of Insights at https://www.advocacywealth.com/insights .

AWM Insights - December 2022

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 20:37:29 GMT

AWM Insights - December 2022

Advocacy Wealth Management provides periodic updates and insights into the financial markets. Read the latest edition of AWM's Insights by clicking the button below.

A Brief Modern History of the Federal Funds Rate & Inflation

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 19:50:59 GMT

A Brief Modern History of the Federal Funds Rate & Inflation

From July 1983 to September 2022, the purchasing power of the consumer dollar in the U.S. declined steadily by a total of -66.3%, to a new low. Inflation, the silent thief, steals workers’ wage increases before food can even be put on the table or gas in the vehicle.

This piece looks at two periods of inflation and the actions to combat it by the Federal Reserve’s Board of Governors. Arthur Burns and Paul Volcker oversaw most of the first period 1966 -1982 as chairs of that Board. Ben Bernanke, Janet Yellen and Jerome Powell all chaired the Board in the run up to our current inflation rate of over 8%. We will judge their actions by the effects on our economy.

Through this examination we will come to conclusions about what may happen over the coming period as the Federal Reserve under current chair Powell tries to achieve “price stability” by containing inflation.

Finally, we will explain how we have positioned investment portfolios within those conclusions.

The Benefits of Deferring Your Attorney Fees

Fri, 14 Oct 2022 19:13:50 GMT

The Benefits of Deferring
Your Attorney Fees

by Marshall Allen, CFP®, CTFA

Director of Deferral Solutions, Forge For Business

As contingency-based attorneys, you don’t catch a lot of breaks. However, one benefit you do have is the unique option to defer your fees and delay the recognition of taxable income. There are several products that exist today; the most common is the traditional structured attorney fee but there are other options as well, such as Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation.

What is an attorney fee deferral?

In its simplest form, a fee deferral product is a tax-advantaged solution that can aid you in managing your practice and your personal wealth. Each one will come with different features, but they all allow you to defer your contingent fees and delay recognizing that fee as taxable income on your personal income tax return.

Why should I consider deferring my fees and what are some of the potential benefits of utilizing a fee deferral product?

Utilizing a fee deferral product can allow you to lower your marginal and/or your effective tax rate. Your marginal rate is simply the highest rate at which you pay taxes. For example, if someone makes more than $647,850, and files their taxes jointly with their spouse, then their federal marginal tax rate is 37%. That is the highest tax rate you’ll pay. Since we have a progressive tax system, you pay tax at each tax bracket. Once you are over $647,850 you will start paying at the highest federal rate of 37%. The effective tax rate is just the blended average tax rate that you’re paying.

As a contingent fee attorney, your income is likely inconsistent. By utilizing a fee deferral product, you can choose when and how you’ll receive your fee in the future. Creating a stream of future payments can ultimately give you more control over your income and smooth out the ebbs and flows.

If you’re interested in learning more about deferring your fees, please give us a call today at 866-683-6743 .

AWM Insights - September 2022

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 19:01:06 GMT

AWM Insights - September 2022

Advocacy Wealth Management provides periodic updates and insights into the financial markets. Read the latest edition of AWM's Insights by clicking the button below.

2022 AAJ Annual Convention

Fri, 15 Jul 2022 15:11:44 GMT

2022 AAJ Annual Convention

Spooner Phillips and Tracee Wagner are in Seattle for the 2022 AAJ Annual Convention . They kicked off the week attending the Belli Dinner on Thursday evening, followed by speaking at the Belli Seminar on Friday afternoon.

Sponsors of the Leaders Forum suite since, 2003, The Forge Team will be spending their time visiting with old friends and new faces sharing information on our new Forge For Business products including fee deferral solutions, MSA/Lien Solutions, insurance options, and back office support.

TFC is also in it’s third year of sponsoring the AAJ Move Challenge which encourages a healthy balance of movement and activity in between seminars and social time. We will be handing out awesome prizes on-site each day and will have a grand prize for the winner. Participants also have the option to sign-up for one of our Forge Fit Move Challenge shirts.

We will be spending time with the AAJ Trucking Litigation Group on Saturday evening followed by co-hosting a celebratory party for AAJ’s Incoming President and friend of TFC, Tad Thomas.

We hope to see you there!

Welcome to Sword & Shield: The Forge Companies Blog

Fri, 20 May 2022 17:09:22 GMT

Welcome to Sword & Shield :

The Forge Companies Blog

by Spooner Phillips, CSSC

CEO, Forge Consulting

Welcome to Sword & Shield , the official blog of The Forge Companies. We look forward to telling you all about our companies, employees, events, communities, and more.

We founded Forge Consulting in January 2003 with five team members and a single product approach. Our mission and passion rapidly made us a sought-after source of settlement planning information for the plaintiffs' bar and the people they represent.

In 2006, we recognized a gap in the marketplace: wealth management firms primarily offered standardized, inflexible solutions which were incapable of resolving the complexity of our clients' needs. In January 2007, we launched a unique Registered Investment Advisory, Advocacy Wealth Management (AWM). AWM strives to enhance income predictability with portfolios customized for each client's individual needs rather than by attempting to predict markets.

At the beginning of 2015, we created an affiliated trust company, Advocacy Trust (AT). The experts at AT assist with the design and creation of numerous types of trust accounts for injured plaintiffs. Whether you are a family, an individual, an attorney, a CPA/financial planner, or an advisor, AT provides caring support to individuals who have dealt with adversity and economic challenges.

Because we have worked closely with plaintiffs' attorneys for two decades, we have a unique understanding of their needs. That's why we created Forge Capital to provide a broad range of financial services to contingent fee attorneys and their firms. Services include cash management solutions, lending, and business management services.

Today, The Forge Companies employ over 100 people. Every employee is committed to serving plaintiff attorneys and the clients you represent. If you would like to learn more about The Forge Companies or to involve us in your settlement planning process, please give us a call at 866-683-6743 or contact us using this form .