And a sizable chunk of that will flow into the pockets of the attorneys who represented the plaintiffs.

Megan: At one point, Weinstein’s accusers were told they would receive as much as $90 million but that amount kept shrinking once Weinstein’s company filed for bankruptcy, forcing the women to get in line with the company’s creditors, and Weinstein has claimed that he was on the verge of filing for personal bankruptcy.

Will any of this money come from Weinstein’s pocket?

Megan: Under this agreement, Weinstein and the board members of his bankrupt company are not required to pay any money to his alleged victims. All of the money for the settlement is coming from The Weinstein Company insurance policies. The insurance companies are also covering a portion of the legal costs for Weinstein and the board members.

Some people have been shocked and dismayed that insurance companies are paying for Weinstein’s alleged sexual harassment and abuse — but this is the way insurance policies work. In fact, some specifically cover sexual harassment.

You mention in the story that another trial on charges of sexual assault involving two women is scheduled for late January. Tell us more about that case. And why aren’t they part of this original settlement?

Megan: There are two separate tracks by which Weinstein can be held legally accountable, one civil, one criminal. This tentative settlement involves dozens of women from around the world who are seeking financial recompense under civil law for the alleged sexual misconduct they suffered. Separately, Weinstein is being prosecuted here in New York for allegedly sexually assaulting two women. This case is an attempt to hold Weinstein accountable under criminal law. If convicted, he will go to prison.

The trial is scheduled to begin January 6. The two alleged victims would not be able to bring civil lawsuits against Weinstein until the criminal case is resolved.