Settlement Agreement and Release documents will stipulate the rights of the structured settlement payee to change the beneficiary. Generally a restriction barring the change of beneficiary is contained in settlement documents for a case involving structured attorney fees. Such a restriction is common with structured attorney fees to avoid an element of control which could trigger constructive receipt.
If you are considering taking advantage of structured attorney fees caution should be taken in naming the beneficiary as it generally cannot be changed. Naming the estate or a trust might be something to consider. In the event of divorce, death of beneficiary or remarriage, things will be alot more flexible.
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