Once you have made the decision to hire a personal injury lawyer, it’s essential to understand what happens next. This process is more than just filing a lawsuit; it involves several steps that are crucial in ensuring your case is handled correctly and efficiently.
The first step after hiring a personal injury lawyer is an initial consultation. During this meeting, you will provide the lawyer with all the details of your case. This includes how the accident happened, what injuries you sustained, and any medical treatment you’ve received. The attorney will then evaluate these details to determine whether or not you have a valid claim.
After determining that there’s enough evidence for a viable case, your lawyer will begin gathering additional information and evidence. This may include medical records, police reports, witness statements, photographs of the accident scene and injuries sustained among other things. They may also consult with experts such as accident reconstruction specialists or medical professionals who can help strengthen your claim.
Following the collection of evidence, negotiation with insurance companies typically begins. Your personal injury lawyer will communicate directly with the insurer on your behalf in an attempt to reach a fair settlement agreement without going to court. They’ll use their expertise in legal matters and negotiations skills to ensure that you get maximum compensation for your damages.
If negotiations fail to yield satisfactory results or if liability is disputed by the insurance company or defendant(s), then proceeding towards litigation becomes necessary. Your attorney would prepare all necessary documents required for filing a lawsuit and serve them on the opposing party (defendant). Once this has been done, both parties engage in ‘discovery’ – exchanging relevant information related to the case.
During discovery process which often takes several months depending upon complexity of case; depositions may be taken where witnesses including yourself could be asked questions under oath about incident by opposing counsel while being recorded by court reporter for future reference during trial proceedings if needed.
While waiting for trial date which might take up-to 1-2 years depending upon court’s schedule; your lawyer would continue negotiating with opposing party for a possible settlement to avoid the uncertainty of trial. If no agreement is reached, then your case will proceed to trial where your attorney will present all evidence and argue on your behalf.
Finally, after the completion of the trial, a verdict is rendered by either a judge or jury. If you win the case, compensation will be awarded based on factors like medical expenses, loss of income, pain and suffering among others.
In conclusion, hiring a personal injury lawyer sets in motion an intricate process designed to get you fair compensation for injuries sustained due to someone else’s negligence. It involves numerous steps from gathering evidence to negotiation with insurance companies or potentially going through a full-blown trial. Throughout this process, having an experienced personal injury attorney by your side can make all the difference in achieving positive results.
Regan Zambri Long Personal Injury Lawyers
1919 M St NW #600, Washington, DC 20036
12029604667