Understand your options when the insurance company makes a lowball injury settlement offer, and see a claimant's sample response letter. Learn what to do if your California attorney mishandles your settlement money during your personal injury lawsuit.Rejecting the settlement protects your rights to maximum compensation under California personal injury law and allows you to fight for a fair settlement. If you decide to reject the settlement offer, you'll need to do so in writing. The short answer is yes. This article delves into the complexities of such a decision, the subsequent steps, and the importance of informed legal guidance throughout the process. An attorney should not falsely hold out the possibility of settlement as a means for terminating discovery or delaying trial. When to File Your Claim. The California Tort Claims Act sets out strict guidelines for filing your claim with a governmental entity. Provide a clear explanation of why you are rejecting the offer and include any supporting evidence that backs up your position.