If there’s one thing this year has taught me, it’s that trust isn’t built overnight. In the legal funding industry, where emotions run high and stakes are even higher, trust forms the bedrock of every relationship—whether it’s with a client filing a personal injury case or a law firm working tirelessly to represent their plaintiffs. As a member of Fund Capital America’s business development team, I’ve spent countless hours listening, learning, and forging meaningful connections—and I’d like to share some of the key lessons from 2024 that have shaped my perspective.

The first thing I’ve learned is that people crave genuine understanding. Whether it’s a plaintiff facing life-changing events—injuries, lawsuits, or financial challenges—or a law firm managing the complexities of multiple cases, both want to feel seen and heard. It’s not enough to simply know the legal jargon or the numbers; they need to know you truly “get” what they’re going through.

This year, I made it a priority to lead every conversation with empathy. Sometimes, that meant setting aside my agenda and simply letting the plaintiff or attorney share their story. The same holds true for law firms, which often juggle tight timelines and competing demands. Listening—really listening—has proven to be the fastest way to build trust, far more effective than any polished pitch ever could.

Transparency has also been a cornerstone of building relationships this year. I’ve found that being upfront about timelines, funding processes, or potential challenges is key. Clear and honest communication builds credibility, even when the news isn’t exactly what someone wants to hear. One client summed it up perfectly when they said, “I appreciate that you didn’t sugarcoat it.” That moment reminded me how much people value honesty over perfection.

Another insight I’ve gained is the power of consistency. Trust doesn’t develop from a single call or meeting; it’s built through ongoing engagement—every follow-up email, every update, every gesture of reliability. I’ve made it a habit to check in with our law firm partners regularly, even when there’s no major update to share. A simple, “I’m still here if you have questions,” has often been enough to reinforce that their case matters to me and that they’re not alone in the process.

Reflecting on this year, one truth stands out: trust is the bridge that connects plaintiffs and law firms to the outcomes they’re striving for. It’s built on empathy, honesty, and consistent effort. As I look ahead, I’m committed to strengthening these bridges, one conversation, one connection, and one act of trust at a time.