What Happens

DURING A PERSONAL INJURY LAWSUIT?

Understanding The Personal Injury Lawsuit Process:

The lawsuit process is complex

The following steps will help you understand the various stages of a personal injury lawsuit.

1

After getting medical treatment, the next step is to consult an experienced personal injury attorney for a professional opinion as to whether you have a valid claim.

Meeting with a Personal Injury Attorney

DOCUMENTATION

Bring any supporting documentation, medical records, and notes you’ve taken about your situation.

What you need to know:

CONSULTATIONS

Most personal injury lawyers provide free consultations, so steer clear of lawyers who charge fees just to meet with you.

What you need to know:

Evaluating the Attorney

2

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Questions to ask an attorney

What is their level of expertise and track record handling your type of case? What is their policy for communicating with clients?

BE WARY

of any attorney who, during the initial meeting, makes promises about how much money you can expect to receive.

Most personal injury attorneys are paid on a contingency basis, which means they don’t get paid unless you get paid.

3

Monetary Compensation

Investigating Your Case

Your attorney will research your case at this stage to fully understand how you were injured and the extent of your injuries, damages, and costs.

4

5

As your attorney negotiates, a monetary offer may be presented to settle the case. You ultimately decide if the settlement is acceptable.

Settling Your Case Prior to Filing a Lawsuit

If a settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will file a lawsuit in court. The process can take several months to several years depending on the complexity of your case.

6

Filing Suit In Court: Pretrial Phases

Complaint and Answer Phase

Pretrial Phases:

The Complaint is the document detailing your allegations regarding how you were injured and the extent of your damages.

DISCOVERY

Pretrial Phases:

During this phase, each party gathers testimony, evidence, documents and information from each other and from third parties regarding the case.

Going To Mediation

Mediations are is a non-binding, alternative dispute resolution, during which both sides engage in settlement negotiations as facilitated by the mediator. 

7

Going to Trial

8

Jury selection

A personal injury trial consists of six phases:

Opening statements

Witness testimony and cross-examination

Closing arguments

Jury instruction

Jury deliberation and verdict

9

Sometimes your case is not over even if a jury gave a verdict in your favor. The defense could appeal the case and ask a higher (appellate) court to reconsider the verdict.

Post Trial

LEARN MORE

If you believe you may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit, contact Briskman Briskman & Greenberg for a free, confidential consultation.

WE TAKE YOUR INJURY PERSONALLY

877.595.4878

We promise that you do not have to pay fees unless you win.

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