Pursuing lawsuits isn’t an everyday thing. Most of us have never been involved in trials, which makes the process intimidating. But not fighting for justice is the same as supporting legal duty breach. Hence, understanding the steps involved in personal injury lawsuit gets important.
1] Approaching a personal injury attorney
If you have been harmed by someone else’s recklessness; after getting medical treatment, you should begin the search for a personal injury attorney. When consulting the attorney, make sure you carry supporting documents (medical reports, notes about the situation). Get your claim professionally evaluated before proceeding.
2] Asses your attorney
Your attorney determines the success of your case. Inquire about their track record, knowledge, and experience. Initial meetings might involve a lot of questioning by the attorney to understand your case. Attorneys who promise high compensation costs right at the beginning could be non-trustworthy. Professionals require time to figure out and evaluate the case.
3] Understanding the Payment procedure for attorneys
Most attorneys work on ‘contingency’; demand money only if the case is successful. Philadelphia, PA personal injury attorneys work in the same manner. Attorney fee depends on your recovery costs (Ranging between 25% to 40%). A client contract is signed with the exact amount, after hiring an attorney.
3] Investigating your case
Your case is then handled by the attorney who understands your damage, injuries, and represents them efficiently to the insurance companies. All this is done while keeping you informed of the proceedings.
Many cases are resolved before a lawsuit is filed. A settlement amount is decided, which can be accepted or denied by you; with recommendations from your attorney.
4] Filing suit in court
If you are dissatisfied with the settlement outside, your attorney files a suit in court. The process goes through following phases:
Complaint and answer (put forth your allegations, which are answered by defendant);
Discovery phase (each party gathers testimony to strengthen their claims);
Motion phase (opposing party asks to dismiss the claims or the entire case)
5] Final trial
The final trial takes place where your side and opponents side is put forth to the jury, which deliberates a verdict.
With the right attorney you are assured to be victorious but if in case it ends unfavorably, you can approach higher courts. A personal injury lawsuit can be exhaustive, but when prepared and well-acquainted with the process, it’s most likely to go well.