Originally Posted by Rob

They "leaK" a big number in the news hoping it picks up traction. Once the news outlets report about the pending suit, counsel for the "victim", contacts opposing counsel for a settlement offer.

They tell the media they're going for $15M. They end up settling out of court, no media hoopla for around $5M. The attorney takes his 35% plus expenses, and the whole thing gets swept under the rug. It's media manipulation, employed to get desired results.

EDIT: Short answer, no, these big compensation demands are never paid at the actual amount.