In general, personal injury lawsuits are settled well before they even have the chance to make it to trial. Insurance companies mull over the details, payouts are completed and everyone moves on. However, there are a few situations that cannot be resolved simply and bear a closer look. These are the cases that often go on to trial.
Personal Injury Trials
Personal injury cases often go to trial when disagreements arise during the pay-out process. If one party faced damages and injuries that could not be resolved with the insurance payout, a lawsuit begins to fight for additional compensation.
When a personal injury lawsuit goes to trial, it begins by selecting a jury, often made up of 12 individuals who will be interviewed and selected to serve based on certain criteria. This selection process is called voir dire, and it helps ensure jury members are serving with no bias.
Once in court, both sides will give their opening statements. In these statements, both parties will present the facts of the case as they see them to establish where their argument stands in the case. Following the statements, the plaintiff will present any evidence and call any witnesses to support their claim. For example, if the plaintiff is arguing that they are entitled to more compensation to cover the full medical care they received, a plaintiff may present medical documents, receipts and call any relevant witnesses to the stand.
After the plaintiff’s attorney has established their side of the case, the defendant is then allowed a chance to establish their side of the case in the same way. After both have finished, both sides give tri closing arguments to re-establish where they stand. This acts as a final summary before the jury is given the chance to reach a verdict.
Personal injury cases can seem intimidating. Having an experienced lawyer who could help establish your case could make the process a lot easier.
If you or a loved one has a personal injury lawsuit that is going to trial, contact a qualified lawyer who can help. Contact the law offices of Andres, Berger & Tran today to schedule your case consultation.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney/client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
