BY COURT ORDER WE CANNOT DISCUSS THE OPT-IN PERCENTAGE. PLEASE DO NOT CALL OUR OFFICES ASKING ABOUT IT
A little known provision in the Settlement Process Agreement (“SPA”) will require the defendants to pay more money to most responders. We already have received over 96% of the Tier 4 claims releases, and many more in the other Tier levels. If 100% of the plaintiffs accept the settlement and sign releases, responders will get a hefty 10% more in the settlement, which would amount to over $62.5 million additional dollars. However, each opt-out reduces this potential additional payment.
Plaintiffs who opt out of the settlement may cost their fellow first responders compensation above the basic settlement amount of $625 million. The additional 10 percent ($62.5 million) that is available if everyone settles belongs in the responders hands, the heroes who put New York City back on its feet. This money should not stay in the hands of the Defendants or the WTC Captive. But that is where it will stay if too many plaintiffs opt out of the settlement. The more who accept, the less chance the Defendants will keep the money! So every vote counts. Even Tier 1 opt outs count against your fellow first responders. Make your vote count for all of your fellow first responders.
The opt-in period is almost over -- fewer than 24 hours are left until the deadline. We urge you to come to either our New York City, White Plains or Long Island office tomorrow with your settlement paperwork. We will be happy to meet with you and answer any questions, address any concerns, and assist you with filling out the paperwork. Do not let the WTC Captive keep money that the first responders could get. Make your vote count. Do not be one of the few who are shut out from missing the deadline. In addition, another 103.5 million dollars in settlements has been added and achieved. What are you waiting for come to one of our offices the deadline is Monday November 8th, 2010.
If one of your friends has not yet signed the settlement paperwork, please urge them to do so. Do not let them be left behind. Do not delay.
