Personal Injury Attorneys Explain the Steps Involved in Filing a Lawsuit
Personal injury attorneys play a crucial role in representing victims who have suffered physical or psychological harm due to the negligence or intentional conduct of another party. These legal professionals are well-versed in personal injury law and can navigate the complex process involved in filing a lawsuit.
The first step involves an initial consultation where the attorney assesses your case. They will gather as much information as possible about your accident, injuries, medical treatment, and any other relevant details. This helps them determine whether you have a viable claim and what damages you may be entitled to recover.
Once they decide to take on your case, they will begin an investigation into your claim. The attorney will collect all necessary evidence, including medical records, police reports, witness statements, photographs of the scene and injuries sustained etc., to build a strong case. They may also consult with experts such as accident reconstruction specialists or medical professionals for their expert opinions on specific aspects of the case.
After gathering all necessary evidence and information, the attorney will then proceed with drafting a demand letter to send to the responsible party’s insurance company. This letter outlines your claim detailing how their insured was at fault for causing your injuries and what compensation you are seeking for damages incurred.
If negotiations fail after sending out this demand letter or if there is dispute over liability or damages claimed by you from insurer’s side then it may become necessary for your attorney to file a lawsuit in court against responsible party.
Filing a lawsuit initiates formal legal proceedings which begins with drafting of complaint outlining facts of case along with claims made against defendant(s). Once filed & served upon defendants they get certain time period (generally 30 days) within which they need to respond by filing answer denying allegations made in complaint & raising defenses if any available under law applicable on facts of that particular case.
Discovery phase follows next where both parties exchange information related to their respective cases through various methods like interrogatories (written questions), depositions (oral questioning under oath), requests for production of documents etc. This helps each side to understand other side’s case better and prepare their own case accordingly.
Trial is the final step where both parties present their case in front of a judge or jury who then decides on the matter. However, most personal injury cases are settled out of court before reaching this stage.
In conclusion, filing a personal injury lawsuit involves various steps from initial consultation to potentially going to trial. Each step requires careful attention & expertise which makes it crucial to have an experienced personal injury attorney by your side throughout this process. They can guide you through these steps ensuring that your rights are protected and you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages suffered due to someone else’s negligence or intentional conduct.
Munley Law
510 Third Ave 2nd Floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15219
14125345133