Settlement for a Minor

My question involves juvenile law in the State of: Wisconsin
My son was in a car accident and we are close to settling his case. His injuries are such that he has a permenant scar on his face, we are roughly thinking his case should settle for about 20K or a little more. The attorny stated that the money he receives will be put into a bank account for when he turns 18 & there is no way to get any of the money for my son now for what he has been through. My question is: Will a judge ever allow some of the money be given to the child now rather than having to wait until they turn 18? It doesn't seem fair that he won't be able to spend it on something nice for himself now, since he is dealing with all of this. If a lawyer fights this, would the child ever receive some of the settlement prior to 18? Otherwise he has another 7 years until he can benefit from the money.

Thanks for any input.

He wants the money now for what? Video games? Psychological counseling? I would expect the court to approve a request for a release of funds necessary to pay for counseling.

You'll be able to seek permission to use the money for the minor's benefit before he turns 18, but you've given us no sense that the minor has any needs that might go unmet if you're not allowed to spend the money.

And trust me, when he turns 18 and is ready for college or a job, he'll be very grateful to have that money tucked away.

I'd further suggest that you petition the court that the money be placed in some type of investment account rather than a regualr savings account. Some states have college savings accounts that garner a decent return on the money. Bank CD's, or bonds can also be beneficial without risk. Although I'm sure your son would be happy to have some spending money now, I agree that it will be difficult to get the money if you can't show a need for it. Plus having money for the future will pay off in the long run. Research some of the higher end interest bearing accounts and see if you can't come up with something that will pay off even more.