§ 463:19-b — Settlements on Behalf of Minors or Judgments or Decrees in Favor of Minors

Settlements, judgments, or decrees, of any suit or claim brought on behalf of a minor by a parent or next friend shall be approved by the superior or district court in which the action is pending or to which a writ may be made returnable as follows:
I. If the net amount, as defined in RSA 463:2, VI, or the portion thereof, to be paid to the minor while still a minor, exceeds $10,000:
(a) Superior court or district court approval of settlements, including structured settlements, is required. The superior or district court shall require proof in the form of a certified statement from the probate court that the guardian ad litem, parent, next friend, or other person who receives money on behalf of the minor has been appointed guardian of the estate of such minor and is subject to the duties prescribed under RSA 463:19.
(b) In the case of a judgment or decree, the superior or district court shall, before making any orders for payment, require proof in the form of a certified statement from the probate court that the guardian ad litem, parent, next friend, or other person who receives money on behalf of the minor has been appointed guardian of the estate of such minor and is subject to the duties prescribed under RSA 463:19.
II. For any net amount, as defined in RSA 463:2, VI, which is to be paid to the minor after the minor attains the age of majority:
(a) The superior court or district court may require approval, for good cause shown, of settlements, including structured settlements.
(b) The superior court or district court may make further orders regarding distribution for good cause shown in the case of a judgment or decree.

Legislative History

2008, 93:2, eff. May 21, 2008.