If you’ve been injured, a personal injury lawyer can assist you in obtaining compensation and safeguarding your legal rights.
Injury lawyers are detail-oriented, have analytical skills, and take the time to understand their clients’ cases. Their goal is to help injured victims get the justice they deserve. A personal injury lawsuit often includes negotiating a settlement with the insurance company.
The Initial Consultation
The first step a personal injury lawyer takes in most cases is to schedule an initial consultation. It is free and typically lasts 30 minutes to an hour. The lawyer will ask questions about the incident, injuries, and treatment. They will also discuss what they will charge for their services and give you a general idea of the costs.
It’s a good idea to bring any relevant documentation to this meeting. It includes police reports, accident scene photographs, medical records, pay stubs to verify lost wages and other documents that might help your case.
The attorney will review this information and determine whether your case has sufficient merit to pursue legal action. They can also give you an estimate of how long it will take to resolve your issue. It is usually based on previous experience with similar injury claims.
Liability Analysis
A personal injury attorney will help you gather all the required documents and information in your case. It may include medical records, insurance policies, witness contact details, and any pictures or videos of the accident.
Your lawyer will also provide you with a comprehensive damages analysis. It will involve assessing your expenses, lost income, and future treatment needs. Your attorney will file a personal injury lawsuit if payment is not reached.
During the litigation phase, your attorney will handle all the legal procedures and requirements, including filing various pre-trial motions. Depending on the type of case, this can be a lengthy process. During this time, you must update your attorney on any changes to your health status or finances. It will ensure that they can get you the compensation you deserve.
Examination by Testimony (EBT)
As the legal process goes on, your attorney will request narrative medical reports to establish the extent of your injuries. Then, they will ask for other documentation, such as bills, income loss documents, and liability analysis.
This step is also referred to as a deposition. The questioning isn’t designed to be intrusive and will focus on background information and the facts that underlie the case. It can be a nerve-wracking experience, but it’s important to provide honest answers.
If you’re working with an experienced personal injury lawyer, they know how to work with insurance companies and understand their tactics. They’ll be able to negotiate an appropriate settlement on your behalf. If a payment isn’t possible, your attorney will file a formal lawsuit alleging that the defendant was responsible for the accident and injured you. The lawsuit seeks monetary damages for your economic and non-economic losses. A case can take months to resolve.
Trial
Many personal injury cases settle without going to trial. However, if your case goes to trial, the attorney will prepare you to present your evidence to a judge or jury.
During the trial phase, the defense will try to discredit your testimony by questioning you under oath. Your attorney will prepare interrogatories—written questions for the defendant’s insurance company—and depositions—recorded statements from you.
Your lawyer will also evaluate your medical records to determine the monetary value of your injuries and losses, such as past and future medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, and other physical and financial damages.
A quality attorney knows the law and has the skills, experience, and resources to handle your case. A great personal injury attorney will be familiar with your case’s facts and legal complexities and can aggressively fight for your right to compensation. If an attorney does not meet these standards, it is likely time to find a new one.
