The Five Steps of a Personal Injury Case

Step #1 Do you have a case?

In order to decide if a case should be filed various steps need to be taken. Our offices offer Free Consultations to evaluate the following areas specific to your personal injury.

• Case merits. Is there a reasonable chance that you can win/
• Financial results to be achieved. How much money is needed to compensate you for your injuries, including future medical treatment, and lost wages.
• How long will the case take in order to receive a suitable settlement.
• How much will cost to litigate your case. Even though we advance costs we need to ensure that the final settlement will cover these costs as well as provide you with the money you need.

Step #2 The Discovery period

The next step of a personal injury lawsuit is called Discovery. That is when all parties exchange information and documents related to the case. This could include medical records, employment information, and other information requested by either side. Written questions and oral depositions from the injured and witnesses are also a part of the discovery period.

Step #3 Pre-Trial Conference

The Pre-Trial conference is held in court. During the pre-trial the following issues will be presented..

• Description of the case.
• List of witnesses
• List of expert witnesses
• A list of witnesses
• A list of exhibits which both sides intend to offer at time of trial.
• The setting of a trial date.

Step #4: Trial Preparation

Our legal team will meet with you to help prepare for the upcoming Trial. It is essential that you be well prepared.  You need to know all the facts of the case, including the harm cased to you because of the neglect of the wrongdoer.

You need to be prepared to present your past and current medical history, in preparation for a cross-examination by the opposing attorneys.

We will meet with any witnesses who are prepared to tell the jury about the harm caused by your injuries. These can be people who witness the accident, as well as other people such as your employer who can attest to your lost wages.

Step #5 The Trial

In a personal injury case the plaintiff needs to prove to the jury the facts alleged in their lawsuit. The defendant's attorney (usually the insurance company) will attempt to reduce or eliminate any compensation for your injuries.

The trial consists of:

• The Jury selection
• Opening statements by the plaintiff and defendant's attorneys.
• Presentation of the Plaintiff's evidence.
• Presentation of the Defendant's evidence.
• Closing statements by the attorneys from both sides.
• Judge's instructions to the jury.
• Jury deliberation.
• Jury verdict.
  

Most jury trials take several days. While the trial is in progress it is possible that the defandant's attorney will attempt to make a settlement before the jury's veridict.  If it makes sense we will present their settlemenet offer to you.  Otherwise upon the jury's favorable verdict, the insurance company will be required by the court to pay the damages awarded by the jury.